Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in appreciation that H.R. 4951, the VA Electronic Health Record Transparency Act, legislation I introduced and was approved by the House last year, has now been approved by the Senate and is being sent to the President's desk to be signed into law.

Throughout my career, I have been privileged to have close working relationships with veterans and veteran service organizations throughout northwest Indiana. These established relationships are what motivated me to secure a position to the House Veterans' Affairs Committee.

As chairman of the Technology Modernization Subcommittee, I have seen the great need for Congress to conduct oversight and have accurate information to ensure that the electronic health record modernization program is able to meet the needs of our veterans.

I thank the leaders of the Senate for also seeing the value of this legislation. And as we move forward, I look forward to obtaining the requested information and continuing our work to ensure that all veterans receive the world-class healthcare they deserve.

Madam Speaker, it is with great respect and admiration that I take this time to recognize the 30th anniversary of the Highland Community Band and to honor Greg Jasek, principal conductor. Due to the global pandemic, the anniversary celebration was cancelled in 2020, but a concert and presentation will take place this year on Thursday, May 26, 2022, at Main Square Park in Highland, Indiana.

Born and raised in the Hegewisch neighborhood of Chicago, Greg Jasek first heard the siren's call of music in third grade when he began taking trumpet lessons. Those lessons were supplemented with visits to Chicago Symphony Orchestra performances, as well as watching Leonard Bernstein on television. He continued his studies in conducting with Michael Morgan, then-assistant conductor of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Later, he was accepted to Tanglewood, which is the summer home of the Boston Symphony. While at Tanglewood, Greg studied with noted conductors such as Andre Previn, Leonard Slatkin, Maurice Abravanel, John Williams, and Leonard Bernstein.

In 1991, Greg became assistant conductor for the Northwest Indiana Youth Symphony Orchestra, and in 1992, he was named cover conductor for the International Arts Chamber Orchestra. By 1994, Greg arrived at Carnegie Hall to attend the Solti Orchestra Project; however, Maestro Georg Solti had a different plan in mind and asked Greg to assist with the Bartok Concerto for Orchestra during recording sessions for London- Decca. Subsequently, Maestro Solti and Greg collaborated in the orchestration of Bartok's Romanian Christmas Carols.

Prior to these outstanding achievements, Greg had already begun to make what would prove to be an indelible mark on the Highland community. It was in 1989 that a young baritone player named Michael Griffin approached Greg Jasek with an idea to begin a community band in Highland, Indiana. Musicians from Northwest Indiana and Northeastern Illinois gathered together, and the Highland Community Band gave its first concert in July 1990. As fate would have it, Greg met his wife, Kerry, a flute player in the band, during this time. The couple would later add two wonderful children, Benjamin and Samuel, to their family.

In 2011, Greg was initiated into the Sigma Alpha Iota International Music Fraternity as a National Arts Associate, which is a national recognition for distinguished contribution to the arts. Later, in 2021, in recognition of his 30 years as principal conductor of the Highland Community Band, Greg was honored with the Distinguished Hoosier Award by Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb.

Madam Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring Greg Jasek and in celebrating the 30th Anniversary of the Highland Community Band. For his musical influence and innovation and his dedication to the community of Northwest Indiana and beyond, Greg Jasek is one man who most truly can be called maestro, and he is worthy of our admiration and the highest commendation.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to rise in support of the Dignity for MST Survivors Act, legislation I was proud to introduce and collaborate with Chairman Takano, Chairwoman Luria, and my other colleagues to address longstanding issues regarding the treatment of survivors of military sexual trauma.

I also thank the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Paralyzed Veterans of America, The American Legion, and the Wounded Warrior Project for their endorsements of this legislation.

The Dignity for MST Survivors Act seeks to support and affirm veterans who experienced sexual trauma during their military service as they navigate the Board of Veterans' Appeals claims appeal process.

According to the data collected by the Department of Veterans Affairs, an unconscionable 1 in 3 of our brave women veterans and 1 in 50 male veterans report having experienced sexual assault or sexual harassment.

Such traumatic events often have lasting impacts on these individuals' physical and mental health, placing MST survivors at heightened risk for depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and other debilitating conditions.

Despite these clear treatment needs, many MST survivors face significant difficulty in accessing healthcare and disability benefits from the VA.

In August 2021, an investigation released by the VA's Office of the Inspector General found that an astounding 57 percent of denied MST claims were improperly processed by the VA, in part due to claims processors' lack of MST training.

Multiple veterans service organizations report that the BVA has proven similarly ill-equipped to deal with appeals of denied MST claims and that the current claims appeal process has the unfortunate potential to retraumatize MST survivors.

While the VA has taken steps in the right direction, more must be done to improve the claims appeal experience, show compassion, and safeguard the dignity of MST survivors.

I urge my colleagues to support this legislation in order to ensure MST survivors are not retraumatized at any point in their effort to obtain the world-class healthcare and disability benefits to which they are entitled.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act of 2022.

I have long believed that there is a role for public servants to create the conditions that help our fellow citizens obtain a good- paying job. With a good-paying job, most folks have the time and the resources to take care of themselves, their families, and address the difficulties that sometimes arise in life.

I appreciate that this legislation promotes the value of our workforce and focuses on the improvements to apprenticeship programs, digital literacy programs, and summer job programs for our youth.

In my experience for 15 years as someone who helped upskill people, I worked very closely with workforce development in order to find jobs for people who are sitting across the table from me trying to make ends meet. This investment gives them hope and promise. It also absolutely addresses what all employers and all small businesses are looking for: a ready, skilled workforce in order to be able to get into the market quickly.

When it comes to labor unions, I emphasize the investment in our labor unions. What they provide for my community, in Indiana's First District, is livable wages, healthcare benefits that are affordable, safer workplaces, and secure retirement.

When it comes to the prevailing wage, that prevailing wage sets a wage that allows for all programs and all development in my district. That is something that is sacred that allows us to be competitive, to have a safe workplace, and allows us to provide for families.

Northwest Indiana is home to such a diverse and talented workforce, and I urge all of my colleagues to support this legislation so that communities and organizations throughout our Nation have the resources to ensure that everyone has the opportunity and tools to thrive in our economy.

Mr. Speaker, as we celebrated National Teacher Appreciation Week earlier this month, I rise to recognize the hard work of teachers across northwest Indiana. From the time our children take their first steps into a classroom, teachers empower them with knowledge and support and serve as inspiring role models.

As a parent, I am grateful for their devotion to their students, for offering stability in an uncertain time, and for their determination to ensure that students can thrive in a safe and productive environment.

I personally thank all the teachers who helped shape me into the person I am today.

I thank Mr. Janich, may he rest in peace, for being an inspiration; Mr. Woodward, my government teacher, Mrs. Bliss; and Mrs. Marciniak. All of these teachers inspired me to be a better person.

I also thank my sister, Francis Majchrowicz, who is a teacher molding young minds and making sure that students are taken care of.

Good educators create engaged citizens, and I appreciate the lessons and work ethic they helped to instill in me every day.

Mr. Speaker, please join me in thanking all of the impactful teachers in northwest Indiana and throughout our Nation as we continue to recognize National Teacher Appreciation Week.

Madam Speaker, as the conference committee for the America COMPETES Act begins to meet, I rise today to encourage my colleagues to work in an urgent, bipartisan, diligent fashion on behalf of the American people. This legislation is critical to addressing our Nation's inflationary challenges and supply chain pressures.

Indiana's First Congressional District is home to an incredible manufacturing, steel, auto, and industrial complex. The America COMPETES Act will have a direct impact on their ability to compete and succeed in our global economy.

Of particular consequence, when there is a chip shortage and they stop making cars, it affects the automobile industry, the contractors, and the steel industry. Tens of thousands of workers are impacted within my district.

I want to make sure that today I stand up for the American worker, that I stand up for American manufacturing, and that I stand up for the national security issue. Today, I want to make sure that we look forward to the final product of the America COMPETES Act which will invest in American innovation and demonstrate the greatness of our Nation.

Madam Speaker, it is with great respect and admiration that I take this time to commend several exceptional leaders from Indiana who will be honored as the Northwest Indiana Business and Industry Hall of Fame Class of 2022. This year's inductees include Brian Boomsma, Napoleon Branford III, Debbie and David Cook, and Fritz Olthof. In addition, Tri-State Industries will be presented the Enterprise of the Year Award. For their outstanding contributions to the community of Northwest Indiana and beyond, these honorees will be commended at the 15th Annual Induction Ceremony on Monday, May 9, 2022, at Avalon Manor in Merrillville, Indiana. The Honorable Eric Holcomb, Governor of the State of Indiana, will serve as the keynote speaker for this special event.

Brian Boomsma is the president of Dutch Farms, Inc., which was founded in 1987 by Brian and his brother, Bruce. In the beginning, Dutch Farms sold farm fresh eggs to local grocery stores and markets throughout the Chicagoland area. Over time, the company expanded its product line to include dairy, meat, juice, baked goods, and more. Today, the family-owned business operates out of a 400,000 square foot campus in the Pullman District of Chicago. Under the remarkable leadership of Brian, Dutch Farms currently distributes its products in 40 States and 15 countries. Dutch Farms is committed to giving back to the community through its support of various organizations, including food banks, youth groups, veterans' groups, and soup kitchens.

Napoleon Branford III is a Northwest Indiana native hailing from East Chicago. Napoleon is a graduate of East Chicago Roosevelt High School and played on the celebrated Rough Riders basketball team that won the State title in 1970. For this accomplishment, Napoleon was inducted into the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame. Later in life, Napoleon established and led the successful investment and banking firm, Siebert Branford Shank & Co., LLC, and served as its chairman from 1998 to 2016. Currently, he is chairman and CEO of his own company, NBIII Entertainment. He is also one of the chief financial strategists for Team Harris, LLC. Napoleon has given of his time and efforts to numerous charitable organizations and foundations throughout his lifetime including, but not limited to, the California Healthcare Foundation, the Boy Scouts of America, and the American Heart Association.

Dave and Debbie Cook are the founders of Hoosier Bat Company, located in Valparaiso, Indiana. Dave Cook worked as a scout for the New York Yankees, and during that time, he observed players struggling to transition from using aluminum bats to wooden bats. Seeing the need and the opportunity, Dave painstakingly created a patented design, a durable wood bat that helped to ease this transition. In 1991, Dave and Debbie founded Hoosier Bat Company, which they continue to operate and grow today. The company sells its bats throughout the United States and worldwide. Hoosier Bat Company caters to all levels of the game, from Little League to the major leagues, and they have made bats for many successful Major League Baseball players. The Cooks are involved in numerous charitable endeavors, and they continue to donate bats to events and organizations that give back to the community.

Fritz Olthof is the founder of Olthof Homes, which he established in 1961. Fritz learned the basics of building a strong work ethic at a young age, which he credits to his upbringing and his father, in particular. Fritz's first project was a seven-flat building in Lansing, Illinois, and he moved full steam ahead from that moment on. Currently, Olthof Homes is based in Saint John, Indiana, and has an office in Indianapolis as well. Olthof Homes continues to grow and expand building new home communities throughout Northwest Indiana, Northeast Indiana, and Central Indiana. Fritz is proud to have all four of his sons and his grandson working for the business. The company has been proud of their dedication to support local charitable organizations, including the Food Bank of Northwest Indiana and Habitat for Humanity, to name a few.

The recipient of the Enterprise of the Year Award is Tri-State Industries, a steel manufacturing and fabrication company based in Hammond, Indiana. The company was founded in 1980 by Don Keller and initially made industrial pipe glides and slides. Today, the company is a contract manufacturer for large entities in the railcar, construction, and mobile trailer industries across Indiana, Illinois, and Wisconsin. Additionally, the Keller family founded Tri-State Automation, a business that advances the use of robotics in manufacturing. This truly innovative technology produces robots that weld, haul materials, and serve other customized industrial functions.

Madam Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in commending these dedicated leaders and organizations upon their induction into the Northwest Indiana Business and Industry Hall of Fame. For their influence, innovation, and dedication to the community of Northwest Indiana and beyond, the inductees are worthy of the highest praise.

Madam Speaker, it is with great respect and admiration that I take this time to recognize one of Northwest Indiana's true pioneers, Annie Burns-Hicks, the School City of Hammond's first African American teacher. Earlier this year, the Hammond School Board voted unanimously to rename Maywood Elementary School, which she attended in her youth and at which she taught for the majority of her career, to Annie Burns-Hicks Elementary School. The School City of Hammond will be honoring Ms. Burns-Hicks at a special event taking place on April 28, 2022.

The eldest of thirteen children, Annie's family relocated from Mississippi to Hammond, Indiana, in 1944. Her parents, Albert and Mary Burns, sought a better life for their children

after her father witnessed the brutal lynching of two young black boys. Annie recalls her father telling her and her siblings of his expectation that they strive to make the world a better place, a lesson that has remained with her throughout her lifetime. It was this desire to make a positive change in her community that likely led to her graduation from Ball State Teachers College in hopes of returning to teach in Hammond.

Unfortunately, Annie's desire to improve her community by educating the city's children would not come without opposition. Despite being five years after the landmark Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka ruling of the Supreme Court to end segregation in schools, Ms. Burns- Hicks's application for a teaching position was rejected without consideration, as she was told the city was ``not ready for a colored teacher.'' Undeterred, and remembering her father's inspirational words encouraging her to be a force of change, Annie pressed on through the courts and won, thus allowing her to become the first African American teacher in the city of Hammond in 1960 and paving the way for the many future teachers who would follow in her footsteps. During her tenure, Ms. Burns-Hicks co-authored the first full-day kindergarten program in the city, a contribution that truly enhanced the educational opportunities for the community's young children.

Madam Speaker, at this time, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring Annie Burns-Hicks. Ms. Burns-Hicks broke barriers as Hammond's first African American teacher, and in doing so, has been a true inspiration and a source of tremendous pride to her community. Throughout her more than forty years of teaching, she touched countless lives. It is fitting that the school now bears her name for the generations to come.

Madam Speaker, it is with great honor and respect that I recognize the Community Civility Counts Initiative as the organization celebrates its annual World Civility Day on April 27, 2022, along with the Gary Chamber of Commerce, the entire community of Northwest Indiana, and beyond. World Civility Day is a day in which we are asked to become aware of our behavior towards others and to become mindful of our thoughts, words, and actions. It is a day to remember that we can be better people in every aspect of life, and to remember that our actions serve as an example for generations to come. In observance of this special event, a day of civility-themed activities will be held in Merrillville, Indiana, at the Dean and Barbara White Community Center, followed by an awards banquet at Avalon Manor.

In 2015, Chuck Hughes, Executive Director of the Gary Chamber of Commerce, and Dr. Gordon E. Bradshaw, Chairman of the Public Policy Committee, worked together through the Gary Chamber to create the Civility Counts Initiative. The organization's mission is to build public awareness of civility and to help transform communities through positive programs and relationships. The Initiative works to raise the consciousness level of individuals and groups of people, as so many of us face incidents of disrespect, intolerance, bullying, or violence. For striving to make a difference in our communities, the organization and its supporters are to be commended.

This year, the organization welcomes many significant and remarkable speakers and guests who have worked to promote the powerful message of peace and civility throughout their careers, all of whom are truly worthy of our sincere admiration. The keynote speaker for the ceremony is Robert A. Rohm, Ph.D., who has been a noteworthy teacher, principal, and director of curriculum development. Dr. Rohm is also a very successful author who has written over twenty books, including numerous top sellers. In addition, the workshop speakers include Reverend Dr. Janette Wilson, founder and Executive Director of PUSH for Excellence, Inc. and a senior advisor to Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, Sr., as well as Art Norman, NBC 5 News ambassador and Vice President of the National Association of Black Journalists. The organization will also honor special guest Dr. Clyde Rivers, who is the founder and President of IChange Nations and an Ambassador-at-Large for the Republic of Burundi, Africa.

Madam Speaker, I ask you and my other colleagues to join me in honoring and congratulating the Community Civility Counts Initiative and in celebrating World Civility Day. The significance of this movement will have a positive impact for generations to come. For their influence, passion, and dedication to the community of Northwest Indiana and beyond, the leaders and supporters of the Community Civility Counts Initiative are worthy of the highest praise.

Madam Speaker, it is with great respect and admiration that I stand before you today to honor Dr. Alexander Stemer. For his extraordinary work and dedication to the study of cardiac care throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Stemer will be presented with the American Heart Association's ``Heart of Life'' award at the Heart of Gold Gala on Saturday, April 23, 2022, at Avalon Manor in Merrillville, Indiana.

Dr. Alexander Stemer has been an outstanding physician and a true asset to the community of Northwest Indiana and beyond. His remarkable career includes numerous accomplishments, making him especially worthy of this prestigious honor being bestowed upon him. Dr. Stemer founded Medical Specialists Center of Indiana, which is currently Franciscan Medical Specialists. In addition, he is the founder of Advanced Care Medical Specialists, a practice focused on medical care for the advanced elderly, and he is the Medical Director for three extended care facilities. Dr. Stemer has also served as Associate Clinical Professor of Medicine at the Indiana University School of Medicine. A truly dedicated and innovative member of the medical community, Dr. Stemer has been a pioneer in the area of home intravenous therapy and ambulatory infusion therapy.

Throughout the pandemic, Dr. Stemer has been instrumental in the study of COVID-19 and the effect it has on the cardiovascular system. During this unprecedented time, he spearheaded infection control programs, developed protocols for skilled nursing facilities and hospitals, and currently serves as co-chair for the Symphony Health Network COVID task force. Dr. Stemer also assisted the National Institutes of Health and Eli Lilly to develop study protocols for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19 in skilled nursing facilities with the use of monoclonal antibodies. This study was approved by the Federal Drug Administration and published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. In addition, Dr. Stemer helped raise over $118,000 for COVID relief.

Madam Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring Dr. Alexander Stemer. For his noteworthy medical career and his unwavering commitment to the study of COVID-19 and cardiac care, Dr. Stemer is to be highly commended, and he serves as an inspiration to us all.

Madam Speaker, it is my distinct pleasure to congratulate the members of the Hammond, Indiana Franklin D. Roosevelt (FDR) Democratic Club as they celebrate the organization's 90th anniversary. In honor of this momentous occasion, the FDR Club will be hosting an anniversary banquet on April 30, 2022, at the Hammond Mohawk Athletic & Conservation Club.

The Franklin D. Roosevelt Club of Hammond was founded by forty-two members of Polish ancestry on December 3, 1932. Since the time of its founding, the club's members set out to engage in the promotion and advancement of civic progress within the Democratic Party. Since its inception, club members have selflessly given their time and support to the community of Northwest Indiana. The residents of Northwest Indiana are grateful for the club's ``Candidates' Night,'' which is held prior to each primary and general election. This is an outstanding opportunity for voters to meet candidates and discuss the needs of their community. For their significant contributions to upholding the ideals of the democratic process in their communities and throughout Northwest Indiana, the members and leaders of the FDR Club are to be commended.

At this time, I would like to acknowledge the 2020 FDR Club Officers. They are: President Suzette Kubacki, First Vice President Lee Ward, Second Vice President Anna Mamala, Secretary Mark Szpak, Treasurer Ted Oberc, and Trustees Rich Chmielik, Mary T. Hildebranski, and Brian Krupinski.

Madam Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in congratulating the Hammond Franklin D. Roosevelt Democratic Club on its 90th anniversary. The work of this truly admirable organization is a great asset to the people of Northwest Indiana, and for their selfless service, the leadership and members are worthy of the highest praise, and I am proud to serve as their representative in Washington, D.C.

Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure and admiration that I take this

time to recognize the East Chicago Good Fellows Club, Inc. as the organization celebrates its 100th Anniversary. In honor of this special occasion, the club's leaders and members will be commemorating this milestone with a ceremony at Dynasty Banquets in Hammond, Indiana, on Saturday, April 23, 2022.

The East Chicago Good Fellows Club is one of the oldest social organizations in the state of Indiana. The group was established in 1922 and was initially formed as an athletic club that held a variety of sporting events. Throughout the years, the club has continued to host and sponsor numerous sporting and charity events in support of the community of East Chicago and beyond. In addition, the Good Fellows Club is active in their support of local youth sports teams and other charitable endeavors throughout Northwest Indiana. The members and leadership of the Good Fellows Club are to be highly praised for their commitment to philanthropy throughout the region, and I am happy to celebrate and honor their good work.

At this time, I would like to acknowledge the Good Fellows Club Officers: President Joseph Fabian, Vice President Richard Peterson, Business Manager Eugene Nowacki, Financial Secretary Ronald Spudich, Treasurer Jerry Kundich, Secretary John Folta, and Sergeant-at-Arms Thomas Keough. The club's Trustees are Phillip Fabian, Jason Gore, and James McCormick.

Madam Speaker, I ask you and my other distinguished colleagues to join me in congratulating the East Chicago Good Fellows Club on its 100th anniversary. For their outstanding dedication to the community of East Chicago and Northwest Indiana, the leaders and members of this great organization are to be recognized and commended.

Madam Speaker, it is with great respect and admiration that I take this time to congratulate Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church of East Chicago, Indiana, as the congregation joins together in celebration of the church's 101st anniversary. The parishioners, along with Tabernacle's pastor, Reverend Antonio R. Daggett Sr., will be commemorating this momentous occasion with a celebratory banquet on Friday, May 13, 2022, at Lake Etta Banquet Hall in Gary, Indiana.

On April 16, 1921, a new church branched out from Lily White Baptist Church of Gary. It was founded and organized by Reverend White at the home of James Nickle of East Chicago, Indiana. After prayerful consideration, the name Tabernacle, which means ``a sacred tent and dwelling place of God'' was suggested and approved, thus establishing the church under Reverend White's leadership. Throughout the years, numerous remarkable pastors have helped build the church and expand the congregation as well as the outstanding services and programs offered to the community. In 1962, Reverend James H. Hunter became pastor of Tabernacle, a position he held for an astonishing fifty-six years. A determined and passionate servant, Pastor Hunter accomplished many great things during his tenure at Tabernacle, including the relocation of the church from 3867 Pennsylvania Avenue to its current home at 3715 Butternut Street. The building and its furnishings, parsonage, and parking facilities were built a cost of more than half a million dollars. On April 12, 1981, during a joyous service, the church mortgage was placed before the altar and burned.

Over the years under the leadership of Reverend Hunter, Tabernacle has instituted many ministries and organizations in its effort to further to gospel and promote unity within the community. The church continues to be actively involved in national, regional, state, and district affiliates of the Progressive National Baptist Convention, as well as local civic groups, and is a Life Member of the NAACP.

On June 13, 2021, Reverend Antonio Daggett Sr. was installed as pastor of Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church. During a time when many churches and religious organizations were no longer meeting in person due to the pandemic, Pastor Daggett states that he, led by almighty God, was compelled to continue with in-person worship while maintaining CDC guidelines and safety measures. Under Reverend Daggett's leadership, Sunday School has been reestablished while bible study, prayer meeting, youth choir and youth ministry, birthday celebrations, nurses' guild, mothers' board, and many new ventures are on the horizon.

Madam Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring and congratulating Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church of East Chicago, Indiana, on its 101st anniversary. The members and church leaders have dedicated themselves to serving others, especially those most in need, and they are an inspiration to all.

Madam Speaker, it is with great pride I rise today to recognize Steve Kramer from Dyer, Indiana, as the 2020 recipient of the United Steelworkers' Leo Gerard Visionary Award.

Steve has been a proud union member in the United Steelworkers District 7 for over 36 years. He is the former president of the USW Local 9777 and

now serves as vice president. He is also a councilman for the town of Dyer in the First District.

Steve's hard work and dedication to our steelworkers' labor unions and his community is what makes his work truly visionary and commendable.

I am proud that northwest Indiana is home to so many hardworking and dedicated members of the United Steelworkers. Every day, I appreciate their invaluable contributions to the strength of our economy, our workforce, and our community.

Congratulations, Steve, for your exemplary leadership of the steelworkers and all workers.

Madam Speaker, I thank Chairman Scott for allowing me the time.

I rise today in support of H.R. 2954, the Securing a Strong Retirement Act. I am grateful for the bipartisan collaboration to produce this legislation that makes commonsense improvements to our Nation's retirement system.

There are far too many challenges today that prevent workers from having access to secure retirement benefits and information to protect their hard-earned savings.

I also appreciate the inclusion of the provisions of my legislation, the Pension Risk Transfer Accountability Act, which requires the Department of Labor to review existing rules on pension risk transfers.

A promise made should be a promise kept for all workers and retirees.

I encourage all my colleagues to support this legislation to further ensure that workers can retire with dignity, security, and peace of mind.