Glenn Thompson

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, businesses across the country have stopped hiring, and millions of Americans are beginning to see less take-home pay as a result of the Affordable Care Act's 30-hour workweek requirement. That is the crux of the problem with the Affordable Care Act, Madam Speaker. The law's burdensome employer requirements dissuade businesses from expanding and encourage shifting current workers from full to part-time work. Congress should be advancing policies to expand employment opportunities, especially during tough economic times, rather than undercutting the ability of Americans to earn more. This is the reason that the House today passed H.R. 2575, the Save American Workers Act, legislation that will allow businesses the opportunity to expand workers' hours by redefining full-time employees under the Affordable Care Act and reverting back to the traditional 40- hour workweek definition. The Save American Workers Act will lessen the burden being imposed on employers and help to increase wages so that Americans, especially those with limited means, can better provide for their families.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, reading is a fundamental education skill that provides a foundation for academic and life success. On March 29, the Central Intermediate Unit No. 10, located in Pennsylvania's Fifth Congressional District, hosted their Elementary School Interscholastic Reading Competition. This is a great event that is integrated throughout the school year to promote reading. Each year, the IU chooses a list of books to be read, and this year, 41 books were utilized for the competition. Students read books from the list and answer test questions that are created to measure the students' comprehension and recall of the books. On competition day, students learn the value of hard work, the importance of reading, as well as teamwork. Along the way, they also have some fun. The team with the highest number of points overall is awarded the grand championship. Clearly, every child that participates in this event benefits, as they are encouraged and motivated to expand their horizons through reading comprehension. Congratulations to the students and faculty of the Howard Elementary School for being the 2014 Reading Grand Champions. The Howard team, coached by Mrs. Amber Buchanan and Ms. Jalynn Woleslagle, scored a total of 68 points. Congratulations to Mia Simoncek, Noah Giedroc, Brayden Comly, Jayden Bechdel, Carter Rhoades, Olivia Reed, Hannah Ternent, Thomas Beck, Elyssa Greene, and Mikayla Irvin for a job well done. This is the first time that Howard Elementary has ever won grand champion. Congratulations, and keep on reading.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the Month of the Military Child, which is celebrated every April. For generations, military children have supported those who serve by making their own sacrifices and persevering through tough times, especially those in families with parents on Active Duty or deployment. For a child, there are few things more difficult than being apart from a mom or dad deployed overseas. Just since 2001, nearly 2 million military children have experienced a parental deployment. Currently, there are approximately 1.2 million children of Active Duty U.S. members worldwide. Sometimes overlooked, military families move three times as often as nonmilitary families and share many of the hardships. Children and spouses in these circumstances also experience anxiety in higher rates than their nonmilitary counterparts and must worry about new housing, jobs, friends, and schools. With a son and daughter-in-law in the military, I know life in the service can be trying, but we thank these soldiers and their families for keeping us safe. Mr. Speaker, let us give praise to these soldiers and their families for their service and their sacrifice. They deserve as much.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, if you listen to probably the majority of the speeches provided on this House floor, they clearly indicate partisan bickering. If you listen to many of these speeches, it is pretty easy to find out what we disagree upon. There are some divides in beliefs and opinions. One of the things that is wonderful about this House is this is the people's House. It reflects a very diverse nation, and we have diverse opinions here on the House floor. At the same time, there are individuals here that I work with, both sides of the aisle, that I think want to be problem solvers. They are willing to not talk about what we disagree about, because we don't even need to do that; we just turn on the news, and that is what is highlighted is what we disagree upon. But the fact is we do have individuals here that have the courage and willingness to come to the table, and that is step one; to sit at the table and define properly what the problem is, because without defining the problem, you really aren't going to come up with effective solutions that work; and third, be willing to state what do we agree upon, what can we agree upon and make that the beginning point, the foundation, for cost-effective solutions. I am here today as part of a group that really does that. I rise today as cochair of the bipartisan Congressional Career and Technical Education Caucus. This is a group of Members from both sides of the aisle, diverse routes of the United States, who care about investing in opportunities for individuals to be able to do better in life through education. My opinion is: it is not so important where you start in life; it is where you end up. The key to that stair or that ladder or that path is education. The Career and Technical Education Caucus really, really focuses on that in a bipartisan way. It is about America's competitiveness. Because if America does not have a qualified and trained workforce, America doesn't have a future. So as appropriation season is upon us, we in the Congressional Career and Technical Education Caucus encourage our colleagues to continue this body's united commitment to ensuring that America remains competitive through an adequately trained workforce. This can be achieved through an existing program. We don't have to create a new program. No need to reinvent the wheel. It is the Carl D. Perkins Career and Technical Education Act. Perkins provides the principal source of Federal support for program improvement and helps to strengthen the integration of academic, career, and technical education at both the secondary and the postsecondary institutions. Although deficit reduction must remain priority number one--it is one of our greatest threats for national security--during these fiscally challenging times, we must invest in CTE programs. We must also recognize that any reduction to Perkins funding would affect millions of career and technical educational students, the business community that relies on a qualified workforce, and the future competitiveness of this country. Going into the fiscal year 2015, the Career and Technical Education Caucus is putting together a modest request for level funding for this program. I encourage my colleagues to support the efforts of the caucus and join in sending this important request to the Appropriations Committee.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, today marks the legal deadline of registration for the Affordable Care Act, popularly known as ObamaCare. On March 12, 2014, HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius testified before a House Ways and Means Committee. When asked, are you going to delay enrollment beyond March 31, she definitively answered, no, sir. Well, Madam Speaker, April Fools. Millions of Americans are finding ObamaCare today to be a very expensive and harmful April Fools' prank. One of those individuals is Sondra, a constituent from Clinton County, located in the Fifth District of Pennsylvania. Sondra emailed the following on Friday: I was just on the marketplace, and I can't believe the prices. I also am wrong about ObamaCare including eye and dental. I see that it does not. I thought this was supposed to be better than what I would find privately. Not to my surprise. Even with the tax credits, it is going to cost us just as much. It seems they doubled the price on there to eat up the tax credits. This whole thing has us so upset. We only make between $30,000-$40,000 a year, and our health insurance is going to go from $320 a month for both of us to doubling, at the least. We will pay more and get less coverage and pay way more out of pocket. How does our President think this is helping us, the working poor? This is a class we never hear anyone talk about. We hear about the poor, middle class, and the wealthy, but not the working poor. We are the ones who make too much to get a handout, not that we want one, but not enough to really make ends meet due to our poor economy and rapidly rising inflation. Honestly, it would pay me to quit my job because we would get all the help we need because our income would be so low, and with my chronic health issues of diabetes, thyroid disease, and arthritis, I would get Pennsylvania medical assistance. How sad is it that our President has put the working poor in that option? I could honestly just cry not knowing how we will be able to pay for this health care penalty. We had what we needed and could afford. Now, we can't afford it even with the government help, and we have less coverage for higher premiums. How does this make any sense? Ugh. Sorry for the rant. Madam Speaker, Americans deserve solutions to assure access to affordable, quality health care that they determine that they need. As for ObamaCare, there are far too many winners and mostly losers like Sondra and her family, so it is fitting and accurate on this April 1 day to say: ObamaCare? April fools.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, the Endangered Species Act was signed into law in 1973, in order to preserve, protect, and recover key domestic species. The ESA also contains a citizen lawsuit provision, which allows private citizens--and, in many cases, special interest organizations-- to sue Federal agencies and private landowners for allegedly failing to comply with ESA. Taxpayers are on the hook, even when the Federal Government prevails. The Forest Service, which I had the privilege of holding jurisdiction over as chairman of the Agricultural Subcommittee on Conservation, Energy, and Forestry, must comply with ESA before engaging in any kind of forest management activity, which is the agency's most basic and fundamental role Protecting species is our goal, but unfortunately, this provision has been used as a tool by those who would like to halt land management activities. The financial impact of these activities in the Forest Service is significant, posing a threat to the forest health, the economic well- being of local communities, and also the species we are aiming to protect. We must replace this flawed policy with one that protects taxpayers and species restoration, but also the health of our forests and our local economies.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Pennsylvania State University Nitanny Lion Fencing Team. On Sunday, the team won their 13th NCAA championship which took place in Columbus, Ohio. Beating out the second-place Princeton University team, which totaled 159 bout victories, the Nitanny Lions completed the competition with 180 bout victories. On the individual level, Kaito Streets, a sophomore, claimed the men's sabre NCAA championship, becoming the 13th individual champion for the team. As a result of this title win, Penn State fencing is now the winningest fencing program in the NCAA. Mr. Speaker, I want to offer my praise to these student athletes, along with head coach Wes Glon, for their hard work and determination. The University and the Happy Valley community are extremely proud of your efforts, and we congratulate you on another amazing season.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, as a member of the House Agriculture Committee, I rise in support of the goals of National Agriculture Day, which is today, March 25. Agriculture remains the number one industry in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, supporting upwards of 63,000 family farms, generating more than $67 billion in economic impact, and one in seven residents of Pennsylvania works in the agriculture sector. While a good portion of America's population does not see firsthand where our food supply comes from, a wise man once told me that we shake hands with a farmer at least three times a day. This saying truly illustrates the importance of supporting agriculture, but equally the importance of supporting the future of agriculture and our future food security. I had the pleasure of meeting with two officers of the Pennsylvania chapter of the Future Farmers of America earlier this morning. I commend them for their outreach efforts here in Washington to promote the goals of National Agriculture Day. Their advocacy in engaging the next generation to become farmers is crucial to ensuring our country has the most affordable, the highest quality, abundant, and safest food supply in the world.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, despite the recent military drawdown, our Nation continues to rely upon qualified and well-trained volunteers joining the military in order to regenerate our Armed Forces. Now, some of these young men and women have prepared their entire lives for service, while others found the call to duty some years later. All have chosen to serve their country in uniform and do so with honor and bravery. When joining the service, new recruits must undergo comprehensive medical and physical examinations in order to certify they are both fully fit and capable of performing the range of rigorous and demanding jobs our military must carry out. However, Mr. Speaker, despite comprehensive physical and medical evaluations, there is no similar examination for mental health competency; meaning, we thoroughly examine knees, backs, eyes, and even the heart, yet leave the most important part of the body--one's mind--off-limits. Now, this is certainly cause for concern and what some view as a serious gap in recruitment evaluation, especially as the military continues to address issues of behavioral health, posttraumatic stress disease, traumatic brain injury, and suicide. According to a recent Army study, nearly one in five Army soldiers enter the service with a psychiatric disorder, and nearly half of all soldiers who tried suicide first attempted it before enlisting. Additionally, the Journal of the American Medical Association found that a large percentage of suicides in the military were individuals who had never been deployed in a combat role. Mr. Speaker, as policymakers, we have a responsibility to address this challenge. And this week, Ohio Congressman Tim Ryan and I plan to call on our colleagues to do just that and to join as cosponsors of the Medical Evaluation Parity for Service Members, or MEPS, Act. This bipartisan bill will institute a preliminary mental health assessment at the time recruits are first joining the military. Keeping individual privacy in mind, the MEPS Act will follow all HIPAA guidelines and cannot be used in consideration for promotion or assignments. Additionally, the Congressional Budget Office has found the MEPS Act to have no budgetary effect. In addition, this legislation requires the National Institute of Mental Health, in conjunction with the Department of Veterans Affairs and other experts, to report their recommendations on the assessment to ensure best practices are done. Now, this commonsense proposal seeks to bring mental health to parity with physical health and recruitment evaluations and will ensure that our incoming troops are both physically and mentally fit to serve. Additionally, the bill has the support of the American Psychological Association, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the National Guard Association of the United States, the Reserve Officers Association, the Reserve Enlisted Association, and the Association of the U.S. Navy. Mr. Speaker, the MEPS Act is not, alone, the magic silver bullet to solve all of the behavioral health issues the military faces, but it is an important step in better understanding the scope of the challenge that we face. Now, I encourage my fellow colleagues to join us in this effort to protect the safety and security of those in uniform by becoming a cosponsor of the Medical Evaluation Parity for Service Members Act. These brave men and women deserve as much.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, President Obama on Friday signed into law H.R. 4076, the Home Heating Emergency Assistance Through Transportation, or HHEATT, Act. Having heard from so many constituents facing hardship relating to home heating fuel shortages and supply disruptions, I am a proud cosponsor of this bill, which will extend emergency relief to families and businesses during this ongoing crisis. On February 5, 2014, the U.S. Department of Transportation issued temporary emergency declarations to allow tank truck operators delivering propane and other home heating fuels to drive for longer hours to speed up deliveries to affected States. Even though spring is officially upon us, demand for home heating fuels remains high as communities across the country continue to endure below average temperatures. The HHEATT Act provides a guaranteed extension of the Department of Transportation's short-term emergency declarations until May 31, 2014. I am pleased the Senate followed the House and took immediate action on this emergency legislation that will alleviate propane supply disruptions and get fuel to those who need it most.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, the Constitution is very clear: the elected Representatives in Congress pass the laws and the President enforces those laws. This system of checks and balances has served to limit abuses of power and hold government accountable to the people. From our immigration laws to the 2010 health care overhaul, the current White House has selectively enforced our laws, and in many cases acted unilaterally to change or alter them. In fact, the majority leader's office recently released a report outlining 40 separate instances where the Obama administration broke this fundamental responsibility. Yesterday, the House acted on two measures to hold the executive branch accountable and restore balance to the separation of powers. H.R. 4138, the ENFORCE Act, which deals with lawsuits against the executive branch for failure to execute the laws, and H.R. 3973, the Faithful Execution of the Law Act, which requires the Attorney General to report to Congress any time a Federal official implements a policy to refrain from enforcing Federal law. Mr. Speaker, no matter which party is in the White House, our laws must be faithfully executed. Americans deserve as much.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge a story of hardship and compassion. Josh Hardy, a young boy from Fredericksburg, Virginia, survived a battle with cancer when he was just 9 months old. Today, at the age of 7, he is currently suffering from a life-threatening infection acquired during his cancer treatment at St. Jude Children's Hospital. A pharmaceutical company, Chimerix, produces the medication Josh's doctors believe could help save his life. Unfortunately, the drug was still in trial testing, and the company has been unable to provide access due to the number of requests for the drug and the rate of its production in the testing stage. Physicians at St. Jude's Hospital and members of Josh's family pleaded for Josh to obtain access to the drug. Last Friday, Matt Hardy, Josh's uncle, of Lock Haven, Pennsylvania, a constituent of mine, contacted my office to request our support in seeing if the drug could get approved. Josh's story has become widely known across the country. Yesterday, Chimerix agreed to provide Josh access to their environmental antiviral drug for his treatment. This small business should be commended for their compassion and making tough decisions. We hope they can continue with expedience to bring their product to market in order to help others like Josh. Mr. Speaker, through these tough times, our thoughts and prayers remain with Josh, his family, and the countless individuals committed to making lives better through cutting edge medical research.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, the world recently lost a great American hero and one among the last remaining of the Greatest Generation, Colonel Gerald F. Russell of Centre County, Pennsylvania. Today, I rise to honor the life and the legacy of this brave combat veteran. One of only two surviving Iwo Jima battalion commanders, Colonel Russell passed away on Monday, February 24, 2014, at the age of 97. It is an honor to have called Gerry my friend. As one of the most decorated marines in World War II and with over 28 years of military service, Colonel Russell spent a life serving his country. And while his military career was second to none, Russell's humanitarian and philanthropic work was equally remarkable. Indeed, it was his commitment to service and serving others that made him a pillar for both the Nation's military and his local community, which encompasses much of central Pennsylvania and well beyond. A graduate of Boston College, Russell was one of the first alternates for the 1940 U.S. Olympic track team in the 800 meters, a sport he loved with a passion. Immediately following his completion of undergraduate studies, Russell began his career in uniform when he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. During his service, Colonel Russell took part and played a role in seminal moments in the country's history. As one of the youngest battalion commanders in World War II, at the age of 27, Russell was responsible for leading 1,000 troops during the first major offensive by Allied forces against the Empire of Japan--the Battle of Guadalcanal. Russell suffered shrapnel wounds during the campaign after being hit by Japanese aircraft during landing. At the ripe age of 29, Russell landed in the third assault wave on Iwo Jima, Red Beach One, and fought for all 36 days. Again wounded during battle, Russell went on to witness the historical raising of the American flag on Mount Suribachi. These are just a few of the many remarkable experiences of this amazing individual, Mr. Speaker. Following his retirement from the Marine Corps, Russell went on to serve others through roles in academia and philanthropy, including as associate dean of the College of Health and Physical Education at Pennsylvania State University. During this time and after, Russell was always a tireless community and volunteer advocate. He was the founder and chairman of the local United Way Day of Caring, served as a member of the United Way board of directors, and played an active role in the Pennsylvania Special Olympics, the Centre Country Toys for Tots, and many other programs that benefit our local community. Mr. Speaker, in all of these endeavors, Russell inspired so many to give back and pushed his community to do the same. He led a life built on service, sacrifice, and a commitment to others. Colonel Russell once stated that he hoped that he would be remembered for the impact that his life had on others and that he made a difference. Well, Mr. Speaker, I rise today as one more voice among the countless others across Pennsylvania, the country, and the world to praise Colonel Russell for doing just that. We thank you for your unparalleled service to this Nation and our community. May you rest with God, my friend.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, today the House acted on an important piece of legislation that strikes at the very heart of our democracy--the Equitable Access to Care and Health Act, or EACH Act. The individual mandate of the 2010 health care law included a very narrow exemption for religious groups, meaning that members of certain recognized religious sects could be exempted from the requirement to purchase health care or face a penalty of a tax for noncompliance. To qualify for the current exemption, individuals must waive all public and private insurance benefits, including Social Security and Medicare. Individuals who participate in Social Security and Medicare but whose religious beliefs cause them to object to medical health care are not eligible for the existing exemption. The EACH Act, which had bipartisan support, expands this exemption for individuals whose sincerely held religious beliefs would cause them to object to medical health care provided under such coverage. Mr. Speaker, religious freedom must be protected for all Americans. Passage of the EACH Act is a step forward in safeguarding this fundamental and enduring principle.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge National Frozen Food Month, and in doing so, one of my home State's own frozen food companies, Better Baked Foods. Headquartered in North East, Pennsylvania, in the Fifth District of Pennsylvania, with facilities in Erie, Pennsylvania, and New York, Better Baked Foods is currently celebrating its 50th anniversary. Over the years, Better Baked has built a reputation as an affordable option for nutritious snack foods. Today, the company proudly employs over 300 associates who produce over 325,000 pieces of frozen French bread pizzas, flatbreads, and breakfast sandwiches. By devoting the necessary resources to its people, equipment, and facilities, Better Baked is continually working to ensure that it meets consumer demand and grows its operation. I am proud to honor a company that is constantly innovating to improve its products while also recognizing the hard work and the efforts of its employees. Mr. Speaker, in celebration of National Frozen Food Month, I wish to applaud Better Baked Foods and the entire frozen food industry for their hard work and continued contributions to strong local economies, through jobs and quality, affordable meals for our Nation's consumers.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, this year marks the 100th anniversary of the Smith-Lever Act of 1914, which established the Cooperative Extension Service. Extension is a unique educational partnership among Federal, State, and local governments and the Nation's land-grant universities to extend research-based knowledge to the American public and private industry. Over the years, Extension has connected individuals and families with the resources and expertise of our Nation's land-grant university system. In Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania State University provides this educational network, working to help families make sound economic and nutritional choices, and help businesses increase efficiency and troubleshoot production and industry challenges. Madam Speaker, today, the Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences is on the Hill with agricultural businesses and industry advocates to share with us the importance of the Cooperative Extension Service. As we celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Smith-Lever Act, I want to give congratulations and recognition to the outstanding Penn State Extension team, which is led by Interim Dean Barb Christ, and thank them for their important work to improve the lives and economic outcomes of countless families and businesses across the country.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today as an original cosponsor of H.R. 3370, the Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act of 2014. Over the past decade, the National Flood Insurance Program has bordered on insolvency, and today it is over $24 million in debt. Congress, in 2012, passed the Biggert-Waters Act, which created much- needed reforms to the program that were designed to more accurately reflect insurance risks and create fiscal solvency. The law mandated that the Federal Emergency Management Agency perform an affordability study before transitioning to the newly weighted system, which they failed to do and has led to devastating flood insurance premium increases. Mr. Speaker, there are those who think we should do nothing and let government mismanagement ruin the economic health of our communities. We cannot run away from pressing challenges. To the contrary, we must correct this policy failure in a manner that strikes a balanced solution without adding one dime to the Federal deficit. H.R. 3370 enables Congress to develop a long-term solution that protects local economies and holds government accountable.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in the House as an original cosponsor of H.R. 4100, the Local Organization Cooperative Agreement and Facility Maintenance Act, or the LOCAL Act. For the past several years, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has partnered with local nonprofit organizations to cooperatively manage and maintain recreational facilities at lakes and reservoirs on these Federal lands. In my district, the Friends of Raystown Lake Group in Huntingdon County have been able to collect and retain user fees generated from the public's use of the lake, which they then reinvest to perform operations and maintenance on that site. Recently, an administrative ruling forced the Army Corps to terminate these agreements at facilities across the country. The Friends of Raystown should be commended for their volunteerism, not penalized by Washington's bureaucracy. The LOCAL Act will allow these and other agreements to remain in force. I would encourage my colleagues to support the LOCAL Act to ensure the Army Corps can continue these cooperative agreements that are good for the community and good for taxpayers.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Pennsylvania State University IFC-Panhellenic Dance Marathon, otherwise known as ``THON,'' for another tremendous, record- breaking fundraising total in support of the fight against childhood cancer. The largest student philanthropy in the world, THON is a yearlong fundraising effort where students work in numerous ways to raise money for the cause. The effort culminates with a final 46-hour event where over 700 students partake in a no-sitting, no-sleeping dance marathon, and thousands more cheer on their efforts. All proceeds from THON benefit the Four Diamonds Fund, an organization dedicated to battling childhood cancer. This year, I had the honor of attending THON. The energy and enthusiasm from those in attendance was nothing short of breathtaking as the students went on to raise $13.3 million, surpassing the $12.4 million last year. Penn State has raised over $110 million in THON's history. Mr. Speaker, as a proud Penn State alumnus, I want to thank all of the students and families for providing this outstanding emotional and financial support to the children, families, researchers, and the staff of the Four Diamonds Fund.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, on February 7, 2014, President Obama signed into law the Agricultural Act of 2014, the 5- year farm bill reauthorization that passed Congress with bipartisan support and reduces annual budget deficits by $16.6 billion over 10 years. Industry professionals across my home State of Pennsylvania and nationally--including farmers, foresters, conservationists, researchers, and policy advocates--have praised the law as a historic improvement, the Federal agriculture policy that will improve land management, support key areas of economic activity, and bolster important investments in education and applied research. Susan Benedict, an American Tree Farm System certified forest owner from State College, Pennsylvania, stated: -As a Pennsylvania tree farmer, I can happily say this farm bill was well worth the wait. With the promotion of new market opportunities in the Biobased Markets Program and green building markets, improved access to critical conservation programs, and increased regulatory certainty when protecting water quality of my forest's roads, this farm bill is truly the best farm bill yet for forests. I applaud conference committee members for championing strong forestry provisions, such as the Biobased Markets Program changes, for America's 22 million family forest owners. Kenneth C. Kane, president of Generations Forestry in Kane, Pennsylvania, stated: From the outside looking in, Congress displayed a level of bipartisanship on the farm bill that has been lacking, which is far better than the gridlock we have encountered. This is a wonderful bill and a good final product from numerous standpoints. From the standpoint of the Forest Service, this bill gives Secretary Vilsack and Forest Chief Tidwell more tools to actively manage forests, which is critically important. Now that these tools are available, the Forest Service must use them. This bill also offers our foresters and private industry more tools to actively manage, so this is also very important. Barbara Christ, the interim dean of agricultural sciences at Penn State University in State College, Pennsylvania, stated: Agricultural policy impacts every American by advancing food security for our Nation and beyond, including providing for critical research and education programs. We are thrilled that a new 5-year farm bill is now a reality. As a specialty crop State, of particular interest to Pennsylvania is the inclusion of the specialty crop research initiative. These programs help keep our Pennsylvania farmers competitive in an increasingly complex environment and help tackle the ongoing challenge of feeding a growing population. Robert Maiden, executive director of Pennsylvania's Association of Conservation Districts, stated: The new Federal farm bill has many strong conservation programs that are lifelines for Pennsylvania farmers. We needed Congress to understand these points and ensure that the importance of conservation efforts wasn't lost in the final farm bill language. The final bill addressed our fiscal challenges by understanding the necessity of reductions to Federal spending while identifying the need to improve conservation program efficiencies and improvements in program delivery. The final bill will allow for cleaner water for Pennsylvania waterways, resulting in healthier communities and stronger economies. The president and CEO of the Nature Conservancy stated: Despite the polarized political climate and challenging budget times, this farm bill would be one of the strongest ever for conservation and forestry. The farm bill's conservation provisions are practical, cost effective, and provide solid ways for the government to collaborate with individual landowners. The president and CEO of the American Forest Foundation stated: The long-awaited farm bill provides resources critical to implementing conservation practices on the ground and making good forest stewardship affordable. The improvements in the new farm bill include stronger market opportunities for forests, specifically with improvements to the Biobased Markets Program, and a strengthened commitment to expanding prospects for wood in green building markets, the fastest growing market for wood products. It also includes strong support for programs that combat forest invasive pests and pathogens and provisions to increase forest owners' regulatory certainty when protecting water quality. Madam Speaker, it isn't every day that a broad cross-section of policy advocates and industry professionals find themselves on the same side of a given policy issue. Then again, it isn't every day that both parties actually work together for the good of the country and produce good public policy that improves the Nation's economic health, while at the same time, reforms government, and reduces spending.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise as cochairman of the bipartisan Career and Technical Education Caucus to recognize National Career and Technical Education Month, celebrated each February. National CTE Month recognizes the contributions that career and technical education programs make to the American economy, along with the important work being done by CTE professionals and teachers. In today's competitive job market, high-paying, high-demand jobs require technical skills and training. CTE programs have been historically underutilized, yet, in an era of record high unemployment, these programs are the key to bridging the skills gap. CTE Month is also a time for policymakers to ask, are we doing enough to ensure individuals have the skills that will lead to a family- sustaining job? Now, I know my fellow colleagues in the Career and Technical Education Caucus share these concerns. I was pleased to learn that Senators Rob Portman of Ohio and Tim Kaine of Virginia have followed suit and organized the Senate CTE Caucus, and I look forward to working with them and my House cochairman, Mr. Langevin of Rhode Island, as we continue to promote America's competitiveness through CTE programs.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, the Internal Revenue Service on Monday issued final regulations regarding the treatment of volunteer firefighters and emergency personnel under the employer mandate provision of the President's health care law, the Affordable Care Act. The agency determined that volunteer firefighters and emergency personnel will not be treated as full-time employees under the law, which I was pleased to hear. Over 97 percent of Pennsylvania's fire departments and 90 percent nationwide are served by community volunteers. Today, by protecting these organizations from being defined as employers, they will no longer be forced to provide health insurance to their volunteers or face the threat of penalty, which would be devastating. As a firefighter and EMS volunteer since 1983, I joined friend and colleague from Pennsylvania, Congressman Lou Barletta, along with numerous colleagues in the House, to force action from the IRS on this matter. While this decision is long overdue, it is the right one. Our local emergency volunteer organizations now have the certainty knowing they will have the money to keep our communities safe. Unfortunately, Mr. Speaker, this is just a small fix to a massive law that is imposing economic harm on millions of businesses and families. Our work remains.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, Penn State University's Lunar Lion Team will make history as the first-ever university-led space mission to the Moon. This group of talented young minds is competing in the Google Lunar XPRIZE competition to land a robotic spacecraft on the Moon in December of 2015. The mission, which the team began preparing in January of 2013, includes a launch onboard a commercial space vehicle, a cruise through space for 5 days, landing, and a relaunch for a second landing on the Moon. The mission will then be used to send high resolution images, videos, and other information back to Penn State's mission control center. To put this in perspective, only the U.S., Russia, India, Japan, and China have ever landed a craft on the Moon. Penn State looks to join this elite club next year. The Lunar Lion Team includes Penn State science and engineering researchers as well as 80 undergraduate and graduate students in science, technology, engineering, and math programs, commonly known as STEM, as well as communications, business, logistics, computer science, and information technology, just to name a few majors. The team will have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in spacecraft design, construction, and operation. Not only that, Mr. Speaker, the team is learning skills necessary for public-private partnerships through collaboration with NASA and commercial space companies. Like so many of the university's education research initiatives, it will also be used to support new innovations and research in the private sector, real world outcomes that will benefit not just students, but America's competitiveness. Penn State's bold mission sets the stage for a resurgence of interests in space exploration among America's youth and demonstrates an exciting practical application of STEM education. The team is making great progress towards the mission. Prototype development is underway, and last month, the team commenced rocket testing. As a Penn State alumnus and a lifelong resident of Centre County, I take great pride in the university and its long list of scholastic and volunteer achievements. The Lunar Lion Team adds another stellar achievement to that list. The work at the university that has led to the formation and development of this program is another example of innovation and creative leadership on the part of the Penn State community. As one of the only nonprofit groups working towards the Lunar XPRIZE, and the only university, those working on this Lunar Lion project in State College are truly doing something special. Mr. Speaker, I want to offer my very best to the Penn State Lunar Lion Team as they continue this important work. Their community and the Nation are very proud.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Gareth Prebble, a sixth-grade student from Mount Nittany Middle School in State College, Pennsylvania. Gareth has hopes of connecting what he refers to--and rightfully so--as the divide between the physically disabled and the rest of the population. Young Gareth took a giant step towards this goal last month when he entered the Martin Luther King Commemoration Student Showcase essay contest. The contest, sponsored by Pennsylvania State University, is titled ``Reflect on Yesterday. Experience Today. Transform Tomorrow.'' Gareth, who has cerebral palsy, wrote about his life experiences: ``People often look at me and make assumptions based on my appearance.'' Gareth's essay evokes Dr. King's powerful message--for all people in this country to be treated with respect and dignity. Mr. Speaker, Gareth went on to win this competition. I rise to congratulate him for his work and for having the strength and courage to share his story. In doing so, he is a role model for each and every one of us in how we, too, can transform the future.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to recognize the Benedictine Sisters of St. Joseph Monastery in St. Marys, which is located in Elk County, Pennsylvania, and is the oldest Benedictine convent in the United States. The Benedictine Sisters, in concert with their federation, will close St. Joseph Monastery with the remaining 17 sisters moving on in the coming year. For more than a century and a half, the monastery has grown and flourished. Through roles as teachers and school administrators, religious education teachers, hospital administrators, nurses, technicians, and dietitians, instructors and promoters of the arts, spiritual providers, citizens, and friends, the sisters have greatly impacted the community of St. Marys. On February 23, 2014, St. Marys is hosting a communitywide celebration to honor and thank the Benedictine Sisters--both living and deceased--for nearly 162 years of service to the community and the region. Today, I join with the community of St. Marys as we celebrate Honoring the Benedictine Sisters of St. Joseph Monastery Day, and offer thanks and appreciation to the sisters for their faithful and dedicated service to the Lord.