Mike Thompson

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. I thank the gentlewoman for the compassion that she brings to this debate, and it is understandable. Having met with and spoken with many of the parents who lost their children at Sandy Hook Elementary School, to talk to them, and to have to tell them that yet another year has passed and the leadership in this Congress has refused, has refused to hold one single vote on any measure relating to gun violence, is just despicable and very, very sad. I know that the gentlewoman from Connecticut goes home every weekend and talks with those parents and those community members who were shaken to their core to get that call that there was a shooting at an elementary school, and that their child was involved, and had to come down to that school and learn that their child was taken from them. It is unacceptable that we allow this to continue. When Sandy Hook took place, I was asked by the minority leadership to chair a task force on gun violence prevention, and I took that on. I took it on for a couple of reasons: One, I know it had to be done; and two, I bring a unique perspective to this debate. I am a strong supporter of the Second Amendment. I am a gun owner. I am a hunter. I have vast experiences with firearms, including carrying a military-type assault weapon for the tour that I served in Vietnam. I consider myself a strong supporter of the Second Amendment, and would do nothing to take an individual's Second Amendment right away from them. As I say, I support it strongly. I also believe that, as a responsible gun owner, I, and all of my fellow responsible gun owners, have a responsibility to answer this call, to figure out how we can put on the books laws that--while protecting the Second Amendment, while protecting an individual's rights to own firearms and use firearms for target practicing, collecting, hunting, or self-defense, we have a responsibility to make sure we keep firearms out of the hands of people who shouldn't have firearms. Criminals and the dangerously mentally ill should not be able to have firearms. They shouldn't be able to buy them, they shouldn't be able to own them, they shouldn't be able to use them. And surely this Congress can come together and figure out a way to make certain that this doesn't happen, to the best that we possibly can. Now I will be the first to admit there is no bill in the world that we can pass that will solve every issue related to gun violence. But doggone it, we should try. We owe it to our constituents. We owe it to those who lost loved ones through gun violence, and we owe it to the responsible, law-abiding gun owners of this country to try. Now I thought we had the makings of a good proposal when I sat down with my colleague and my friend from New York, Republican Peter King, and we put together the legislation, commonly referred to as ``the King-Thompson Bill,'' to require that anyone who purchases a firearm through a commercial sale would be required to go through a background check. You wouldn't think it would be necessary. You wouldn't think that anybody would want to sell a firearm to someone who may possibly be a danger to their community or to our society. But the fact of the matter is that there are people who sell firearms willy-nilly to anybody with the cash to buy them. And we need to step in and make sure that we stop willy-nilly from selling these firearms to criminals and the dangerously mentally ill, and that is what the King-Thompson bill does. It says that if you buy a firearm through a commercial sale, you have to have a background check. Now anybody who buys a firearm in any of our 50 States through a licensed commercial dealer has to go through a background check. That is the floor. That is the minimum Federal law. Some States, however, don't go any further than that, which leaves this big loophole. It exempts individual sales, and some of those individual sales are commercial. When you set up a table at a gun show and sell firearm after firearm after firearm, or when you go online and you list your firearms for sale as an individual, people can call and say: I want to buy that gun. No background check needed because you are buying it from an individual. You can meet down in the parking lot of your local whatever store and you can make that transaction. That needs to be stopped. Thirty-four States don't do anything about that. The King-Thompson legislation would do something about that. It would say that you have to first get a background check. Now it is a bipartisan bill. As a matter of fact, there are 186 Members of this Congress who are coauthors of that bill. Five of them are Republicans. Ninety percent of the American people believe that you should have background checks for commercial sale of firearms. Eighty-five percent of NRA members believe you should have background checks for firearms. They know that this is the first line of defense. Again, it won't stop everything, but it does work. 170 felons a day, through the existing background check system, are stopped from buying firearms. We know it works. Sadly, about 40 percent of all firearm purchases are done outside of federally licensed commercial sites, so 40 percent of the people who are buying guns today are able to avoid a background check. That is wrong. We ought to close that. When we started the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force, we met with everybody. I conducted the meetings. I conducted the hearings. We met with gun owner groups, we met with gun dealers, people who sell firearms, we met with gun experts, we met with people who are opposed to guns and people who are for guns. We heard from police, sheriffs, the Federal agency that deals with gun laws. We heard ad nauseam. We heard from the NRA. We brought everybody in, all the outside gun groups, to tell us what we needed to do. And without question, we came away from that with the understanding that background checks is the number one thing that we can do if we want to make a dent in this gun violence problem that we have. And we should have a vote on that bill. Now, we know that it works. I told you that, but don't take my word for it. Look at the facts. When Connecticut passed what they call their Permit to Purchase, which is a background check legislation, their State saw a 40 percent drop in homicides by firearms; 40 percent drop. Now, conversely, at the same time, Missouri repealed Permit to Purchase, which led to a 25 percent increase in homicide by firearms. Those numbers alone tell us that we need to do something. We need to do everything we can to keep guns out of the hands of people who shouldn't have them. And, again, if you are dangerously mentally ill, if you are a criminal, if you are a domestic abuser, or if you are a terrorist, you should not be able to have a firearm. It is this Congress' responsibility to do what we can. Background checks are our first line of defense to making sure these aforementioned groups don't get their hands on firearms. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from Connecticut (Ms. Esty).

Mr. THOMPSON of California. I thank the gentlewoman for her comments. She is absolutely correct. Our job is not that hard. Could you imagine that? On this floor, we are all parents; we have kids. Could you imagine losing your child? You send them to school, where they are supposed to be safe, and get the call that your son or your daughter has been murdered at school? That is hard. That is difficult. What we are doing is not hard. It certainly shouldn't be hard for the Republican leadership to allow us to have a vote on gun violence prevention legislation that would help prevent these things from happening. They just happen too often. Every day, 31 people are murdered by someone using a gun. Every day, 151 people are shot in an assault in our country. That is hard. What is the Republican leadership afraid of? You are afraid to take a vote? Are you more afraid than the people that were in that nightclub in Orlando hiding in the restrooms hoping they wouldn't be the next one who was murdered? Are you more afraid than those children in the classroom in Newtown, Connecticut? Give us a vote. Let's address this issue. It is shameful. There is nothing to be afraid of. We were elected to come here and do a job. Give us a vote. Our Gun Violence Prevention Task Force I mentioned heard from every imaginable interest on this issue. We took what we heard, and we put it in this legislation. The King-Thompson background check legislation addressed a whole list of issues other than just the background check provision. They were issues that were brought to us primarily by the NRA. The NRA asked for specific things. They asked us to make sure that there was due process for veterans adjudicated as mentally defective before losing their firearms rights. We put that in the bill. There was a request to clarify that the submissions to the NICS system don't violate HIPAA, the medical protections for patients. We put that in the bill. The NRA was concerned that the length of time that you have to wait in order to get your firearm after you passed a background check was too long, so we put in place a provision that reduces the purchase proceed timeline. Right now it is 3 days. Eventually, it would phase into being 24 hours, with the idea that the NICS system would have more complete records because the bill also allows the States to get grant funding to allow them to better get their information into the NICS, and our bill requires the Federal courts to put records into the NICS system. The NRA said that hunting buddies shouldn't have to go through the background check. If you are at the duck club, your buddy wants to sell a shotgun, you want to buy it, you have been hunting buddies for a long time and you know one another, they said they shouldn't have to go through a background check, so we put a hunting buddies known person exemption into our bill. There was great concern that this bill would lead to some sort of Big Brother list of any gun owners. Not only is that nonsense, but we took their concern and we raised them one. We added a 15-year felony for the improper storage of records by anyone in the government. We also heard concerns that members of the armed services were conflicted. They have a permanent home address and a permanent duty station request, and that complicated their effort to own and purchase firearms. We put a provision in the bill that said members of our armed services can count their home and their permanent duty station as their residences. We took care of all of these concerns. These are things that the NRA said they have been trying to fix for years. Well, we fixed it in the King-Thompson bill. At the same time, we take a step to fix this terrible problem we have where people can buy guns without having a background check--the dangerously mentally ill, criminals, domestic abusers, or terrorists. This is a good bill, as I said, with 186 bipartisan coauthors. This is a bill that should be passed. No one knows that more than the gentleman from New York, Congressman Israel. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from the State of New York (Mr. Israel).

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Paul Schapiro, who passed away on June 3, 2016, after 58 remarkable years. Paul left an indelible mark on our Napa Valley community with his friendly demeanor and profound generosity. He volunteered his time for civic causes with the American Canyon Lions Club, and was a leader in the local Democratic community, serving as Treasurer for the Napa County Democratic Central Committee. He was an outspoken activist and regularly attended peace vigils to bring awareness to causes close to his heart. Paul's dedication to bringing about meaningful change in our society set an impressive example that we should all strive to emulate. A passionate proponent of sustainability, Paul rode his bike to work every day, eventually winning the Napa County Bicycle Coalition's Bicycle Commuter of the Year Award in 2014. Impressively, his bike had more mileage on it than his car. Those close to Paul agree he was a joy to be around and had a welcoming and gentle nature. Paul loved baseball and as a native New Yorker, he cheered for the New York Mets, and for his adopted home team, the San Francisco Giants. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Schapiro led by example when it came to making a difference in our community, and in doing so, he inspired others to do the same. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor Paul Schapiro here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, is this some kind of cruel joke? We have already passed these bills, and we are bringing them up again today? Just a few days ago we lost 49 innocent lives in the worst mass shooting our country has ever seen. Sadly, this isn't an isolated case. In the 3 years since the tragedy at Sandy Hook, there have been over 1,100 mass shootings and more than 34,000 lives have been cut short by someone using a gun. What have we done? We have held 30 moments of silence since Sandy Hook, but we haven't taken a single vote on legislation that would help keep guns out of dangerous hands. That is shameful. The American people deserve more than silence. The American people deserve a Congress that is willing to stand up and do what it takes to help keep our communities safe. Republican leaders claim that these bills brought before the House for consideration today are a significant response to the worst mass shooting in U.S. history. They claim that because this was an act of terrorism, we don't need to take a vote on legislation to prevent gun violence. The fact of the matter is, this act of terrorism was an act of gun violence. Over 100 people were shot, 49 shot dead, and today in America, suspected terrorists can still legally buy guns. Individuals on our FBI's terrorist watch list can walk into a gun store, pass a background check, and walk out with the gun or guns of their choosing, legally. Since 2004, more than 2,000 suspected terrorists were able to purchase guns. I think that is wrong and so does the overwhelming majority of the American people. There is bipartisan legislation that would prohibit those on the terrorist watch list from being able to purchase firearms in our country. That is the bill we should be voting on today, not three bills that we have already voted and passed out of the House. If Republicans agree that suspected terrorists shouldn't be able to buy guns, bring up that bill for a vote today. What is it that the majority is afraid of? Is your fear greater than that of the fear of the people hiding for their lives in that nightclub in Orlando? Give us a vote.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Kenneth Hofmann, owner of the Rancho Esquon Wildlife Area and wetlands steward par excellence, for his commitment to community development and wildlife preservation. Mr. Hofmann, a lifelong Californian, has spent most of the past three decades working to promote philanthropy, educational and artistic initiatives, and wildlife conservation. In 1990, Mr. Hofmann purchased Rancho Esquon, a sprawling agricultural property in Butte County, and began working to restore its natural habitat. Today, the ranch boasts over 900 acres of wetlands, is home to more than 20,000 trees and 173 species of birds, and serves as a valuable educational resource. Over 4,000 students have taken class field trips to Rancho Esquon, many of whom have returned to visit the site's egg salvage facility. Today, to further expose and educate regarding the importance of our wetlands, Mr. Hofmann is in the process of building the Pacific Flyway Center, a world-class museum and zoo facility in Suisun Marsh. The Center is dedicated to inspiring conservation of the Pacific Flyway, a critical migratory route stretching from Alaska to Patagonia. Every year, at least one billion birds migrate along the Flyway, and its importance to waterfowl populations cannot be overstated. Upon completion, the Center will offer educational opportunities for local students and citizens. Mr. Hofmann's charitable organization, The Hofmann Family Foundation (HFF), has worked for over 20 years to help young people in need. In 1995, a $1 million donation from the HFF created the Concord Community Youth Center, which today provides educational and athletic opportunities for 1,900 underprivileged young people. And in 2014, Mr. Hofmann donated funds to create the De La Salle Academy, a division of De La Salle High School dedicated to providing high-quality education for boys whose financial circumstances would otherwise prevent private schooling. By the end of 2016, the Academy will have 80 students enrolled in the fifth and sixth grades. Mr. Speaker, Kenneth Hofmann has dedicated his time and resources for nearly 40 years to enriching the lives of California's young people and protecting its environment. Mr. Hofmann's efforts have benefitted our community enormously, and it is fitting and proper that we honor him here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ms. Rami Muth, Superintendent of the Martinez Unified School District, upon her retirement. Ms. Muth earned her bachelor's degree in History from California State University Long Beach, before going on to complete a Masters in Educational Leadership and her administrative credentials at California State University East Bay. Ms. Muth has held a variety of positions throughout her career in education. She taught at both the elementary and middle school levels in Benicia, California before becoming an elementary school principal in the Fairfield-Suisun school district. Drawing on both her teaching and administrative experience, she became Director of Curriculum and Instruction for the Martinez Unified School District before rising to her current post of Superintendent. During her tenure as District Superintendent, Ms. Muth led new initiatives to improve the district's services and improve the academic experience for students. She launched an innovative energy conservation program that has saved the Martinez Unified School District over $300,000 and has won an Environmental Excellence Award. Under Ms. Muth's leadership, five schools in the district were named California Gold Ribbon Schools: Martinez Junior High and Alhambra High School in 2015 and Las Juntas, John Swett, and John Muir Elementary Schools in 2016. Mr. Speaker, Ms. Muth has dedicated her career to ensuring that every student in our community receives a top-notch education. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor her here today and extend our best wishes for an enjoyable retirement.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Community Projects, Inc., which is celebrating its 75th year supporting community organizations in Napa, California. Community Projects, Inc. has operated as a nonprofit, nonsectarian woman's volunteer organization since its founding in 1941. Formerly called the Napa Chapter of the British War Relief, its original members sewed and prepared ``Bundles for Britain,'' which provided clothing to families in the United Kingdom during World War II. The organization changed its name to Community Projects, Inc. after the war ended, shifting its focus from aiding families affected by conflict abroad to supporting local schools, clubs, and social services with proceeds raised from thrift shop sales. Community Projects, Inc. eventually moved to a larger facility on Franklin Street, which was expanded in 1980 to accommodate the organization's progress. Since its incorporation, Community Projects, Inc. has raised over $11 million for philanthropic causes in our Napa community. Local organizations that received major grants in 2015 include Girls on the Run, the Napa Food Bank, and the Pathway Home. Community Projects, Inc. also provided more than $100,000 in donations to local schools and student scholarships. Volunteer members of Community Projects, Inc. make the organization's work possible, and they collectively contributed 44,020 hours during 2015, including countless hours to make two major annual events possible, ``Puttin on the Glitz'' and ``Treasures of Christmas Past.'' Mr. Speaker, Community Projects, Inc. is an exemplary organization that makes a meaningful impact in our community. And thanks to its unrivaled dedication to charitable giving, Community Projects, Inc. will continue to benefit Napa County for generations. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor Community Projects, Inc. here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to the rule today and ask that we defeat the previous question. The IRS portion of this bill that is included in the rule, the debate regarding that, is nothing more than a political messaging debate, and it is politically charged, and it really has no place on this floor today, given the seriousness of this underlying issue that the gentleman from Massachusetts just spoke about. The American people don't need more partisan politics. The American people need a Congress that will stand up and take action to help keep Americans safe from a number of things, one of the most important of which is gun violence in their neighborhoods and in their communities. Thirty people are killed every day by someone using a gun in our country. In the 3 years since Sandy Hook, there have been over 1,000 mass shootings, and more than 34,000 people have been killed by someone using a gun. Every time these tragedies take place, the response from my friends on the Republican side of the aisle is the same. Thoughts and prayers are sent and moments of silence are held, but no real action is taken. In the 3 years since Sandy Hook, we have held 30 moments of silence after a terrible tragedy such as the one that just occurred in Orlando. But we haven't taken a single vote on legislation that would help keep guns out of dangerous hands. One of the simplest solutions we have put forward to help keep Americans safe is legislation to prohibit those on the FBI's terrorist watch list from being able to legally purchase firearms. Today, individuals on the FBI's terrorist watch list can go into a gun store anyplace in the United States of America and buy a firearm of their choosing legally. As a matter of fact, since this watch list has been established, over 2,000 individuals on the terrorist watch list have gone into gun stores across the country and legally purchased firearms. I think that is wrong. It is dangerous, it is unacceptable, and it makes our country less safe. I have bipartisan legislation that I have offered with my Republican friend and colleague, Peter King from New York, that would prohibit those on the terrorist watch list from being able to purchase a firearm legally in our country. The American people are overwhelmingly in support of this, and if House Republicans agree that suspected terrorists shouldn't be able to legally buy guns, then let's take a vote. Vote it up or down, but give the American people the right to have this measure voted on.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, it is my great pleasure to rise today to pay tribute to California's Fifth Congressional District as home to recipients of the Purple Heart. So many of our residents have honorably served our nation in its time of need. As a reflection of Northern California's role in war efforts past and present and the deep personal sacrifice of so many of our residents, I stand to assert that California's Fifth Congressional District should be recognized as a ``Purple Heart District.'' The Purple Heart is one of the oldest and most recognized American military medals, awarded to service members who were killed or wounded by enemy action. In 1782, George Washington created the Badge of Military Merit to reward ``any singularly meritorious action'' displayed by a soldier, non-commissioned officer, or officer in the Continental Army. This award was intended to encourage gallantry and fidelity among soldiers. General Douglas MacArthur (then Army Chief of Staff) revived the award on February 22, 1932, the 200th anniversary of George Washington's birth. Since its inception and through several wars and conflicts, the Purple Heart has been given to an estimated 1.8 million military members wounded or killed while serving our nation. I received my Purple Heart while serving in the 173rd Airborne Brigade in Vietnam. California has a strong military tradition, home to many significant installations and countless remarkable individuals. Our district includes the former Mare Island Naval Shipyard--the first U.S. Navy base on the Pacific coast--and is adjacent to Travis Air Force Base, which handles more cargo and passengers than any other military air terminal in the United States. Many notable veterans have called our district home, including pioneering pilot and General of the Army and Air Force Henry ``Hap'' Arnold. Over 45,000 veterans currently reside in our district, including thousands from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, who are living with the wounds of war at higher rates than any other conflict in our history. I am honored to represent all of these valiant men and women. Mr. Speaker, California has dispatched thousands of its sons and daughters to fight the enemy. Many have sacrificed their health, and many have sacrificed their lives. We will never forget their sacrifices and are grateful for the brave men and women who have been harmed defending our country and our freedom. I ask my colleagues to join me in recognition and appreciation of California's Purple Heart recipients past and present. Now, in the spirit of that appreciation, let it be known that California's Fifth Congressional District should be recognized as a ``Purple Heart District.''

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Fiona Bullock for her 26 years of service as an educator and institutional leader at Pacific Union College. Ms. Bullock completed her Bachelor of Arts in Social Work at Pacific Union College in 1983, before going on to earn her Master's of Social Welfare at the University of California, Berkeley in 1990. After completing her degree, Ms. Bullock spent 26 years in the Social Work Program at her alma mater, Pacific Union College. During her time at Pacific Union College she has held positions including Associate Professor, Field Supervisor, Forum Sponsor, and Program Director. Ms. Bullock has also contributed to the field of social work through her research and the numerous articles she has authored. Throughout her career, Ms. Bullock dedicated her time and energy to supporting students' success, including connecting her students with invaluable internships and work experiences. A long-standing member of the National Association of Social Workers, Ms. Bullock has earned certifications in Critical Incident Stress Management and is a Board Certified Expert in War Trauma and Bereavement Trauma. Ms. Bullock earned recognition from both the National Association of Social Workers of California and the California Assembly for her support of academic freedom in higher education. Mr. Speaker, Ms. Bullock has dedicated her career to serving her students and community through the study, teaching, and practice of social work. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor her here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mark Dellinger who will retire after 31 years of public service with Lake County in California. After growing up in New York and the Midwest, Mr. Dellinger moved west to pursue higher education. He earned his Bachelor of Science from Northern Arizona University and then earned his Master's Degree in Geography from the University of Idaho. Mr. Dellinger joined the Lake County Planning Department's Resource Management Division as a Geothermal Coordinator in 1984 and joined the Special Districts office in 1992 as a Resource Manager. Mr. Dellinger joined Calpine in the private sector to manage compliance for geothermal power plants in 2001, but returned to Lake County as the Administrator of Special Districts in 2002. In this position, he was responsible for fiscal, personnel, and project management. For his work on the Southeast Geysers Effluent Pipeline Project, or ``Flush to Flash,'' Mr. Dellinger received the Geothermal Resources Council Special Achievement Award in 1997. This project, co-led by Mr. Dellinger and Eliot Allen, used treated wastewater to recharge the geothermal steam field in Lake County. The Special District Leadership Foundation also awarded Mr. Dellinger the Special District Administrator Certification in 2011 after he completed a rigorous examination demonstrating his expertise in management and governance. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Dellinger dedicated his career to ensuring that the residents of Lake County, California had access to high quality public services. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor him here today and extend our best wishes for an enjoyable retirement and many happy memories to come with Carol, his wife, and their sons Jared and Quinn.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Ms. Denise Jackson for her commitment as a volunteer for the George C. Yount Pioneer cemetery in Yountville, California. Ms. Jackson has been instrumental in maintaining the cemetery grounds and recording its long history. She took the initiative to become a volunteer grounds keeper a decade ago. With the support of her vineyard crew from her business, Colinas Farming Company, Ms. Jackson saw to it that the 16-acre cemetery stayed well-maintained. To enhance the historical records of the organization, Ms. Jackson began a four-year project to survey the graves of 949 people laid to rest at the cemetery dating back to 1848. She led a team of 20 research volunteers and later archived this information online for descendants to trace their family history in California. She also published her findings in ``Mapping the George C. Yount Pioneer Cemetery'' which she presented to the Napa Valley Genealogical Society. Ms. Jackson found the time to contribute to other community causes. As an extension of her decades of work as a registered dietitian, Ms. Jackson founded the Baby Nutrition Class at the Queen of the Valley Hospital and has a long history of supporting the American Heart Association where she currently serves as a board member. Ms. Jackson also chairs the Nutrition Committee of Napa County. Additionally, she helps employees of the George C. Yount Pioneer cemetery with medical insurance claims. Mr. Speaker, Denise Jackson has selflessly spent her time and energy preserving the history of the George C. Yount Pioneer cemetery and caring for the health and needs of others in her community. She has been a friend and mentor to many. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor her here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Fiona Bullock, who will retire after 26 years of service as an educator and institutional leader at Pacific Union College. Ms. Bullock completed her Bachelor of Arts in Social Work at Pacific Union College in 1983, before going on to earn her Masters of Social Welfare at the University of California, Berkeley in 1990. After completing her degree, Ms. Bullock spent 26 years in the Social Work Program at her alma mater, Pacific Union College. During her time at Pacific Union College she has held positions, including Associate Professor, Field Supervisor, Forum Sponsor, and Program Director. Ms. Bullock has also contributed to the field of social work through her research and the numerous books and articles she has authored. Throughout her career, Ms. Bullock dedicated her time and energy to supporting students' success, including connecting her students with invaluable internships and work experiences. A long-standing member of the National Association of Social Workers, Ms. Bullock has earned certifications in Critical Incident Stress Management and is a Board Certified Expert in War Trauma and Bereavement Trauma. Ms. Bullock earned recognition from both the National Association of Social Workers of California and the California Assembly for her support of academic freedom in higher education. Mr. Speaker, Ms. Bullock has dedicated her career to serving her students and community through the study, teaching, and practice of social work. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor her here today and extend our best wishes for an enjoyable retirement and many happy memories to come with her family.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I thank my friend for yielding time. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to the amendment to the Senate bill that is before us. California is in a true state of emergency when it comes to water. We are in a multiyear drought. And even after this winter's El Nino, only one of our State's reservoirs are filled to capacity. The drought is having a serious impact on families, on farms, on farmers, on fishers, and on businesses across California. We need science-based, long-term solutions to our State's water challenges, and this bill is not the solution. It won't help our State to improve water efficiency and make the most of the water that we have. It is based on the misguided assumption that our water crisis can be remedied by pumping more water south. The truth is we haven't pumped more water south because there simply isn't enough water. We are in a drought. The provisions we are debating today redefine the standard by which the Endangered Species Act is applied. This will weaken the law, increase the risk of species extinction, and lead to costly litigation. You will hear the other side talk about how this is necessary because we are letting millions of gallons of water wash out to sea in order to protect fish when that water could have been pumped to farmers in California's Central Valley. The reality is that water needs to keep moving through the delta so that saltwater doesn't wash in, jeopardizing water quality for farms and for communities, including cities in my district that rely on the delta for their freshwater supply. It is important to note that this bill sets a dangerous precedent for every other State in our country. California has a system of water management rules that have endured for a long time, but this bill overrides water regulations developed by Californians themselves, and tells local resource managers and water districts how to administer their water supplies. If we pass this bill, we are telling every State in America that we are okay with the Federal Government undermining local experts and State laws from coast to coast. We need real solutions that are based on science and that work for everyone. If you can set the science aside in California, you can do it anywhere. You have no protection for your resources. This isn't about farmers versus fish. It is about saving salmon, saving cities in the delta, delta farmers, north of delta farmers, and resources across our country. I am not insensitive to the supply and demand reality of California's water. I understand the concerns of Central Valley farmers. Remember, I am one. Ag is big in my district, too. But if your well runs dry, the solution isn't to steal water from your neighbors. This bill isn't the solution. It is bad for the millions who depend on the delta for their livelihoods, it is bad for California, and it is bad for States across our country. I urge all of my colleagues to vote ``no'' on this measure.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 40th anniversary of the Judgment of Paris wine tasting competition, an event that brought global esteem to the California wine community. On May 24, 1976, a who's-who of French wine and food influencers gathered for a blind tasting of Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay wines at the Paris InterContinental Hotel organized by wine merchant Steven Spurrier. Mr. Spurrier selected the finest California vintages at the time. He included Cabernet Sauvignon from Stag's Leap Wine Cellars, Ridge Vineyards Monte Bello, Heitz Wine Cellars, Clos du Val Winery, Mayacamas Vineyards, and Freemark Abbey Winery. In the white wine category, Mr. Spurrier chose Chardonnay from Chateau Montelena Winery, Chalone Vineyard, Spring Mountain Vineyard, Freemark Abbey Winery, Veedercrest Vineyards, and David Bruce Winery. When the experts' scores were tallied, two wines from California's Napa Valley--the 1973 Chateau Montelena Winery Chardonnay by winemaker Miljenko ``Mike'' Grgich and the Stag's Leap Wine Cellars 1973 Cabernet Sauvignon made by Warren Winiarski--came out on top, forever changing the way the world views American wine. George Taber documented this consequential decision in a TIME magazine article, ``Modern Living: Judgment of Paris.'' The resulting coverage of the Judgment of Paris created an immediate and positive impact on the world of wine, and inspired among experts, consumers, and the trade a new appreciation for California wines. The Napa Valley is now recognized internationally as the vanguard of the American wine business. The California wine community now adds $61.5 billion to the state's economy and $121.8 billion to the United States economy. The wine community supports 330,000 jobs in the state and brings more than 21 million visitors to California wine regions annually. Wine is now produced in all fifty of the United States, and enjoyed at ever increasing levels by consumers throughout the country. Mr. Speaker, it is fitting and proper that we recognize and honor the historical significance of the 40th anniversary of this event, as well as the impact of the California victory on the world of wine and the United States wine industry as a whole. To recognize the 40th anniversary of the Judgment of Paris, Rep. Duncan Hunter and I, House Leadership from both sides of the aisle, and the entire California delegation will submit the following language as a resolution: Whereas forty years ago in Paris, a number of leading French wine experts were invited by Wine Merchant Stephen Spurrier to blind taste some of the greatest wines of France and California; Whereas those prestigious experts chose the 1973 Chateau Montelena Winery Napa Valley Chardonnay by winemaker Miljenko ``Mike'' Grgich as the finest white wine in the tasting; Whereas those same experts chose the 1973 Stag's Leap Wine Cellars S.L.V. Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon made by Warren Winiarski as the finest red wine in the tasting; Whereas the resulting story by journalist George Taber found widespread distribution throughout the press, notably in TIME magazine, as ``The Shot Heard Round the World''; Whereas this attention created an immediate, positive impact on the world of wine, and created among experts, consumers and the trade a new and enthusiastic appreciation for California wines; Whereas wine is now produced in all fifty of the United States, and enjoyed at ever increasing levels by consumers throughout the country; Whereas the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of American History exhibits the winning bottles in its permanent collections (the 1973 Chateau Montelena Winery Chardonnay and the 1973 Stag's Leap Wine Cellars S.L.V. Cabernet Sauvignon), and has included those bottles in their selection of remarkable objects in the book The Smithsonian's History of America in 101 Objects by Richard Kurin; Whereas the Napa Valley is now recognized internationally as a vanguard of the United States wine business and contributes more than $162 billion to the nation's economy. Resolved, That the U.S. House of Representatives recognizes and honors the historical significance of the 40th Anniversary of the Judgment of Paris, and the impact of the California victory at the 1976 Paris Tasting on the world of wine and the American wine industry as a whole.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Larry Bettinelli, who is being honored as the 2016 Napa Valley Grower of the Year at the Napa Valley Grapegrower's 41st annual dinner in Napa, California. Mr. Bettinelli, a fifth generation Napa Valley farmer, has a long history of successful management and leadership within the vineyard industry in California, as well as a proven commitment to serving his community. He graduated from St. Helena High School before completing his Agriculture degree at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. Before founding his successful vineyard management company, Bettinelli Vineyards, Mr. Bettinelli served in the U.S. Marine Corps as a helicopter pilot, and worked as a Vineyard Manager for Beringer Vineyards and Jaeger Vineyards. Throughout his career, Mr. Bettinelli has exemplified the values of the Napa Valley Grapegrowers. In his own business, he prioritizes the preservation of vineyards and agricultural resources of the Napa Valley, and also serves on the Napa County Disease and Pest Control District Board. Drawing on his knowledge and success in the vineyard industry, Mr. Bettinelli represents and advocates on behalf of growers as Chairman of the Napa Valley Grapegrowers' Industry Issues Committee. Building on his own family history in the Napa Valley, Mr. Bettinelli looks to the region's future by sharing his expertise with the next generation of growers and farmers. He has served as the Founding Chairman of the St. Helena High School Agriculture Establishment Committee and as President of the St. Helena Future Farmers of America boosters. Mr. Bettinelli also finds the time to volunteer with the Yountville Veterans Home chapel and sits on Board of Directors for the St. Helena Choral Society. Mr. Speaker, Larry Bettinelli has had a remarkable career as a business leader and has been a lifelong community servant in our Napa Valley community. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor him here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and honor Mr. Brad Onorato for his great contribution to the designation of the Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument by President Barack Obama on July 10, 2015. This outstanding accomplishment was made possible by the tireless work of countless advocates. Their commitment to engaging friends, colleagues, local residents, businesses, stakeholders across the country, and policymakers in a coordinated effort to achieve permanent protection was critical to the establishment of the Monument. Now, the Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument may be counted among the hundreds pristine parks across the country that represent America's most treasured public resources. The region's unique geological formations will play host for the world's scientists for years to come. Centuries-old archeological sites will draw curious historians and researchers as they piece together the stories of generations past. And avid bikers, hikers, campers, horsemen, and sportsmen will be able to enjoy this landmark that is now forever open and accessible to outdoor enthusiasts from Northern California and beyond. The Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument serves as proof of the value of the Antiquities Act and the power of the Executive to protect these lands in the face of inaction by Congress. After extensive input from interested parties and substantial evidence of this region's value, the Obama Administration honored the support of stakeholders, and the gravity of conservation. The legacy of public lands is one of the most important we can leave for future generations. The Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument is a critical piece of a preservation system that stretches from the Hawaiian Islands to the Maine Coast. It has been a privilege working with Brad to further the preservation of our nation's great open spaces.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Craig Whittom, who will retire after 27 years of public service with the City of Vallejo, California. Mr. Whittom completed his Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Public Policy at Duke University in 1983, before going on to earn his Master of Public Policy from the Graduate School of Public Policy at the University of California, Berkeley in 1985. After completing his graduate degree, Mr. Whittom spent more than 15 years working for the cities of Berkeley and Vallejo in California in a variety of economic development roles. Mr. Whittom then served as the Redevelopment Agency Director for the City of Fremont from 2001 to 2003, managing programs in commercial districts and affordable housing. Mr. Whittom led the City of Vallejo's Community Development Department from 2007 to 2011, overseeing housing, economic development, and planning programs during a difficult time for the local economy. As an integral member of the team that managed the city's entry into and exit from Chapter 9 bankruptcy, Mr. Whittom helped craft a plan for Vallejo's economic recovery. Mr. Whittom now serves as Assistant City Manager for the City of Vallejo, and has been an important leader in managing the city's economic plan, overseeing housing and information technology initiatives, and working with local labor groups on behalf of the city. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Whittom dedicated his career to promoting the economic success of the communities he has served. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that I honor him here today and extend my best wishes for an enjoyable retirement and many happy memories to come with his family.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and honor Ms. Casey Badmington for her great contribution to the designation of the Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument by President Barack Obama on July 10, 2015. This outstanding accomplishment was made possible by the tireless work of countless advocates. Their commitment to engaging friends, colleagues, local residents, businesses, stakeholders across the country, and policymakers in a coordinated effort to achieve permanent protection was critical to the establishment of the Monument. Now, the Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument may be counted among the hundreds pristine parks across the country that represent America's most treasured public resources. The region's unique geological formations will play host for the world's scientists for years to come. Centuries-old archeological sites will draw curious historians and researchers as they piece together the stories of generations past. And avid bikers, hikers, campers, horsemen, and sportsmen will be able to enjoy this landmark that is now forever open and accessible to outdoor enthusiasts from Northern California and beyond. The Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument serves as proof of the value of the Antiquities Act and the power of the Executive to protect these lands in the face of inaction by Congress. After extensive input from interested parties and substantial evidence of this region's value, the Obama Administration honored the support of stakeholders, and the gravity of conservation. The legacy of public lands is one of the most important we can leave for future generations. The Berryessa Snow Mountain Monument is a critical piece of a preservation system that stretches from the Hawaiian Islands to the Maine Coast. It has been a privilege working with Casey to further the preservation of our nation's great open spaces.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I, along with Representative Huffman rise today to honor Rich Burns, who has retired after 36 years of public service. Throughout his career, Rich demonstrated his commitment to protecting our nation's lands through his work ethic, integrity, and genuine interest in the well-being of his community and employees. After completing his degree in Rangeland Sciences at Oregon State University in 1979, Rich began his career with the U.S. Forest Service as a Range Technician at the Humboldt National Forest in Nevada. He joined the Bureau of Land Management as a Range Conservationist in 1980, and, over the next decade, he served in a variety of positions with the Bureau in Nevada, Colorado, and California. He has served as Field Manager for the Bureau of Land Management Ukiah Field Office for the last 19 years of his federal career, overseeing more than 270,000 acres of public land in California across Marin, Napa, Sonoma, Solano, Mendocino, Lake, Yolo, Colusa, and Glenn Counties. Among his many achievements, Rich led the successful effort to save the Black Forest from logging in 1999. Thanks to his work with the community, Lake County and the Lake County Land Trust were able to purchase the forest, which was then deeded to the Bureau of Land Management for preservation. During his tenure, Rich also managed and assisted successful projects including the Cedars Area of Critical Environmental Concern in 1987, the Cache Creek Wilderness Area in 2000, the Cedar Roughs Wilderness Area in 2006, the Cedars ACEC Main Canyon Addition in 2011, the Point Arena-Stornetta portion of the California Coastal National Monument in 2014, and the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument in 2015. Mr. Speaker, Rich dedicated his career to preserving our country's natural resources. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor him here today and extend our best wishes for an enjoyable retirement and many happy memories to come with Kelly, his wife of 36 years, and their daughter and son-in-law Ashley and Travis in retirement.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and honor Alicia Jaramillo, a criminal division investigator with the Napa County District Attorney's Office. Ms. Jaramillo will honorably retire on May 6, 2016 after more than twenty-five years of public service. Over her long career, Ms. Jaramillo has served the citizens of both Napa and Tulare counties on countless investigations and in assisting preparing felony cases for trial. She worked first with the Visalia Police Department, and then with the Bureau of Investigation of the Napa County District Attorney's Office. Ms. Jaramillo has demonstrated her commitment to her work and her clients by earning and maintaining several accreditations and certificates in law enforcement. As a full peace officer, the District Attorney's Office could rely on Ms. Jaramillo to respond to a call around the clock, and she has even travelled abroad to help her clients. A true Napa County leader, Ms. Jaramillo has worked with many local organizations supporting peace officers, women, youth, and the Hispanic community. She sits on the board of directors for both Puertas Abiertas and the Napa County Hispanic Network, for which she previously served as President. In addition to her career accomplishments, her leadership has aided the Napa County Peace Officers' Association, the Napa Emergency Women's Services, the Woman Peace Officers' Association of California, the COPE Family Center, the Napa County Youth and Gang Violence Commission, the City of Napa Advisory Council, and the California Peace Officers' Memorial. Her service to these associations speaks volumes about her character and dedication to improving the lives of her neighbors. We hope that Ms. Jaramillo will be able to spend time with her family in her retirement, including her husband of thirty years, Joe, and her three children, Eric, Aaron, and Jasmine. Mr. Speaker, Alicia Jaramillo has dedicated her long and remarkable career to public service in Napa County. It is fitting and proper that we honor her here today, and wish her the best in retirement.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Ralph Keechler, who has served the City of Sonoma, California and the Sonoma Valley Fire and Rescue Authority (SVFRA) for 60 years. In addition to his own volunteerism, Mr. Keechler has passed on his passion for service to his son, Joseph. Together, Ralph and Joseph Keechler have volunteered with the SVFRA for a remarkable 100 years combined. Mr. Keechler is a Sonoma native, and served in World War II with the 75th Infantry Division. During his military service, Mr. Keechler participated in the Battle of the Bulge and earned the rank of Corporal. He has also been an active member of the Native Sons of the Golden West for 71 years, promoting and preserving California's history and landmarks for future generations. His work with the Sonoma Valley Fire and Rescue Authority ensures fire, rescue, and emergency medical services to Sonoma and surrounding communities. Mr. Keechler currently serves as Division Chief of SVFRA, guaranteeing his experience informs the organization's operations. Mr. Keechler has been a true leader in the Sonoma community. He and his late wife of 50 years, Barbara Keechler, have passed along their passion for service to their three children, Christine, Joseph, and Karen. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Keechler has dedicated his time and knowledge to serving his community for six decades, and Ralph and Joseph Keechler's unique contribution of a combined century of volunteerism is an inspiring example to our country. Therefore, it is fitting and proper to honor him here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Joseph Keechler, who has volunteered with the City of Sonoma, California and the Sonoma Valley Fire and Rescue Authority (SVFRA) for 40 years. Mr. Keechler inherited his passion for service to his father, Ralph. Together, Joseph and Ralph Keechler have volunteered with the SVFRA for a remarkable 100 years combined. Building on his family's roots in Sonoma, Mr. Keechler has developed his own strong ties to the area. He earned his Associate's Degree from Santa Rosa Junior College, and with his wife Susan, raised her children, Sam and Jack, in his hometown. With his long history of service to our community, Mr. Keechler serves as a reliable and trusted leader in Sonoma. He has earned the rank of Captain with the Sonoma Valley Fire and Rescue Authority, serving as a leader of the organization that ensures fire, rescue, and emergency medical services to Sonoma and surrounding communities. Furthermore, Mr. Keechler serves on the Board of the Sonoma Volunteer Firefighters' Association, sharing his firsthand experience for the benefit of other volunteers. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Keechler has dedicated his time and knowledge to serving his community for four decades, and Joseph and Ralph Keechler's unique contribution of a combined century of volunteerism is an inspiring example to our country. Therefore, it is fitting and proper to honor him here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Beringer Vineyards, which today celebrates its first annual Founders Day ceremony, commemorating the vineyard's founding in 1876 and 140 years of continuous operation. The success of Beringer is of particular importance to me, as I worked as a maintenance supervisor at Beringer after returning from serving in Vietnam. Since the winery began operations in 1876 under founders Frederick and Jacob Beringer, it has not missed a harvest or wine vintage, making Beringer California's longest continually operating winery. In another contribution to the history of St. Helena, the founding brothers planted the now-famous tunnel of elm trees along Main Street shortly after Beringer Vineyard's founding. Beringer Vineyards became the first California winery to offer visitors tours in 1934 after the repeal of Prohibition, contributing to the influx of visitors to Napa Valley. The winery was named a State Historical Landmark in 1967, and the Rhine House was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972. During its long history, Beringer has earned numerous accolades among wine professionals. It is the only winery to win the `Wine of the Year' from Wine Spectator for both a red and a white wine, the 1986 Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon and the 1994 Private Reserve Chardonnay. Indeed, Beringer has had more placements on the Wine Spectator's Top 100 list than any other winery in the world. In a further testament to the winery's longevity and quality, from 1988 to March 2016, Beringer earned 450 90 plus scores in premiere wine scoring publications. Mr. Speaker, Beringer Vineyards has been a resolute leader of the California wine industry for 140 years. It is truly a Napa Valley institution, and its success has brought acclaim to Napa Valley growers and winemakers. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor Beringer Vineyards here today.

Mr. THOMPSON of California

Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, on April 15, 2016, I did not vote on Roll Call vote Numbers 150 through 152. Had I been present I would have voted: Roll Call Number 150, Yarmuth of Kentucky Amendment No. 2--AYE Roll Call Number 151, McNerney of California Amendment No. 3--AYE Roll Call Number 152, No Rate Regulation of Broadband Internet Access Act--NO.