Jackie Walorski

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Grissom Middle School Principal Nathan Boyd, who was recently named the 2016 Indiana Middle School Principal of the Year by the Indiana Association of School Principals. Principals from across Indiana selected Mr. Boyd for this great honor due to his commitment to excellence in education and his tireless work to give all his students the opportunity to achieve their full potential. Each year, the IASP recognizes outstanding leaders in education for their contributions to the profession and the difference they make in students' lives. Since becoming principal of Grissom Middle School in 2013, Mr. Boyd has been an exemplary educator and administrator. He has maintained the school's record of academic achievement and its A rating from the Indiana Department of Education. He has introduced innovative programs and strategies to motivate and inspire students, including the ``Grissom Drum Brigade'' and the popular ``Club Honors.'' And he has fostered a culture of excellence among the school's teachers to best prepare students for the future. As principal, Mr. Boyd works each day to create a shared vision and purpose that stays true to Grissom Middle School's motto: ``Good, Better, Best.'' Under Mr. Boyd's leadership, Grissom Middle School is providing students a positive, challenging, and academically-oriented learning environment with a focus on building knowledge, reinforcing values, and developing a strong sense of self-worth for every student. Having received the Indiana Principal of the Year Award, Mr. Boyd will represent the Hoosier State at the National Association of Secondary School Principals Recognition Program in the Fall of 2017. Mr. Boyd's energy and passion for serving his students and his ability to inspire enthusiasm in his team distinguish him as an exceptional leader. He exemplifies the work ethic and humble leadership for which Hoosiers are known, and I am proud that a Hoosier from Indiana's 2nd Congressional District will be representing our great state next year. Mr. Speaker, I am grateful to Grissom Middle School Principal Nathan Boyd for his boundless passion for working with parents, teachers, and staff to build a strong community and a bright future for students. I am honored to ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Nathan Boyd for his tireless dedication and wishing him and everyone at Grissom Middle School all the best.

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to applaud the unanimous passage last night of the Veterans Mobility Safety Act. With this commonsense bill on its way to the President's desk, we are making sure the mobility equipment veterans depend on is safe. The VA helps disabled veterans update their vehicles with things like wheelchair lifts and easier steering and braking to improve their quality of life. But outdated policies and lack of standards in the program have led to safety issues for veterans and the driving public. With my bill, the VA will develop new policies and standards to ensure veterans have access to safe, high-quality mobility equipment. I thank Chairman Miller for his tireless work on veterans' issues, as well as my colleagues, Representatives Brownley and Ruiz, Paralyzed Veterans of America, and the National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association for their work on this bill. Mr. Speaker, we owe a debt of gratitude to our disabled veterans, and that includes making sure the mobility equipment they need is safe and reliable. With this bill, we are doing just that.

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today as we honor the exemplary service of three departing Members of this distinguished body. Congressmen Randy Forbes, Robert Hurt, and Scott Rigell have served their districts and our Nation with honor and distinction, and they will be sorely missed. I must take a moment and talk about the privilege I have had of serving alongside my friend, Randy Forbes, on the Armed Services Committee and on the Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee he chairs. Over the past few years, as the Obama administration has sought to shrink the size of our Armed Forces and reduce the number of ships in our Navy, it has been Randy that has led with a strong, passionate advocacy for our servicemembers and a strong, informed defender of our Navy. Article I of the Constitution states that Congress shall have the power to provide and maintain a Navy. No one has fulfilled that task more honorably or diligently than Congressman Randy Forbes. Randy, your experience and your insights will be missed in Congress and on the Armed Services Committee, but I look forward to see where your commitment to service leads you. Until then, my friend, I wish you fair winds and following seas.

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to take from the Speaker's table the bill (H.R. 3471) to amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain improvements in the provision of automobiles and adaptive equipment by the Department of Veterans Affairs, with the Senate amendment thereto, and concur in the Senate amendment.

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the Marian High School Knights for their victory in the IHSAA Class IA Boys Soccer State Championship for the second year in a row. Through diligence and perseverance, the Knights finished the season with eighteen wins and five losses. The championship game was the team's second appearance in the state finals and their second state title in as many years. I would like to highlight the many players who were honored for their performance in the tournament. Seniors Max Frausto and Cristian Juarez, and junior Oscar Tavarez were named to the Northern Indiana Conference's First Team, juniors Johnathan Tavarez and lead scorer Jordan Morris were named to the NIC's Second Team, and freshman Ned Morrison received Honorable Mention. Just as importantly, junior keeper Hunter Renner managed to allow only ten goals while completing thirty- one saves and achieving nine shutouts for the season. In tandem with senior keeper Michael Cataldo who managed ten shutouts, the Knights were one of the hardest teams to score against. Coach Ben Householter again deserves praise on this victory, which is not only a testament to his dedication to the Marian High School program but also his skill as team leader and mentor to the student athletes. Congratulations to the entire team for their contributions: seniors Michael Wuszke, Michael Cataldo, Max Frausto, Justin Saavedra, Alex Kokot, Cristian Juarez, juniors Oscar Tavarez, Johnathan Tavarez, Junior Ontiveros, Jordan Morris, Gabe Davey, Alfredo Medina, Alex Rodela, Juan Botello, Gabe Martinez, Jacob Schmidt, Adam Evans, sophomores Danny Manzo), Will Tiller, Matteus Webb, freshman Hunter Renner, Anthony Garatoni, Michael Baughman, Ned Morrison, Francisco Tavarez, Dominic Blum, Jonathan Wang, Head Coach Ben Householter, Assistant Coach John Jonas, Assistant Coach Matt Englert, Assistant Coach Alfredo Juarez, Junior Varsity Coach and Assistant Coach Alex Juarez, Manager Chloe Householter, Manager Jenna Householter, Athletic Trainer Anne Micinski, Athletic Director Steve Ravotto, Assistant Athletic Director Kyle Hanyzewski, and Principal Mark Kirzeder. The Knights' dedication and sacrifices have been proven two years in a row, and is a source of pride for the city, and the state of Indiana. Their record of success is exceptional and being a member of this team will be a memory these students will have for a lifetime. On behalf of the people of the Second Congressional District of Indiana, I applaud Coach Householter for building this program, I thank the student athletes for their determination, and I congratulate them all on an amazing season. It is my honor to represent Marian High School, and I wish continued success to the team and each of its members in their future endeavors.

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the active duty military and civilian employees at the Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane Division as they celebrate their 75th anniversary and the 241st birthday of the United States Navy. Located at Naval Support Activity Crane in Indiana, the Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane Division supports the shore command of the U.S. Navy and provides engineering services for electronic systems and electronic, strategic, and special warfare weapons. These systems and weapons have proven to be critical to the success and high performance of the Navy over NSWC Crane's 75 years of service. American Naval supremacy and military readiness depends on the ability to harness the power of the cutting-edge technologies that NSWC Crane supports. Because of these hardworking employees and military personnel, the exceptional men and women of our Armed Forces are well- equipped to defend our nation and support our allies across the globe. NSWC Crane, which is located on the third largest naval installation in the world, is an important contributor to the Indiana economy. The base employs over 5,000 civilian personnel and is an engine of the Indiana economy that provides secure jobs to Hoosiers who work every day knowing the vital role they play in the defense of the nation. Moreover, it is one of Indiana's largest high-tech employers, with over 2,000 scientists, engineers, and technicians. This organization is committed to excellence and continues to promote patriotism, honor, and strong national security. Their continued devotion to our service members and our country should serve as an honorable example for all Hoosiers. On behalf of all Hoosiers, I am honored to celebrate the Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane Division's 75th anniversary and the U.S. Navy's 241st birthday. Lastly, I would like to recognize the important work of the men and women at NSWC Crane, and wish them continued success and growth in the years ahead.

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge the members of the Mark L. Wilt American Legion Post 210 in Middlebury, Indiana, as they celebrate 95 years of service to our community and advocacy on behalf of all veterans. After its founding in 1921, American Legion Post 210 was named in honor of Mark L. Wilt, a local citizen who was killed in World War I. Post 210 met at several locations until 1969, when construction was completed on their present building on York Road in Middlebury. Post 210 has grown since its founding, as has its mark on the community. The members of Post 210 have been constant advocates for Northern Indiana veterans, consistently raising charitable donations and honoring the area's veterans through activities such as dedicating headstones for unmarked military graves. Their continued success is due to their standing within the Northern Indiana community as a patriotic organization whose mission helps American veterans within our community and ensures future generations of Hoosiers recognize the sacrifices these heroes made on their behalf. Because of their many significant contributions to our community and our veterans, I am grateful that the Mark L. Wilt American Legion Post 210 is in Indiana's Second District. It is clear the veterans of Post 210 are still serving the nation long after their active duty has ended. According to its mission statement, the American Legion ``is the nation's largest wartime veterans service organization, committed to mentoring youth and sponsorship of wholesome programs in our communities, advocating patriotism and honor, promoting strong national security, and continued devotion to our fellow service members and veterans.'' For Hoosiers, Post 210 exemplifies the long-standing tradition of excellence in Indiana. On behalf of 2nd District Hoosiers, I sincerely congratulate the Mark L. Wilt American Legion Post 210 on their 95th Anniversary, and I wish them continued success and growth in the years ahead.

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize National Hunger Action Month. Throughout September, families and advocates, volunteers and experts, and community leaders and elected officials have worked together to highlight the problem of hunger in this country. This summer, I had the privilege of seeing some of the great work being done on the front lines in Indiana's Second District, and I brought their insights back to Congress. This month, the Agriculture Committee's Nutrition Subcommittee, which I chair, held its 17th hearing of the 114th Congress examining the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP. We looked at innovative approaches States are taking to help those who fall into the safety net find good jobs and lift themselves out of poverty. These hearings have laid the groundwork for real reform. Mr. Speaker, no one in this Nation should go hungry, and that is why House Republicans have a plan--a better way--to fight poverty. Our plan puts new ideas to the test so we can stop the cycle of poverty and end hunger in America.

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague, Representative Brooks from Indiana. I am thrilled to stand here tonight and be a part of naming this facility in Indianapolis the Dr. Otis Bowen Veteran House. Dr. Bowen spent most of his life in my district, Indiana's Second District. He was the consummate Hoosier, known for his personal integrity and leadership in service to this Nation and the State of Indiana. His nickname was Doc, as he was affectionately known, and I would be one person knocking on his door every so often just to check in and see how he was doing. He had a wall of fame in his house like none other. I would love to just sit and listen to his words of wisdom over the years. He was born in Rochester, Indiana, in Fulton County. He graduated from Francesville High School. To this day, today, all of those areas in those counties are proud that he actually resided in those areas. He received his medical degree from IU in 1942, completed his residency at Memorial Hospital of South Bend, joined the U.S. Medical Army Corps, was part of the first wave of troops to storm the beaches of Okinawa during World War II. After leaving the service, he started a family practice in Bremen, Indiana. In 1952, Doc began his career in public service, serving as Marshall County coroner in 1956, when he was elected to the Indiana House of Representatives. He was elected Governor of Indiana in 1972 and reelected in 1976. In 1985, Ronald Reagan appointed him as the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Service, the first medical doctor to serve in that role. His commitment to serving Hoosiers made him one of the most adored public servants in the State of Indiana. His dedication is exemplified by the fact that after all these accomplishments and awards, he said his proudest achievement was delivering those 3,000 babies as a family physician in Marshall County. I can't think of a more deserving person to name this facility after. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express strong support for my bill, H.R. 5351, which would prohibit the transfer of any individual detained at Guantanamo Bay. Mr. Speaker, last night, the news broke that two more former GTMO detainees have rejoined militant groups. This is just the latest case of GTMO detainees being released, only to return to the fight. In fact, the President's own Director of National Intelligence reports 30 percent of former detainees are known or suspected to have reengaged in terrorist activities. Yet, the President continues to release more and more detainees. When President Obama came to office, there were 240 detainees at GTMO. The number is now down to 61, after the most recent and largest ever transfer last month. Another 20 have been cleared for transfer. When Hoosiers in my district hear these numbers, they worry that these transfers are leaving our Nation open to new vulnerabilities and will make Americans less safe. I could not agree more. While I wish we didn't have to stand here debating this bill, it is an unfortunate reality that our President remains willing to continue putting a misguided campaign promise ahead of the national security. Why else would detainees, who were once deemed too dangerous to transfer by President Obama's own GTMO task force, have been released to begin with? That is what happened with 8 of the detainees who were part of the largest-ever transfer of GTMO detainees last month. The task force's recommendation was reversed. These dangerous detainees were redesignated as safe for transfer, and they were sent to the United Arab Emirates. With all this in mind, it was, sadly, no surprise when, in March of this year, Mr. Paul Lewis, the President's Special Envoy for Guantanamo Closure, testified in front of the House Foreign Affairs Committee that ``Americans have died because of GTMO detainees.'' What else will it take for the President to change course on this flawed campaign promise? As a recently released, unclassified report on Guantanamo detainees highlighted, the individuals remaining at GTMO today represent truly the worst of the worst of the post-9/11 era. These are hardened terrorists. These are al Qaeda bomb makers, bodyguards, plotters, and recruiters. Among them is Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, the mastermind of the September 11 attacks. Americans are safer with these dangerous detainees securely locked up. I have been to GTMO. I have seen our military, the greatest fighting force the world has ever seen, standing guard to protect the American people from those who would do us harm. I know the GTMO facility is the safest, most secure place for these detainees. But this isn't just about the terrorists themselves. There are also significant concerns about the capacity and the capabilities of the countries receiving these transfers and the adequacy and transparency of the agreements being made by their governments. Take, for example, the recent case of a former detainee who was released to Uruguay, but sparked an international manhunt after he disappeared shortly before the Rio Summer Olympics; or the former detainee who was transferred to Sudan, a state sponsor of terrorism, and reappeared in Yemen as a leader of the al Qaeda affiliate there. It is clear these individuals desire to return to the battlefield, and that the countries receiving them may not have adequate resources to effectively track and monitor their whereabouts and activities. Unfortunately, despite repeated inquiries of the administration, we, as Members of Congress, still don't know much about the commitments our government has or gets from these countries. We don't know what, if any, penalties have been levied against countries that lose track of our former detainees. Transparency is long overdue. That is why I authored this language in this year's National Defense Authorization budget that would require complete written agreements for any transfers between countries to be shared with the appropriate congressional oversight committees. To those who may have concerns about my bill, I want to be clear what this legislation does and does not do. First and foremost, this legislation would not enact a permanent, lasting ban. What it does do is halt transfers until either this year's NDAA is signed into law or until President Obama leaves office on January 20, 2017. Mr. Speaker, as recently as last week, we heard the President say that he was ``not ready to concede'' that he cannot close GTMO before leaving office. The week before, we heard a similar message from Vice President Biden. With President Obama's time in office winding down, accelerating transfers to achieve a campaign promise puts Americans at risk. I am grateful to stand here with the national security leaders in this House on this bill, and to remind the American people that our first priority is the safety and security of our fellow Americans. I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on this important legislation.

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to urge my colleagues to support the Veterans Mobility Safety Act. This legislation will improve veterans' care and ensure the quality of the automobile adaptive equipment and hearing aids disabled veterans depend on. Automotive mobility plays a vital role in helping our disabled veterans live a normal life after being wounded on the battlefield. The VA's Automobile Adaptive Equipment, or AAE, program provides eligible disabled veterans with an automobile or modification, such as wheelchair lifts and reduced-effort steering and braking, to existing vehicles to improve their quality of life. Under the current AAE program, local VA facilities operate based upon their own interpretations of VA procedures that haven't been updated since 2000. It lacks quality standards for providers as well. As you can imagine, this fragmented and outdated system has resulted in cases of improperly installed equipment that caused serious safety issues for both the veteran and the driving public. My legislation requires the VA to develop a comprehensive policy regarding quality standards for providers that participate in the AAE program in close consultation with a host of stakeholders, including veterans service organizations, the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, and industry representatives. The result will be a veteran-centric policy that ensures access to safe, quality equipment. Lastly, it would require VA to update the AAE program handbook to reflect the new policy, along with biennial reports on implementation and compliance. This legislation also includes Congressman Duffy's bill that would allow the VA to utilize hearing aid specialists to help fill the need for certain hearing aid services. This legislation will decrease audiologists' workload and allow them to focus on special cases and complex conditions while also decreasing the wait time for a veteran who just needs a quick tweak to their hearing aid. I want to thank the chairman for all his work on veterans' issues. I want to also thank Representatives Brownley and Ruiz for their work on this legislation. Lastly, I want to thank Paralyzed Veterans of America for all of their help and all other veterans service organizations for all of their hard work advocating for veterans. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this commonsense bill.

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Nancy Mast for her outstanding leadership of The HUGS Project of Elkhart County. Having always been the type of individual to serve others, Nancy diligently searched for an organization that would benefit from her talents as a seamstress. After scouring the internet, she came across a worthy cause known as The HUGS Project, which delivers cooling neckties (nicknamed ``hugs'') to American troops in the Middle East. In 2006, Nancy launched The HUGS Project of Elkhart County and made it her mission to help grow and steer this organization in the right direction. What began as a handful of volunteers in a basement is now a bustling organization with 50 volunteers that continues to grow to this very day. In Nancy's capacity with The HUGS Project, she has overseen the shipping of approximately 100,000 hugs and 50,000 pounds of ``care'' items, which include at least one handwritten note per box, to our troops. Her lasting commitment to such a worthy cause is a shining example of devotion and selflessness in our very own Hoosier community. She had a dream of doing ``something'' for our troops that sacrifice so much for each of us every day--she has truly made that dream a reality. On behalf of Hoosiers in the Second Congressional District and as a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I would like to personally thank Nancy for the significant contributions she has made to the wellbeing of the U.S. military. Her dedication to selflessly serving those who protect America means so much to me and all the military families across the world. In addition, I would like to extend my applause to every member of The HUGS Project. It is my hope that their organization continues to flourish with each passing year.

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to applaud the important work being done in Indiana's Second Congressional District to fight poverty and end hunger. This August I visited the Food Bank of Northern Indiana, which serves six counties and church community services in Elkhart. Both have been doing incredible work fighting poverty for decades. I also toured the Washington Discovery Academy in Plymouth, where they have a garden to teach kids about nutrition and grow produce for a local food pantry, and the Marshall County Neighborhood Center, whose food pantry serves 400 families each month. Mr. Speaker, hearing from those on the front lines of the fight against poverty is the best way to learn what works and what doesn't. That idea is central to our House Republicans' A Better Way agenda. Too many people are getting trapped in a cycle of poverty. That is why A Better Way calls for innovative and evidence-based solutions. By listening to people in our communities and testing new ideas, we can build a bridge out of poverty.

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the employees and owners of Robert Weed Plywood in Bristol, Indiana, as they celebrate 50 years of creating high-quality products and contributing to the growth of Northern Indiana's vital manufacturing. Since its founding in 1966, Robert Weed Plywood has been a trailblazer in manufacturing. In 1969, they opened their 18,000-square- foot distribution center in Bristol, where they serve 18 industries across the country ranging from vehicle production to healthcare. Robert Weed Plywood is recognized as one of the finest manufacturers in the industry. They are consistently at the forefront of fabrication and distribution. Their continued success is due to their approach to business, their skilled workforce, their dedication to technological advancement, and their adherence to the industry's highest standards. Within the past decade, Robert Weed Plywood has expanded significantly. They established RWP West LLC in Weiser, Idaho, in 2007 and in Twin Falls, Idaho, in 2008. Such growth allows them to provide their exemplary services to the entire nation. Hoosiers can be proud that Robert Weed Plywood's roots are in the Indiana's Second District. The company also boasts a history marked by its dedication to the community. With their strong business model, they have served as an example of the importance of supporting local businesses. They have provided thousands of good-paying jobs for Hoosiers. They exemplify the long-standing tradition of excellence in Indiana. For the past half century, Robert Weed Plywood has demonstrated their passion for serving customers, providing exceptional products, and achieving the highest level of manufacturing excellence. On behalf of Hoosiers across Indiana, I sincerely congratulate Robert Weed Plywood on their 50th anniversary, and I wish them continued success and growth in the years ahead.

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the Conscience Protection Act, a bill I cosponsored to protect pro-life healthcare providers from discrimination. Doctors, nurses, employers, social service agencies, and insurance plans that choose not to take part in abortions as a matter of conscience should not face discrimination or penalty. This bill reaffirms protections already in place by prohibiting the Federal Government and entities that receive Federal funding from discriminating against or penalizing those who are exercising their conscience rights while, most importantly, it gives victims of discrimination legal recourse to defend themselves. Currently, it is up to the Department of Health and Human Services to enforce the law--and that is something that this administration has not always been willing to do. The Conscience Protection Act will give pro-life healthcare providers and employers full conscience protections without loopholes or uncertainty. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this essential bill to protect life and those who exercise their conscience rights.

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to take a stand against bureaucracy run amok. Every day I hear from hardworking Hoosiers, small-business owners, and family farmers buried under red tape. They feel like their government is actively working against them. From ObamaCare, to the EPA, to many other agencies, the Obama administration has been churning out complex and costly regulations. This has to stop. We can't have small business, farmers, and other engines of our economy held back by the threat of a regulator knocking on their door. That is why we have a plan to restore the Constitution. House Republicans recently released our plan for A Better Way to make our government more accountable and transparent and give power back to the people. Today we are also taking an important step toward reining in regulators and rebuilding the checks and balances our Founding Fathers intended with the Separation of Powers Restoration Act. Mr. Speaker, with this bill, and our A Better Way agenda, the House is standing up for the people against out-of-control bureaucracy.

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of S. 524, the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act. This vital bill will help address the prescription drug epidemic we have seen plague our communities for so long. Dozens of Americans die each day from prescription drug overdoses. This has to stop. It is time for us to come together as a nation to tackle the issue that has infected every fabric of our society. I am very honored to have served on this conference committee for the bill, and I am thankful it is being considered today by the House. As a member of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee, I have seen the opioid epidemic's effects on our Nation's veterans. Veterans are more vulnerable to chronic pain, more susceptible to addiction, but some VA facilities still overprescribe these powerful drugs. I have seen the problem firsthand with veterans coming into my office, often carrying a large box or bag of pills. In my home State of Indiana, the DEA raided the VA Medical Center in Marion after noticing the volume of narcotics and opioids purchased by the facility. For too long, the VA has relied too heavily on opioids to treat chronic pain. This bill addresses that by requiring the VA and the DOD to focus on improving their prescribing practices. It includes my piece of legislation requiring the VA to report to State Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs, which are important and effective tools for stopping overprescription. It also allows the VA to consider nonopioid treatments for veterans with chronic pain. Mr. Speaker, there is a long battle ahead of us--we have got a long way to go, and a lot of damage has been done--but this bill represents an important step forward as we seek to stop overprescription and opioid addiction in our country. I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express grave concern over the threat of radical Islamic terrorism. What we need is a comprehensive strategy to destroy terrorist organizations like ISIS. Instead, the administration is ramping up the release of Guantanamo Bay detainees. Make no mistake, these detainees are the worst of the worst. One former detainee has become a leader of al Qaeda's affiliate in Yemen. Another, released last month, was Osama bin Laden's bodyguard. Just weeks before the Olympics, here we are again. Authorities in Brazil are on the hunt for a former detainee who went missing. With another two dozen detainees cleared for this summer, I worked to include key safeguards in next year's National Defense Authorization Act, like requiring written agreements with foreign nations that accept these GTMO transfers. I introduced legislation with Senator Steve Daines to block all GTMO transfers until these safeguards are signed into law or until the end of the year. The President wants to empty GTMO and bring the remaining terrorists to U.S. soil. Mr. Speaker, we cannot allow these terrorist detainees to put American lives at risk.

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mark and Joanna Burns of Mishawaka, Indiana for their 50th wedding anniversary. Having married in 1966, Mark and Joanna now celebrate the very special occasion of their golden anniversary. Fifty years of marriage is a marvelous accomplishment and speaks volumes about the love and compassion that they share with one another, and their tremendous foundation of faith. It is obvious to all who spend time with them that they cultivated a truly beautiful life together. Their lasting commitment not only to one another, but also to their family is a shining example of devotion and faithfulness in our very own Hoosier community. As public school teachers, they touched the lives of thousands of students. As youth leaders in their church, they impacted mine as well. They embody the very values of what it means to be husband and wife. On behalf of Hoosiers in the Second Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate them on their anniversary and celebrate in this milestone. In addition, I would like to extend my sincerest congratulations to Mark, Joanna, and their entire family. It is my hope that their love continues to grow stronger with each passing year.

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Fire Chief Dale Freeman and honor him for a selfless career serving Hoosiers throughout Mishawaka. Chief Freeman began his storied journey with the Mishawaka Fire Department 36 years ago. Since then, he has gone on to lead the brave men and women who protect members of the northern Indiana community on a daily basis, responding to their calls for both emergency medical assistance and fire rescue. As chief, Freeman's rise has been marked by incredible dedication and perseverance. His commitment to excellence just recently resulted in over 5,100 people, mostly children, receiving critical fire safety education through ``Survive Alive House,'' Little Red, and other local programs and school assemblies. Furthermore, under Chief Freeman's leadership, more than half of Mishawaka's firefighting force is now cross-trained as Emergency Medical Technicians. These efforts have significantly strengthened the northern Indiana community's level of preparedness, allowing Hoosiers throughout Mishawaka to feel safe knowing that their local fire department is ready to respond at a moment's notice. Chief Freeman's passion for serving the greater good is truly remarkable and deserves the praise of many. His continued dedication to aiding those in desperate need of assistance has undoubtedly reduced significant cases of fire-related injuries, deaths, and property damage. Since first joining the Mishawaka Fire Department, Chief Freeman has truly epitomized the ideal of servant leadership. On behalf of Hoosiers in the Second Congressional District, it is my honor to thank him for his service and sacrifice for our community.

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. I thank the chairman for all his hard work on many VA issues in reference to veterans. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 3956, the VA Health Center Management Stability and Improvement Act. This legislation includes my bill, the VA Scheduling Accountability Act, which locks in a crucial measure of oversight over VA scheduling practices. Hearings held by the Veterans' Affairs Committee and investigations by the VA inspector general and the GAO have, unfortunately, substantiated many of the allegations of manipulated schedules and falsified wait time data at VA facilities across the country. VA Directive 2010-027 contains the VA's policy for appointment scheduling processes and procedures. It contains a checklist with 19 different items, such as ensuring that a patient's desired appointment date is not altered and that the staff have appropriate training. Importantly, the directive requires each facility to annually certify its full compliance with all 19 items. However, an August 2014 VA Office of Inspector General report uncovered that in May of 2013, a senior VA official waived the certification requirement for FY 2013. This essentially put facilities on the honor system by allowing them to only self-certify. Without this crucial accountability mechanism, bad actors were given free rein to manipulate the wait time data and allow compliance with scheduling practices to deteriorate. Meanwhile, veterans died waiting for appointments while others faced delays in getting the critical care they needed. I am glad that the VA has reinstated the certification requirement, but I am concerned there is nothing stopping them from waiving it again. H.R. 3956, the VA Scheduling Accountability Act, requires each facility director to annually certify compliance with the scheduling directive, or any successive directive that replaces it, and, most importantly, prohibits any future waivers. In addition, it prohibits the VA from giving bonuses to directors if their facility fails to certify compliance, and it requires the VA to report to Congress a list of facilities not in compliance. This will provide more oversight of the VA, ensure Congress is aware on noncompliant facilities, and end the reckless practice of self-certification. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this commonsense bill and the underlying legislation.

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the service and sacrifice of the brave police officers who put their lives on the line each day to keep our communities safe. This week is National Police Week, and communities all across America are showing their appreciation for the law enforcement officers who dedicate themselves to serving and protecting the public and bringing criminals to justice. We also remember the heroes who gave their lives in the line of duty, and we think of the families they left behind. It is our duty to make sure that those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their communities will never be forgotten. Mr. Speaker, I urge all Americans to take the time this week to simply say ``thank you'' to a police officer in their city or town. We are grateful for their service, we are humbled by their courage, and we are indebted to them for their sacrifice.

Mrs. WALORSKI

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Chair, I have an amendment at the desk.

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong opposition to the gentleman's amendment. Mr. Chairman, I want to take particular issue with a point made by the gentleman from New York. He is saying we can't afford to keep Guantanamo open. I stand here today and declare to you that we can't afford to close it. Let's look at the numbers. According to SOUTHCOM, which runs the detention facility, the annual operating cost is just over $100 million. However, according to this administration's own figures, the cost to renovate a facility in the United States is nearly half a billion dollars, not including the annual operating costs. Mr. Chairman, what is the life of an American worth? Is the gentleman from New York willing to stand here and have that conversation? I don't think so. This is a misguided amendment that would not make Americans safer. It is in the best interests of our national security to keep Guantanamo Bay open, and, as the numbers show, it is also in the best interests of the American taxpayer. I just also want to respond to another quick comment over here where he talked about some of those people are just merely detained. I just want to remind us in this Chamber that these are the worst of the worst. These are the most hardened terrorists the world has ever seen, and, more importantly, they have the blood of Americans on their hands and should be kept in a safe facility where they are. Mr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues reject this amendment.

Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Chair, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise today to offer an amendment which addresses both the incredibly important role played by the President's National Security Council, but also the concerning trend of consolidation of authority in the White House. Over the past two administrations, the NSC has transformed from simply a coordination and advisory body to something else entirely. We recently heard from President Obama's three former Secretaries of Defense--Gates, Panetta, and Hagel--each outlining the challenges they faced in trying to manage the Defense Department and combat operations in the face of a more intrusive NSC. Most notably, Secretary Gates said: ``It was the operational micromanagement that drove me nuts of White House and NSC (National Security Council) staffers calling senior commanders in the field . . . second guessing commanders.'' The NSC was never intended to operate in this manner. It was intended to be an advisory body and interagency coordination center for the President. However, its size has exploded from roughly 100 staffers under President Clinton, to 200 under President Bush, and now 400 under President Obama. Moving decisionmaking away from the departments undermines the authority of Secretaries and General officers who have been confirmed by the Senate and concentrates power with unelected, unconfirmed, and unaccountable bureaucrats who care more about optics and narratives. This is best illustrated in the recent profile of Deputy National Security Advisor Ben Rhodes, who has a master's in creative writing and no practical experience in foreign policy. Mr. Chairman, the National Security Council has moved far beyond its original advisory role to one in which NSC staffers make critical operational decisions. My amendment simply restores accountability to this operational organization by requiring the NSC to participate in the Freedom of Information Act, or FOIA, upon coordination of the National Security Advisor by the Senate. Bringing the NSC under FOIA is not without precedent. The NSC actually maintained a FOIA program and complied with requests under Presidents Ford, Carter, Reagan, Bush, and Clinton. However, a 1996 court case ruled that, since it was an advisory body, it did not need to participate. The NSC is not simply an advisory body anymore. It is time to bring it back under FOIA and shine light on its activities. This amendment fits well into Chairman Thornberry's broader NSC reform efforts. I thank him for making this a priority in this year's NDAA. As the chairman outlined earlier, these provisions will make it clear to future administrations that the NSC cannot continue to just grow in size and mission without consequential oversight measures. I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Thornberry), the esteemed chairman of the House Armed Services Committee.