Glenn Thompson

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, tomorrow, May 18, our Nation celebrates Armed Forces Day. Recognized the third Saturday in May since President Truman, Armed Forces Day is a time for us to pay special tribute to the brave men and women serving in all areas of the military. It is also a time to educate the public on the impacts that our servicemembers have on communities across the country. As the proud father of a soldier, I am endlessly grateful for the selfless actions of our servicemembers and their devotion to country. Our servicemen and -women serve throughout the world as a beacon of light, carrying with them our values of liberty and justice. This service is often done on foreign lands and away from family and friends, but their willingness to defeat any threat that seeks to harm American values and interests never wavers. Madam Speaker, with this day, we hope to show our appreciation so those honored are aware of how much we think of them and their sacrifices.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, May is Mental Health Month, a time when we are encouraged to break down the stigmas that surround mental health. Normalizing conversations about depression, anxiety, and other conditions will help those affected by mental illness seek the quality care that they need and deserve. One group that is overwhelmingly impacted by mental health disorders is veterans. Unfortunately, we know that about 22 veterans commit suicide each and every day. Congress understands how dire the situation has become and is working diligently to find a solution. Fortunately, we have made progress over the past few years. Last year's passage of the VA Mission Act significantly increased the care available to our veterans, ensuring they have access to a medical professional before resorting to suicide. This is a step in the right direction, but more can certainly be done. These men and women answer the call of duty, and as a Nation, we must care for them when they return home. Until veteran suicide rates dwindle to zero, I will continue to work with my colleagues to support veterans' mental health programs.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize May as Community Action Month. This year marks the 55th year since the Community Action Network was established to help American families and communities overcome obstacles to poverty. There are more than 1,000 Community Action Agencies across the country that reach children and families in 99 percent of America's counties to help provide life-changing services that create pathways out of poverty. Every year, these agencies help tens of thousands of children and youth with before- and after-school programs; more than 165,000 unemployed people get a job; almost 220,000 families find safe and affordable housing; and about 6.5 million people, including seniors, make their homes more energy efficient and lower their utility bills. Earlier this spring, I was proud to introduce H.R. 1695, the Community Services Block Grant Reauthorization Act of 2019, with Congresswoman Betty McCollum. This bill renews our Nation's commitment to reducing poverty through locally driven, comprehensive approaches. Madam Speaker, the Community Services Block Grant traces its roots back more than 50 years ago to the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964. This act established local Community Action Agencies to help identify why people were in poverty and how to address it using public and private resources, a great public-private partnership. These agencies act as a safety net for low-income individuals and families. Even more importantly, they help create opportunities for people to move from poverty to independence. That is the true measure of success as we look at these Community Action Agencies. The Community Services Block Grant is the only Federal program with the explicit goal of reducing poverty, regardless of the cause. Unfortunately, this program has not been reauthorized in more than 20 years. Our bill makes important updates that will strengthen the Community Services Block Grant and the network it supports, including: A new federally administered Community Action Opioid Response Grant that will enable Community Action Agencies to fill service gaps and respond to unmet needs of low-income individuals, families, and communities affected by the opioid or substance abuse crisis; A provision requiring Federal approval of State applications and plans, with provisions to allow direct Federal funding of local agencies if a State plan fails to meet Federal requirements; and A renewed commitment to streamlining the program's stated purpose to reduce poverty through support for Community Action Agencies that improve economic security for low-income individuals and families and create new opportunities in the communities where they live. This bill will help more than 15 million low-income Americans and provide resources necessary to help lift individuals and families out of poverty. Madam Speaker, it is time to reauthorize the Community Services Block Grant, and I urge all my colleagues to support this bill, especially during Community Action Month.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to speak about an organization that is near and dear to my heart: the Lions Clubs International. I am a member of my hometown organization, the Howard Area Lions Club. The Howard Area Lions Club has consistently earned the recognition as the largest Lions Club in Pennsylvania. There are probably many factors that have led them to this, but none more significant than their commitment to the Lions Club motto, ``We Serve.'' The members of my club served as the chartering organization for the Howard Boy Scout Troop 353; and, in the past, I was proud to serve as Scoutmaster of that unit. Simply put, service is of the utmost importance to the Lions. The clubs are places where individuals can join together to give their valuable time and effort to improving their communities and the world. Where there is a need, there is a Lion. There are 1.4 million Lions around the world, 47,000 Lions Clubs in more than 200 countries. For more than 100 years, Lions have been serving humanity. The idea of the Lions Club began in 1917. A 38-year-old Chicago business leader named Melvin Jones told members of his local business club that they should reach beyond business issues and address the betterment of their communities and the world. They agreed. Three years later, Lions Clubs became an international organization. Melvin Jones inspired generations of people to become civic-minded individuals, dedicated to using their talents and ambitions to improve their communities without financial reward. Melvin Jones had a personal code: ``You can't get very far until you start doing something for somebody else.'' Madam Speaker, service to others is what makes the Lions Clubs International such a powerful force for good in the world. There are nearly 70 Members of Congress who are involved in service organizations, and that is why I am proud to be working with my colleague Congressman Jimmy Panetta to establish the Congressional Service Organization Caucus. We plan to launch the caucus soon. It will support the many operations that are dedicated to giving back to their communities. I encourage my colleagues to join because there are few gifts greater than the gift of time and service to others. Madam Speaker, Lions Clubs International is on Capitol Hill today to raise awareness about how helpful service organizations are to communities across the Nation. I am grateful that Lions Clubs around the globe serve millions annually, and I am so proud to be a member of an organization that not only lives up to its remarkable ideals but exceeds them time and time again.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, today is Peace Officers Memorial Day, when we pay tribute to local, State, and Federal law enforcement officers who serve and protect our communities. Today is an extra special day for one of my constituents and his family: Sugarcreek Police Sergeant Anthony Gorman, who was shot April 4, 1997, while investigating a suspicious car in a parking lot in Franklin, Pennsylvania. He never fully recovered from his injuries. In October of 2014, Sergeant Gorman died at the age of 72, more than 17 years after that initial gunshot. While his death was a direct consequence of the 1997 shooting, a doctor listed his cause of death as natural, which prevented him from being honored at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial here in Washington, D.C. His son, Christopher, then embarked on a mission to have his dad's name memorialized. After years of research, petitions, and advocacy, it is now engraved at the East Pathway of Remembrance at section 25, line 31. Sergeant Gorman's family was here this week for the candlelight vigil held Monday on The Mall, and thanks to Christopher Gorman's determination, his dad's name is finally where he belongs.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of National Police Week. More than 30,000 law enforcement officers from across the country are in Washington in honor of National Police Week. Established by a joint resolution of Congress in 1962, National Police Week pays special recognition to those law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others. It is a time when we pause to remember officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice and lost their lives in the line of duty protecting and serving others. National Police Week is a collaborative effort of many organizations dedicated to honoring America's law enforcement community. It honors the men and women in blue who gave everything to protect their country and their communities. Our officers put on their uniforms each day knowing that they can be in harm's way at any moment. National Police Week is a time to remember the sacrifices that many officers and their families have made. Mr. Speaker, I thank all of our officers who answer the call to serve.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today during National Nurses Week to celebrate America's hardworking and professional caregivers, our nurses. National Nurses Week is celebrated annually from May 6 through May 12, the birthday of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing. Men and women who enter the nursing profession care for bodies and minds and educate and empower patients. This rewarding profession allows nurses to deeply impact their patients' lives. Often, nurses help those facing serious health challenges. Nursing is a science; it is an art; and it is a profession for the most giving, caring, and compassionate individuals. Nurses help patients and their families enter new stages of life. From the birth of a child to the challenge of an aging parent, nurses are there, providing expertise and encouragement, delivering care and compassion, and working to deliver positive outcomes. Madam Speaker, some nurses travel the globe caring for others. Others are the well-known caregivers in their small communities. Wherever they practice, I say thank you to our nurses for caring so deeply for all of us.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today during Teacher Appreciation Week to celebrate America's hardworking, dedicated, and passionate teachers. The National Education Association and the National PTA team up each year to recognize the contributions our teachers make every day to shape the minds of their students. Madam Speaker, I am sure every Member of the House can think of a teacher who had a positive influence on not only their education but their life. Our teachers push students to achieve their best, and they show students how to realize their full potential. Teachers are some of the most powerful professionals in the entire world. They lend a caring hand and extend a loving heart. They make differences in the lives of our students academically, emotionally, and physically. I thank every teacher in America for the job they do, for the hours they work, for the patience they show, and for the impact they have on so many lives. Happy Teachers Appreciation Week. This Nation would be lost without them.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Capitol Worship, which is a mission that is near and dear to my heart. For the past 8 years, Pastor Dan Cummins and his wife, JoAnn Cummins, have ministered the Members of Congress, staff, and the Capitol Police. They share the love and Gospel of Jesus Christ through weekly prayer services and Bible studies. Each year, Capitol Worship hosts and produces the Carols in the Capitol Christmas Concert and the Washington, a Man of Prayer, both of which take place in Statuary Hall. The Washington, a Man of Prayer event commemorates when President George Washington was sworn in at Federal Hall in New York City on April 30, 1789. President Washington, accompanied by Congress, proceeded to St. Paul's Chapel, where one of his first official acts as President was to offer prayers of dedication to God on America's behalf. This is truly a remarkable event made possible by Pastor Dan and JoAnn Cummins. Mr. Speaker, Capitol Worship fosters strong personal and bipartisan relationships between Members from both political parties, and I congratulate Pastor Dan and JoAnn Cummins on their dedication to this awesome mission.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Bald Eagle Area High School unified bocce team, which recently brought home a State championship. It is only the unified bocce team's second season, and they have already been crowned the best in the State. The unified bocce team is made up of four students, four with intellectual disabilities and four without. This winter sport allows students with and without disabilities to participate in a competitive environment that promotes physical activity, sportsmanship, and socialization. Teams are made up of students with intellectual disabilities, known as athletes, and regular education students, known as partners. I am so proud of my alma mater for adopting the unified bocce team, which operates in conjunction with Special Olympics. In fact, multiple high schools in the region have unified bocce teams, including State College and Bellefonte in Centre County and Clearfield Area High School in Clearfield County. Bocce has become so popular at Bald Eagle Area that it started the season with two teams, a blue team and a gold team. The two met in the regional championship, with the gold advancing to states. The gold team's eight members include Chelsea Butterworth, Alyssa Packer, Nick Zink, Josh Zink, Fay Shaheen, Emily Gardner, Jordan Bonsell, and Bridget Esenwine. Mr. Speaker, Special Olympics Pennsylvania also hosted its third annual Unified Bocce Government Challenge on Monday in the east rotunda of the Pennsylvania State Capitol in Harrisburg. The challenge paired various local organizational leaders, government officials, and legislative leaders with Special Olympics athletes for a fun, competitive, and social experience. I am so proud of our athletes, our partners, and everyone in the community who has supported the unified bocce team and the inclusion movement. The team had a hero's welcome home from Hershey in March when they won the State championship. About 100 teachers, parents, and students greeted the team when they arrived back at the school, with a fire truck escort leading the way. Congratulations to our State champs, the unified bocce team. Go Eagles!

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, next week is National Skilled Nursing Care Week, and hundreds of nursing home administrators will gather at State College, Pennsylvania, for the 2019 Spring Health Care Conference. Hosted by Central Pennsylvania Educational Resources, the conference will allow nursing home administrators the opportunity to exchange ideas and gain information from knowledgeable speakers. This year's theme for National Skilled Nursing Care Week is ``Live Soulfully,'' which will celebrate skilled nursing centers and their residents and staff by showcasing how they achieve happy minds and healthy souls. Whether it is planting, cooking, reading, or listening to music, these centers pay it forward by helping individuals find happiness to improve quality of life. Mr. Speaker, before coming to Congress, I worked nearly three decades as a recreational therapist, a rehab services manager, and a licensed nursing home administrator. I know firsthand how important quality of life is and how each and every person at a nursing home can impact the lives of residents. National Skilled Nursing Care Week thanks and celebrates caregivers for their tireless work to care for others. They truly make an impact.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize May as National Foster Care Month. This is a time to recognize more than 400,000 foster youth in America. During this month, we renew our commitment to ensuring that every child has a safe and loving home. Mr. Speaker, I am a member of the Congressional Caucus on Foster Youth, and to this day, I have a foster brother as part of my family. I know firsthand how a loving, supportive home can make all of the difference in a young person's life. More than 200,000 children enter the foster care system every year, which translates to a child entering care every 2 minutes. All children deserve a safe, loving, and permanent home. We have a responsibility to continue to create policies that will improve outcomes in the overall well-being of foster youth and their families. I thank every foster parent, volunteer, and mentor who works to make sure that the needs of our children are not only being met, but giving them the opportunity to thrive in a loving home.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize former Senator Richard Lugar, who passed away Sunday at the age of 87. Senator Lugar served the State of Indiana for 36 years in Congress and was a leading voice on issues at home and abroad. Senator Lugar was a man of strong integrity who stood by what he believed in, and Senator Lugar always was willing to work with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to reach a shared goal: bipartisanship. In 2003, the State Department established a Kennedy-Lugar YES Abroad program, named for Senator Lugar and Senator Ted Kennedy. The program provides scholarships for students from the United States and countries with significant Muslim populations to spend 1 year in the other's country. It fosters the same goals that Senator Lugar dedicated his life to achieving: understanding, collaboration, and friendship with the rest of the world. Mr. Speaker, I thank Senator Lugar for his legendary service. Senator Lugar leaves a long record of legislative accomplishments. I offer my condolences to his family. May Senator Lugar rest in peace, and may we learn from the example that he set.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, the USO is on Capitol Hill today for a service project where volunteers can assemble care packages for servicemembers who are currently deployed. More than 2,000 care packages will be assembled today as part of the Force Behind the Forces campaign. The USO strengthens America's military servicemembers by keeping them connected to family, home, and country throughout their service to the Nation. The USO has more than 200 locations around the globe. It serves 4.9 million Active-Duty Guard, Reserve, and members of their families. For more than 75 years, the USO has been by the side of America's military servicemembers. From the moment they join, through their assignments and deployments, and as they transition back to their communities, the USO has been there. The USO has delivered more than 2.6 million care packages since the Care Package Program was established in 2003. In 2018, the USO delivered 120,000 care packages to servicemembers across the globe. Madam Speaker, I thank the USO for its dedication to our servicemembers and their families. As a military family, as an individual who has visited theaters of war, I see what a difference this makes, and I thank them for their service.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, this morning I was at Penn State University, a great land grant university, for the inaugural conference of the Consortium to Combat Substance Abuse. Penn State has brought together a diverse group of stakeholders to address the largest public health crisis of our lifetime: the opioid and substance abuse epidemic. This group will draw on the expertise of researchers, educators, and practitioners from Penn State campuses across the Commonwealth to develop and implement effective programs, policies, and practices aimed at preventing and treating addiction and its spillover effects on children, families, and our communities. Pennsylvania has been hit hard by the opioid epidemic, especially our rural communities, though no household is immune. On Saturday, Americans had the opportunity to protect their communities and prevent the spread of addiction by safely disposing of expired, unwanted, and unused prescription drugs, thanks to the Drug Enforcement Administration's 17th Annual National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. It is encouraging to see communities working together to slow the spread of the opioid epidemic. It is my hope that through increased awareness and action at all levels we can eradicate it once and for all.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, during National Volunteer Week, to acknowledge the many Americans who generously give their time and talents to help improve the lives of others. Since the founding of the United States, Americans have always been committed to serving others and working for the common good. During National Volunteer Week, we celebrate that spirit and generosity that inspires Americans to make our communities safer, healthier, and stronger. Mr. Speaker, right here in the House, I am proud to be working with Congressman Jim Panetta creating a caucus to empower and promote the goals of national service organizations. Soon, we will launch the National Service Organization Caucus, which will support the many organizations that are dedicated to giving back to their communities. I encourage my colleagues to join this important caucus. The gift of time is priceless. Every day Americans are helping students, caring for seniors, working to support our veterans, aiding those impacted by natural disasters, and so much more. There is always an opportunity to volunteer, and I am grateful that so many Americans make it a part of their daily lives.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in celebration of National Library Week, which began on Sunday and runs through Saturday, April 13. This year's theme is ``Libraries = Strong Communities,'' and Melinda Gates is the honorary chair. In the last 20 years, the Gates Foundation's Global Libraries initiative has been dedicated to enhancing libraries and empowering local communities. National Library Week is an annual celebration highlighting the valuable role libraries, librarians, and library workers play in transforming lives and strengthening our communities. Mr. Speaker, libraries have always been great equalizers in our society. Nearly 1.3 billion people visit public libraries every year, according to the Institute of Museum and Library Services. They are at the heart of our cities, towns, schools and campuses, providing critical resources, programs, and expertise. Libraries provide a public space where all community members--regardless of age, culture, or income level--can come together to connect and learn. First sponsored in 1958, National Library Week is an observance sponsored by the American Library Association and libraries across the country each April. It is a time to celebrate the contributions of our Nation's libraries and librarians and to promote library use and support. All types of libraries, including schools--public, academic, and special-- participate. There are several celebrations throughout the week, including today, which is National Library Workers Day. It is a time to show appreciation for the staff, administrators, and Friends groups, and recognize the valuable contributions made by all library employees. Tomorrow is National Bookmobile Day, which is celebrated today to recognize contributions of our Nation's bookmobiles and dedicated professionals who make outreach possible and books accessible in our rural communities. Mr. Speaker, from the largest library in the world, the Library of Congress, to the smallest local libraries around, I hope Americans will support their local libraries this week with a visit.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I object to the vote on the ground that a quorum is not present and make the point of order that a quorum is not present.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, pursuant to clause 1, rule I, I demand a vote on agreeing to the Speaker's approval of the Journal.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, April is Invasive Plant Pest and Disease Awareness Month. These species, commonly known as hungry pests, begin to emerge in the warmer months and can be spread easily by the public. They attack trees, plants, and agriculture products, and it costs the United States nearly $40 billion each year in damages and extermination efforts. The transfer of these invasive species hurts our American farmers and contributes to the destruction of forests and public lands. In Pennsylvania the spotted lanternfly is a threat to apples, grapes, peaches, stone fruits, and various tree species--specially hardwoods-- throughout the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Pests can be spread by human activities like moving into a new home, traveling in the U.S. or internationally, mailing plants and food, and moving untreated firewood. The USDA offers a free checklist for those moving into a new household that would help reduce the risk of spreading hungry pests into their new home. Mr. Speaker, it is important to be mindful of these risks and utilize the great resources available to reduce the spread of invasive species.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, on Tuesday, I signed the discharge petition to force a vote on the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act. 193 Members, including two Democrats, have already signed it. A discharge petition has not received such overwhelming support in the first 24 hours in at least 22 years. I applaud Congresswoman Ann Wagner for reintroducing this bill and Republican Whip Steve Scalise for filing the discharge petition. The Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act would require that a child who is born alive after an attempted abortion receives treatment and be transferred to a hospital. This legislation penalizes the intentional killing of a child who is born alive. Unfortunately, we have seen horrific actions in New York and Virginia to allow late-term abortion. It is, essentially, the execution of a defenseless child after birth. Madam Speaker, this isn't abortion; this is infanticide. Any doctor who would leave a child to die should face the full extent of the law. Americans deserve to know whether their Representatives stand against infanticide or not. I urge the House to act on this bill. I urge us to choose life over murder.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, on World Autism Day, to recognize and support all children or adults with autism spectrum disorder. In 2018, an estimated 1 in 59 children in the United States was diagnosed with some form of autism spectrum disorder. Notwithstanding these diagnoses, Americans with autism make exceptional contributions across our Nation and around the world. Each April Autism Speaks celebrates the start of its signature campaign, Light It Up Blue. Light It Up Blue is a unique global campaign to increase understanding and acceptance for people with autism. Today we celebrate World Autism Awareness Day, and this month is World Autism Month. Mr. Speaker, let's renew our commitment to support the entire international autism community, including children and adults with autism, their families, and caregivers. Together, we can increase access to information, encourage heightened understanding of autism, promote respect and dignity, and support the services that assist people with autism to reach their full potential.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Easterseals on its 100th anniversary. Easterseals is a network of more than 70 leading nonprofit organizations that provide local services and support to children and adults with disabilities, veterans, and older adults. Founded in 1919 in Ohio, Easterseals works nationwide, in almost every State, to help Americans achieve milestones, live independently, and be active members of their communities. Easterseals employs more than 30,000 professional staff across the country, including therapists, nurses, employment specialists, and direct support professionals who deliver high-quality services. Over the past century, Easterseals has helped millions of individuals and families by assisting children who have disabilities; helping them access early intervention, including physical and speech therapies, to help prepare them for successful learning; providing in-home and community adult day services for seniors and people with disabilities; helping individuals with disabilities, veterans, and seniors find meaningful employment; and providing camping and recreational opportunities to youth and adults with disabilities. Mr. Speaker, Easterseals provides autistic individuals early education, employment, camping, caregiving, transportation, and other services to support Americans of all ages. The number of children in the U.S. with developmental delays is on the rise. A recent study found that approximately 13 percent of infants and toddlers have a developmental delay. Research has also shown that one in three children who receive early intervention services will not require special education in preschool. Mr. Speaker, we know that the first few years of a child's life will lay the foundation for his or her long-term well-being and overall success. That is why I am a strong proponent of Head Start and Early Head Start programs. We can't guarantee that every child will be successful in life, but we can give them the same access to early educational opportunities. This is just one of many reasons why I introduced H.R. 1695, the Community Services Block Grant Reauthorization Act of 2019. This legislation renews our Nation's commitment to reducing poverty through locally driven comprehensive approaches. Head Start and early education programs are operated through community action agencies and promote school readiness through enhancing the cognitive, physical, behavorial, and social-emotional development of children from low-income families. Easterseals specializes in early childhood development where children with and without disabilities can learn together. Another piece of legislation I am cosponsoring is H.R. 1878, the IDEA Full Funding Act. This would ensure that individuals with disabilities are receiving an appropriate education. In the 1970s, Congress promised to cover 40 percent of the extra cost of special education, but we never come close to fulfilling that promise. In fact, current funding remains only at 14 percent of the targeted amount. This bill would mandate gradual increases in IDEA funding to reach the full commitment--40 percent, a commitment made by Congress--by fiscal year 2029 and each subsequent fiscal year after that. Easterseals is also supportive of this legislation. In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, three Easterseals affiliates serve 67 counties. They employ almost 700 people, and they serve nearly 27,900 individuals. Mr. Speaker, these are just some of the incredible services Easterseals works to provide to American families. For the past 100 years, it has leveraged its network of nonprofits to improve the lives of others. In schools, workplaces, and communities, Easterseals has fostered environments where everyone is included and valued, regardless of age or ability. I congratulate Easterseals for its contributions to improving so many lives over the past 100 years.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to welcome Alzheimer's ambassadors to Washington, D.C., for the Alzheimer's Impact Movement Advocacy Forum. Alzheimer's is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States, and it has reached crisis proportions. There is no effective treatment, no means of prevention, and no method for slowing the progression of the disease. Sadly, one in three seniors will die with the disease. But this week, more than 1,000 advocates from across the country will gather for the 3-day event to help advance policies to improve the lives of all individuals affected by dementia. Alzheimer's has a devastating impact upon those who are diagnosed with the disease, their caregivers, and their loved ones. More than 60 million Americans provide unpaid care to family and friends living with Alzheimer's and other dementias. Mr. Speaker, I look forward to meeting with Alzheimer's ambassadors from my district this week. I admire their advocacy and commitment to raising awareness about Alzheimer's disease and their determination to never stop searching for a cure.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, in the 1970s, Congress made a commitment to provide a free and appropriate education to students with disabilities. While we have made tremendous progress, thanks to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, we have also failed to fully fund the cost of special education that was promised by Congress at that point in time. Congress promised to cover 40 percent of the extra cost of special education, but we have never come close to fulfilling that promise. In fact, current funding remains only at 14 percent of the targeted amount. Mr. Speaker, that is shameful. This means our students and schools suffer, it means that the programs will be cut, it means schools won't be able to recruit and retain qualified teachers, and above all else, it means that students with disabilities will not be able to succeed, not without the appropriate high-quality services they deserve. That is why I proudly cosponsored the bipartisan IDEA Full Funding Act, which would mandate gradual increases in IDEA funding to reach that full commitment made by Congress of 40 percent by fiscal year 2029 and each subsequent fiscal year. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bill and uphold the promise to provide students and schools with the resources they need.