Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I want to thank G.T. Thompson, my colleague from Pennsylvania, our subcommittee chairman on the Nutrition Subcommittee for his leadership.

G.T. Thompson deeply feels about the condition that people have who may be living in poverty, who may be suffering from food insecurity for themselves and their family. And I say to Chairman Thompson that it has been a pleasure to serve for the last 15 months under his leadership on the Nutrition Subcommittee.

The reforms that we are seeking to implement in H.R. 2 in the SNAP program, in this 2018 farm bill, are truly intended to assist people out of dependency and into employment.

I have heard from so many employers throughout my district in the Catskills and Hudson Valley and in central New York that they have jobs available, but they simply can't find qualified people to meet those jobs and to fulfill those responsibilities.

In fact, this morning in the Budget Committee, we had the Director of the Congressional Budget Office before us, and one of the topics that was raised was the fact that there are very low workforce participation rates among able-bodied people between 18 and 65 in our Nation. And this is part of the problem that we have a workforce participation rate nationally of approximately 63 percent.

In a number of the counties that I represent in the 19th Congressional District in New York State, that workforce participation rate for able-bodied, employable people between 18 and 65 hovers at 60 percent or slightly below 60 percent. There are plenty of jobs that are there, but, unfortunately, people do not have the skills, the training, sometimes the work ethic, and the notion of what it means to get up and go to work every day and meet the need of that employer and customers of that employer.

So this is a real serious issue in our country. If we are going to deal with the looming fiscal crisis that we have for mandatory spending programs like Social Security and Medicare, for instance, we need to get more people in the workforce. We need to create more opportunities to give people a hand-up, and not simply a handout.

Now, one of the things that is truly important about this SNAP reform that Chairman Thompson and Chairman Conaway are leading the way in H.R. 2 on, in this 2018 farm bill, is that we are going to make it easier for people who are on the SNAP program to qualify for the program without having every nickel of any asset that they possibly have to count against their qualification.

So, for instance, this legislation will allow a family on SNAP to have a savings account of up to $2,000 without that counting against the asset test. Today, that simply isn't the case. So a family that might need money for fixing their car, or having their kids go to the orthodontist or the dentist, or some other kind of family emergency--to buy a washing machine, for instance--they are not even allowed under SNAP's asset test rules to have a $2,000 savings account. That is wrong, and it is simply an outmoded notion that we have precluded that.

The other thing that I think is very interesting in this proposal, in this reform proposal, is that we are going to raise the asset test on the value of an automobile from about $4,650 to $12,000. I represent a rural part of upstate New York. My district is larger than the State of Connecticut. Many times people have to drive 40, 50 miles one way to get to a job.

Well, we can't expect someone who is struggling with difficult economic circumstances for them or their family to be able to qualify for SNAP and have an asset of a vehicle--which they need

desperately to get to work every day--we can't have that asset limited to a $4,600 vehicle.

So this legislation which Chairman Thompson and Chairman Conaway are spearheading would raise that vehicle asset test up to $12,000. So these are logical, rational things. That asset test has been at $4,650 for many decades now. So these are the kinds of commonsense reforms that are contained within this proposal that I hope that our colleagues on the other side of the aisle will pay heed to and carefully study because we welcome their input in this.

But we also know that the American people are demanding that we have reform in these programs and that we encourage and we really bring the job opportunities and the job training counseling to people who are dependent. There are over 3 million people in the SNAP program today who are able-bodied adults, who are capable of working, between 18 and 59, who have no children at home. We know that, in today's economy, many, many parents and many Americans go into the workforce with minor children at home. They are out there working. They are out there pitching in trying to improve the lot for themselves and their families. There is absolutely no reason why an able-bodied adult with no children whatsoever should not be in a work program and should not be required to participate in a State-sanctioned, State-supervised employment counseling and training program.

So these are the things that we are trying to do: increase opportunity, obviously reduce fraud and people who might be benefiting from the program who might be working off the books somewhere but still qualifying for benefits. But that is not the main impetus here. The main impetus is: How are we going to create more opportunity for people who need a hand-up in the economic ladder?

Mr. Speaker, I want to thank Chairman Thompson so much for leading the way on this. We had numerous hearings and listening sessions, including one in my district in Schoharie County at SUNY Cobleskill. The overwhelming consensus in dealing with the Food Stamp program or SNAP program is that we need to keep it, we need to make sure that people who are on it and who are able to work have the opportunities and are certainly encouraged to move into the workforce.

Mr. Speaker, I include in the Record an article which I wrote in the Albany Times Union which appeared on April 9, 2018, about the SNAP reform and the need to include healthy measures for food but also enhanced work requirements.

[From the Albany Times Union, Apr. 9, 2018]

SNAP Must Include Work, Healthy Food Mandates

(By Rep. John Faso)

With over 42 million Americans--and over 2.8 million New

Yorkers--receiving critical nutrition assistance, it is a

self-evident fact that the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance

Program (SNAP) helps people in meaningful ways. SNAP reduces

hunger in low income households, and when it provides

benefits to families with children, it has been shown to

improve health outcomes for those children.

Like any program of this size, SNAP is not without flaws.

The program insufficiently promotes self-sufficiency; too

many recipients could be working, but are not.

There continues to be too much fraud and abuse in the

program, and the program also needs to be much more effective

in promoting proper nutrition. Congress will soon reauthorize

SNAP as part of the 2018 Farm Bill and now is the time to fix

the program.

Let's address these issues one at a time.

First, the program needs to better focus on encouraging and

helping non-working recipients find and retain employment.

While many receiving SNAP benefits do work--and others are

seniors, children or disabled, and therefore can't be

expected to work--a large group of those currently receiving

benefits are neither disabled nor employed. In 2016, there

were over 11 million non-disabled people aged 18 through 59

receiving SNAP, who aren't working.

A purpose of benefit programs such as SNAP should be to

help people gain self-sufficiency. We would be more

successful at reducing systemic hunger and poverty if states

required able-bodied adults to participate actively in

employment and training programs that put them on a path

toward stable employment.

Alternatively, if someone does not wish to participate,

they could actively self-select and unenroll from the

program. This approach was successful in increasing earnings

and reducing poverty in the wake of President Bill Clinton's

sweeping welfare reform in the 1990s, and it will work again

if applied to SNAP's current entitlement structure.

Second, fraud and the improper use of benefits is still too

rampant in the SNAP program. Only in Washington is losing

roughly $650 million per year due to fraud and failures in

program integrity considered a ``good job'' because it is a

small percentage of the total amount of taxpayer money spent.

That is still $650 million that is not being used as

intended, which is to feed families.

There must be zero tolerance when it comes to fraud and

abuse. Hiding income, failing to disclose assets, trafficking

benefits or utilizing unscrupulous food vendors are

activities we need to stop. Congress needs to allow state and

local officials who see this fraud right before their eyes to

pursue and penalize this activity.

Finally, the SNAP program is not doing enough to promote

nutrition and reduce childhood obesity. Obesity is an issue

for far too many American families and childhood obesity in

low-income families is growing. The program's title suggests

that it promotes healthy and nutritious food options but does

nothing to limit the ability to purchase products that no one

will argue are part of a healthy diet. Hundreds of millions

of dollars' worth of SNAP benefits are spent on sugary

beverages, and it's past time that Washington prohibits the

use of SNAP benefits to purchase soda. Every dollar not spent

on soda can go toward a healthier alternative. While some

will contend we are limiting choice for the poor, tax dollars

should only pay to encourage healthier choices.

At the same time, we should also fix some of the asset

tests for eligibility, such as allowing a recipient to have a

car worth over $12,000 instead of the $5,000 limit today. If

we expect someone to work, they need a reliable vehicle to

get to the job. We should also allow a recipient to have

savings up to $2,000, without affecting eligibility.

Over the next decade, SNAP benefits will total more than

$630 billion in taxpayer dollars. We must do more to ensure

that we assist able-bodied recipients in joining the job

market, while at the same time continuing to assist those for

whom nutrition assistance is a necessity.

John Faso, R-Kinderhook, represents the 19th Congressional

District.

Mr. Speaker, it is with profound respect that I rise today to recognize and celebrate Mr. PJ Keeler for being named the Twin Rivers Council, Boy Scouts of America recipient of the Good Scout Award. This designation is reserved for those distinctive members

of our community who exhibit the values of scouting and are a force for good.

Mr. Keeler has distinguished himself as a cornerstone of the Columbia County community. Through his innovative thinking as Columbia County Treasurer and his decades-long participation in the volunteer fire department and ambulance service, Mr. Keeler has improved the quality of life for the county's many residents. His tireless dedication to Columbia County and the compassion he shows toward his friends and neighbors has made him a role model within the community for young generations to follow.

Mr. Keeler's legacy of hard work is a source of inspiration, instilling the values of determination, confidence, and civility in his community. I am grateful for Mr. Keeler's years of dedicated service to Columbia County and to New York state.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the bicentennial anniversary of the founding of Milan, New York. Formerly part of the Little Nine Partners Patent, the Town of Milan was incorporated on March 31, 1818.

For two hundred years, Milan has taken part in the great American experiment, weaving together a diverse community and cultivating a strong civil society. This small bucolic town situated on the northern border of Dutchess County has celebrated many great triumphs of our nation and witnessed the nascent years of America's existence, but has also persevered through times of hardship. The strength and independence that continues to define this town are a result of principles instilled at its founding two centuries ago.

While the area has experienced many changes over the past two hundred years, the town of Milan is always eager to look to the future, but never forgets its past. Milan was built on a foundation of determination and resiliency with a strong community focus and a deep appreciation for a rural lifestyle. These core beliefs continue to guide and distinguish the community today.

This bicentennial anniversary marks a great milestone in Milan's history, and serves as an important time for reflection. On behalf of the 19th Congressional District and the U.S. House of Representatives, I would like to extend my deepest appreciation and congratulations to the town of Milan. As the residents celebrate its 200th birthday, I would like to commend them on the success of their small, thriving community and wish Milan continued prosperity in its next 200 years.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the Town of Ghent on the occasion of its bicentennial.

On April 3, 1818, Ghent was established as a town in Columbia County, New York through numerous members of The Society of Friends, which includes early settlers such as the Macy, Tripp, and Bunker families.

The town of Ghent is situated in the midst of a thriving agriculture population and is the center of considerable trade and the outlet of a large amount of produce. While the settlement was small until the advent of the railroads, the community's attention to the development of infrastructure rapidly made it what it is today.

For over 200 years, Ghent has participated in the American story, contributing to our great state and nation. On April 3, 2018, the residents of Ghent will hold a well-deserved celebration of its history and accomplishments. In the neighborly and hospitable tradition of Ghent, this bicentennial celebration will reflect the values of this beautiful community, bringing families and residents together to commemorate the town they love and share.

I formally thank the Town of Ghent and each of its residents of the past two centuries for their contributions to New York's 19th district.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect that I rise today to recognize Mr. Tom Cole who has served as a member of the East Kingston Fire Department for fifty years.

A broad thinker and steward of the Ulster County community, I admire Mr. Cole's curiosity. Even though he has many years of experience, having served as Fire Chief and responded to many unique situations, Mr. Cole is an eager student, always willing to improve his skills and expand his knowledge.

Members of our local fire service play an important role in our Upstate communities, selflessly responding to emergency situations and safeguarding our neighborhoods. The commitment of Mr. Cole to our state through his fifty years with the East Kingston Fire Department is a milestone very few have reached. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring Mr. Cole for his lifetime of hard work and dedicated service.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect and admiration that I rise today to recognize the prestigious achievements of Mr. Bob Becker for being named the recipient of the Four Chaplains Brotherhood Award. This designation recognizes those special individuals who dedicatedly serve the community without regard to the ethnicity, values, or beliefs of others. It is a true testament to Mr. Becker's continued legacy of acceptance, patriotism, and steadfast commitment to improving the lives of veterans.

A man of uncommon devotion and admirable selflessness, Mr. Becker faithfully served our country for over twenty years in the United States Marine Corps as a supply chief and platoon sergeant in the Second Marine Division and in the USMC Reserve, retiring as a distinguished first sergeant. Having served as the New York State Commandant of the Marine Corps League and as National Commandant in the Marine Corps League, Mr. Becker is an esteemed and clarion voice for veterans' affairs, both locally and nationally.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating Mr. Becker on receiving the Four Chaplains Brotherhood Award. His lifetime of hard work and dedicated service to the United States is inspirational, and I am grateful for his contributions to New York State.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018.

This budget deal is a step forward that allows Congress to move on and tackle the problems Americans sent us here to solve. It includes a number of provisions that are wins for New Yorkers, including strengthening the state of our military readiness, improving care for our veterans, critical hospital investments, and providing more funding to fight the opioid crisis.

Additionally, I want to express my support for the special committees organized to propose genuine reform to the congressional budget process and another to address the funding crisis for multi-employer pension plans. For far too long, Congress has governed from funding crisis to funding crisis, inhibiting its ability to tackle our nation's most pressing problems.

This bipartisan agreement also includes fixes for several lingering health care related issues, including a two-year reauthorization of the Community Health Center Fund, a two-year elimination of the medical device tax, and an extension of the Medicare Love-Volume Hospital adjustment. This Medicare fix translates to millions of dollars for several Upstate hospitals.

Finally, I am thrilled to see my legislation improving the John H. Chafee Foster Care Independence Program included. This program is critical in assisting older former foster youth transition to an independent life, including providing education and training vouchers. This improvement increases the age the states can provide assistance from 21 to 23.

It should also be noted that the nation faces a looming debt crisis which is not made better by this legislation. My support for the bill was overwhelmingly influenced by the critical defense funding gaps affecting military readiness. Secretary Mattis has been very persuasive in his arguments as to the impacts of the budget sequester on our troops and the need to rebuild core aspects of our national defense. I trust his judgement in this regard.

While there is still much work to be done, I applaud my colleagues for coming together to draft this bipartisan measure, and I am proud the President signed this legislation into law on February 9, 2018.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect and honor that I rise today to recognize the retirement of Columbia County Coroner, Angelo Nero.

Mr. Nero retired January 1 of this year, after dedicating over forty years of his life as Columbia County Coroner. He is remembered for his professional, compassionate, and timely service during his career.

Angelo provided exceptional service to the people of Columbia County, while maintaining a professional relationship with local law enforcement and first responders. His colleagues knew they could always depend on Angelo to respond to phone calls at all hours of the night.

During his career, Angelo served as Valatie village trustee and mayor for ten years. Prior to his service at the local level, he served in our Armed Forces during the Korean conflict.

Angelo's selfless service to Columbia County and our nation is greatly appreciated, and I wish him and his wife Barbara the best in their next adventure.

Madam Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to recognize Hurley Fire Department member Shelagh Sweeney.

Shelagh was named Hurley Fire Department's first female Firefighter of the Year. Her service and dedication to her community as a firefighter, EMT, and field training officer for mobile life support services is most admirable.

Her inspiration to join the fire department came from her attendance of a first-aid class during her time at SUNY Ulster. Continuing her education by taking classes at Marist College is a testament to the dedication she reflects with her service to her community.

Shelagh's selfless service to the community, while striving for further personal growth, is greatly appreciated, and I wish her the best in continuing on her journey.

Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that I may hereafter be considered to be the first sponsor of H.R. 1057, a bill originally introduced by Representative Tiberi of Ohio, for the purposes of adding cosponsors and requesting reprintings pursuant to clause 7 of rule XII.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Integrated Wood Components, Inc. (IWCI) of Deposit, New York for being named ``Local Business of the Year'' by the Deposit Chamber of Commerce. Founded by the Kamp Family in 1972, IWCI has become an industry leader in composite wood furniture manufacturing through their commitment to producing quality products in an efficient and environmentally conscious way. This recognition is a true testament to IWCI's continued legacy of innovation, community involvement, and environmental stewardship.

Boasting one of the most modern, energy efficient, and fully integrated wood components manufacturing plants in the country, IWCI is known for its cutting-edge operation, swift adaptation to consumer needs, and technological advancements. The ``Local Business of the Year'' award, however, is a special designation reserved for those businesses who go above and beyond demonstrating exemplary business practices. In the 19th District, community involvement and conserving our cherished outdoor spaces are priorities we hold dear, and IWCI is no exception to that. From aiding local community organizations to embracing environmentally-sensitive practices, IWCI is a bulwark of community and environmental sustainability.

For over forty years, IWCI has left a positive imprint on our Upstate community and economy. On behalf of New York's 19th District, I want to congratulate the Kamp Family on their many years of hard work and community service, and celebrate IWCI on its much-deserved award. I am grateful for the Kamp family's commitment to New York State, and I wish them and IWCI continued success.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect that I rise today to recognize and celebrate the career of Mrs. Kathleen Jimino on the occasion of her retirement as Rensselaer County executive. Kathy has retired after 16 years of dedicated service to the people of Rensselaer County.

Throughout her tenure as county executive, Kathy was a driving force for economic growth and fiscal solvency in Rensselaer County, actively responding to the needs of her constituency in an effective and resourceful manner.

In addition to the time as county executive, I am grateful for the many years Kathy spent loyally serving the people of New York State and the city of Troy.

Kathy has been an esteemed leader of the community, and I thank her for her commitment to New York's 19th Congressional District. I wish Kathy and her husband, Vince, every happiness as they embark upon this new chapter in their lives.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to extend the happiest of birthday wishes to Mr. Arthur Koepp of Stephentown, New York who will be celebrating his 100th Birthday on January 15, 2018. Arthur has lived a life characterized by hard work and an unyielding selflessness, making him a pillar of his community.

From an early age, Arthur exhibited an outstanding work ethic and a profound concern for others and the environment. As a boy, he worked on his family's 100-acre farm, ran his own farm stand, and was an active member of the local 4-H club. Arthur's curiosity about horticulture and farming led him to attend Cornell University to study agriculture. The active lifestyle of Arthur's youth has not diminished, however. He continues to live a fruitful life, one of passion, excitement, and variety.

A man of family, community, and faith, Arthur was a Deacon and a Sunday School teacher for most of his adult life. Alongside his wife, Esther, Arthur was also actively involved with missionary work to help strengthen communities and aid vulnerable populations throughout the country. Arthur's legacy of dedicated service is a source of inspiration, instilling the values of perseverance, confidence, and civility in his community.

Arthur's zeal for life has made him a great role model for the people of Upstate New York, and I am proud to be his Representative in Congress. Mr. Speaker, I wish Mr. Arthur Koepp a very happy and healthy 100th birthday.

Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that when the House adjourns today, it adjourn to meet at 2 p.m. tomorrow.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect that I rise today to recognize the distinguished career of Mr. Sam Pollak on the occasion of his retirement. Mr. Pollak is retiring after 20 years of dedicated service to the Oneonta and Otsego County community as editor of the Oneonta Daily Star.

Having worked for decades in newsrooms throughout the Nation, Mr. Pollak brought many years of experience and a proactive leadership to The Daily Star.

I thank Mr. Pollak for his commitment to the people of the State of New York, and I wish him and his wife, Julie, every happiness as they embark upon this new chapter in life.