Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I thank Congressman Faso for his leadership, and also for the great comments from Congressman Collins in the western New York district and for coming up with this really great piece of legislation.

It is no secret that New York residents pay among the highest taxes in the Nation. Combined State and local taxes consume over 13 percent of the average household income.

Decades of tax-and-spend policies have depleted the wallets of hardworking middle class families and forced many small businesses-- including family farms; once a tradition in New York--into closure, and driven lifelong residents out of our State in record numbers forever. These burdensome taxes, coupled with crushing regulations, have led to the worst business climate in the country. Small businesses, which create over 70 percent of the new jobs, face the threat of extinction in New York.

Year after year, New York continues to be ranked the highest in out- migration in the entire Nation. Nearly 200,000 people have left the Empire State, and two of the worst hit regions--the Mohawk Valley and the southern tier--are located in the 22nd District. Additionally, the two largest cities in our district--Utica and Binghamton--are ranked last and second to last in economic growth.

Hardworking families and our job creators desperately need tax relief. That is why I am working with the New York delegation and the Republican congressional delegation to lead the charge by cosponsoring the Property Tax Reduction Act sponsored by Mr. Faso and Mr. Collins and cosponsored by the rest of us.

As a note, I would just like to mention that, as a former member of the State assembly, I did sponsor legislation very similar to the type of relief being proposed in this wonderful piece of legislation known as the Property Tax Reduction Act. That legislation was cosponsored in a bipartisan way with Democrats who also recognized the need to change the paradigm in New York State.

The Property Tax Reduction Act will bring the largest local mandate relief initiative to my area in my lifetime, potentially saving the taxpayers in the 22nd District more than $167 million annually in unfunded State Medicaid mandates. This bill relieves county governments from the burden forced upon them by Albany bureaucrats led by our Governor.

Currently, in New York State, the law requires approximately $2.3 billion, as was mentioned earlier, that is taken from our local county governments and given to the State for the Medicaid program. This amounts to about $140 million per week.

In 2015, Oneida County was forced to divert more than 80 percent of the property tax levies to subsidize Albany's bloated budgets. This amounts to $54.4 million annually in Oneida County losses every year to cover the cost of their share of Medicaid.

In Broome County, more than half of the county's $70 million in property tax revenue, about $37 million, was taken from the county last year and diverted to Albany--a loss of more than, as I said, $37 million. This is money that would otherwise go to reduce property taxes, fund our schools, make much-needed improvements to infrastructure, and support our first responders, among many other programs, that we need on a county level.

Combined property and sales tax rates as a percentage of value rank many of New York's counties among

the highest taxed counties in the Nation, with Oneida County being ranked 19 in the latest Tax Foundation survey. No other State in the country abuses its local governments and taxpayers quite like Albany does in order to fund its most expansive and really overly generous Medicaid programs in the Nation.

New York's Medicaid program has the highest incidents of fraud, abuse, and waste in the country. If other States can provide high- quality healthcare to vulnerable citizens without taking advantage of local taxpayers, so can New York. The imposition of over $2.5 billion in Medicaid costs on to the counties is nearly seven times costlier than what counties in California pay, despite having higher enrollments and expenditures.

The Property Tax Reduction Act requires Governor Cuomo and the State to pay its full share of the Medicaid program that it should be paying in full and that it also forces on to the county and local governments.

This bill does not propose cuts to the programs in the 22nd District. Rather, it requires Albany to put its fiscal house in order. It requires Albany to take stock of the money that it has been using, sending these unfunded mandates to our strapped local governments.

This legislation, as the sponsor has indicated, gives the State ample time to realign the budget, to rein in out-of-control spending, and to give the taxpayers relief once and for all at the county level.

If Governor Cuomo chooses to hurt the citizens by slashing programs that upstate New Yorkers want and need with a mammoth State budget that was over $152 billion this year for fiscal year 2017, that is his choice, not something that has been brought on by that act. His failed leadership continues to produce budgets laden with unconstitutional executive pork and wasteful spending.

In fact, let's just take a look at a couple of the items. Over $370 million in Albany's budget these past few years was spent on the corrupt and mismanaged StartUP New York program, which produced only one-third of the promised jobs. Over $1.3 billion in tax breaks have been handed over to Hollywood filmmakers in the last 2 years. In all, Albany spends over $8 billion in taxpayer money on a job-creation program with little results to show for it.

The bill will simply force the State to work over a period of several years to responsibly reduce the unfair and unreasonable Medicaid liability that has been forced on to our counties. Upstate New York is in desperate need of property tax relief.

This bill is the first step in making the relief a reality. County executives and local governments across the State have voiced their support of this legislation.

While hardworking families struggle, Albany sits idly by. That is why we are taking the lead on the Federal level to help revive our region and bring business and people back to beautiful upstate New York. By giving county governments a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to reduce property taxes, this bill will save millions of dollars and hard-earned tax dollars for working families.

On behalf of the 22nd District, I just want to thank my colleagues for really taking the effort to bring this to the floor and showing true leadership in the face of difficult circumstances in finding a real solution, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for all of us as taxpayers in New York to finally have some relief, to grow our business community, and to find some kind of dynamism in our economy. I thank again the sponsors, Mr. Faso and Mr. Collins.

I want to mention one thing that I think is really important. Both Congressman Faso and I served as members of the State Assembly prior to serving in Congress. One thing that we both know is that we are truly interested in helping people who are needy.

It isn't about the people who are truly needy; it is about the people who are abusing the system and taking resources that are desperately needed by our seniors and by people who really are, as I said, truly needy. This is a way of providing more resources to them without having the fraud, the abuse and waste, the mismanagement in Albany, and forcing Albany into being more fiscally conservative, protecting our counties so that we can provide those services for our communities.

I just want to make sure that we characterize that, because that is something that we all care about as people who take an oath of office, not just to uphold our Federal Constitution but also our State constitution. We take that seriously.

I know we are all committed to helping those people, but also remembering that we need to respect the taxpayers. The taxpayers need to have proper management of their funds.

I want to commend the gentleman for his work and efforts in making sure this comes to the floor and making sure we get this passed on the Federal

level, because it has been a struggle for all of us through many years. Having this come to reality is going to be, honestly, one of the greatest mandate relief packages that I have experienced in my lifetime, and I am grateful.

Mr. Speaker, I wish to recognize and to express my gratitude to the following individuals from New York's 22nd Congressional District who upon graduation from high school will serve in the military:

Kevin Riggs, NYS Army National Guard; Kayla Thompson, NYS Army National Guard; Alexander J. Leggett, U.S. Army; Sayre P. Palmer, U.S. Navy; Joseph S. Podhayski, U.S. Army; Nicolas Tarbox, NYS Army National Guard; Justin Mallory, U.S. Army National Guard; Johnathan D. Sbarra, U.S. Air Force; James L. Wachter III, U.S. Air Force; Kristian R. Woolston, U.S. Air Force; Corey Mies, U.S. Marines; Joseph M. Maerkl, U.S. Air Force; Garrett M. Miller, U.S. Air Force; Tyler M. Thorick, U.S. Air Force; Kaitlin R. Johnson, U.S. Air Force; Gabriel Woods, NYS Army National Guard; Joshua M. Ledford, U.S. Army; Zaccuary A. King, U.S. Navy.

Marissa Urban, NYS Army National Guard; Joshua P. Cortes, U.S. Navy; Monique M. Szczpanski, U.S. Marines; Timothy J. Thompson, U.S. Air Force; Nathan S. Gibson, U.S. Air Force; Nicholas V. Scherrer, U.S. Army; Briana Tillotson, NYS Army National Guard; Jarret Gates, U.S. Marines; Ethan M. Parker, U.S. Army; Jason M. Spear, U.S. Army; Rachel M. Van Alstine, U.S. Navy; Talia A. Jones, U.S. Army; Morgan R. Vymislicky, U.S. Air Force; Krystal Doane, U.S. Army; Seth A. Dickson, U.S. Navy; Gunnar C. Ford, U.S. Air Force; Thomas J. Fuimo Ill, U.S. Air Force.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to applaud the passage of the Department of Veterans Affairs Accountability Act. This important legislation will create a culture of accountability at the VA and begin the process of restoring the VA's sole mission of providing high- quality care for our Nation's veterans.

For far too long, the VA has been plagued with scandal. From years' long wait lists to out-of-control bonuses, the VA needs real reform.

In their selfless service to our great Nation, our veterans have sacrificed so much to protect us. They shouldn't be plagued with difficulty accessing the care that they need and deserve.

As the mother of an Active-Duty U.S. Marine, I am sympathetic to the needs of our veterans. It is among my top priorities to make sure that we advocate for a better, more accountable VA. On behalf of the veterans of the 22nd District of New York, I am pleased to see this legislation pass with bipartisan support.

Today, we are correcting a wrong that has hurt too many of our Nation's heroes. I look forward to seeing the President sign this measure into law and have full confidence in VA Secretary Shulkin's ability to implement the important reforms contained in this critical piece of legislation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and to express my gratitude to the young men and women who are answering the call to serve in our military upon graduation from high school this year.

Throughout New York's 22nd Congressional District, countless men and women are serving our country. We are thankful to those who will now join them in the armed services. They have taken upon themselves a duty and a responsibility far greater than themselves.

General MacArthur famously said: ``Duty, honor, country: those three hallowed words reverently dictate what you ought to be, what you can be, and what you will be.''

We as a community and as a country are thankful for their dedication and service. We wish them tremendous success in their service to our great Nation.

I also wish to acknowledge specifically the Conklin Kiwanis Club's ``First to Say Thank You'' program that was held to honor the men and women of the Southern Tier who are joining the military service. From the 22nd District, there are 35 individuals who are being recognized, and their names will be permanently commemorated in the official Congressional Record. I congratulate them and thank them.

Mr. Chair, I thank Chairman Hensarling for this important bill. I rise today in support of H.R. 10, the Financial CHOICE Act.

As a single parent and small-business owner, I know from my own experience that the only way for hardworking Americans to achieve financial independence is by building an economy from Main Street up, not Wall Street down.

The CHOICE Act not only imposes the toughest penalties in history for financial fraud on Wall Street, it saves taxpayers $30 billion. The CHOICE Act also eliminates taxpayer-funded bailouts while providing choices for consumers and a real opportunity for economic growth.

As an upstate New Yorker, our region suffers from economic challenges caused by excessive regulations, such as the Dodd-Frank Act, that have crushed small businesses. Yet small businesses create nearly 70 percent of the new jobs. This bill will increase access to capital for small businesses and startups--our job creators. It will increase job opportunities and positively benefit New York's 22nd District.

Mr. Chair, I urge all of my colleagues to vote to support our job creators and to vote for the Financial CHOICE Act.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in commemoration of the 73rd anniversary of D-Day as well as to recognize the 75th anniversary of the Battle of

Midway. These two conflicts were critical in changing the course of World War II.

Seventy-three years ago today, the eyes of the world watched as Allied forces, under the leadership of General Dwight Eisenhower, stormed the beaches of Normandy. For 4 years, Europe was enslaved in tyranny by the Nazis. To liberate the people of Europe, these brave men parachuted into pitch-black fields and vaulted towering cliffs, all while undertaking heavy enemy fire.

Two years prior to the D-Day landings and 6 months after the attack on Pearl Harbor, the U.S. emerged victorious in one of the most significant and decisive battles in naval history, known as the Battle of Midway. The U.S., under the command of Admiral Nimitz, was able to ambush and destroy four Japanese aircraft carriers. Thanks to the heroic bomber pilots and crews of the U.S. Navy, this battle changed the tide in the Pacific theater.

The United States and the world are eternally grateful for the heroism and

sacrifices that our servicemen and -women displayed over 70 years ago today in an uncertain war.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to applaud the passage of the Veterans Administration Scheduling Accountability Act.

All too often, I hear from veterans across the 22nd District of New York who have waited months, and some years, to have their claims addressed.

In their service to our great Nation, our veterans sacrifice so much. They should never die waiting for care they deserve and need. That is why the House took important steps to reform the scheduling and appeals process while expanding access to the important resources that our veterans depend on. This bill will hold every VA accountable. We seek to correct a wrong that has hurt so many of our veterans.

On behalf of the veterans in the 22nd District, I thank my colleague, Representative Jackie Walorski, and my colleagues in the House, for putting our Nation's heroes first and unanimously passing this important piece of legislation right before Memorial Day.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the AbilityOne Program and its countless contributions to our communities and to people with disabilities.

Through this important program, community-based nonprofit agencies across the Nation have employed more than 45,000 people who are blind or differently abled. The AbilityOne Program harnesses the purchasing power of the Federal Government to buy products from these agencies, which have made it their mission to employ and train the blind and disabled.

Established in 1983, the program continues to empower those with disabilities by providing gainful employment to a segment of our population who typically experience one of the highest rates of unemployment in the Nation. These critically important employment opportunities have led to increased independence and enhanced quality of life for scores of disabled Americans.

Recently, I had the opportunity to tour an AbilityOne participant in the 22nd District of New York: Human Technologies Corporation located in Utica. This facility employs nearly 600 people on an annual basis.

As a critical part of our community, I am honored to serve this AbilityOne agency and their team of dedicated employees, who continue to make a significant economic impact on our region through the creation of quality products and services to government agencies across all sectors.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of millions of people worldwide, whose lives have been irreparably harmed by the scourge of human trafficking.

Tragically, human trafficking is a $32 billion industry. This horrific practice is often difficult to detect, yet there are nearly 21 million victims of human trafficking throughout the world each year. It is estimated that 55 percent of these victims are women and young girls.

Sadly, most incidents of human trafficking go unreported, while the victims suffer in silent pain. It is for these reasons that we must raise awareness of this terrible practice and work to combat the growing threat against these vulnerable people.

As a member of the State assembly, I championed bipartisan measures to combat this modern-day form of slavery, including the Trafficking Victims Protection and Justice Act.

Yesterday, to continue this fight, I worked alongside my colleagues in the House to pass bipartisan measures to eliminate the scourge on humanity at the Federal level, and also today.

Millions of men, women, and children are suffering at the hands of human traffickers and sex abusers. Thus, it is our duty to hold those who commit these vile acts accountable and to ensure justice for all.

Mr. Speaker, it is a distinct honor to rise today to recognize National Police Week, honoring our heroes of the thin blue line. During this week each year, our Nation joins together to honor our brave men and women in blue.

In their mission to serve and protect, our law enforcement officers put their lives on the line each day, keeping our families and our communities safe from harm. Day in and day out, we witness the countless sacrifices made by the men and women who serve as our front line of defense here at home.

We stand to recognize their service this week. We also pay tribute to those who have tragically lost their lives in the line of duty. Their bravery and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

I would like to specifically thank the dedicated officers serving throughout the State of New York. From the New York State troopers to the county sheriffs and to our local law enforcement, the heroism and bravery of the

men and women in blue continues to inspire us all.

Mr. Speaker, although present for the vote, due to an error, my vote was not properly recorded. Had it been recorded, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 257.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Autism Awareness Month and the more than 3.5 million Americans currently living with an autism spectrum disorder.

Today it is estimated that 1 in 68 people will be born with autism. There has been a significant increase in the number of people born with autism in just a decade.

With an increase in diagnoses of Americans with autism spectrum, it is important that we expand research and provide adequate resources for people on the spectrum. By increasing awareness, we seek to support the numerous families along with millions of individuals managing an autism disorder.

The earlier autism can be diagnosed and treated, the better chance that person has to pursue an independent and productive life. Thus, it is crucial that our early childcare programs, and especially our schools, have the knowledge, resources, and ability to provide assistance to those with autism.

I also wish to acknowledge my friend and former constituent, Vincent McLaughlin, who serves as an inspiration for autism awareness. Vincent, like many Americans with autism, is an active and devoted member of his local community and proudly serves as a member of his local volunteer fire department. For years, Vincent has sought to increase awareness for autism and to serve as an example of just how beneficial early treatment can be.

Autism should not be a barrier to preventing Americans from achieving success and pursuing happiness. It is to that goal that I stand here today to recognize all Americans with an autism disorder, and I am proud to acknowledge April as Autism Awareness Month.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize families across this great country who have been tragically affected by the growing opioid epidemic plaguing our communities.

All too often, we hear the heart-wrenching stories from families who have lost loved ones to this pernicious scourge. We have heard from law enforcement officers and healthcare providers who have chronicled the growing influx of crime and addiction in our society.

In 2016, in Broome County alone in my district, 76 people died from drug overdoses. Ninety percent of those deaths were opioid related.

We have kicked the can down the road for far too long. Now, Congress must act swiftly and work to provide resources for those struggling with addiction by supporting rehabilitation centers, as well as educational and preventative programs.

That is why I am taking the lead on the national level by supporting the funding of the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act in the 2018 budget. This is only a start, but I will continue to fight across all sectors to find comprehensive and caring solutions to this tragedy in our communities.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 1343, which passed the Committee on Financial Services by a very large bipartisan vote of 48-11. I thank the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Hultgren) and the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Delaney) for introducing this essential piece of legislation.

As the coowner of a small manufacturing business in New York, this legislation would help companies in New York and across our Nation to grow stronger while allowing hardworking employees to have a stake in a business' future through ownership.

Company leaders across America understand that greater employee investment through ownership will develop a stronger workplace culture and increase productivity by giving private companies more flexibility in retaining and rewarding employees, the people we so vitally need to grow our businesses.

I want to thank the sponsors of this bill, and I urge my colleagues to support this legislation.

Mr. Chairman, I have an amendment at the desk.

Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume.

Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of my amendment to H.R. 1259, which would require the VA to submit a report to Congress at the end of each fiscal year listing the bonuses that were awarded to senior-level executives.

In 2015, VA employees received more than $177 million in bonuses, which was 24 percent more than they received in 2014. The average bonus for a senior executive was $10,000.

I have no doubt that the men and women of the VA serve our veterans admirably each day. In my own district, I have spoken with veterans who are grateful for the compassionate care that they receive from local VA clinics throughout upstate New York. VA employees should be fairly compensated for their work and awarded for their achievement.

It is also clear to me that there is more work to be done. Just this month, an audit of several VA facilities in North Carolina and Virginia revealed that wait times continue to be misrepresented and that nearly 14,000 veterans were denied access to timely care. The audit also found that veterans were waiting an average of 26 days to see mental health specialists, while the VA falsely reported average wait times of 6 days. In light of this information, the American people are right to wonder who at the VA may be receiving a bonus this year.

My amendment adds a simple reporting requirement to the bill that will streamline oversight of bonuses at the VA by requiring the agency to proactively provide information to Congress that details the amount of each bonus awarded to senior executives as well as the job titles of the individuals and the location of their employment. Given the patterns of mismanagement at the VA, the American people deserve to know how bonuses are being awarded at the agency. This bill increases transparency over the bonus process without placing any undue burdens on the agency.

I would encourage my colleagues to support it, and I thank the committee for the opportunity to offer this amendment.

Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. Chairman, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. Roe), who is the chairman.

Mr. Chairman, I yield back the balance of my time.