Joe Wilson

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, The Washington Examiner has released the newest part of a series: ``The Obama legacy--A raging problem with heroin and opioids.'' Last year, the President announced a new effort to address the new public health crisis. This week, The Washington Examiner revealed: `` . . . the crisis had been building for five years at that point, and critics say Obama's reactions were too little and too late. Some say his government even contributed to the crisis by approving painkillers liable to abuse. . . . ``Prescription painkiller and heroin overdose deaths have risen to all-time highs. From 2009-2014, the rate of overdose deaths from heroin abuse increased by 240 percent. . . . ``When you add painkiller overdose deaths to the heroin numbers, the rate of overall deaths increased 25 percent from 2009. . . . ``In 2014, more than 14,000 people died of overdoses, the biggest total since the CDC began collecting data in 1999.'' This is a failing legacy of destruction of families. I am grateful that Congress acted to address the opioid crisis, passing the bipartisan Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act, enabling local communities to develop local solutions. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and may the President, by his actions, never forget September 11th in the global war on terrorism. Congratulations, Miss South Carolina, Rachel Wyatt of Clemson, first runner-up for Miss America.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, on the 15th anniversary of the murderous attacks of September 11, former Vice President Dick Cheney with Liz Cheney detailed how the next President will face greater risks to American families and a weaker military than ever before, in an op-ed published in The Wall Street Journal, with the President's legacy of weakness: ``The President who came into office promising to end wars has made war more likely by diminishing America's strength and deterrence ability. He doesn't seem to understand that the credible threat of military force gives substance and meaning to our diplomacy . . . ``Among the most important lessons of 9/11 was that terrorists must be denied safe havens from which to plan and launch attacks against us. On President Obama's watch, terrorist safe havens have expanded around the globe . . . ``Generations before have met and defeated grave threats to our great Nation. American strength, leadership, and ideals were crucial to the Allied victory in World War II and the defeat of Soviet communism during the cold war. It will be up to today's generation to restore American preeminence so that we can defend our freedom and defeat Islamic terror.'' In conclusion, God bless our troops, and may the President, by his actions, never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, sadly, my remarks condemning the shocking $400 million ransom payment to Iran were understated. Yesterday, The Wall Street Journal revealed: The Obama administration followed up a planeload of $400 million in cash sent to Iran in January with two more shipments totaling $1.3 billion . . . lawmakers have voiced concern that Iran's military units . . . would use the cash to finance military allies, including the Assad regime in Syria, Houthi militias in Yemen, and the Lebanese militia, Hezbollah. Last month, The Augusta Chronicle disclosed: ``No legitimate case can be made that none of the . . . billions . . . will fund terror. It's inevitable. The White House even admits it.'' I appreciate House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Ed Royce's efforts to advance legislation to ensure this can't happen again for enemies who still chant, ``Death to America. Death to Israel.'' In conclusion, God bless our troops, and may the President, by his actions, never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. The President's legacy is American families at greater risk of attack, ever, with financing.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, each August, I look forward to an annual district bus tour, where I travel across all five counties of the Second Congressional District. During this time, I meet with constituents and hear their opinions about issues important to the families in South Carolina, along with my wife, Roxanne, and dedicated staff. This year, I was grateful to visit nearly 20 businesses, schools, civic clubs, and chambers of commerce. At each location, I took the opportunity to thank employees for their service and thank employers for their work creating jobs. I also took the opportunity to present Speaker Paul Ryan's positive policy agenda, ``A Better Way,'' that presents positive proposals for some of the greatest challenges facing our country. When I was elected to Congress, I pledged to be accessible and accountable, and this bus tour is one of many ways that I fulfill this promise. While I regularly visit with families, schools, and businesses in the Second District, I especially appreciate the nonstop tradition of visiting with the community I am humbled and inspired to represent. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and may the President, by his actions, never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, on Roll Call Number 480, which took place Tuesday, September 6, 2016, I am not recorded because of a scheduling conflict. Had I been present, I would have voted AYE. I stand with my colleagues in the House in support of H.R. 3881, the Cooperative Management of Mineral Rights Act.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, South Carolina is paying positive tribute to the service of American Patriot Kenneth D. Jumper, Sr., of Cayce, South Carolina. I especially appreciate his dedicated model of military service in the National Guard. He was an inspiration to me when we served together in the 218th Mechanized Infantry Brigade as he lived up to the highest standards of service by being the most patriotic, competent, and capable of citizens. A thoughtful obituary was published in The State newspaper on August 27, 2016: Cayce.--Kenneth D. Jumper, 89, of Cayce, South Carolina passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Thursday, August 25, 2016. He was born in Swansea, South Carolina to the late Dewey and Myrtis Smith Jumper. Kenneth retired from the State Highway Department and The SC Army National Guard as a Staff Sargent. He was a member of Cayce First Baptist Church for over 60 years. He served several terms on the Cayce City Council. Kenneth coached Little League baseball for many years in Cayce and spent many days helping his neighbors. He will be long remembered for his Godly character, his acts of kindness and Christian faith. He will be missed by all. Kenneth is survived by his sons, Kenneth D. (Sally) Jumper, Jr. of West Columbia, Keith (Emily) Jumper of Lexington, Karl Jumper of Cayce and Kim (Kimberley) Jumper of Lexington; his brothers, Conley (Joanne) Jumper of Pacolet and Coy (Esca) Jumper of Swansea; his sister, Orene Carter of Cayce; and his daughter-in-law, Lisa Jumper of Swansea. He also leaves behind his 11 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 60 years, Verna B. Jumper and his son, Kelvin M. Jumper. The family will receive friends at Thompson Funeral Home of Lexington on Saturday, August 27, 2016 from 6-8 p.m. Funeral services will be held at The Harvest, 4865 Sunset Blvd., Lexington, SC on Sunday, August 28, 2016 at 2 p.m. Interment will follow in Southland Memorial Gardens. The funeral services were lovingly conducted by his son, Pastor Kenneth D. Jumper, Jr.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, last month The Augusta Chronicle, August 4, exposed ``The Obama administration . . . has now apparently been caught shipping $400 million in foreign currency to Tehran--coincidentally at the same time the mullahs released four Americans they'd held hostage. ``Wouldn't you tend to call that `ransom'?'' The Wall Street Journal reports: ``The Obama administration secretly organized an airlift of $400 million worth of cash to Iran that coincided with the January release of four Americans detained in Tehran . . . Wooden pallets stacked with euros, Swiss francs and other currencies were flown into Iran on an unmarked cargo plane . . . Iranian press reports have quoted Iranian defense officials describing the cash as a ransom payment.'' Iran still chants ``death to America, death to Israel'' with new financing. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and may the President, by his actions, never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. Our sympathy to the family of Phyllis Schlafly, an American patriot who made a difference for limited government and expanded freedom.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, one year ago, the President announced the framework of the dangerous Iran nuclear deal. In the past year, Iran continues to grow more hostile, threatening American families and our allies in the Middle East, especially Israel by testing intercontinental ballistic missiles. What's more, Iran has ordered its military to produce ICBMs that are capable of reaching more targets--Europe and even the Untied States. And they hatefully chant ``Death to America, Death to Israel''. We should not make it easier for a rogue state to threaten American families and our allies by ignoring reality and offering more concessions to a regime which oppresses their great people. I appreciate that House Republicans have done everything we can to exercise oversight over the implementation of the dangerous agreement. This week, we passed legislation that would prevent the U.S. from purchasing heavy water from Iran and would deny the despots access to the dollar. We also passed the Iran Accountability Act of 2016, which holds Iran accountable for their ballistic missile violations and their human rights abuses against their citizens. In conclusion, God Bless Our Troops and may the President by his actions never forget September 11th in the Global War on Terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Madam Speaker, in recent weeks, Speaker of the House Paul Davis Ryan has presented the A Better Way agenda on how to build a more confident America. I am grateful for the Speaker promoting A Better Way to defend America's families and create jobs. Recent terrorist attacks at home and overseas confirm what House Republicans have warned about for years--that the current foreign policy is failing. To promote peace through strength to protect American families, we need a real plan, one that protects the homeland, defeats terrorism, tackles new threats, and defends freedom around the world. As the chairman of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Emerging Threats and Capabilities, I am grateful that A Better Way emphasizes the importance of combating new threats. Each element of A Better Way presents real solutions for the biggest problems facing our Nation. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and may the President, by his actions, never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. Congratulations Prime Minister Theresa May for your success for the citizens of the United Kingdom.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, today, July 13, 2016, a funeral service was held for Pete Dent at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Columbia, South Carolina. As a dedicated family man and respected business leader, he will be greatly missed. I am grateful for his service as a member of the U.S. Air Force and I would like to extend my deep sympathy to his family during this time of mourning. He will be buried at Fort Jackson National Cemetery. A thoughtful obituary was published in The State newspaper on July 12, 2016: Columbia.--A funeral service for Ernest Harry ``Pete'' Dent Sr., 82, will be held at 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, July 13, 2016, at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. Burial will be in Fort Jackson National Cemetery at a later date. The family will receive friends following the funeral service in the Family Activities Building at the church. Dunbar Funeral Home, Devine Street Chapel, is assisting the family. Mr. Dent died Sunday, July 10, 2016. Born in Columbia, he was a son of the late Arthur Kibler Dent Sr. and Elinor Stiller Dent. He was a member of the U.S. Air Force Class of 55K Bantam, stationed at Spence AFB in Moultrie, Ga. He enjoyed a 30+ year career selling automobiles in Columbia, primarily Chevrolets with Love Automotive and Central Chevrolet. Many of his long term friendships were initiated from his auto sales. In his post-retirement years, he enjoyed his part-time work with Lorick Office Products, allowing him more opportunities to spend time with his son. He was a member of Woodlands Country Club where he enjoyed his weekly rounds of golf with friends and family. Surviving are his wife, Mary T. Dent; son and daughter-in- law, Harry and Andrea Dent; daughter and son-in-law, Patti and Shawn O'Rourke; grandchildren, Ernest Harry ``Trae'' Dent III, Aydan Leigh O'Rourke, Ryan Michael O'Rourke; stepson, Tony Ramsay; stepdaughter, Tanya Ramsay Daniels (J. Sam); and stepgrandson, Holt Daniels; first wife and lifelong friend, Nadine Cantey and ``husband-in-law'', John B. Cantey. He was predeceased by a granddaughter, Ashley Nicole Dent. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Ashley Dent Foundation, 303 N. Woodlake Drive, Columbia, SC 29229- 8933, where funds will be directed to organizations participating in Alzheimer's research.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, on June 23, the House of Representatives hosted the reception for the 2016 Congressional Art Competition. I was honored to serve as the Republican co-chair for the competition, alongside Congresswoman Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona. For the past 34 years, the Congressional Art Competition has inspired and encouraged young artists around the country. The competition was very personal to me. With my mother being an artist, I understand how important it is to give proper recognition to these talents who are making a difference in society through arts. I was grateful to invite local artist Yvonne Kinney, from North Augusta, to Washington to speak to the students about her work and highlight the importance of giving back to your community. The winner from the Second District was Mary Aufuldish from Cardinal Newman High School in the Midlands. I look forward to seeing her winning piece, America the Beautiful, every day for the next year as it hangs in the Cannon tunnel. I am humbled to represent all of the young talent in the Second Congressional District. In conclusion, God Bless Our Troops and may the President by his actions never forget September 11th in the Global War on Terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, last Thursday, Coastal Carolina University won their first-ever national title in the College World Series in Omaha, Nebraska. The Chanticleers defeated the Arizona Wildcats 4-3 in the final game of the series. I am grateful to recognize the entire team, and especially honoring four members from the Second Congressional District: Andrew Beckwith of Blythewood, Connor Owings and Mike Morrison of Gilbert, and Brandon Miller of Aiken. Andrew, a junior at Coastal Carolina, first demonstrated his skills at Blythewood High School in South Carolina's Second District. He led Blythewood to a 27-7 record and secured a 4A State championship in 2013. Andrew was also named the most outstanding player of the 2016 College World Series. Prior to attending Coastal Carolina, seniors Connor Owings and Mike Morrison led Gilbert High School to a 2A State championship. Both Connor and Mike earned recognition on the Big South Presidential Honor Roll from 2013 to 2015. Freshman Brandon Miller, from Aiken High School, earned Second Team All-Area by the Augusta Chronicle. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and may the President, by his actions, never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. Congratulations to Coastal Carolina University, represented by Congressman Tom Rice.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, on Sunday, South Carolina native Dustin Johnson won his first major golf title at the U.S. Open. Dustin, a native of the Midlands, won the 2016 U.S. Open at Oakmont Country Club near Pittsburgh. Dustin played an incredible round on a tough course, finishing 4-under 276, which is the lowest winning score in the nine U.S. Opens held at Oakmont. Dustin is a graduate of Dutch Fork High School in Irmo, South Carolina. He played at the collegiate level at Coastal Carolina University in Conway, went professional in 2007, and then in 2008 earned his PGA Tour card. Dustin won his first PGA Tour event at the Turning Stone Resort Championship and since has secured ten first place finishes on the PGA tour. Dustin is a strong talent, ranking number three in the Official World Golf Rankings. As a child he was recognized by PGA pro Jimmy Koosa of Weed Hill Driving Range and now pro at Charwood Country Club of the Town of Pine Ridge. To his fiancee, Paulina Gretzky, and son Tatum, congratulations to you as well. Best wishes Dustin for continued success due to dedicated effort. In conclusion, God Bless Our Troops and may the President by his actions never forget September 11th in the Global War on Terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, the Associated Press reported Friday the global reach of the Islamic State. This clearly clarifies we are in a global war on terrorism, confirming we must defeat Islamic terrorists overseas or they will murder here again, as they did in Orlando and San Bernardino. The article reveals: ``The U.S. battle against the Islamic State has not yet curbed the group's global reach and as pressure mounts on the extremists in Iraq and Syria, they are expected to plot more attacks on the West and incite violence by lone wolves, CIA Director John Brennan told Congress. ``In a rare open hearing, Brennan gave the Senate Intelligence Committee an update on the threat from Islamic extremists . . . `ISIL has a cadre of Western fighters who could potentially serve as operatives for attacks in the West' . . . `Furthermore, as we have seen in Orlando, San Bernardino and elsewhere, ISIL is attempting to inspire attacks by sympathizers who have no direct links to the group.' . . . `our efforts have not reduced the group's terrorism capability and global reach.' '' In conclusion, God bless our troops and may the President, by his actions, never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I would like to commend Colonel Victor Gabriel Garcia, Information Operations Chief for CENTCOM, for his work combatting the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL). In the last two years, ISIL has developed and implemented never before seen tactics by using social media to recruit foreign fighters and the internet to propagate and instill fear. With the emergence of this continually evolving threat, Colonel Garcia has overhauled and expanded the CENTCOM J39 directorate to counter ISIL's internet propaganda machine. Currently, he is spearheading an effort for the Department of Defense to train and equip a joint force capable of addressing emerging terrorist threats on the internet and social media. They plan to develop a permanent and suitable solution to incorporate the policy, personnel, training, and facilities for all military commanders across the Department of Defense to better understand the tactics of ISIL as well as engage and influence their target audience. Additionally, Colonel Garcia and his team are in the process of developing a Web Operations Center for the Department of Defense. For the first time, the Department of Defense plans to have a centralized location where hostile internet activity can be monitored and addressed accordingly. This will provide an early warning system to assist military commanders with a variety of operations and allow them to react quickly, possibly saving the lives of our troops. I am grateful for Colonel Garcia's admirable service and dedication in developing countermeasures against ISIL.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, yesterday was the 241st birthday of the United States Army, a celebration for the strongest fighting force in the world. There are now more countries liberated and thriving in peace and democracy than in the history of the world because of the American military. It is an honor to represent Fort Jackson in the Midlands of South Carolina, the largest initial entry training facility of the Army. I was grateful to meet the incoming commanding general of Fort Jackson, Brigadier General Pete Johnson. I appreciate departing Brigadier General Roger Cloutier, who served in the tradition of Major General Bradley Becker. This is also a special day for my family, as the son of a World War II veteran of the U.S. Army Air Corps, as a grateful 31-year veteran of the Army Reserves and the South Carolina Army National Guard. I especially appreciate the Guard service of my sons, Alan in Iraq, Julian in Egypt, and Hunter in Afghanistan. My fourth son, Addison, served as a Navy doctor with the Army Rangers in Iraq. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and may the President, by his actions, never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. Happy 241st birthday, U.S. Army.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, on July 15, the Boeing Company will mark their 100th birthday, a remarkable achievement for its employees, subcontractors, and entire community. Boeing opened facilities in North Charleston, South Carolina, creating over 8,000 jobs directly and giving back to the community as a partner, such as sponsoring the Heritage Golf Classic at Hilton Head Island. The impact of Boeing extends beyond their facility. Many of their subcontractors are located in the Second Congressional District, including Zeus of Orangeburg and Aiken, Prysmian of Lexington, Thermal Engineering of Columbia, and AGY of Aiken. Governor Nikki Haley and the General Assembly, led by House Speaker Jay Lucas and Senate President Hugh Leatherman, have recognized the important milestone by proclaiming June 1 as Boeing Impact Day across South Carolina. Congratulations to the chairman, president, and CEO of the Boeing Company, Dennis Muilenburg; vice chairman Raymond Conner; and the executive vice president, Leanne Caret. Thank you to all of the many dedicated team members of Boeing South Carolina, especially the newly selected vice president, Joan Robinson-Berry, and Beverly Wyse, who leads the Shared Services Group. Best wishes for your continued success creating jobs. In conclusion, God bless our troops and may the President, by his actions, never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. Today, more Islamic terrorist murders in Paris.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, the front page of The Washington Post last week, June 9, reported attacks on U.S. by men set free, about 12 from Guantanamo Bay. The article revealed: ``The Obama administration believes that about 12 detainees released from the prison at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, have launched attacks against U.S. or allied forces in Afghanistan, killing about a half-dozen Americans . . . In March, a senior Pentagon official made a startling admission to lawmakers when he acknowledged that former Guantanamo inmates were responsible for the deaths of Americans overseas. ``But The Washington Post has learned additional details . . . while most of the incidents were directed at military personnel, the dead also included one American civilian: a female aid worker.'' It is clear the President's dangerous release of Guantanamo detainees puts American families at risk of murder. An extraordinary deterrent to Islamic terrorists is the ability to incarcerate them for the duration of the war they have declared against American families. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and may the President, by his actions, never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. Our sympathy to this week's victims of terrorism in Baghdad, Tel Aviv, and Orlando.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, on Wednesday, I was grateful to serve on the escort committee for Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India, due to my former co-chairmanship of the Caucus on India and Indian Americans, with my father having served in India during World War II. The Prime Minister was warmly received with his positive presentation: As a representative of the world's largest democracy, it is indeed a privilege to speak with the leaders of its oldest. Connecting our two nations is also a unique and dynamic bridge of 3 million Indian Americans. Threats of terror are expanding, and new challenges are emerging in cyber and outer space. India is undergoing a profound social and economic change. A commitment to rebuild a peaceful and stable and prosperous Afghanistan is our shared objective. In every sector of India's forward march, I see the U.S. as an indispensable partner. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and may the President, by his actions, never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. South Carolina especially recognizes the success of Indian Americans, with their Governor, Nikki Haley, the second Indian American Governor elected in history.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

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

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, this week, South Carolina honors and pays tribute to the dedicated men and women of the South Carolina State Guard. The unpaid volunteers of the State Guard are always prepared for challenging events in the community. They respond quickly to work to help families recover after natural disasters. The South Carolina State Guard was crucial during the flooding last October. This 1,000-year flood devastated many neighborhoods. Members from all three brigades of the State Guard worked around the clock in filling sandbags and in assisting engineers and law enforcement. I was grateful to visit disaster relief centers firsthand, which was coordinated with the State Guard, and I was accompanied by Representatives Kirkman Finlay and Chip Huggins. Our citizens really appreciate the command staff of the South Carolina State Guard for leading and inspiring these members: Major General Thomas Mullikin, Brigadier General Richard Leonard, Brigadier General Leon Lott, and Command Sergeant Major Mark Freeman. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and may the President, by his actions, never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism. Our sympathy to the people of Tel Aviv as the latest victims of Islamic terrorists.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, this week, Speaker of the House Paul Davis Ryan presented a positive program on what Republicans support--A Better Way--which is our vision for a confident America. Speaker Ryan has outlined a bold Republican agenda that advances meaningful reforms to address poverty, to protect national security, to grow our economy and create jobs, to defend the Constitution, to improve health care, and to reform the Tax Code. The A Better Way program will provide positive opportunities for American families and will chart the course that challenges all Americans to reach their full potential. The American Dream should be true for everyone. All should have a chance to make the most of their lives no matter how they start. The optimistic agenda of creating jobs will get America back on track while addressing some of the most serious challenges of our time. I appreciate Speaker Ryan's work to make this a positive and inclusive process by collecting feedback from citizens across the country for A Better Way. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and may the President, by his actions, never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, yesterday Internal Revenue Service Commissioner John Koskinen refused to testify before the House Judiciary Committee to answer allegations that he failed to comply with a congressional subpoena, which resulted in the destruction of key evidence, that he provided false statements during his sworn testimony, and that he did not notify Congress that the disgraced Lois Lerner's emails were strangely missing. Sadly, this is not what Americans deserve from the professionals of the IRS. The IRS should be accountable to answer questions about the corruption of its duties. This comes at a time when Congress and the American people have real concerns about bias by the IRS' targeting of conservative organizations and by cybersecurity vulnerabilities. I am grateful for House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte's and House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform Chairman Jason Chaffetz' advocacy in their standing up for American taxpayers. In conclusion, God bless our troops, and may the President, by his actions, never forget September the 11th in the global war on terrorism.

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina

Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Chair, I thank Chairman Mike Simpson for his leadership. I rise today in opposition to the amendment and in support of the mixed oxide fuel fabrication facility, or the MOX project, which is located at the Savannah River site in Aiken and Barnwell, South Carolina, adjacent to Augusta, Georgia. I support the facility for a very simple reason. It is the only viable method of permanently disposing of weapons-grade plutonium and turning it into green fuel for nuclear reactors. Furthermore, it is the only means of upholding our nuclear nonproliferation agreement with the Russian Federation. I say so with the background of myself having served as the Deputy General Counsel of the Department of Energy and the only person currently serving in Congress who has ever worked at the Savannah River site. The citizens of South Carolina accepted nuclear waste under the pledge by the Department of Energy that there would be a facility to process and remove the plutonium. After years of empty promises, the actions by this administration to close MOX with no viable alternative makes South Carolina a repository for nuclear waste, putting the people of South Carolina and Georgia at risk. The facility is nearly 70 percent completed. There has been a shortsighted decision to terminate the MOX project without appropriate considerations. The administration has failed to complete a rebaselining of the MOX project, as required by law. The administration has failed to consult key partners, including the EPA or the State of New Mexico as a receiving location. The administration cannot definitely state that the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant has the capacity for 34 tons of weapons-grade plutonium or even if it will reopen. The administration has failed to communicate with Russia about the plan to close MOX, causing Vladimir Putin to not attend the recent nuclear summit in Washington. Putin himself stated: ``This is not what we agreed on. ``But serious issues, especially with regard to nuclear arms, are quite a different matter and one should be able to meet one's obligations.'' MOX is a proven technology. It has worked overseas. It is crucial for our national security, and any decision to halt or alter its mission should only be carried out after a thorough and careful evaluation. I urge my colleagues to support MOX, to stand up for our national security initiatives, to support the only viable alternative for plutonium disposition, and to reject the amendment. I am grateful that today the U.S. Chamber of Commerce has issued a letter in support of MOX: ``The Chamber opposes any efforts to reduce funding for National Nuclear Security Administration's mixed-oxide (MOX) fuel facility at the Department of Energy's Savannah River Site. This project is critical to honoring the United States' Plutonium Disposition Protocol and the advancement of domestic nuclear fuel production.'' I yield back the balance of my time.