Glenn Thompson

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 28th Infantry Division of the United States Army National Guard as it recently celebrated the anniversary of its 140th year of serving this Nation. Its roots in American history were planted long before our Nation's founding. The 28th Infantry's lineage traces all the way back to when Benjamin Franklin formed a militia known as the Pennsylvania Associators. The first meeting of the Associators occurred on November 21, 1747. Franklin organized units to defend the city of Philadelphia against the French and Spanish privateers. The 28th Infantry Division is the oldest continuously serving division in the United States Army. It wasn't until 1879 when the 28th ID was officially established by Governor Henry Hoyt and designated a red keystone as its symbol. Throughout history, the 28th Infantry Division has answered our country's call to serve in nearly every war. The 28th ID soldiers fought side by side in the Spanish-American War. They earned the nickname ``Iron Division'' in the First World War by General John Pershing after a chivalrous stand in France. This decorated division still goes by this storied nickname. The infantrymen stepped ashore at Omaha Beach and were the first American division to parade through Paris after its liberation. They were also deployed for duty during the Korean war. In present day, its operations have continued in places like Bosnia, Kosovo, Kuwait, Iraq, and Afghanistan. I had the distinct pleasure of meeting these members of the 28th Division last November in Kuwait, joining them in the mess hall for Thanksgiving dinner. The division stationed in Kuwait was part of Operation Spartan Shield. This operation sought to strengthen U.S. partnerships in the Middle East and support ongoing operations to defeat ISIS. Just a few weeks ago, I got to reunite with the 28th ID in Hershey, Pennsylvania, to celebrate the 140th anniversary. The dinner and ceremonies were a fitting tribute for a historic part of the United States military. Madam Speaker, these men and women continue to build upon the Iron Division legacy. They are brave, resilient, and well-trained to support each other in combat and defend our great Nation. So I say to the men and women of the 28th Infantry Division: Roll on, 28th. Roll on. Madam Speaker, I congratulate the 28th Infantry Division for 140 years of service, sacrifice, and valor.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, tomorrow is National Vietnam War Veterans Day. Madam Speaker, 46 years ago, March 29, 1973, the last combat troops were ordered out of Vietnam; and just 2 years ago, we designated March 29 as a national day to honor our Vietnam veterans. Madam Speaker, in many instances, our Vietnam veterans often did not receive a warm welcome home when they returned from war. There were no parades, no welcome back ceremonies. Our Vietnam veterans, many of whom were drafted, answered the Nation's call and served with honor and distinction. Vietnam veterans constructed their own memorial here in Washington, built entirely by private donations and dedicated to the 2.7 million servicemembers who served during the Vietnam war. Madam Speaker, we all know someone who served in Vietnam. These veterans are our friends, our family, and neighbors. It is long overdue to salute them for their service, but it is not too late. This weekend, I will proudly be at the Cambria County War Memorial to mark this special day. May God bless our Vietnam war veterans today, tomorrow, and every day. Welcome home.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to speak about the essential role community health centers play in neighborhoods throughout the Nation. America's health centers serve 28 million patients who have the greatest difficulty accessing healthcare. This includes 24.9 million low-income patients; 3.5 million patients in or near public housing; 1.4 million homeless patients; nearly 1 million patients who work in agriculture; and 6.2 million uninsured patients. Madam Speaker, community health centers are located in areas of high need and are open to everyone, regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. Congress recently made historic investments to the Health Center Program, which increased access, expanded services, and improved quality. Health centers also play an important role in rural America where the need is great, but services are often scarce. And, each year, community health centers generate approximately $54 billion in economic activity and save the healthcare system an estimated $24 billion within our most underserved communities. Madam Speaker, we must ensure that all Americans receive the services they need, regardless of where they live, and community health centers do that.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, this week, our Nation celebrates Public Schools Week. It is a time when we acknowledge the diversity and success of our public schools and the sound education that they provide. Strengthening America's public schools is the best way to ensure our children's future success and our country's prosperity. Ninety percent of American children attend public schools. This week, supporters across the country will share stories of the many schools, students, and professionals who make public schools such vital components of our communities. This includes parents who are working hard to improve educational outcomes for children. Advocates nationwide will share scores of stories about public school students and their successes. Mr. Speaker, public school teachers truly make a difference in the lives of our students. They prepare them for bright and successful futures. It is their dedication to our students that builds strong public schools and, therefore, strong communities. As a senior member of the Education and Labor Committee and a product of public schools, I know the incredible role our schools play in communities across the Nation. Public schools today have much good news to share, from increasing graduation rates and reduced dropout rates, to improved ratings given by communities on school performance. Public schools welcome every child, regardless of ability, race, wealth, language, country of origin, or needs. By strengthening the public school system, we strengthen the democracy of our country. Supporting public schools today will build a stronger workforce for tomorrow. The future of our Nation to produce in the manufacturing industry, the farm, and the information age will be based on the investment we make today in supporting public schools. Schools today are integrating the new ideas that are being explored by businesses and industry. Strong public schools are vital to our national security. Our military's success is dependent on members who can apply their knowledge and skills to navigate the increasingly complex tools that keep our country safe. In many communities, the school district is the largest employer. Teachers, bus drivers, administrators, cafeteria workers, coaches, and facilities management all depend on the school district, and all these jobs contribute to the fabric of a community. Communities are stronger and schools are better when we all work together to support public education. Public schools also make sure kids receive at least one nutritious meal a day. More than 30 million school lunches are served each day, including 20 million free and 2 million reduced priced lunches. For some students, the only meal that they receive will be the one that they get at school. Mr. Speaker, a child's opportunity for success should not be left to chance. Every child needs a quality, well-equipped school right in their neighborhood, where they can learn, be inspired, and thrive. Public education has always been the great equalizer in the United States. I am grateful for the contribution of our public schools, and I know that, together, we will continue to work to strengthen them for our most precious resource: our children.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, today is National Medal of Honor Day, when this Nation recalls the sacrifice and heroics of all Medal of Honor recipients. Over 150 years ago, on March 25, 1863, the first Medals of Honor were presented. In 1990, Congress designated March 25 as National Medal of Honor Day. The Medal of Honor is the highest military honor our Nation can bestow. In 2016, I was able to recognize one of Pennsylvania's very own Medal of Honor recipients, the late Army Specialist Ross McGinnis. The post office in Knox, Clarion County, is named for Specialist McGinnis, who died in December 2006 in Iraq. While on patrol in eastern Baghdad on December 4, 2006, an unidentified insurgent positioned on a nearby rooftop threw a grenade into a Humvee carrying McGinnis and other troops. Specialist McGinnis threw his body on top of the grenade, saving the lives of his fellow soldiers. He was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor by President George W. Bush in 2008. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of a grateful Nation, I salute all our Medal of Honor recipients.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 1695, the Community Services Block Grant Reauthorization Act of 2019. This bill renews our Nation's commitment to reducing poverty through locally driven, comprehensive approaches. I am proud to lead this legislation with Congresswoman Betty McCollum. Mr. 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 committee action agencies to help people identify why people were in poverty and how to address it using public and private resources and partnerships. Virtually every county in America has a community action agency. They act as a safety net for low-income individuals and families, but, more importantly, they help to create opportunities to raise people out of poverty--from poverty to independence. The Community Services Block Grant is the only Federal program with the explicit goal of reducing poverty, regardless of its cause. Unfortunately, this program has not been reauthorized in more than 20 years, which is unacceptable. It is time to reauthorize the Community Services Block Grant, and I urge all my colleagues to cosponsor and support this bill.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, Scouting organizations are pivotal in the lives of so many American youth, and this week there has been much to celebrate. Yesterday, the Girl Scouts of the USA marked its 107th birthday, and tonight the Boy Scouts of America will conclude its annual report to the Nation. Girl Scouts help girls develop into the future leaders of our economy, our communities, our country, and the world by encouraging them to dream big and work hard to achieve their goals. In fact, many Congresswomen have been Girl Scouts, and we saw some Congresswomen deliver speeches on this floor yesterday in honor of the Girl Scouts building girls of courage, confidence, and character for 107 years. Mr. Speaker, I know firsthand the positive impact that Scouting can have on the life of a young person. I have been actively involved with the Boy Scouts of America since I was 11 years old. On May 17, 1977, I became an Eagle Scout myself, as a member of Boy Scout Troop 52 in Walker Township, Pennsylvania. Over the years, I have proudly held various leadership roles with Boy Scout troops in Pennsylvania, including two separate stints as Scoutmaster for Troop 353 and president of the Juniata Valley Boy Scout Council. One of my greatest honors was to witness 29 young men achieve the rank of Eagle Scout during my tenure as Scoutmaster. Many Eagle Scouts will gather tonight in the Capitol to conclude the annual Report to the Nation delegation trip. I am proud to be a part of the Eagles on the Hill reception, and I look forward to hearing from the Scouts. Members of Congress and I will speak about how Scouting positively impacted our lives. And after the speeches, the Scouts will have a chance to discuss their experience in Scouting as a whole, as well as their time in the Report to the Nation delegation. Report to the Nation is an annual event meant to connect some of Scouting's best and brightest with government officials and elected representatives. Each year, 6 to 10 representatives of the Boy Scouts meet with senior government officials, including the President and key congressional leaders, with the goal of providing an update of what Scouts have achieved over the past year. This also allows members of the Federal Government an opportunity to meet some of the Nation's brightest young Scouts. The delegation spends between a week and 10 days in Washington, D.C., conducting meetings and touring the city. The Report to the Nation delegation stems from the congressional charter of the Boy Scouts of America, dating back to June 15, 1916, and represents millions of Boy Scouts. Mr. Speaker, I know that the Boy Scouts of America and the Girl Scouts of the USA both contribute to the spirit of this Nation and play an essential role in educating our youth. These organizations build character; they help young people become actively engaged in their communities; and they promote serving others in ways big and small. And that is something we can all respect and admire.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate The American Legion on its centennial anniversary. On Friday, March 15, The American Legion will celebrate 100 years since it was formed in Paris, France, after World War I. More than 1,000 people gathered for The American Legion's first caucus at the American Club in Paris on March 15, 1919. Since then, The American Legion has grown to be the Nation's largest wartime veterans service organization, boasting more than 2 million members and 13,000 posts across all 50 States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, France, Mexico, and the Philippines. Its dedication to veterans, servicemembers, and their families extends from local community programs to State and Federal policy initiatives, including the establishment of the Veterans Administration in 1930 and the GI Bill in 1944. Hundreds of local American Legion programs and activities strengthen the Nation one community at a time. Madam Speaker, I thank The American Legion for its service and wish its members a happy 100th birthday this Friday.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to highlight a fatal disorder that has been impacting deer populations in 24 States, including Pennsylvania, chronic wasting disease. Chronic wasting disease is progressive and always fatal. Deer, elk, mules, and moose are impacted by this disease. First, they have difficulty moving, and the most obvious and consistent sign is significant weight loss over time. Madam Speaker, I made an amendment to the 2018 farm bill that gives priority status to chronic wasting disease under the research portion of the bill, and I will be introducing legislation to help identify and address the root causes of chronic wasting disease. This past Saturday, my colleague and friend, Congressman John Joyce, and I were at the East Freedom Fire Hall with 300 hunters. At this event, chronic wasting disease was at the forefront. While the science is developing, a cure is still years away and needs considerable funding to make it a reality. It is my hope that, through research, we can successfully cure chronic wasting disease.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, during National Agriculture Week, to celebrate American farmers and farm families. This nationwide effort recognizes and celebrates the abundance provided by American agriculture. It also reminds citizens that agriculture is a part of all of us and plays a critical economic and food security role. Thursday is National Ag Day, which began in 1973 as a way to increase public awareness of agriculture's role in society. National Ag Day encourages every American to understand how food and fiber products are produced; appreciate the role agriculture plays in providing safe, abundant, and affordable products; value the essential role of agriculture in maintaining a strong economy; and acknowledge and consider career opportunities in the agriculture, food, and fiber industries. In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, we are fortunate to have more than 58,000 farmers. These men and women are the lifeline of the Commonwealth, as agriculture is our number one industry. Our farmers produce a safe and abundant food supply, including our dairy farmers, who produce the milk that is stocked in the cases of our supermarkets and in lunchrooms across America. My bill, the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, would further expand milk choices in our schools. It would allow for whole milk, both flavored and unflavored, to be offered in school cafeterias. Mr. Speaker, milk was once a staple in the diets of our students, but consumption in schools has dramatically decreased since the Healthy, Hunger-Free Act of 2010--which demonized milk fat, which is where nutrition and flavor is--was implemented. Milk is the number one source of nine essential nutrients in the diets of many young Americans. We can provide the foundation for a solid, healthy lunch in our schools that also tastes great and students will want to drink. When students don't consume milk, they are not getting nutrients such as calcium, potassium, and vitamin D. I urge my colleagues to cosponsor the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, and National Agriculture Week is the perfect time to sign on to this important legislation. Mr. Speaker, we know that farmers feed; nutrition matters; and agriculture plays a critical role in modern society. I would like to thank all Americans who work tirelessly in the ag sector. On behalf of a grateful Nation, we thank you. Cybersecurity Skills Integration

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 1592, the Cybersecurity Skills Integration Act. As co-chair of the House Career and Technical Education Caucus, I am proud that we continue to provide the resources necessary to have a dominant and prosperous workforce. For instance, this past July, we authorized the Carl D. Perkins Act to advance career and technical education. We must continue developing a 21st century workforce to meet the technical demands our country is facing now and into the future. That is why, together with my friend, Congressman Jim Langevin, we have introduced a bill to help protect our sensitive data and critical infrastructure from bad actors. Our legislation directs the Department of Education to create a comprehensive grant program that integrates cybersecurity education into new and established postsecondary CTE programs. With more than 16 critical infrastructure sectors in our country, we must prepare our next generation of learners to have the most sophisticated and comprehensive educational programs to protect our Nation's most dire assets, systems, and networks. I urge my colleagues to support this bill, and I thank Mr. Langevin for his work and leadership on this issue.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, 58 years ago this week, President John F. Kennedy signed an executive order establishing the United States Peace Corps. Since then, more than 200,000 Americans have participated in international service opportunities through the Peace Corps. International service organizations like the Peace Corps and student exchange programs operated by the Department of State play an important role in promoting the image of America around the world. These programs provide American volunteers with a chance to learn about their host country's society and values, and, in turn, volunteers share American culture and values with the people of their host country. This fosters a great understanding of and strong friendship between our country and those around the world. The Peace Corps was created with the strong belief that Americans are willing to contribute part of their life to the country. President Kennedy said that we must not merely aim to have an economic advantage in life, but we must strive for a greater purpose. Madam Speaker, for 58 years, the United States Peace Corps has provided thousands of Americans with that greater purpose.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize March as Women's History Month. Throughout history, countless women have contributed to the character and success of the United States of America. During Women's History Month, we celebrate the scores of women who have worked to improve our society and who have fought inequality and discrimination in every form. These women have created a legacy that lives on and continues to inspire generations of Americans, from Harriet Tubman to Elizabeth Cady Stanton, and Susan B. Anthony to Helen Keller. Women's History Month is a time to honor the lives and legacy of all women, living and dead. Through sharing their stories, we are able to acknowledge how their contributions have enriched our lives. In the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, legendary journalist Ida Tarbell was born at the onset of the oil boom. She is best known for her 1904 book, ``The History of the Standard Oil Company.'' Ida Tarbell was known for her ability to take complex subjects and break them down into articles that could be easily consumed by the general public. She had a successful career as an investigative journalist, and the Oil Region Alliance in northwestern Pennsylvania recently completed a full restoration of Ms. Tarbell's childhood home in Titusville so that it would be preserved for generations to come. Mr. Speaker, by honoring women and their achievements, we can honor the past, inform the present, and inspire the future. Many women have served as part of our Armed Forces throughout history and proudly continue to today, women like Mary Ludwig Hays McCauley, who fought in battles during the Revolutionary War and was among the first women to receive a military pension, and modern-day women like Lisa Jaster, a major in the United States Army Reserve who completed Army Ranger School, which is one of the toughest courses in the military. Major Jaster was in the first Ranger class that allowed women, and she is the first female Army Reserve officer to become a Ranger School graduate. Mr. Speaker, many women have left their imprint on the pages of history, and there are numerous leaders who will continue to guide this Nation into the future. May we celebrate and honor them, not only during Women's History Month, but all year long, and thank them for their incredible contributions.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize March as National Nutrition Month. In 1973, the American Dietetic Association, now called the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, started National Nutrition Week as a way to deliver nutrition education messages to the public. Fast-forward 7 years, and the week became a month-long celebration thanks to the growing public interest in nutrition. Madam Speaker, during the last Congress, I had the honor of being chairman of the Agriculture Subcommittee on Nutrition. From women and children who use the WIC program to adults and families who utilize the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or what we refer to as SNAP, formerly called food stamps, I know that good nutrition is important at every stage of life. National Nutrition Month focuses on the importance of making informed food choices and developing sound eating and physical activity habits. Next Wednesday is Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Day, and this occasion increases awareness of registered dietitian nutritionists as the indispensable providers of food and nutrition services, while recognizing their commitment to helping people enjoy healthy lives. Happy National Nutrition Month.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, over the past couple of weeks I had the honor of visiting three high schools in my district, the Richland High School, near Johnstown, Cambria Heights High School, in Patton, and Purchase Line High School in Commodore, Pennsylvania. As a senior member of the House Education and Labor Committee, I love speaking with students about their learning experiences, and hearing from faculty and staff as well. Last week, the Richland School District invited me to join them for their Teacher-in-Service event with award-winning educator and principal, Salome Thomas-El. It was a pleasure to be with educators from the Cambria County area to hear the ways that we can work together to improve education in America. I enjoyed hearing Mr. Thomas-El discuss the change in attitudes and strategies of school staff, parents, and members of the community to help the students in most need of guidance. He is currently the head of the Thomas Edison Charter School in Wilmington, and before that, began his career as a teacher and chess coach at Vaux Middle School. Since then, he has published several books, received prestigious awards, appeared on television, and Disney recently optioned the movie rights to his best-selling book titled ``I Chose to Stay.'' He has committed more than 20 years of his life to answering the question of how to ensure that every child achieves their greatest potential. The question is one that all educators seek to answer and even policymakers in Congress; and that is why I will continue to support legislation and initiatives that meet the needs and grow the potential of every student. We must also address family poverty, child nutrition, community violence, and other barriers that affect student success. As Mr. Thomas-El says, All children can and will learn as long as they have adults who care enough. And he is right. In order for our country's students to truly succeed, they need the support from adults at home, in the classroom, and throughout their communities. I left the in-service event with Richland School District encouraged and confident that our educators are providing essential support to their students. That feeling stayed with me the next day as I visited Cambria Heights High School. There, I met with students representing music, athletics, student council, and vocational programs at the school. Students showed me the ongoing renovations to the high school building as part of a major renovation of the classrooms and the cafeteria. They also shared with me their many accomplishments that included earning top scores in the county on the State's Keystone Exams for literature and biology. Earlier this week I participated in an assembly at the Purchase Line High School in Indiana County. The students asked great questions about civic engagement, and we had an open dialogue about the challenges and the opportunities that are facing our Nation. Meeting with all these students gives me great hope for the future, and I know these students will become our next generation of leaders, regardless of what fields they enter after graduation. Mr. Speaker, I thank the Richland School District, Cambria Heights High School, and the Purchase Line High School for inviting me into their schools and sharing with me the ways they are transforming education to help students not only graduate, but go on to earn a higher degree or a certification or, quite frankly, go successfully into the workforce. A good education opens so many doors in life. I am tremendously proud of the students, faculty, and staff of each of these outstanding institutions.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, Saturday kicked off Read Across America Day and officially began National Reading Month. The National Education Association celebrates readers, authors, and stories annually during March. For the past 20 years, NEA's Read Across America Day is a nationwide reading celebration that takes place annually on March 2, which is Dr. Seuss' birthday. Across the country, thousands of schools, libraries, and community centers participate by bringing together kids, teens, and books to celebrate reading with young people. The message is clear: Through the magic and wonder of books, you can be anything and go anywhere. This month helps make students excited and engaged in reading. Children across the country have celebrated Read Across America Day, and I hope they keep it going for 365 more days because, as the beloved Dr. Seuss said: ``The more that you read, the more things that you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go.''

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, as we close out the month of February, I want to recognize this month as National African American History Month. It is a way for our country to remember and honor African American citizens and events that shaped our Nation's history. It is also a chance to reflect on the countless contributions made by African Americans while many were faced with racial prejudice, segregation, and slavery. These individuals serve as examples of patriotism and determination. They have given people of all backgrounds courage in themselves, faith in their dreams, and hope in others. The American story is filled with African Americans who forever changed their communities and our country. We take this month to celebrate the cultural, scientific, political, and economic contributions they have made for the betterment of our Nation. We learn from the past so together we can build a better future for all citizens. As we proclaim February as National African American History Month, let us celebrate their lives, understand their adversity, and lead by their examples.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, in 2016, the Environmental Protection Agency announced the New Source Performance Standards for the oil and natural gas industry to further regulate methane emissions. Thankfully, the EPA is revisiting this regulation in an effort to provide flexibility and relief moving forward. For many small oil and gas producers, these requirements contained in the original regulation are simply unworkable and overly burdensome. For example, the regulation would even apply to wells that produce less than 15 barrels of oil and less than 90,000 cubic feet of natural gas per day. Because these wells produce at low volumes, the profit margin remains tight for the operators. However, under the original rule, these low-volume producers would be subject to expensive upgrades, additional reporting requirements and administrative costs in order to comply with the regulation. Madam Speaker, today I introduced H.R. 1391, the Methane Relief Act of 2019, which would exempt these low-volume wells from the rule's requirements. Doing so will allow for commonsense regulatory relief and certainty for these smaller operators which account for an important part of our domestic energy industry.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to discuss the issue that is facing Americans across the Nation: the opioids crisis. The 2018 National Drug Threat Assessment, a comprehensive guide published by the Drug Enforcement Administration, indicates that illegal drug use continues to rise. It cites Mexican transnational criminal organizations as America's greatest enemy in the war against drugs. While these criminal organizations are bringing a wide variety of illegal drugs across our southern border, I am particularly worried about their role in spreading the opioid crisis. Thousands of pounds of opioids are smuggled across our southern border every year. Just last year, the DEA seized more than 17,000 pounds of heroin in the United States. About 39 percent of this was seized at the southern border. Another opioid that has devastated communities across America is fentanyl. As we started to understand the scope of the opioid crisis facing our Nation, the CDC says doctors started prescribing less and less pharmaceutical fentanyl. But fentanyl overdoses remained steady as prescription rates dropped, meaning that illicitly manufactured fentanyl is one of the main drivers of the opioid crisis. Illicit fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is produced in China and Mexico. It is either smuggled into the United States through the mail from China or across our southern border from Mexico. In 2017, Customs and Border Patrol agents seized nearly 1,500 pounds of fentanyl at the border. Considering fentanyl is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine, last year's seizures accounted for millions of potential overdoses and deaths. But it is easy to discuss the amount of illegal drugs that have been seized at the border. It is easy to discuss the need for change. The hardest part is discussing the human toll that this crisis has taken. Madam Speaker, last year more Americans died of a drug overdose than in any other recorded year. In 2017, overdoses killed more than 70,000 Americans, and more than 28,000 of these deaths were related to synthetic opioids such as fentanyl. Our country is facing a crisis, and action is necessary. That is why I was proud to stand with President Trump and support H.J. Res. 31. This appropriations bill included provisions that are vital to my congressional district and that will bring the fight against opioids to the front lines: the southern border. Although I was disappointed that my Democratic colleagues didn't include more to combat this crisis, I was pleased that it included funding for 55 miles of wall on the southern border. Walls work, and we need to continue the construction of this wall. This is why President Trump's national emergency declaration is necessary. But, Madam Speaker, tomorrow House Democrats will bring up a measure to block President Trump's emergency declaration, H.J. Res. 46. They say the wall is immoral. They say it is cruel. I say we need decisive action to fight the opioid crisis, and this is the first step in the right direction. Since President Carter, there have been 31 national emergencies declared. President Clinton declared 6, and President Obama declared 10 that are still in place. All 31 national emergencies recognized a dire threat to the American people and took action. By declaring this national emergency, President Trump is taking action against a threat that killed 70,000 Americans in 2017 alone. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote ``no'' on H.J. Res. 46. Support our President and save American lives.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, this month I met with representatives from two Federal correctional institutions located in the 15th District of Pennsylvania: FCI McKean and FCI Loretto. I thank the representatives for visiting my Washington, D.C., office and taking the time to discuss their priorities for the year ahead. They shared the need to increase staffing levels at Federal prisons because low personnel numbers can result in a more dangerous working environment. Today I commend corrections officers at FCI McKean and Loretto and all across our country who help protect our communities and uphold the values of our justice system. Officers face dangerous situations in the workplace every day, but that does not deter them. Just like our first responders, corrections officers are regularly risking their lives to keep their community members safe. They enforce the rule of law, and they carry out their duties without complaint. Their dedication and sacrifice often goes unnoticed by the public, but we owe them our gratitude. Madam Speaker, let us always thank them for the important work that they do to keep us safe.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the story that was shared about the woman working in that school district. I think we all probably have those stories as we think fondly back on our school experiences, whether it was elementary or high school, about individuals who weren't necessarily teachers but were still very influential in making an impression and setting a great example to be followed in so many different ways. That is why I am so pleased to be able to support this piece of legislation. I have had the privilege and honor to be in our schools that are recognized as the Blue Ribbon Schools and Schools to Watch, and those are wonderful. They are wonderful not just because of what has been accomplished for those kids, but they do become an inspiration to other schools to strive for and to achieve. What this piece of legislation does, Mr. Speaker, is to take that down to the staff level, because we know that the most valuable resource and asset that we have in our schools are people--not necessarily the classroom or anything that is physical like that, but it is the teachers, the faculty, and the staff. Being able to recognize the staff who work so hard each and every day there who are not necessarily teachers is a great opportunity. Mr. Speaker, in closing, I certainly am very excited about supporting this piece of legislation, H.R. 276. I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes,'' and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 276. I thank my colleagues across the aisle, the gentlewoman from Nevada, and also all those who are original cosponsors in support of this bill. It is not uncommon for a school employee to make a lasting impression on a student or even on entire generations of students. Front office attendants, school custodians, school safety personnel, food service workers, and others all interface directly with countless students every day. Many of these school employees make lifelong impacts on the students who they serve. Ask any student and they will probably tell you about a particular school employee who may not have been their teacher, but, nevertheless, imparted crucial life lessons upon them or inspired joy and confidence in students who struggled to find either. Schools are made better by these leaders, and students benefit from their kindness, thoughtfulness, compassion, and respect that they show to others around them. Mr. Speaker, these employees truly go above and beyond the call of duty to serve American students, and their steadfast devotion deserves our appreciation and recognition. H.R. 276, the Recognizing Achievement in Classified School Employees Act, will direct the Secretary of Education to establish the Recognizing Inspiring School Employees Award, otherwise known as the RISE Award. The RISE Award will be presented each year to a classified school employee in a nonteaching position in recognition of their invaluable contribution to the lives of students at the schools that they serve. The award will be nonmonetary and will go to employees who demonstrate excellent work performance, school and community involvement, leadership, and commitment, and who exemplify the very best of what it means to be a classified school employee. H.R. 276 is just one small way to honor the men and women in our communities who demonstrate to students what it means to be outstanding citizens and civic leaders. Their tireless efforts deserve our recognition and thanks. I urge my colleagues in the House to support this commonsense legislation, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, on February 15, thousands of students from my alma mater, Penn State University, participated in a 46-hour dance marathon called THON. THON is the accumulation of a yearlong fundraising effort to raise money for the fight against childhood cancer. Since the first THON took place in the mid-1970s, students have raised more than $157 million. All of the proceeds go to the Four Diamonds at Penn State University Children's Hospital. Four Diamonds ensures that families who are battling pediatric cancer are not faced with any costs, allowing them to fully focus on the needs of their child. During the THON event, participants stand and dance 46 hours straight, without sleep. THON gives students the chance to stand in solidarity with those affected by this terrible disease. Mr. Speaker, every year, THON is the largest student-run philanthropy in the world; and every year, I am in awe of the passion and thoughtfulness that our Penn State students have for this great cause.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, this week I had the honor of meeting with the Pennsylvania National Guard Association, which is solely dedicated to more than 19,000 Guard members and more than 67,000 Guard veterans and their families. The National Guard is an essential element of the United States military. Founded in 1636 as a citizen force organized to protect families and towns from hostile attacks, today's National Guard soldiers hold civilian jobs or attend college while maintaining their military training, always ready to defend the American way of life in the event of an emergency. The mission of the Pennsylvania National Guard Association is to ensure the Pennsylvania National Guard is fully funded, manned, equipped, and trained to perform their Federal and State missions. That also includes ensuring that members and veterans have the benefits that they have earned. Mr. Speaker, the Pennsylvania National Guard mostly hails from the Commonwealth, and they are prepared to serve the Nation at a moment's notice. In fact, Pennsylvania Guard personnel provided extraordinary support to areas affected by the disastrous 2018 hurricane season. They offered aviation support, restored lines of communication, and lent a helping hand to their fellow Americans in their time of need. More than 1,000 Guard members assisted in domestic operations, including snowstorms and floods. In 2018, Guard members were deployed throughout the world in support of mobile operations. They also participated in training events at home and abroad to enhance readiness. As part of its Federal mission, approximately 1,000 Pennsylvania National Guard personnel deployed throughout the world in 2018 in support of mobile operations, including Operation Spartan Shield, Operation Freedom Sentinel, and missions in support of U.S. Air Force's Central Command, Air Force Special Operations Command, and NATO. Mr. Speaker, I had the opportunity to visit members of the Guard's 28th Infantry Division over the Thanksgiving holiday. I led a codel last November to Kuwait, where we met with members of the 28th Infantry Division who were deployed in support of Operation Spartan Shield. The servicemembers that we visited, while serving honorably overseas, were also serving in one of the Army's most historic units. The 28th Infantry Division is the oldest continuous serving division in the United States Army. In 1918, it earned its nickname ``Iron Division,'' fighting during World War I, and 100 years later, the same division continues to defend freedom and liberty around the world. Since the attacks of 9/11, more than 35,000 Pennsylvania National Guard members have deployed overseas. In fact, Pennsylvania's Fort Indiantown Gap is the busiest Army National Guard training center in the Nation. The Pennsylvania National Guard is also home to the 56th Brigade Combat Team, which is one of the Army's nine Stryker Brigade Combat Teams. This is a team that my son Logan belonged to when he was in the National Guard before he went to Active Duty. It was the only National Guard Stryker brigade in the United States Army. Mr. Speaker, the Pennsylvania National Guard continues to serve the Commonwealth and the Nation with pride and distinction. I look forward to its continued success. I thank all of our citizen soldiers, past and present, for their service.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of my bill, the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act. I recently introduced this legislation with chairman of the House Agriculture Committee Collin Peterson and Ranking Member Mike Conaway. This bill would allow for whole milk, both flavored and non-flavored, to be offered in our school cafeterias. Mr. Speaker, milk was once a staple in the diet of our students, but consumption in schools has dramatically decreased since the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 was implemented and basically demonized milk fat that we know today, based on science, is where all the nutrition, let alone the flavor, is. Milk is the number one source of nine essential nutrients in the diet of many young Americans. We can provide the foundation for a solid, healthy lunch in our schools that also tastes great and that children will want to drink and is good for them. When students don't consume milk, they are not getting nutrients, such as calcium, potassium, and vitamin D. This bill offers more varieties to give kids the option of consuming the milk they love. I encourage my colleagues to support the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act and put flavor back into school lunches.