Floor Statements

Mr. President, I rise to speak in support of Heller amendment No. 1146. Amendment No. 1146 provides tax relief for families with children. This week we are setting in motion one of my top legislative priorities in the Senate; that is, to bring tax relief to American families.

For decades, Nevadans have been waiting for an affordable and fair tax code that they can understand, and I have long said that the Tax Code is too costly and too complex. We need to simplify our code in a way that creates jobs and allows Nevadans to keep more of their hard- earned tax dollars. With this budget, we are taking an enormous first step in providing meaningful relief to Nevadans and middle-class families across the Nation.

Under our leadership and thanks to the work of the chairman of the Budget Committee, we are finally in a place where we can provide real, meaningful tax relief for all of America. As a member of the Senate Finance Committee, I have been working with my colleagues to craft a tax bill that accomplishes three major goals. The first is to create more jobs; No. 2 is to increase wages; and, finally, No. 3 is to boost American competitiveness.

So the question is, What does tax reform mean to an average Nevadan who works hard and is trying to provide a better life for themselves and for their children? It means you can keep more of your hard-earned paycheck, and it will be easier for you to file your taxes, less paperwork, more money. Lower rates for businesses mean more jobs, they mean higher wages, and they mean growth in our communities, all of which will benefit you.

As the son of a school cook and an auto mechanic, I understand discipline and hard work--all of it--that goes into every dollar and every paycheck, and I am working to see that we have more of it in your back pocket. That is why my amendment is absolutely critical, because it delivers this desperately needed relief and lets the middle-class families keep more of their hard-earned paychecks, helping them make ends meet and invest in their families.

For too long, American families have been struggling with stagnant wages and incomes, as well as slow economic growth made worse by the policies of the Obama administration. In inflation-adjusted terms, nationwide median household incomes stayed below what it was in 2007 all the way up to 2015. Last year, it was only $890 more than it was in 2007. In my home State of Nevada, the situation is even worse. Median household income still hasn't fully recovered and is $7,000 lower today than it was in 2007.

Tax relief for families with children, through an enhanced child tax credit, for example, will help begin to address the financial insecurities facing American families and will help families confront the rising cost of raising children. Expansion of the child tax credit will help hard-working, middle-class families in many ways, allowing them to keep more of their hard-earned income to use for the needs of their families and for their children.

I urge everyone in this Chamber to support children, I urge them to support middle-class families, and I urge them to support my amendment.

I yield the floor.

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for the quorum call be rescinded.

Mr. President, I rise today still in shock, still in mourning over the events of October 1, when 58 people--some of them Nevadans, many of them visitors to our State--were brutally gunned down by a madman on the Las Vegas Strip.

In addition to those horrible deaths, almost 500 people were injured. Many of them face long roads to physical recovery and an even longer and more painful road to emotional recovery. I know I speak for all of my Senate colleagues in praying for them and wishing them the quickest recovery possible.

This madman's actions devastated our city, but I rise today to tell you that the sense of devastation is being replaced by a renewed sense of community, a renewed sense of family, of unity, of faith, and a renewed sense of strength. I have had the honor of experiencing it firsthand in the eyes and the voices of those who survived and those who chose to stay in harm's way to help each other when they could have fled to safety. I have heard and seen this renewed sense of community and strength in the faces of our first responders, none of whom have ever encountered anything as horrific as the carnage of October 1 but who plunged into danger to save lives. Because? Because that is what they do.

I had the privilege of meeting a Las Vegas police officer, Sergeant Jonathan Riddle, who was stationed a block from the shooting scene doing traffic work. When he first heard the popping noises, like most of the concertgoers, he thought it was fireworks, but the second volley told him otherwise, and his training kicked in. He grabbed his rifle and he sprinted toward the chaos. Keep in mind, this police officer knew, through his training, that heavy-caliber bullets were being fired and that his protective vest would not stop them. He also knew his rifle was useless because the shots were coming from the Mandalay Bay, and he couldn't shoot at the hotel for fear of hitting an innocent bystander. So he was, for all intents and purposes, defenseless. He knew it, but he ran anyway. He ran toward the violence. He ran toward it with one purpose, to help in any way he could.

It is almost not fair to single him out because dozens of metro police officers did the same thing, and firefighters, paramedics, and ambulance drivers

also. It was not just professional first responders who emerged as true heroes on October 1. Taylor Winston, a marine, was just trying to enjoy the concert that night, but when the bullets started raining down, he was driven by his training, his instincts, his compassion for his fellow human beings. He helped several people over a fence where they took cover, but he realized the danger wasn't over. Looking around, he spotted a pickup truck with a long bed. He borrowed the truck. I use the term ``borrowed'' loosely. He loaded the back of it with injured people and rushed them to the hospital, but he wasn't done. He made a return trip, loaded the pickup again with wounded individuals and got them to the hospital.

Jack Beaton's last act on Earth was one of sacrifice and heroism. He draped himself over his wife, protecting her from the deadly bullets. He told her he loved her, then was hit and died in her arms.

Jonathan Smith shouted warnings when he realized what was happening, but when some people were too stunned to move toward safety, Jonathan moved toward them, getting them out of the line of fire. That is when Jonathan himself was hit. He survived but will likely always have a bullet lodged in his neck. It is a painful reminder of his heroics, but I hope it will also remind him of the people he saved.

John, a cab driver, accelerated toward the screams and the chaos and shouted for a frightened group of girls to jump into his cab, and he drove them to safety. Then John turned around and drove back to the shooting scene and transported another group to safety. In all, John possibly saved 11 lives.

There was a woman at the concert, a respiratory therapist, who had her cell phone shattered by a bullet while the cell phone was still in her hand. Shards of hard plastic tore through her hand and embedded in her skin. What did she do? She pulled the shards out of her hand, bandaged herself up, and rushed to the hospital where she worked to try to help other people more badly injured.

At our local hospitals, doctors and nurses worked miracles around the clock. When operating rooms were not available, they treated the wounded in hallways. Surrounded by shouting, crying, chaos, and blood, they saved one life after another after another. Their skill, their composure, their dedication to saving lives was stronger that night than the evil intentions of the madman with a rifle.

I was walking the hallway of one of our hospitals with the hospital's CEO when a woman rushed toward him, grabbed him by the arm, and through tears and sobs, thanked him for the work his staff had done. Her niece had been wounded, but she was heading home. She said she could never thank the hospital staff enough.

In the aftermath, the community banded together to provide every resource possible to the victims and their families. The Las Vegas Convention Center's South Hall was dedicated to family reunification and support services. Airlines answered the call to provide free flights to the families of victims. Hotels and casinos across Las Vegas offered free rooms. The American Red Cross partnered with the Mirage to host a blood drive. Millions of dollars have been raised by local businesses and people across the country to support the victims.

The employees of Mandalay Bay and other MGM resort properties were understandably stricken and horrified by the shooting, but they too asked how they could help. Instead of being frozen by their shock and grief, they mobilized--donating blood, offering help to the families of the victims, organizing memorials, and otherwise coming together as a team, motivated by compassion and selflessness and providing comfort and solace.

True leaders have emerged in the wake of this tragedy. My friend Sheriff Joe Lombardo, head of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, has been steadfast in this crisis. He will always be remembered as a rock-solid presence when our city most needed one.

Let me say this for the world to hear. Our great city will not cower in fear because of this horrible act. We will mourn, we will heal, we will comfort each other, and we will pray, but make no mistake about it, Las Vegas is open for business. Las Vegas will not simply go on, but we will thrive. So come to Las Vegas, and maybe come away with a greater appreciation of what our city, our people are all about. From the blood and the horror, the terror, the carnage of October 1, Las Vegas has risen.

We have never shied away from our image as a city of entertainment. Our hospitality defines us, but the world has now seen a side much more profound--something we have always seen--and that is a home, a family, a community of people who will stand by each other during the darkest moments, a community of people bound by faith who will stand in the face of danger to protect a neighbor, a friend, a family member, or someone they have never met.

Everyone around the world has heard of Las Vegas. The very name conjures images almost immediately. Its skyline cannot be mistaken for any other. Yet prior to October 1, almost no one knew the true Las Vegas, the Las Vegas we are seeing now, a city that responds to cowardly violence with love and compassion for each other, a city that responds to hatred with faith and strength. ``Las Vegas Strong'' is a slogan we are now seeing on billboards, marquees, and T-shirts, but behind that slogan is a true story of true strength. It is a story of a city growing, emerging, and becoming closer and more united.

A deranged man with a rifle brought death and carnage and terror to Las Vegas, but today Las Vegas stands stronger. Las Vegas stands unafraid. Las Vegas's true identity has been revealed, and it is one of compassion and one of heroism. It is my hope that we will honor the memory of those lost by holding on to the sense of unity and family that has emerged since October 1 and that we will, all of us, continue to be Las Vegas Strong.

May God bless the city of Las Vegas, the State of Nevada, and may God bless the United States of America.

I yield back.

Mr. President, today I wish to memorialize Don Carano, one of northern Nevada's most influential figures, a great business leader, and a man I am privileged to have called a friend. Don recently passed away peacefully at the age of 85.

My sincerest condolences go out to his family, friends, and loved ones. All of northern Nevada mourns the loss of Mr. Carano, who helped make Reno a better place to live and work, not only for his employees, but for the entire community.

Throughout his life, Mr. Carano was a caring, giving man who charted his own path as an entrepreneur. Some of his businesses include Eldorado Resorts, Ferrari-Carano Vineyards and Winery, and the McDonald Carano law firm. Mr. Carano was also instrumental in the construction of the National Bowling Stadium and the Reno Events Center in downtown Reno.

Born in Reno, Mr. Carano went to Southside Elementary School, Billinghurst Junior High School, and Reno High School before earning his college degree and serving in the U.S. Army for 2 years as an officer. Thereafter, Mr. Carano completed law school at the University of San Francisco and began his law practice in Reno. In 1973, he opened the Eldorado Hotel Casino, the first major casino to open on Virginia Street north of the railroad tracks, which changed the profile of gaming in northern Nevada.

Mr. Carano's many contributions and honors include the International Gaming and Wagering Business Hall of Fame, Nevada Food and Beverage Directors Association Man of the Year awards, the American Lung Association Distinguished Community Service Award, Hotelier of the Year Award, ``Knight in the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic'' by the Consul General of Italy, University of San Francisco Law School's Alumnus of the Year, International Restaurant and Hospitality Rating Bureau's Lifetime Achievement Award, the WIBC Gladys M. Banker Friendship Award, and many more. Just this year, Mr. Carano was recognized as a ``Distinguished Nevadan'' by the University of Nevada, Reno.

As Nevada's senior Senator, I thank Mr. Carano and his family for their decades of work in helping make Reno the thriving, booming, biggest little city that it is today. I ask all of my colleagues to join me in memorializing Mr. Carano and the legacy he leaves behind. Lynne and my family give our deepest sympathies to his wife, Rhonda, his five children Gary, Gene, Glenn, Gregg, and Cindy, 11 grandchildren, and 6 great-grandchildren as they cope with this great loss.

Mr. President, today I wish to remember former Reno police chief Robert Bradshaw, who recently passed away at the age of 79.

Mr. Bradshaw served as chief of the Reno Police Department from 1981 to 1991. Before that, he was an assistant chief for the San Jose Police Department. After working in Reno, Bradshaw served with the Nevada Highway Patrol and later became chief of the Concord Police Department in California.

Mr. Bradshaw strongly believed in the role community plays when it came to reducing and preventing crimes in Reno. The Reno Police Department said he was widely regarded as an expert in community- oriented policing and is credited with bringing that philosophy to the force.

In fact, the police department's current motto of ``Your Police, Our Community'' has been attributed to him.

One of Reno's longest serving chiefs, Bradshaw was a mentor to countless officers and had a large impact on the city. During his tenure, Bradshaw developed specialized units and created neighborhood advisory groups. He also started the community satisfaction survey in 1987, which still continues three decades later.

As Nevada's senior Senator, I know firsthand that Mr. Bradshaw's tireless efforts while chief made Reno a safer place. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and loved ones as they mourn his loss.

Mr. President, today I wish to remember my friend, Second Judicial District Court Chief Judge Patrick Flanagan, who recently passed away in Reno at the age of 64. My deepest sympathy goes out to his family and loved ones.

All of Washoe County and Nevada's legal community will miss Chief Judge Flanagan, who only a year and a half ago was unanimously elected by the Second Judicial District Court to serve as chief judge. He was one of Nevada's finest, and his loss cannot be understated.

Before being elected to the bench, Chief Judge Flanagan served as an attorney and an assistant Federal public defender for the District of Nevada and worked in the appellate division of the Washoe County Public Defender's Office as a chief appellate deputy. In 2006, he was elected to serve as the Second Judicial District Court judge in Department 7 and was reelected in 2014.

Chief Judge Flanagan played a large role in the Reno community, as he regularly spoke to students, opened his courtroom for observation, and engaged students in public outreach initiatives, including the court's first annual student Flag Day poem contest.

His colleagues remember him as a personable, caring, and effective jurist who repeatedly inserted jokes or random facts about Irish history in his emails.

He served as the president of the State Bar of Nevada, the Washoe County Bar Association, and the Nevada Chapter of the Federal Bar Association.

Chief Judge Flanagan completed his undergraduate degree from Duquesne University and received his juris doctorate from California Western School of Law.

As Nevada's senior Senator, I know Chief Judge Flanagan's legacy will live on in the court. Lynne and my family pray for Chief Judge Flanagan's wife, their two children, grandchild, and entire extended family as they mourn his passing.

Mr. President, today I want to express my sincere condolences to the victims of the shooting in Las Vegas, NV.

As a lifelong Nevadan, I am overcome with sadness and grief by this senseless massacre, in which a gunman opened fire on more than 22,000 innocent concertgoers, killing more than 50 people and injuring more than 500 individuals.

Nevada's communities are all in mourning, and some of our loved ones and friends have been personally impacted by this carnage.

I stand beside Nevada as they reel from this heinous, wide-scale tragedy, working to ensure that my State has the resources it needs to recover from this senseless act of violence. For these reasons, I must be with the people of Nevada right now.

I have a commitment to serve my constituents and will continue to work tirelessly on the ground with the people of Las Vegas ensuring that they have resources to recover and rebuild as a community.

My sincerest gratitude goes out to our first responders, local medical staff, and police officers for their swift actions and efforts that without a doubt, saved numerous lives. I also would like to recognize the countless Nevadans at the show who aided strangers in need and the wounded, using tourniquets and carrying people to safety, as the shooting continued.

I have been in contact with the White House, Governor Sandoval, Mayor Carolyn Goodman, and Sheriff Joseph Lombardo and stand ready to assist Clark County Commission Chair Steve Sisolak and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. I will continue to monitor the situation as this horrific event unfolds.

Lynne and I are praying for all of the victims and their families who are experiencing immense pain and grave, shocking loss that cannot be measured.

Nevada is our home, and I know it will rise again from this perilous day.

(At the request of Mr. Schumer, the following statement was ordered to be printed in the Record.)

Mr. President, today I wish to recognize Stan Wilmoth, whose relentless commitment and service to his community makes us all proud to call him a fellow Nevadan.

This month, the American Cancer Society will pay tribute to Mr. Wilmoth by presenting him with their first-ever ``Spirit of Hope Award.'' This prestigious award is given to individuals who are dedicated to their community, wellness, education, quality of life, and who advocate on behalf of the American Cancer Society.

Mr. Wilmoth is well-deserving of this award as he has an extensive record of giving back to Nevada. Whether it is serving as a volunteer fireman in Lemmon Valley for 10 years or helping advance construction of the Ronald McDonald House, we are grateful for Mr. Wilmoth's many contributions to our community and his involvement in programs like Head Start. In addition to serving as a member of the Reno-Sparks Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Wilmoth has also held several other leadership board positions, including chairman of the Nevada Bankers Association and presenting sponsor of the American Cancer Society's annual fundraiser. For the past 10 years, he has been instrumental in the development of the Suits & Sneakers Gala, offering guidance and support of the American Cancer Society's mission.

For 17 years, Mr. Wilmoth has served as president and chief executive officer of Heritage Bank, which serves as a lifeline in our State's economy. Under his leadership, Heritage Bank has played a large role in getting small businesses off the ground and making northern Nevada a better region to live, work, and raise a family. In fact, the bank earned the title of ``SBA Lender of the Year in Northern Nevada'' for the past 6 years, assisting many businesses and their families.

Before joining Heritage, Mr. Wilmoth served as vice president, northern Nevada regional loan manager for Nevada State Bank, and assistant vice president/commercial account officer and commercial service officer for U.S. Bank. He also served on the Federal Reserve Board for Community Banks for multiple years.

Mr. Wilmoth's dedication and community involvement in Nevada is a true testament to his character, and we are privileged he is one of our own. His commitment and hard work in the fight for a world without cancer is truly admirable.

In closing, I am honored and proud to recognize Stan Wilmoth for his leadership and advocacy on behalf of Nevada. I congratulate him on this remarkable achievement and wish him the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. President, today I wish to recognize the Business Council of Douglas County for 25 years of striving toward a ``diverse, sustainable and healthy economy'' for Douglas County, NV.

The Business Council of Douglas County started in September of 1992 and consists of business owners, professionals, and industry leaders who collaborate with State, local, and Federal government institutions to identify and resolve critical matters in the business community. Ultimately, the partnership formed increases the ability of small businesses to grow, expand, and hire in Douglas County and across northern Nevada.

In 1996, Douglas County adopted a 20-year master plan designed to provide guidance to the county's future development. Just 4 years into their existence, the council was instrumental in helping to shape that plan. Their involvement presented them with a unique opportunity to share their input and better shape the county's economic future.

In addition to providing advice and insight to government entities, the Business Council of Douglas County plays a prominent role in educating the community and serving as a catalyst for debate on relevant and timely issues. By holding townhall debates and educational forums on critical issues like water and transportation, as well as forums for candidates running to serve in public office, the council has helped facilitate a community where everyone has a vested interest in the county's future.

Furthermore, the Business Council of Douglas County is striving to do more and encouraging businessowners in northern Nevada, as well as community members, to participate in the organization's efforts and to stay informed. To accomplish this, the council distributes a weekly newsletter on topics of importance to the business community, relevant government meetings, votes, projects, and news. The council's general membership hosts a monthly breakfast with guest speakers at no charge because all meetings are open to members and their invited guests. They also host an annual critical issues conference. This year's conference is another way for them to discuss important issues to the county and its ability to grow the economy.

The Business Council of Douglas County's efforts and priorities go hand-in-hand with my fight in Washington, DC, to foster an economic climate that allows small businesses to invest, grow, and hire across the State. Having served in the Nevada Legislature and currently as our State's senior Senator, I can attest to the significance of the council and the partnership they have formed with all levels of government.

In closing, I am honored and proud to recognize the Business Council of Douglas County for 25 years of tireless advocacy on behalf of the entire community. Through years of hard work, planning, and educational efforts, the Douglas County business community has an open and transparent dialogue with their State, local, and Federal officials. The partnership that has developed will not only continue to grow but benefit the community for years to come.

Mr. President, I rise today to talk about my amendment, Heller amendment No. 502. It addresses one of the most onerous taxes enacted as part of the Affordable Care Act, commonly known as the Cadillac tax. The Cadillac tax is a 40-percent excise tax set to take effect in 2020 on employer-sponsored health insurance plans.

In Nevada, 1.3 million workers are covered by an employer-sponsored health insurance plan. These are public employees in Carson City and service industry workers that work on the Las Vegas Strip. They are small business owners, and they are retirees across my State.

Hardly anyone in Nevada will be shielded from the devastating effects of

this Cadillac tax. Across America, 54 percent of employers and almost 151 million workers who currently enjoy employer-sponsored healthcare benefits will experience massive changes to their healthcare by the year 2020. We are talking about reduced benefits, we are talking about increased premiums, and we are also talking about higher deductibles. Hard-working Americans will suffer.

That is why I joined Senator Heinrich from New Mexico in introducing what was called the Middle Class Health Benefits Tax Repeal Act earlier this year, with the support of over 75 organizations. Some of those organizations include unions, chambers of commerce, small business owners, State and local government employees, and retirees. They are all saying the same thing--that the Cadillac tax needs to be repealed. From unions to small businesses, employers are proposing sweeping changes to employee benefits today--right now--to avoid this onerous tax later.

First, over 33 million Americans who use flexible spending accounts and 13.5 million Americans who use health savings accounts may see these accounts vanish in the coming years as companies scramble to avoid the law's 40-percent excise tax. HSAs and FSAs are used for things like hospital and maternity services, dental care, physical therapy, and access to mental health services. Access to these lifesaving services could all be gone for millions of Americans if the Cadillac tax is not fully repealed.

Second, I have heard from employers, large and small, from all over Nevada, saying that they will inevitably have to eliminate services their workers currently enjoy, dramatically increase deductibles and premiums, and will have to cut certain doctors out of their networks. This goes right at the heart of ObamaCare's broken promise: If you like your healthcare, you can keep it; if you like your doctor, you can keep your doctor.

This onerous tax targets Americans who already have high quality healthcare, and Nevadans have reached out to tell me how this tax will affect them. One of the stories that hit me the hardest was hearing from a school teacher in Las Vegas. As the son of a cafeteria worker, I know the sacrifices that these educators make each day. Cynthia, who works in the Clark County School District, sacrificed a higher paycheck to ensure that a quality health plan would be there when she retired. The Cadillac tax would place a 40-percent excise tax on her retiree benefits and cause her to deplete her savings to cover the loss.

Seniors have worked their entire lives for these benefits, and the Cadillac tax puts at risk the sacrifices they have made for decades to have a safe and stable retirement. That is why I am committed to repealing this very bad tax. Many are in the service industry, like Michael from Las Vegas, who wrote to my office and explained how he is worried that the cost of his union-sponsored health insurance premium will now skyrocket. He is already seeing his deductibles increase and understands that next year there will be more increases to his healthcare premiums. Michael also shares his concerns about an imposed fine from the Internal Revenue Service, should he not have health insurance. He makes a valid point. If he loses his job, then how can he be expected to pay for his healthcare?

Norm, a city employee from Southern Nevada, shared a concern with me recently: The last thing a self-insured provider wants to do is reduce benefits for his employees.

Back in 2015, 90 Senators voted on the record in support of repealing the Cadillac tax, and I hope all 90 will join me again today. They recognize it will hurt middle-class families who, for reasons outside of their control, have health plans that already or soon will reach the Cadillac tax's cost limits. The tax will force many employers to pay steep taxes on their employees' health plans, flexible spending accounts, and possibly eliminate some employer-provided health coverage plans altogether. Under this tax, deductibles will be higher and benefits will be reduced even more, putting a strain on middle-class families trying to make ends meet.

The short-term success of this was pushing the delay through 2020. Now it needs to be fully repealed. So I encourage all my colleagues to join me today in voting to support Heller amendment No. 502 to fully repeal this bad tax and send a message that Congress is serious about lowering costs for all Americans.

Mr. President, I yield the floor.

Mr. President, my amendment at the desk, Heller amendment No. 502, repeals the Cadillac Tax, plain and simple. No gimmicks. It repeals the Cadillac Tax, plain and simple. This is a bipartisan issue with bipartisan support. Under these circumstances, it is probably appropriate that we have a bipartisan issue that is here in front of us.

I would like to thank Senator Heinrich, my friend from New Mexico, for his hard work and effort on behalf of this particular issue. He has worked hard.

This is an issue that is well-endorsed. We have the endorsement of organized labor, chambers of commerce, local and State governments, and small business organizations. They all supported repealing this very bad and onerous tax. Over 83 groups have endorsed full repeal. They are saying the same thing--that the Cadillac tax needs to be fully repealed, or employees will experience massive changes in their healthcare.

Previously, this Chamber has voted nearly unanimously to support this full repeal.

Thank you, Mr. President.

I would ask support from my colleagues on this Heller amendment.

Thank you.

Mr. President, I ask for the yeas and nays.

Mr. President, I rise today to talk about my amendment, Heller amendment No. 288.

My amendment reinforces the important role Medicaid has played in my home State and in the States of many of my colleagues here today.

Let me explain the impact Medicaid has had on the State of Nevada. As many of you know, the State of Nevada was the first to expand Medicaid. Before Nevada made that decision, the State's uninsured rate was at 23 percent, and it was one of the highest in the country. So think about that for a minute. One in four Nevadans did not have healthcare coverage. Under expanded Medicaid today, Nevadans' uninsured rate is between 11 percent and 12 percent. I have also seen the number of uninsured people living in Nevada's rural communities cut in half, and I have seen major gains with the number of children in our State with healthcare coverage.

In fact, Nevada has seen one of the most significant decreases in uninsured children in the country. In 2013, our State had the highest rate of uninsured children in the country. We were ranked 50th in the nation. Now I can proudly say that Nevada is the most improved State when it comes to addressing our rates of uninsured children. Our State has made significant progress since the State's decision to expand Medicaid, and that has made a big impression on me.

Over the past few months, I have had the privilege of meeting with Nevadans here in Washington, DC, as well as back home, to discuss healthcare. The resounding message I continue to hear is that, because of Medicaid expansion, more than 200,000 Nevadans have health insurance today who otherwise wouldn't. The other resounding message I hear is that drastic cuts to the Medicaid Program threaten the critical services that Nevadans rely on.

Let me read you a letter I received from a woman in Las Vegas. She said:

My oldest child has Down Syndrome and has depended on

Medicaid since the day she was born, and was denied

healthcare because of preexisting conditions that she was

born with. My husband and I are hardworking Americans. We

started our own business 5 years ago and have seen that

business grow more and more each year. We do not rely on the

government for assistance, other than Medicaid coverage.

Without it, we would be unable to afford the numerous

appointments with specialists and surgeries that keep our

daughter happy, healthy, and progressing in life.

This is one example of the real stories behind the numbers, and I want to do everything I can to make sure they are protected and their coverage is not threatened. I want to make sure their daughter has healthcare coverage today and tomorrow.

Medicaid also plays a crucial role in Nevada when it comes to covering the elderly and people with disabilities. More than 30,000 of Nevada's seniors receive healthcare through Medicaid, including nursing home care and services that help them live at home. In fact, more than half of Nevada's nursing home residents are covered by Medicaid. Nearly 50,000 people with disabilities in Nevada now have access to care that helps them live independently, thanks to Medicaid.

Karen from Henderson recently contacted me and said that her adult son has MS and depends on Medicaid to help cover the cost of his medication, which costs $300 per month. Without Medicaid, he can't afford it.

One Nevadan traveled all the way from Las Vegas to talk with me about her two sons with cystic fibrosis. She is worried about any legislation that would jeopardize access to care for people with serious, chronic illnesses, such as the ones her sons are struggling with.

In total, over 631,000 people in Nevada are covered by the Medicaid Program. That is low-income children, pregnant women, seniors, and people with disabilities. It is why I have said since the beginning of the healthcare debate, that I will only support a solution that protects Nevada's most vulnerable. The House bill didn't go far enough to do that, and neither did the Senate's bill, and that is why I voted against it last night.

Nevada faces unique challenges when it comes to healthcare. I have spent the past few months trying to find ways to protect Nevadans who depend on Medicaid and provide coverage for those with preexisting conditions, all the while bringing down costs and improving quality and access to care. I have also been having discussions with Nevadans in Washington and back home to hear from them how potential changes could impact their care.

Whether it is a mom in Reno who has a son with a heart condition and is terrified about the future of his treatments or the nurses from Las Vegas who came all the way to DC because they are worried that their patients could lose coverage, I have been listening and I do understand.

Make no mistake, ObamaCare needs fixing. It has led to higher costs and fewer choices in my State. For the past 7 years, I have said that we need more competition to drive down costs and increase competition for Nevadans. My discussions with Nevadans in Washington and back home have also allowed me the opportunity to hear from them how potential changes could impact their care. I believe we can achieve these goals while recognizing the role that Medicaid plays in our States and ensuring that those who have coverage today are protected.

My role as a Senator is doing the very best I can for my State, and that means standing up for Nevadans who depend on Medicaid. We are having this debate because I do believe there are commonsense solutions that can improve our healthcare system, and I voted to give us the opportunity to have that discussion and to fight for them. But, as I have said all along, healthcare reform cannot be balanced on the backs of Nevada's low-income families and sickest individuals. That is something I cannot and I will not stand for.

We can work to find a way to lower costs, increase choices, and improve the quality of care for Nevadans everywhere, but we can do it in a way that also protects our most vulnerable. That is why for the past few months I have been working with my colleagues in the Senate who also understand the unique challenges expansion States face, and we have been fighting for solutions that will protect those who currently rely on the Medicaid Program. It hasn't been easy, but that is the way it is supposed to be, and that is OK.

I am here to roll up my sleeves, get to work, and fight for policies that will be in the best interests of all Nevadans. So I encourage my colleagues to support this amendment, Heller No. 288, today to reiterate the value of Medicaid in our States. We have much work ahead of us to do to improve the healthcare system for Nevadans and Americans across this country.

I yield the floor.

Mr. President, I have an amendment at the desk that would express the importance of Medicaid in our individual States. I would like to read from it two provisions that I think are important to this whole body; that is, the Senate prioritizes ``Medicaid services for individuals who have the greatest medical need, including individuals with disabilities;'' also, that we ``should not consider legislation that reduces or eliminates benefits or coverage for individuals who are currently eligible for Medicaid.''

That is the amendment. I want everyone to express for their own States how important the Medicaid Program is for their States, and I would urge a ``yes'' vote from my colleagues.

Mr. President, pursuant to section 904 of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 and the waiver provisions of applicable budget resolutions, I move to waive all applicable sections of that act and applicable budget resolutions for purposes of amendment No. 288 and, if adopted, for the provisions of the adopted amendment included in any subsequent amendment to H.R. 1628 and any amendment between Houses or conference report thereon, and I ask for the yeas and nays.

Mr. President, today I wish to recognize my nephew, Jakob Heller, on his upcoming achievement of becoming an Eagle Scout, one of the highest honors in the Boy Scouts. On August 2, 2017, Jakob officially becomes an Eagle Scout, which serves as a symbol of his dedication to the Scouts' mission of creating responsible, participating citizens and leaders.

In order to become an Eagle Scout, Jakob completed tests and earned merit badges that required mastering specific outdoor skills and providing services to his community. He also demonstrated a commitment to his team and the Boy Scout mission and oath.

Jakob comes from a military family, and like many military families, they are constantly on the move. Jakob's father served in the U.S. Navy, and after retirement, he moved his family to southern West Virginia where they have been living for the last 5 years. I am happy to note that, following his Eagle Scout ceremony, Jakob and his family will be moving to Carson City, NV, where his grandparents and extended family anxiously await his arrival.

Jakob is a talented young man who excels academically and participates in a number of extracurricular activities. In addition to his academic accomplishments, he is a gifted musician who

plays the trumpet in the marching band and the French horn in the school's concert band. He is also a member of the cross-country team and participates in track and field, where he shines in sprint relays, hurdle events, and the long jump. His ability to balance school, athletics, and Boy Scouts is truly remarkable.

Furthermore, Jakob is preparing for a future in computer programming. Like many kids his age, he loves playing video games and is interested in becoming a video game programmer. Additionally, he is part of his school's robotics club and programs robots to compete in challenging competitions. With such extensive experience at a young age, I am confident Jakob will have a bright future as a computer programmer.

Jakob is responsible and dependable and understands the importance of his family, friends, and community. Boy Scouts has had a positive impact on his life, and I know that he will serve as an excellent role model for other members of his family and friends.

In closing, I ask my colleagues and all Nevadans to join me in congratulating this new Nevada resident, my nephew Jakob Heller. I cannot be more proud of this young man, and I look forward to witnessing his many contributions to our community in the years ahead.

Mr. President, today I wish to recognize Helen and Bobby Feldman for their strong leadership in the Jewish community. Bobby and Helen have been involved in a number of causes that celebrate their Jewish heritage as well as make a difference by putting the needs and well-being of others before themselves.

Bobby and Helen have worked with many organizations, including Stand With Us, an organization dedicated to educating individuals all over the world about Israel and ways to combat anti-Semitism, and HonestReporting, a media watchdog organization dedicated to providing facts, figures, and statistics to journalists across the world to ensure Israel's story is told fairly by the media.

Bobby Feldman's interest in Jewish culture and causes stemmed from his early interest in environmental issues. He worked with the Jewish National Fund in Las Vegas where he now serves as the president of the southern Nevada chapter. Their organization is working to revitalize areas in Israel by planting trees, creating parks, and working to build a better country for years to come.

Helen Feldman has a list of accomplishments herself. She helped organize the Women's Alliance of the Jewish National Fund. This organization encourages future generations of Las Vegas women to celebrate our solidarity with Israel. She also volunteered her time at local nursing homes; there she shows off her amazing singing talents and brightens the day of so many Nevada seniors.

On Sunday, April 30, the Jewish National Fund is hosting their annual Love of Israel brunch where both Helen and Bobby will be recognized for their involvement in the community. These two individuals should be proud of all that they have done together.

Earlier this week, Israel celebrated their Holocaust Remembrance Day, honoring and remembering the 6 million Jewish people who were the victims of Nazi hatred. It serves us all as a reminder for the need to turn away prejudice and racism and embrace others. That is why I am both humbled and honored to acknowledge Helen and Bobby for their work here in the great State of Nevada. I also want to congratulate them on 29 years of marriage, and I look forward to seeing more from them as they continue to make us all very proud.

Mr. President, today I wish to recognize Betty Fox and not only wish her a happy birthday, but also reflect on her years of service. Betty Fox served her country in the Armed Forces and remains an active leader in the community. On April 22, Betty Fox turned 98 years old, and to this day, she makes us proud to call her a fellow Nevadan and American.

Betty Fox joined the Marine Corps in April 1943 shortly after the beginning of World War II. She was stationed at the Marine Corps Air Station, MCAS, located in Cherry Point, NC. She was then sent to the MCAS in El Toro, CA, there she received the Honorable Service Lapel Button marking her outstanding service to her country. Betty Fox was promoted to private first class on August 20, 1943, then to corporal on January 24, 1944. She was discharged on February 5, 1944, but her promotions and designations reflect on her service and our country will never be able to fully repay her for the sacrifices she made in the defense of freedom.

In 1956, she moved to Las Vegas, NV, and has been a Nevadan ever since. Despite no longer being Active military personnel, Betty Fox remains involved in the local community. She epitomizes an age-old saying: ``You are only as old as you feel.''

Betty Fox volunteered at the Las Vegas convention center for the past 18 years. She is an active, lifetime member of the Marine Corps League, Local Detachment 186, and has marched in several Veteran's Day parades in order to honor those who, like her, sacrificed to defend America and its values.

Betty is also a lifetime member of Women Marine Association, WMA, and was an active member until the local chapter disbanded. After years of serving her country and community, she volunteered her time at the local senior living center, brightening the day of many of Nevada's senior citizens.

I am both humbled and honored to acknowledge Betty Fox for her service to our country and community. Her sacrifices and continued commitment to helping those who served makes me proud to call her a fellow Nevadan. As Nevada's senior Senator, I want to honor her success, her life of giving back, and wish her the happiest 98th birthday. Rest assured, we all look forward to her continued efforts that are sure to inspire us all.

Mr. President, today I wish to recognize the Women's Mining Coalition, a Nevada-born group that has devoted 25 years of service advocating for a strong U.S. mining industry. I am proud to honor the significant contributions the Women's Mining Coalition has made to the mining industry in the State of Nevada and throughout our Nation. I am extremely proud of their successes and am grateful for how it has benefited the Silver State.

In 1993, three Nevada geologists--Kathy Benedetto, Ruth Carraher, and Debbie Struhsacker--started the Women's Mining Coalition in response to the congressional debate to enact major changes to the U.S. mining law that would threaten the future of Nevada's mining industry and hard rock mining throughout the country. At that time, they never dreamed that their concept would involve more than taking a couple of trips to Washington, to talk to lawmakers about mineral exploration, the importance of mining, and that mining is a good career for women, but this Battle-Born Nevada concept has become a nationwide, quarter- century commitment to talk to Members of Congress about how modern mining provides the building blocks of our society while caring for the environment and providing family-wage jobs to miners and the many companies throughout the country that provide equipment, goods, and services to the mineral exploration and mining sectors.

Each year, WMC's Nevada members travel to the group's annual Washington, DC fly-in. These Nevada women represent the diverse domestic mining industry and discuss legislative issues and proposed rules affecting mining. During these meetings, WMC members put a face to mining that lawmakers don't expect: women involved in all facets of mining, from equipment operators and manufacturers, engineers, executives, miners, metallurgists, geologists, and environmental scientists.

Last September at a banquet in Las Vegas, the group received the prestigious Prazen Living Legends of Mining Award from the National Mining Hall of Fame for their many years of service and commitment to the mining industry. Not resting on their laurels, the Women's Mining Coalition is in Washington, DC, this week to continue their work to let Congress know that a strong mining industry is essential to the future of Nevada and our Nation.

Our national defense, our infrastructure, our electricity, our technology, our agriculture, our transportation, and communication capabilities all rely on the products of mining. The Women's Mining Coalition will continue to make this message heard with energy, talent, and enthusiasm.

As the senior Senator from the Silver State, I ask my colleagues and all Nevadans to join me in congratulating the Women's Mining Coalition on its 25 years of thoughtful advocacy on behalf of mining in Nevada and across the country. This group has advanced Nevada's mining industry, and I am honored to recognize this important contribution. I wish the Women's Mining Coalition well in its future endeavors in creating greater opportunities for mining in our great State.

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate be in a period of morning business, with Senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each.

Mr. President, I rise today in support of S. Res. 176, which was just adopted by the Senate.

This important resolution reaffirms the Jerusalem Embassy Act of 1995, which recognized Jerusalem as the capital of Israel by moving the U.S. Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.

As many of my colleagues know, this week marks 50 years since Jerusalem was unified during the Six-Day War, and I am pleased to have joined Leader McConnell and Senator Schumer as an original cosponsor of this resolution to commemorate this important anniversary. I thank them for their leadership on this issue, and I am proud to stand beside them in our commitment to one of our oldest and strongest allies, Israel.

This resolution sends a message to our friends in Israel, and that message is this: We support moving our Embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.

Let me explain why this issue is so important to me.

It has been 22 years since the Jerusalem Embassy Act became law. However, our country's promise to move the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem is yet to be fulfilled. It has been 22 years, and we still have not moved our Embassy. We have had 22 years to enforce this law, and year after year we continue to turn a blind eye to what we are expected--and what we promised--to do. Jerusalem is the capital of Israel, and that is where the U.S. Embassy should be located. Now is the time to move the Embassy as we committed to do so many years ago.

By the way, many Nevadans feel the same way I do. One Nevadan who supports relocating the Embassy said in a letter to me:

It is never wrong to do the right thing. And moving our

embassy to Jerusalem is the right thing to do.

As we commemorate the reunification of Jerusalem, I encourage my colleagues to honor our commitment and to show Israel, one of our oldest and closest allies, that we stand with them today more than ever.

Today's vote represents an important step in the right direction, and I encourage my colleagues to join me in finally enacting what is current law.

I yield the floor.

I suggest the absence of a quorum.