Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize The Journey Home, a veterans homeless shelter in east-central Indiana.

On March 21, 2014, The Journey Home started serving disadvantaged veterans throughout 5 Indiana counties. The program will help veterans overcome challenges such as homelessness, addiction, alcoholism, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. The organization functions as a 6-month program in which veterans make a personal commitment to recovery and establish an environment of support for when they leave the shelter.

The Journey Home serves Delaware, Henry, Jay, Randolph, and Wayne Counties. I want to personally recognized Bill Davis, Linda DeHaven, and Mike Kennedy for the tremendous effort each individual contributed to make this project happen. Through passion for our veterans and dedication to seeing a positive change, these three people have helped create an organization that will benefit our veterans, their families, and their neighbors.

I ask the entire 6th Congressional District to join me in recognizing the incredible potential impact The Journey Home will have on the 5 counties it serves in Indiana. This nonprofit organization demonstrates the great work that can be done when hardworking individuals come together to improve their community and the quality of life of others.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the work of a great Indiana organization, Bosma Enterprises. Bosma, working through the AbilityOne Program, has helped thousands of Hoosiers who are blind or visually impaired and is Indiana's largest employer of people with vision loss.

AbilityOne is an initiative to help people who are blind or have other significant disabilities. For over 75 years this critical program has helped thousands of Americans find employment by working within a network of nonprofit agencies that sell products and services to the U.S. government. More than 700 Hoosiers in 2013 alone were served through Community and Center-Based Services at Bosma. These services helped them achieve a greater level of independence and self-esteem and allowed many people to gain employment in good paying jobs in central Indiana.

I have had the opportunity to visit Bosma Enterprises and see first- hand the impact that the AbilityOne program is having in the lives of so many Hoosiers. Nearly 60 percent of all employees at Bosma Enterprises are blind or visually impaired. One such employee is Preston Richardson. Preston lost his sight in 1988 and after several years of struggling with his disability was officially diagnosed in 1997. It was then that he found Bosma Enterprises, where he went to work in production. Preston's handwork and dedication enabled him to excel at Bosma, becoming the first visually-impaired employee in the customer service department. Preston was then promoted to account manager with the sales team where he now manages over 300 state and national accounts.

The largest AbilityOne contracts Bosma holds are with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Bosma supplies all of the VA hospitals and clinics with examination and surgical gloves. These contracts provide job opportunities to people who are blind or visually impaired while also providing the VA with the resources they need to take care of America's veterans.

I ask the entire 6th Congressional District to join me in recognizing the life changing work done every day by the men and women of Bosma Enterprises and the importance of the AbilityOne program. They have helped improve the lives of Hoosiers throughout the 6th District and central Indiana by enabling them to learn skills, find employment, and lead a more independent and fulfilling life. The dedication and commitment of AbilityOne employees is an example we can all aspire to. They have helped strengthen our communities and make the state of Indiana a better place to live.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this important bipartisan bill. I commend Chairman Royce and Ranking Member Engel for bringing this measure forward.

Today's legislation makes clear that, as a Nation, we speak with one voice regarding Russia's aggression.

The situation in Ukraine is undoubtedly complex. The history between Crimea and Russia dates back centuries. Close to 60 percent of the population identifies as ethnic Russians.

Several facts are clear: Russia has massed troops and perpetrated a breach of international law with its unwarranted aggression.

The elections in Crimea took place under an illegal occupation. It did not resemble anything close to a real election. Consequently, the results should not and cannot be recognized.

Lastly, there is little doubt that if the world does not act, Russia's territorial aggression will expand and continue. Whatever the complexities, this invasion of a sovereign country is not justified, period.

Today's bill makes clear America will not tolerate Russia's territorial aggression in Ukraine or elsewhere. I urge my colleagues to support it.

Mr. Speaker, there are a lot of heroes in society. They include moms and dads, doctors, nurses, and teachers, and those who go above and beyond to help others at great risk to themselves.

I want to recognize three examples of such bravery today: Jim Spears, Daniel Letourneau, and Dwayne Davidson--all UPS employees--who risked their lives to help a stranger whose van had flipped multiple times on an icy highway outside of Indianapolis.

The victim was stuck in her vehicle, and their selfless actions kept her from further harm. The beneficiary of their selfless acts said: ``The goodness of people in this world is so great . . . and there are truly great people out there who we should appreciate.'' Well said.

Last week I had the opportunity to meet Jim, David, and Dwayne. Today, I want to commend them for their bravery and thank them for reminding us what it truly means to be a hero.

Mr. Speaker, a headline in today's Roll Call reads:

White House, Democrats cry foul over GOP push to enforce immigration and other laws.

Really? The Constitution is clear about how our government is supposed to work. Congress makes the laws; the President enforces them. President Obama should know that, since he used to lecture about constitutional law.

The President isn't the first to stretch the bounds of executive authority, but the proper constitutional limits on the President's power are long in this administration's rearview mirror. He has disregarded laws that he disagrees with, even when they are his own.

The American people are demanding respect for the rule of law. They want our system of checks and balances restored so that their government reflects the will of all, not just one. That is why we passed the ENFORCE the Law Act yesterday, and that is why we will continue to demand the President do his job, not ours.

Mr. Speaker, on March 6, 2014, I missed the following votes due to previously-scheduled commitments in my congressional district. Had I been present, I would have voted in the following manner: rollcall No. 107--``yea''; rollcall No.108--``nay''; rollcall No.109--``yea''; rollcall No.110--``nay''; rollcall No.111--``nay''; rollcall No.112--``nay''; rollcall No.113--``yea''; rollcall No.114-- ``yea.''

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this important bipartisan resolution. I want to commend Chairman Royce and Ranking Member Engel for bringing this measure forward.

The United States has been committed to Ukraine's prosperity and sovereignty since it gained independence in 1991. There has never been a more critical time to reaffirm this commitment than right now.

President Putin's unilateral decision to expand Russia's military operations in Ukraine was made with the calculation that the world would respond with words, not deeds. He was wrong. The world must send a clear message to Russia that there will be real consequences for these violations of international laws.

Failure to deter Russia's aggression will embolden President Putin to continue seeking illegitimate power and further threaten stability in this important region of the world. Just as importantly, failure to act would embolden bullies in other areas of the world who are no doubt watching.

This resolution calls for strong action by the United States, such as suspending military cooperation with Russia, boycotting the G8 summit, and imposing sanctions on those involved in this breach of international law. America should also take this opportunity to expand energy production and energy exports to send a clear message to Ukraine, Russia, and our allies that America will not allow Russia to use its energy resources to intimidate the world.

These actions are necessary to show Russia and the rest of the world that the United States will not sit on the sidelines when people are being used as political pawns by so-called leaders seeking to enhance their own power by the use of force.

I urge our colleagues to support this important resolution and demonstrate to friend and foe alike that America still stands for freedom and the ability of people everywhere to determine their own destiny, not have that destiny determined for them by threats, intimidation, and military might.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mourn the death, but more importantly celebrate the life of Jerry L. Denbo, a beloved friend and father. Jerry died at 63 on February 24, 2014.

Jerry Denbo was a genuine Hoosier man. He grew up in Bedford, Indiana where he went to high school. At Indiana University he graduated with a Master's in Education, and worked at two high schools before becoming the State Representative for District 62. Jerry retired from his General Assembly position in 2007 after 17 years of service.

Jerry Denbo was a fierce advocate for the communities he served. For many years Jerry fought to bring casino gaming to French Lick and was ultimately successful, bringing much needed economic assistance and employment to the area. Jerry had a great love for working for the state of Indiana, and brought warmth and humor to his service.

Jerry Denbo exemplified the greatness of the Hoosier spirit. His memory will live on in the prosperity he contributed to the state of Indiana.

Mr. Speaker, the President has unilaterally delayed the employer mandate again. It is hard not to blame him.

Last week, CMS reported that 11 million Americans who work at small businesses will have higher premiums because of the President's health care law. The employer mandate will make this bad situation worse.

That might be why the President decreed that it will only apply to businesses with more than 100 employees, instead of those with 50 employees, as the law requires, at least for now.

This is a needed temporary reprieve, but it should be granted by Congress, not Presidential decree.

The President's behavior is lawless. As The Washington Post described it, the President has shown an ``increasingly cavalier approach to picking and choosing how to enforce this law.''

I encourage our colleagues to cosponsor H.R. 2577, the Small Business Job Protection Act, which is my bill to permanently codify this relief. Let's not forget that Congress, not the President, makes the laws.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the first graduates of Manufacturing Matters, a fast track training program in Richmond, Indiana.

The collaborative program is being spearheaded by Ivy Tech Community College WorkOne, and the Economic Development Corporations and Chambers of Commerce from Wayne, Rush, and Fayette counties to provide individuals the skills to succeed in the manufacturing industry. I am proud to announce that twelve people became the first graduates of this program on January 31, 2014. The first class includes Jarrod Andrews, Mary Ann Frazier, Bob Harding, Mark Hawkins, Marc Lechuga, Dylan McLemore, Darren McEwen, Rita Robinson, Chris Studt, Randy Tucker, Wilmi Vizcaino, and Kenny Warner.

Manufacturing Matters aims to cultivate a skillset that program participants can apply to future manufacturing jobs. The program provides hardworking individuals the opportunity to develop a comprehensive understanding of manufacturing processes, safety, quality, and leadership.

In addition to the technical skills learned, the program participants attended a job fair to connect with potential employers. Manufacturing Matters has partnered with several organizations in Indiana from leading energy groups to local governments in an effort to employ the program graduates. The job fair matched employers with applicants who were ready for on-the-job success.

This program equips individuals with the tools to work and provides competent staff to businesses in the manufacturing industry. As a Member of Congress, I strongly support programs like Manufacturing Matters that strengthen the American manufacturing industry.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Commander Don Finnegan from Muncie, Indiana.

Commander Finnegan is the State Director of Honor and Remember. This organization preserves the memory of those who have died to protect our freedom and presents personalized flags to families who have lost a loved one in service for our country.

In April of 2002, Commander Finnegan joined the Sons of American Veterans as a Chaplain at the Squadron level. Due to his participation in Sons of AMVETS, Mr. Finnegan became involved with an organization called Honor and Remember, and is now Indiana's first State Director.

In addition to Sons of AMVETS and Honor and Remember, Mr. Finnegan has served his community for the last 24 years in the volunteer fire services as well as the past 15 years as a member of Red Cross Disaster Services.

Commander Finnegan's character and example of service has impacted his family. Both of his sons, Shane and Ryan, have served in the Military as well as his daughter-in-law.

Men and women like Commander Finnegan deserve recognition for the service they provide to their communities and to our veterans. I am proud of the work Commander Finnegan has done for the state of Indiana.

Madam Speaker, there is almost nothing Uncle Sam won't tax. You get hit at the grocery store, the gas pump, and your paycheck. You even get taxed when you die.

Now, as the eyes of the world are on Sochi, Uncle Sam's eyes are on yet another way to collect: U.S. Olympians.

Believe it or not, our men and women who bring home the gold, silver, or bronze are taxed on the value of the medals they earn and their minimal winnings while representing our country on the world stage. That is not okay.

Competing on the U.S. Olympic team is an achievement that should be celebrated, not taxed. That is why I have cosponsored the Tax Exemptions for American Medalists Act. It prevents Olympic athletes from paying taxes on their winnings. Our Federal Government shouldn't penalize them for performing at their best.

We need broad-based tax reform. In the meantime, I encourage my colleagues to support the TEAM Act and end this undue tax on our Olympians.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of Beurt SerVaas, a dedicated community leader and former president of the Indianapolis City-County Council.

Beurt SerVaas was an accomplished businessman and a devoted public servant who spent the better part of his life serving the people of Indianapolis. Dr. SerVaas was first elected to the Marion County Council in the early 1960s and became a chief architect of the Uni-Gov changes that consolidated parts of city and county government. Dr. SerVaas' distinguished business career included bringing the Saturday Evening Post to Indiana and rescuing several struggling businesses ranging from engine rebuilders to makers of cleaning products.

The state of Indiana and the city of Indianapolis have lost one of their most distinguished citizens and a dedicated civic leader. On a personal note, Dr. SerVaas was a friend and a supporter of mine, who could always be counted on for his gentle wisdom and smile.

Beurt SerVaas set an example to which we can all aspire. He was a visionary leader who dedicated his life to serving others and making his country and community better places to live. This included service in the United States Navy and the Central Intelligence Agency. His commitment to Indiana will be forever appreciated. I ask the residents of the 6th Congressional District to join me in keeping his wife Dr. Cory Jane SerVaas, daughters Joan, Amy, and Kristin, and his sons Eric and Paul, in their thoughts and prayers.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Kids Alive, an organization that is working around the world to improve the lives of children.

America is the most generous nation in human history. When tragedy strikes and innocent people are suffering, Americans respond. Kids Alive is an organization that exemplifies that great American tradition by supporting girls and boys who are orphaned or struggling just to survive extreme poverty. For nearly 100 years, Kids Alive has helped thousands of children with their housing and medical needs, along with providing food, clothing and education assistance. Children from all over the world have seen their lives improve thanks to this faith-based organization.

I am proud that this organization, based in Indiana, has received so much support from the 6th Congressional District. Churches and individuals from across the district have stepped up to help children in the most desperate situations. By donating their time and resources, these Hoosiers have helped give countless kids a better future.

I ask the entire 6th Congressional district to join me in recognizing the important work of Kids Alive and all those who contributed to their success.

Madam Speaker, lots of kids in America go to a great school, but too many kids don't, and that is not okay. The simple truth is that too many families live in neighborhoods with bad schools. They can't afford to move, and they can't afford tuition to go to a better school either.

There is another way. Imagine a system not limited by ZIP Code, where education dollars follow the child and every family in America can afford to send their child to the school of their choice. This dream could become reality under the Scholarships for Kids Act. We filed the bill today. It gives States the option to use Federal education funds for scholarships to lower-income families, empowering these families to choose the best opportunities for their kids.

Let's stop defending the indefensible and start imagining a great future for every child in America.