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This resolution designates October 30, 2023, as a national day of remembrance for the workers of the nuclear weapons program, including uranium miners, millers, and haulers, plutonium processors, and on-site participants at atmospheric nuclear weapons tests.
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Designating October 30, 2023, as a national day of remembrance for the workers of the nuclear weapons program of the United States. Whereas, since World War II, hundreds of thousands of patriotic men and women, including uranium miners, millers, and haulers, plutonium processors, and onsite participants at atmospheric nuclear weapons tests, have served the United States by building nuclear weapons for the defense of the United States; Whereas dedicated workers paid a high price for advancing a nuclear weapons program at the service and for the benefit of the United States, including by developing disabling or fatal illnesses; Whereas the Senate recognized the contributions, services, and sacrifices that those patriotic men and women made for the defense of the United States in (1) Senate Resolution 151, 111th Congress, agreed to May 20, 2009; (2) Senate Resolution 653, 111th Congress, agreed to September 28, 2010; (3) Senate Resolution 275, 112th Congress, agreed to September 26, 2011; (4) Senate Resolution 519, 112th Congress, agreed to August 1, 2012; (5) Senate Resolution 164, 113th Congress, agreed to September 18, 2013; (6) Senate Resolution 417, 113th Congress, agreed to July 9, 2014; (7) Senate Resolution 213, 114th Congress, agreed to September 25, 2015; (8) Senate Resolution 560, 114th Congress, agreed to November 16, 2016; (9) Senate Resolution 314, 115th Congress, agreed to October 30, 2017; (10) Senate Resolution 682, 115th Congress, agreed to October 11, 2018; (11) Senate Resolution 377, 116th Congress, agreed to October 30, 2019; (12) Senate Resolution 741, 116th Congress, agreed to September 30, 2020; (13) Senate Resolution 438, 117th Congress, agreed to February 25, 2022; and (14) Senate Resolution 785, 117th Congress, agreed to December 22, 2022; and Whereas those patriotic men and women deserve to be recognized for the contributions, services, and sacrifices they made for the defense of the United States: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) designates October 30, 2023, as a national day of remembrance for the workers of the nuclear weapons program of the United States, including the uranium miners, millers, and haulers, plutonium processors, and onsite participants at atmospheric nuclear weapons tests; and (2) encourages the people of the United States to support and participate in appropriate ceremonies, programs, and other activities to commemorate October 30, 2023, as a national day of remembrance for past and present workers of the nuclear weapons program of the United States.
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Designating October 30, 2023, as a national day of remembrance for the workers of the nuclear weapons program of the United States.
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This resolution designates October 2023 as National Learning Disabilities Awareness Month.
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Designating October 2023 as National Learning Disabilities Awareness Month Whereas in section 602 of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act ( 20 U.S.C. 1401 (1) is defined as a disorder in 1 or more of the basic psychological processes involved in understanding or in using language, spoken or written, which may manifest itself in the imperfect ability to listen, think, speak, read, write, spell, or do mathematical calculations; (2) includes conditions such as perceptual disabilities, brain injury, minimal brain dysfunction, dyslexia, and developmental aphasia; and (3) does not include a learning problem that is primarily the result of visual, hearing, or motor disabilities, of intellectual disabilities, of emotional disturbance, or of environmental, cultural, or economic disadvantage; Whereas a specific learning disability is the most prevalent disability of students who are served by parts A through D of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act ( 20 U.S.C. 1400 et seq. Whereas, for academic year 2022, the National Assessment of Educational Progress reports that (1) more than 95 percent of 4th and 8th grade students with a specific learning disability were not proficient in reading; and (2) more than 93 percent of 4th and 8th grade students with a specific learning disability were not proficient in math; Whereas the math and reading scores reported by the National Assessment of Educational Progress for academic year 2022 indicate that Black and Hispanic students with a specific learning disability experience greater opportunity gaps than White and Asian students; Whereas research shows that students with specific learning disabilities can achieve success commensurate with their peers, if given appropriate instruction and support; Whereas developmentally appropriate universal screening should begin as early as possible to assess which students demonstrate the most pervasive risk factors for specific learning disabilities; and Whereas research rooted in the science of reading establishes an evidence base of effective instructional methods for developing reading skills for students with or at risk for specific learning disabilities: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) designates October 2023 as National Learning Disabilities Awareness Month (2) calls on State and local education agencies to continue to meet the needs of students with specific learning disabilities through a free and appropriate public education.
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Designating October 2023 as National Learning Disabilities Awareness Month.
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This resolution designates June 16, 2023, as National Service and Conservation Corps Day.
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Designating June 16, 2023, as National Service and Conservation Corps Day. Whereas there exists a network of more than 150 Service and Conservation Corps across the United States that provides education, workforce development, and support services to approximately 22,000 young adults and post-9/11 veterans annually; Whereas the Service and Conservation Corps are locally-based organizations that engage young adults between 18 and 30 years of age and veterans younger than 35 years of age in service projects that address recreation, conservation, disaster response, and community needs; Whereas the Service and Conservation Corps are direct descendants of the Civilian Conservation Corps, a Great Depression-era Federal work relief program in existence from 1933 to 1942 that (1) mobilized 3,000,000 young men to dramatically improve the public lands of the United States; (2) provided participants with food, shelter, education, and a $30 per month stipend; and (3) planted 3,000,000,000 trees and helped build trails, roads, campgrounds, and other park infrastructure still in use today; Whereas April 5, 2023, was the 90th anniversary of President Franklin D. Roosevelt establishing the Civilian Conservation Corps with a presidential Executive order (Executive Order 6101 (relating to relief of unemployment through the performance of useful public work)); Whereas, unlike the Civilian Conservation Corps, which was a large, Federal program that was only open to young men, while Black and Native American participants faced discrimination, modern Service and Conservation Corps are equitable, diverse, and inclusive; Whereas most modern Service and Conservation Corps are nonprofit organizations or are operated by units of State or local government; Whereas, through public-private partnerships, Service and Conservation Corps work with a range of organizations, government agencies, and institutions to engage Corps participants in meaningful projects that address local and national issues; Whereas, throughout a term of service that could last from a few months to a year, Corps participants experience the Corps Model (1) gaining work experience and developing in-demand skills; (2) serving on crews alongside other young adults, or in individual placement (3) receiving a stipend or living allowance and often an education award or scholarship upon completion of service; and (4) receiving educational programming, mentoring, and access to career and personal counseling; Whereas some Service and Conservation Corps operate or partner with charter schools to help Corps participants earn their high school diploma or GED certificate; Whereas Corps participants complete thousands of community improvement, resilience, and resource conservation projects every year; Whereas Service and Conservation Corps have longstanding partnerships with Federal, State, and local community development and resource management agencies to engage Corps participants in meaningful and necessary projects across the United States; Whereas Corps projects include (1) enhancing neighborhoods and community public spaces, including urban gardens; (2) preserving and protecting public lands, shorelines, waterways, habitats, and wildlife; (3) preserving historic structures; (4) providing access to and enhancing recreation on public lands and waters; (5) enhancing resilience to climate change and natural disasters; (6) mitigating, responding to, and recovering from natural disasters, including hurricanes and wildfires; (7) improving energy efficiency and resource conservation; and (8) building and maintaining alternative transportation and sustainable infrastructure; Whereas the United States urgently needs to transition to more sustainable infrastructure, respond to decades of deferred maintenance on public lands and waters, restore critical ecosystems, and make communities more resilient to climate change; Whereas unemployment and barriers to opportunity affect millions of young people in the United States and disproportionately affect young people of color; and Whereas the existing network of more than 150 Service and Conservation Corps is ready to meet the needs of young people in the United States: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) designates June 16, 2023, as National Service and Conservation Corps Day; (2) congratulates the existing network of more than 150 Service and Conservation Corps on their contributions to the United States; (3) urges the people of the United States to recognize the importance of national service; and (4) supports the continuation and expansion of the national network of Service and Conservation Corps.
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Designating June 16, 2023, as National Service and Conservation Corps Day.
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This resolution supports the designation of National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week.
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Expressing support for designation of the week of September 17 through 23, 2023, as National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week. Whereas the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development reports that more than 43,000,000 adults in the United States lack the basic literacy, numeracy, and digital skills necessary to succeed at home, in the workplace, and in society; Whereas the literacy of the people of the United States is essential for the economic and societal well-being and the national security of the United States; Whereas the United States reaps the economic benefits of individuals who improve their literacy, numeracy, and English-language skills; Whereas literacy and educational skills are necessary for individuals to fully benefit from the range of opportunities available in the United States; Whereas the economy and position of the United States in the world marketplace depend on having a literate, skilled population; Whereas the unemployment rate in the United States is highest among those without a high school diploma or an equivalent credential, demonstrating that education is essential for economic recovery; Whereas the educational skills of the parents of a child and the practice of reading to a child have a direct impact on the educational success of the child; Whereas parental involvement in the education of a child is a key predictor of the success of a child, and the level of parental involvement in the education of a child increases as the educational level of the parent increases; Whereas parents who participate in family literacy programs become more involved in the education of their children and gain the tools necessary to obtain a job or find better employment; Whereas, as a result of family literacy programs, the lives of children become more stable and the success of children in the classroom and in future endeavors becomes more likely; Whereas addressing the education needs of adults needs to be part of a long-term solution to the educational challenges faced by the people of the United States; Whereas many older individuals in the United States lack the reading, numeracy, or English-language skills necessary to read a prescription and follow medical instructions, which endangers the lives of older individuals and the lives of their loved ones; Whereas many individuals who are unemployed, underemployed, or receive public assistance lack the literacy skills necessary to obtain and keep a job, to continue their education, or to participate in job training and career development programs; Whereas many high school dropouts do not have the literacy skills necessary to complete their education, transition to postsecondary education or career and technical training, or obtain work that provides a living wage; Whereas a large portion of individuals in prison have low educational skills, and individuals without educational skills are more likely to return to prison once released; Whereas many immigrants in the United States do not have the literacy skills necessary to succeed in the United States; and Whereas National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week highlights the need to ensure that each individual in the United States has the literacy, numeracy, and digital skills necessary to succeed at home, at work, and in society: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) supports the designation of National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week to raise public awareness about the importance of adult education, workforce skills, and family literacy; (2) encourages people across the United States to support programs to assist individuals in need of adult education, workforce skills, and family literacy programs; (3) recognizes the importance of adult education, workforce skills, and family literacy programs; and (4) calls on public, private, and nonprofit entities to support increased access to adult education and family literacy programs to ensure a fully literate society.
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Expressing support for designation of the week of September 17 through 23, 2023, as National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week.
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This resolution congratulates those responsible for the creation of the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, condemns antisemitism, supports educational and community-based programs that counter antisemitism and hate, and designates April 26, 2023, as United States Holocaust Memorial Museum Day.
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Recognizing the 30th anniversary of the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. Whereas, on April 26, 1993, the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum (referred to in this preamble as the Museum Whereas, for 3 decades, the Museum has been teaching both the history of the Holocaust and the lessons learned from the Holocaust, including lessons about the fragility of democracy, the power of propaganda, and the dangers of hatred, antisemitism, and inaction, to members of the public, especially youth, from all walks of life, including members of underserved communities; Whereas the aim of the Museum's educational work is to promote self-reflection and critical thinking about the roles and responsibilities of individuals in the world today and catalyze actions to confront hatred, prevent genocide, and promote human dignity; Whereas, during its first 30 years, the Museum has welcomed over 47,000,000 visitors, including millions of schoolchildren and more than 100 heads of state; Whereas the Museum has enabled hundreds of Holocaust survivors to share their experiences with tens of thousands of students and the public at the Museum, online, and across the country; Whereas the Museum has conducted its educational outreach in multiple ways, having (1) built the worlds most comprehensive collection of Holocaust documentation and a state-of-the-art facility to preserve that collection and make it digitally accessible; (2) launched the worlds leading online authority on the Holocaust, the 20-language Holocaust Encyclopedia, which served 25,000,000 visitors in 2022; (3) built a robust social media presence that has raised awareness of the Holocaust and related antisemitism and that in 2022 had 2,300,000 followers, 306,000,000 views, and over 56,000,000 engagements; (4) created Experiencing History, the primary resource on the Holocaust for college and university instructors and their students across multiple disciplines on campuses nationwide; (5) created foundational guidelines for teaching about the Holocaust and served thousands of teachers nationwide with professional development trainings and classroom resources that emphasize the pivotal role of antisemitism in creating the environment that led to the Holocaust; (6) traveled exhibitions throughout the country on topics such as the 1936 Berlin Olympics Nazi racial science Nazi propaganda Americans and the Holocaust (7) sponsored programs for thousands of law enforcement agents, military personnel, and members of the judiciary to examine the roles of their counterparts during the Holocaust and reflect on their own roles today in preserving democracy; (8) supported development of the vital field of Holocaust studies, including the research and teachings of hundreds of scholars in the United States and abroad, and foundational publications like the The Encyclopedia of Camps and Ghettos, 19331945 (9) opened the International Tracing Service Archives, which enables the Museum to provide thousands of survivors and their families with historic documentation pertaining to their individual wartime experiences; Whereas the Museum has become a well-respected international resource, having (1) worked with European Union officials and European governments in Eastern and Western Europe to advance policies and institutions devoted to preserving the memory and relevance of the Holocaust in perpetuity; (2) raised awareness of the Holocaust in parts of the Middle East and held the first Holocaust remembrance ceremonies in the United Arab Emirates and Egypt; and (3) helped establish the field of genocide prevention, becoming a resource for policymakers and raising public awareness of populations currently threatened by genocide and mass atrocities, such as the Uyghurs, Rohingya, and Yezidis; Whereas, more than 75 years after the Holocaust, antisemitism continues to be expressed publicly around the world through the proliferation of hate speech, disinformation, and conspiracy theories that lead to hate crimes and violence, both in the United States and abroad; Whereas, in 2022, the United Nations General Assembly adopted, by consensus, a resolution that condemns Holocaust denial and encourages the development of programs meant to educate future generations on the horrors of the Holocaust and antisemitism; Whereas, on June 14, 2021, the Senate unanimously adopted a resolution unequivocally condemning the recent rise in antisemitic violence and harassment targeting Jewish individuals in the United States and standing in solidarity with those affected by antisemitism; and Whereas the Museum aims to be a global leader in bringing awareness of the Holocaust to audiences worldwide, promoting the relevance of the Holocaust for new generations, building the field of Holocaust education in the United States, and protecting the truth of the Holocaust: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) congratulates all those who were responsible for the creation of the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and all those who have turned that vision into a living and growing memorial and educational resource accessible to the people of the United States and the world; (2) condemns antisemitism as a particularly pernicious form of hate and racial and religious bigotry and calls on the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum to continue its critical work, in-person and online, educating the public about the dangers of antisemitism and the origins of the Holocaust; (3) encourages leaders and all individuals in the United States and around the world to utilize the resources available from the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and speak out against manifestations of antisemitism, bigotry, and hatred against Jewish individuals and communities, including growing online antisemitic harassment, abuse, Holocaust denial, and conspiracy theories; (4) supports and encourages educational and community-based programs that counter antisemitism and hate, as well as those that advance educational programs about the Holocaust and provide support for Holocaust survivors; (5) commits to continue to raise awareness and act to eradicate the continuing scourge of antisemitism in the United States and abroad; (6) designates April 26, 2023, as United States Holocaust Memorial Museum Day (7) respectfully requests that the Secretary of the Senate transmit an enrolled copy of this resolution to the chair of the United States Holocaust Museum Memorial Council and a copy to the director of the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum.
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Recognizing the 30th anniversary of the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum.
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This resolution authorizes the Senate Special Committee on Aging to make specified expenditures and employ personnel for the 118th Congress.
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Authorizing expenditures by the Special Committee on Aging. 1. General authority In carrying out its powers, duties, and functions imposed by section 104 of Senate Resolution 4 (95th Congress), agreed to February 4, 1977, and in exercising the authority conferred on it by such section, the Special Committee on Aging (in this resolution referred to as the committee (1) make expenditures from the contingent fund of the Senate; (2) employ personnel; and (3) with the prior consent of the Government department or agency concerned and the Committee on Rules and Administration, use on a reimbursable or nonreimbursable basis the services of personnel of any such department or agency. 2. Expenses (a) Expenses for period ending September 30, 2023 The expenses of the committee for the period March 1, 2023, through September 30, 2023, under this resolution shall not exceed $2,060,695, of which amount (1) not to exceed $1,500 may be expended for the procurement of the services of individual consultants, or organizations thereof (as authorized by section 202(i) of the Legislative Reorganization Act of 1946 ( 2 U.S.C. 4301(i) (2) not to exceed $1,500 may be expended for the training of the professional staff of the committee (under procedures specified by section 202(j) of that Act). (b) Expenses for fiscal year 2024 period The expenses of the committee for the period October 1, 2023, through September 30, 2024, under this resolution shall not exceed $3,532,620, of which amount (1) not to exceed $1,500 may be expended for the procurement of the services of individual consultants, or organizations thereof (as authorized by section 202(i) of the Legislative Reorganization Act of 1946 ( 2 U.S.C. 4301(i) (2) not to exceed $1,500 may be expended for the training of the professional staff of the committee (under procedures specified by section 202(j) of that Act). (c) Expenses for period ending February 28, 2025 The expenses of the committee for the period October 1, 2024, through February 28, 2025, under this resolution shall not exceed $1,471,925, of which amount (1) not to exceed $1,500 may be expended for the procurement of the services of individual consultants, or organizations thereof (as authorized by section 202(i) of the Legislative Reorganization Act of 1946 ( 2 U.S.C. 4301(i) (2) not to exceed $1,500 may be expended for the training of the professional staff of the committee (under procedures specified by section 202(j) of that Act). 3. Expenses and agency contributions (a) Expenses of the committee (1) In general Except as provided in paragraph (2), expenses of the committee under this resolution shall be paid from the contingent fund of the Senate upon vouchers approved by the chairman of the committee. (2) Vouchers not required Vouchers shall not be required for (A) the disbursement of salaries of employees paid at an annual rate; (B) the payment of telecommunications provided by the Office of the Sergeant at Arms and Doorkeeper; (C) the payment of stationery supplies purchased through the Keeper of the Stationery; (D) payments to the Postmaster of the Senate; (E) the payment of metered charges on copying equipment provided by the Office of the Sergeant at Arms and Doorkeeper; (F) the payment of Senate Recording and Photographic Services; or (G) the payment of franked and mass mail costs by the Sergeant at Arms and Doorkeeper. (b) Agency contributions There are authorized to be paid from the appropriations account for Expenses of Inquiries and Investigations (1) for the period March 1, 2023, through September 30, 2023; (2) for the period October 1, 2023, through September 30, 2024; and (3) for the period October 1, 2024, through February 28, 2025.
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Authorizing expenditures by the Special Committee on Aging.
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This resolution informs the House of Representatives that a quorum of the Senate is assembled.
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Informing the House of Representatives that a quorum of the Senate is assembled. That the Secretary inform the House of Representatives that a quorum of the Senate is assembled and that the Senate is ready to proceed to business.
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Informing the House of Representatives that a quorum of the Senate is assembled.
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This resolution designates October 8, 2023, as National Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day.
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Designating October 8, 2023, as National Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day Whereas hydrogen, which has an atomic mass of 1.008, is the most abundant element in the universe; Whereas the United States is a world leader in the development and deployment of fuel cell and hydrogen technologies; Whereas hydrogen fuel cells played an instrumental role in the United States space program, helping the United States achieve the mission of landing a man on the Moon; Whereas private industry, Federal and State governments, national laboratories, and institutions of higher education continue to improve fuel cell and hydrogen technologies to address the most pressing energy, environmental, and economic issues of the United States; Whereas fuel cells utilizing hydrogen and hydrogen-rich fuels to generate electricity are clean, efficient, safe, and resilient technologies being used for (1) stationary and backup power generation; and (2) zero-emission transportation for light-duty vehicles, industrial vehicles, delivery vans, buses, trucks, trains, military vehicles, marine applications, and aerial vehicles; Whereas stationary fuel cells are being placed in service for continuous and backup power to provide businesses and other energy consumers with reliable power in the event of grid outages; Whereas stationary fuel cells can help reduce water use, as compared to traditional power generation technologies; Whereas fuel cell electric vehicles that utilize hydrogen can mimic the experience of internal combustion vehicles, including comparable range and refueling times; Whereas hydrogen fuel cell industrial vehicles are deployed at logistical hubs and warehouses across the United States and exported to facilities in Europe and Asia; Whereas hydrogen is a nontoxic gas that can be derived from a variety of domestically available traditional and renewable resources, including solar, wind, biogas, and the abundant supply of natural gas in the United States; Whereas hydrogen and fuel cells can store energy to help enhance the grid and maximize opportunities to deploy renewable energy; Whereas the United States produces and uses approximately 10,000,000 metric tons of hydrogen per year; Whereas engineers and safety code and standard professionals have developed consensus-based protocols for safe delivery, handling, and use of hydrogen; and Whereas the ingenuity of the people of the United States is essential to paving the way for the future use of hydrogen technologies: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate designates October 8, 2023, as National Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day
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Designating October 8, 2023, as National Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day.
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This resolution expresses condolences for the death of and honors James George Abourezk, former Senator and Representative for South Dakota.
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Honoring the life and legacy of the late James George Abourezk. Whereas James G. Abourezk was born in Wood, South Dakota, to Lebanese immigrants in 1931; Whereas James G. Abourezk earned a degree in civil engineering from the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, graduated from the University of South Dakota School of Law, and practiced law in Rapid City, South Dakota; Whereas James G. Abourezk served in the United States Navy from 1948 to 1952; Whereas James G. Abourezk was elected to the United States House of Representatives in 1970 and represented the State of South Dakota from 1971 to 1973; Whereas James G. Abourezk was elected to the United States Senate in 1972, representing the State of South Dakota from 1973 to 1979, and was the first Arab American to serve in the United States Senate; Whereas James G. Abourezk re-established the Committee on Indian Affairs of the Senate Whereas James G. Abourezk co-authored and worked to pass Public Law 95341 American Indian Religious Freedom Act 42 U.S.C. 1996 et seq. 25 U.S.C. 1901 et seq. 25 U.S.C. 5301 et seq. Whereas James G. Abourezk, after leaving the Senate, co-founded and was the first chair of the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee; Whereas James G. Abourezk served as the first Attorney General of the Navajo Nation from 1982 to 1983; and Whereas James G. Abourezk continued to advocate on behalf of Native American communities after his retirement: Now, therefore, be it That (1) the Senate (A) has heard with profound sorrow and deep regret the announcement of the death of James G. Abourezk, former member of the United States Senate and the House of Representatives; (B) honors the life and legacy of James G. Abourezk for his unwavering dedication to South Dakota as a public servant and his accomplishments in legislating with principle and dedication for the good of the people of the United States; and (C) respectfully requests that the Secretary of the Senate communicate this resolution to the House of Representatives and transmit an enrolled copy thereof to the family of James G. Abourezk; and (2) when the Senate adjourns today, it stand adjourned as a further mark of respect to the memory of James G. Abourezk.
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Honoring the life and legacy of the late James George Abourezk.
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This resolution authorizes the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs to make specified expenditures and employ personnel for the 118th Congress.
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Authorizing expenditures by the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. 1. General authority In carrying out its powers, duties, and functions under the Standing Rules of the Senate, in accordance with its jurisdiction under rule XXV of the Standing Rules of the Senate, including holding hearings, reporting such hearings, and making investigations as authorized by paragraphs 1 and 8 of rule XXVI of the Standing Rules of the Senate, the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs (in this resolution referred to as the committee (1) make expenditures from the contingent fund of the Senate; (2) employ personnel; and (3) with the prior consent of the Government department or agency concerned and the Committee on Rules and Administration, use on a reimbursable or nonreimbursable basis the services of personnel of any such department or agency. 2. Expenses (a) Expenses for period ending September 30, 2023 The expenses of the committee for the period March 1, 2023, through September 30, 2023, under this resolution shall not exceed $4,673,169, of which amount (1) not to exceed $11,666 may be expended for the procurement of the services of individual consultants, or organizations thereof (as authorized by section 202(i) of the Legislative Reorganization Act of 1946 ( 2 U.S.C. 4301(i) (2) not to exceed $875 may be expended for the training of the professional staff of the committee (under procedures specified by section 202(j) of that Act). (b) Expenses for fiscal year 2024 period The expenses of the committee for the period October 1, 2023, through September 30, 2024, under this resolution shall not exceed $8,029,104, of which amount (1) not to exceed $20,000 may be expended for the procurement of the services of individual consultants, or organizations thereof (as authorized by section 202(i) of the Legislative Reorganization Act of 1946 ( 2 U.S.C. 4301(i) (2) not to exceed $1,500 may be expended for the training of the professional staff of the committee (under procedures specified by section 202(j) of that Act). (c) Expenses for period ending February 28, 2025 The expenses of the committee for the period October 1, 2024, through February 28, 2025, under this resolution shall not exceed $3,351,791, of which amount (1) not to exceed $8,334 may be expended for the procurement of the services of individual consultants, or organizations thereof (as authorized by section 202(i) of the Legislative Reorganization Act of 1946 ( 2 U.S.C. 4301(i) (2) not to exceed $625 may be expended for the training of the professional staff of the committee (under procedures specified by section 202(j) of that Act). 3. Expenses and agency contributions (a) Expenses of the committee (1) In general Except as provided in paragraph (2), expenses of the committee under this resolution shall be paid from the contingent fund of the Senate upon vouchers approved by the chairman of the committee. (2) Vouchers not required Vouchers shall not be required for (A) the disbursement of salaries of employees paid at an annual rate; (B) the payment of telecommunications provided by the Office of the Sergeant at Arms and Doorkeeper; (C) the payment of stationery supplies purchased through the Keeper of the Stationery; (D) payments to the Postmaster of the Senate; (E) the payment of metered charges on copying equipment provided by the Office of the Sergeant at Arms and Doorkeeper; (F) the payment of Senate Recording and Photographic Services; or (G) the payment of franked and mass mail costs by the Sergeant at Arms and Doorkeeper. (b) Agency contributions There are authorized to be paid from the appropriations account for Expenses of Inquiries and Investigations (1) for the period March 1, 2023, through September 30, 2023; (2) for the period October 1, 2023, through September 30, 2024; and (3) for the period October 1, 2024, through February 28, 2025.
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Authorizing expenditures by the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.
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This resolution supports the designation of July 2023 as American Grown Flower Month and recognizes that purchasing flowers and foliage grown in the United States supports the farmers, small businesses, jobs, and economy of the United States.
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Expressing support for the designation of July 2023 as American Grown Flower Month Whereas cut flower and foliage growers in the United States are hard-working, dedicated individuals who bring beauty, economic stimulus, and pride to their communities and the United States; Whereas the people of the United States have a long history of using flowers and foliage grown in the United States to bring beauty to important events and express affection for loved ones; Whereas consumers spend over $59,000,000,000 each year on floral products, including cut flowers, garden plants, bedding, and indoor plants; Whereas, each year, an increasing number of households in the United States purchase fresh-cut flowers and foliage from more than 12,000 florists and floral establishments; Whereas the annual per capita spending on floral products by consumers in the United States is more than $177; Whereas the people of the United States increasingly want to support domestically produced foods and agricultural products and would prefer to buy locally grown flowers and foliage whenever possible, yet a majority of domestic consumers do not know where the flowers and foliage they purchase are grown; Whereas, in response to increased demand, the Certified American Grown logo was created in July 2014 in order to educate and empower consumers to purchase flowers and foliage from domestic producers; Whereas millions of stems of domestically grown flowers and foliage are now Certified American Grown; Whereas domestic flower and foliage farmers produce thousands of varieties of flowers and foliage across the United States, such as peonies in Alaska, Gerbera daisies in California, lupines in Maine, tulips in Washington, lilies in Oregon, larkspur in Texas, and leatherleaf in Florida; Whereas the flower and foliage varieties with the highest production in the United States are tulips, lilies, Gerbera daisies, gladiolas, leatherleaf, irises, and roses; Whereas people in every State have access to domestically grown flowers and foliage, yet only 22 percent of flowers and foliage sold in the United States are domestically grown; Whereas the domestic-cut flower and foliage industry (1) creates a substantial economic impact daily; and (2) supports hundreds of growers, thousands of small businesses, and tens of thousands of jobs in the United States; Whereas most domestic-cut flowers and foliage are sold in the United States within 24 to 48 hours after harvest and last longer than flowers shipped longer distances; Whereas flowers and foliage grown domestically enhance the ability of the people of the United States to festively celebrate weddings and births and honor those who have passed; Whereas flower and foliage giving has been a holiday tradition in the United States for generations; Whereas flowers and foliage speak to the beauty of motherhood on Mothers Day and to the spirit of love on Valentines Day; Whereas flowers and foliage help commemorate the service and sacrifice of members of the Armed Forces on Memorial Day and Veterans Day; and Whereas the Senate encourages the cultivation of flowers and foliage in the United States by domestic flower and foliage farmers: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) supports the designation of July 2023 as American Grown Flower Month (2) recognizes that purchasing flowers and foliage grown in the United States supports the farmers, small businesses, jobs, and economy of the United States; (3) recognizes that growing flowers and foliage in the United States is a vital part of the agricultural industry of the United States; (4) recognizes that cultivating flowers and foliage domestically enhances the ability of the people of the United States to festively celebrate holidays and special occasions; and (5) urges all people of the United States to proactively showcase flowers and foliage grown in the United States in order to show support for (A) the flower and foliage farmers, processors, and distributors in the United States; and (B) the agricultural industry of the United States overall.
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Expressing support for the designation of July 2023 as American Grown Flower Month.
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This resolution (1) recognizes the importance of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 in advancing independent living for individuals with disabilities; (2) pledges continued efforts to address remaining barriers for individuals with disabilities; and (3) calls on federal agencies to provide additional resources for individuals with disabilities with respect to economic self-sufficiency, community-based services, housing, telecommunication, and transportation.
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Recognizing the importance of independent living for individuals with disabilities made possible by the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and calling for further action to strengthen home and community living for individuals with disabilities. Whereas, in enacting the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 ( 42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq. historically, society has tended to isolate and segregate individuals with disabilities, and, despite some improvements, such forms of discrimination against individuals with disabilities continue to be a serious and pervasive social problem Whereas the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 recognizes the rights of individuals with disabilities to fully participate in their communities through independent living, equality of opportunity, and economic self-sufficiency; Whereas, 33 years after the date of the enactment of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and 24 years after the date of the decision of the Supreme Court of the United States in Olmstead v. L.C., 527 U.S. 581 (1999), many individuals with disabilities continue to live in segregated institutional settings because of a lack of support services in their communities; Whereas the continuation of segregated institutional settings has hindered the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in communities, schools, and workplaces, undermining the promise of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990; Whereas individuals with disabilities living in institutional and long-term care settings have endured disproportionate rates of infection and death during the COVID19 pandemic; Whereas individuals of color with disabilities have been disparately affected by the COVID19 pandemic; Whereas individuals of color with disabilities experience disproportionately greater barriers to high quality and accessible healthcare, education, and competitive integrated employment opportunities, infringing on their right to fully participate in their communities under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990; Whereas, 33 years after the date of the enactment of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (1) women with disabilities continue to regularly face barriers to reproductive healthcare, including inaccessible and inequitable services; (2) individuals with disabilities continue to face high rates of unemployment and barriers to accessible workplaces; (3) nearly a quarter of the population of individuals with disabilities live below the poverty line; (4) some telecommunication, electronic, and information technologies continue to be developed without the goal of making those technologies fully accessible for all individuals of the United States; and (5) many businesses, public and private organizations, transportation systems, and services remain inaccessible to many individuals with disabilities; Whereas the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 represents the floor, and not the ceiling, of efforts needed to dismantle barriers to full participation, equal opportunity, independent living, and economic self-sufficiency; and Whereas fulfilling the promise of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 requires individuals, families, communities, and government to work together to guarantee that individuals with disabilities have the opportunity to thrive in their communities and in their lives: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) recognizes the importance of independent living for individuals with disabilities made possible by the enactment of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 ( 42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq. (2) encourages the people of the United States to celebrate the advancement of inclusion and equality of opportunity made possible by the enactment of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990; (3) pledges to continue to work on a bipartisan basis to identify and address the remaining barriers that undermine the national goals of equality of opportunity, independent living, economic self-sufficiency, and full participation for individuals with disabilities, including by focusing on individuals with disabilities who remain segregated in institutions; (4) pledges to work with States to improve access to home- and community-based services for individuals with disabilities; (5) calls on the Department of Labor to develop policies and practices and provide technical assistance that enable individuals with disabilities to become economically self-sufficient; (6) calls on the Federal Communications Commission to provide information, resources, and technical assistance to enable individuals with disabilities to have full and equitable access to communications and telecommunications services and technologies; (7) calls on the Department of Health and Human Services to provide information, resources, and technical assistance related to home- and community-based services and to enable individuals with disabilities to live independently; (8) calls on the Department of Housing and Urban Development to provide accessible and inclusive homes and communities that increase the options available for accessible, inclusive, and equitable housing for individuals with disabilities; and (9) calls on the Department of Transportation to create accessible transit and airports and increase the hiring, promotion, and retention of individuals with disabilities in the transportation workforce.
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Recognizing the importance of independent living for individuals with disabilities made possible by the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and calling for further action to strengthen home and community living for individuals with disabilities.
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This resolution reaffirms the interest of the United States in mutually beneficial relations with Mexico based on shared interests on security, economic prosperity, and democratic values. The resolution reaffirms support for stronger economic relations with Mexico, including to strengthen the resiliency of critical supply chains in North America and the Western Hemisphere in general. The resolution expresses deep concerns about the worsening investment climate in Mexico, and calls on the President to take meaningful actions to defend U.S. economic interests in Mexico and uphold the integrity of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement. The resolution also urges the President to address the humanitarian and security crisis at the border with Mexico.
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Expressing concern about economic and security conditions in Mexico and reaffirming the interest of the United States in mutually beneficial relations with Mexico based on shared interests on security, economic prosperity, and democratic values, and for other purposes. Whereas December 12, 2022, marked the 200th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the United States and Mexico; Whereas, over the course of 200 years, the Governments and people of the United States and Mexico have developed deep cultural, economic, and diplomatic relations that have been instrumental in creating prosperity in both countries and throughout the hemisphere; Whereas, according to the United States Trade Representative and the Department of Commerce, United States goods and services trade with Mexico totaled an estimated $677,300,000,000 in 2019, and United States exports of goods and services to Mexico supported an estimated 1,200,000 jobs in 2015; Whereas, according to the 2022 United States Department of States Investment Climate Statement on Mexico, the United States is Mexicos top source of foreign direct investment with a stock of $184,900,000,000; Whereas, in 2021, the United States exported $25,000,000,000 in agriculture products to Mexico and imported $38,700,000,000 in agriculture products from Mexico; Whereas the government of President Lopez Obrador has pursued major legal and regulatory measures that pose significant risks and uncertainty to cross-border trade, including denying 14 biotechnology applications since May 2018, front-of-packing labeling requirements imposed in November 2020, unilateral certification requirements on all United States organic exports to Mexico imposed in December 2020, the December 31, 2020, Presidential Decree to phase out the use of glyphosate and genetically modified corn for human consumption, the February 2021 Electricity Industry Law, and the May 2021 Hydrocarbons Law; Whereas the government of President Lopez Obrador has suspended import permits for more than 80 energy companies, has ended permits for energy import facilities, which puts United States investment at risk, and is advancing a constitutional reform bill that would dissolve the power market in Mexico, eliminate independent regulators, and cancel contracts and permits granted to private companies; Whereas arbitrary and punitive actions against United States businesses operating in Mexico by the government of President Lopez Obrador, such as the recent shutdown of a limestone quarry owned by a United States company that is a critical component of the construction aggregates supply chain for the southeast United States, are damaging the economic relationship between the United States and Mexico, disrupting North American supply chains, and threatening to undermine the confidence of United States businesses in Mexico as a viable and predictable marketplace and destination for investment; Whereas United States law enforcement encountered over 2,378,944 migrants attempting to enter the United States illegally through the southern border with Mexico in 2022, reaching an all-time high of 251,978 encounters in December 2022, and have encountered over 156,000 migrants in January 2023; Whereas United States Border Patrol has documented a rise in the number of convicted criminals attempting to enter the United States illegally, including over 3,000 since October 2022, 12,028 in fiscal year 2022, 10,763 in fiscal year 2021, and 2,438 in fiscal year 2020; Whereas U.S. Customs and Border Protection operational statistics showed fentanyl seizures at the United States southern border increased 66.86 percent in January 2023, compared to January 2022, with over a 907 percent increase from January 2020; Whereas U.S. Customs and Border Protection has reported an approximately 207 percent increase in the amount of illicit fentanyl seized at the southwest border since fiscal year 2020, and the Drug Enforcement Administration reported the seizure of 379,000,000 potentially deadly doses of fentanyl in 2022; Whereas the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported a record of 107,000 overdose deaths in the United States in 2022, with more than 71,400 (66.5 percent) of those attributed to synthetic opioids, a substantial amount of which are illicitly produced in Mexico using precursor chemicals imported from the Peoples Republic of China and mixed or reshipped by the Sinaloa and Jalisco New Generation (CJNG) drug cartels; Whereas reports from the United States Northern Command indicate that Mexican cartels now control 30 to 35 percent of Mexican territory, with Mexicos midterm elections in June 2021 being the most violent on record driven by cartel violence and attempts to thwart the democratic process; Whereas more than 80 politicians were killed prior to the June 2021 midterm elections in Mexico, with the Mexican cartels claiming responsibility for the killings of at least 35 candidates, according to several reports; Whereas, according to the Initiative on Nonstate Armed Actors of the Brookings Institution, Mexico registered almost 34,000 murders in 2022 near an all-time high, representing 27 murders per 100,000 and primarily attributable to ties related to transnational criminal organizations, while the effective prosecution rate for homicides remains around 2 percent; Whereas, according to the Initiative on Nonstate Armed Actors, the rivalry between the Sinaloa Cartel and CJNG Cartel has violently spread to Colombia, one of the United States closest allies in the Western Hemisphere, with CJNG deploying drone-mounted bombs to seize territory and Sinaloa taking over both the legal and illegal economies of the territories in dispute; Whereas, in 2021, the government of President Obrador disbanded a select Mexican anti-narcotics unit that, for a quarter of a century, worked hand-in-hand with the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to tackle organized crime; Whereas President Obrador has spearheaded legal and regulatory measures to reduce or eliminate the independence of Mexican autonomous institutions and regulators, including the Federal Economic Competition Commission, the Federal Institute for Telecommunications, the Energy Regulatory Commission, and the National Electoral Institute; Whereas, at a March 2022 hearing of the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate, United States Northern Command Commander, General Glen D. VanHerck, testified that the largest portion of [Russian intelligence personnel] in the world is in Mexico right now they keep an eye very closely on their opportunities to have influence on U.S. opportunities and access Whereas Mexico voted in the United Nations General Assembly to condemn the Russian invasion of Ukraine, while abstaining from suspending Russia as a permanent observer of the Organization of American States and from expelling Russia from the United Nations Human Rights Council; Whereas President Obrador has increasingly turned to the Peoples Republic of China to finance controversial infrastructure projects, including the Dos Bocas Refinery and the Maya Train, while the Peoples Republic of Chinas State Power Investment Corporation (SPIC) acquired Mexican renewables power company Zuma Energy during a time when private corporations were fleeing the sector; and Whereas Mexico remains one of the worlds most dangerous countries for journalists and media workers, with 2022 marking the deadliest year on record with 19 deaths: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) reaffirms the interest of the United States in mutually beneficial relations with Mexico based on shared interests on security, economic prosperity, and democratic values; (2) reaffirms support for stronger economic relations with Mexico, including to strengthen the resiliency of critical supply chains in North America and the Western Hemisphere in general; (3) expresses deep concerns about the worsening investment climate in Mexico, and calls on the President to take meaningful actions to defend United States economic interests in Mexico and uphold the integrity of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA); (4) urges the President to address the humanitarian and security crisis at the border with Mexico by (A) establishing effective immigration controls in the United States; (B) targeting United States foreign assistance efforts to strengthen border security and migration management capacities in the region; and (C) leveraging existing bilateral extradition treaties and the Palermo Protocols to prosecute transnational criminal actors facilitating illegal migration to the United States; (5) reaffirms the urgent need for the Government of Mexico to implement a detailed and well-resourced strategy to combat the growing sophistication of transnational criminal organizations in its territory, and reduce the production and trafficking of illicit narcotics and precursor chemicals being used for the manufacture of synthetic opioids in its territory, including by (A) increasing information sharing between Mexican authorities and the DEA on seizures of fentanyl and precursor chemicals in Mexico; (B) partnering with the United States to jointly dismantle and take down clandestine labs across Mexico; and (C) prioritizing the arrest and extradition of more individuals with drug-related charges to the United States; and (6) urges the Government of Mexico to uphold its domestic and international commitments to legal, safe, and orderly immigration, uphold its obligations under the USMCA, respect the independence of autonomous regulatory institutions, and guard against the negative influence of the Peoples Republic of China and the Russian Federation in North America and the Western Hemisphere in general.
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Expressing concern about economic and security conditions in Mexico and reaffirming the interest of the United States in mutually beneficial relations with Mexico based on shared interests on security, economic prosperity, and democratic values, and for other purposes.
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This resolution designates October 4, 2023, as National Energy Appreciation Day.
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Designating October 4, 2023, as National Energy Appreciation Day to celebrate the people who work to power the United States and the economy of the United States and to build awareness of the important role that the energy producers of the United States play in reducing poverty, strengthening national security, and improving the quality of life for people around the world. Whereas energy is a vital part of daily life and has greatly improved the standard of living in the United States and around the world; Whereas the energy mix in the United States reflects an all-of-the-above energy approach, which is important for keeping energy affordable, reliable, and efficient; Whereas the efficient use of the natural resources of the United States is a key part of strengthening the national security of the United States; Whereas access to affordable, reliable energy supports economic growth and creates upward mobility; Whereas the use of advanced energy technology has greatly reduced emissions associated with energy development and use while supporting sustained economic growth alongside continued environmental improvement; Whereas the men and women who play a part in building, maintaining, and delivering access to energy should be commended for their hard work and vital role in modern life; Whereas access to energy throughout the United States has more than doubled life expectancy; Whereas access to energy has reduced the percentage of the global population living in poverty from more than 40 percent to less than 10 percent; Whereas the energy industry accounts for 7,800,000 jobs in the United States; Whereas each direct job in the oil and natural gas industry of the United States generates 3.7 jobs elsewhere in the economy of the United States, ultimately supporting 10,800,000 jobs that account for 5.4 percent of employment in the United States; Whereas Federal oil and natural gas leases for onshore and offshore development brought in more than $22,000,000,000 in revenue for the Federal Government in 2022; Whereas the United States oil and natural gas industry alone generates nearly $1,800,000,000,000 in gross domestic product per year; Whereas coal continues to serve as a reliable and affordable source of baseload power for consumers across the United States and provided 19.5 percent of the utility-scale electricity in the United States in 2022; Whereas hydroelectric power infrastructure contributes significant clean and reliable baseload power to the energy grid of the United States and vital grid flexibility with the ability to scale up or down to match fluxes in consumer demand; Whereas innovation in the nuclear energy industry of the United States has led to the annual generation capacity of about 100,000 megawatts of safe, clean, and reliable nuclear power; and Whereas renewable energy employment continues to expand, with solar jobs accounting for the largest area of growth: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) designates October 4, 2023, as National Energy Appreciation Day; and (2) encourages the Federal Government, States, localities, schools, nonprofit organizations, businesses, and the people of the United States to observe National Energy Appreciation Day with appropriate events to promote education on and celebrate the role of modern energy systems in everyday life.
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Designating October 4, 2023, as National Energy Appreciation Day to celebrate the people who work to power the United States and the economy of the United States and to build awareness of the important role that the energy producers of the United States play in reducing poverty, strengthening national security, and improving the quality of life for people around the world.
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This resolution condemns the terrorist attacks by Hamas and denounces the rhetoric of anti-Israel, pro-Hamas student groups. It also acknowledges that Israel has the right to exist and defend itself and encourages the U.S. government to fully support Israel and these rights.
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Condemning Hamas and antisemitic student activities on college campuses in the United States. Whereas, on October 7, 2023, the terrorist organization Hamas invaded Israel, massacred at least 1,400 Israeli civilians, wounded more than 3,700 civilians, and took unarmed civilians as hostages; Whereas at least 30 United States citizens have been killed, and at least 13 United States citizens are still missing; Whereas Hamas has perpetrated barbaric atrocities, including the targeted killing, rape, and mutilation of civilian men, women, and children, including infants; Whereas, in the wake of such horrific attacks, students at universities in the United States have praised and justified the actions of Hamas, expressed solidarity with the terrorists, and vocally supported the atrocities of Hamas, including the murder of children; Whereas students at Harvard University wrote that they hold the Israeli regime entirely responsible for all unfolding violence Whereas the President of the Student Bar Association of New York University School of Law wrote to express, first and foremost, my unwavering and absolute solidarity with Palestinians in their resistance against oppression toward liberation and self-determination. Israel bears full responsibility for this tremendous loss of life Whereas students at the Ohio State University praised our heroic resistance in Gaza who have shown the world yet again that the spirit of the Palestinian people cannot and will not be trampled, and that our resistance to Zionism and Western imperialism remains strong Whereas the University of North Carolina chapter of Students for Justice in Palestine claimed it is our moral obligation to be in solidarity with the dispossessed, no matter the pathway to liberation they choose to take. This includes violence Whereas the New York University chapter of Students for Justice in Palestine rejected peaceful discourse there is no peace in a colonized people living under occupation, subjugation, and apartheid Whereas the University of Virginia chapter of Students for Justice in Palestine declared that the mass murder of civilians was an unprecedented feat for the 21st century a step towards a free Palestine Whereas Columbia University was forced to close its campus to the public after an Israeli student was violently assaulted; Whereas students across the country have organized protests and vigils in solidarity with Hamas, praising the actions of the terrorist organization and chanting antisemitic slogans; and Whereas the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation has warned of increased threats in the United States by actors inspired by Hamas: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) fully and completely condemns the outrageous terrorist attacks by Hamas on the people of Israel, which resulted in the mass murder of civilians, including babies; (2) denounces the rhetoric of anti-Israel, pro-Hamas student groups as antisemitic, repugnant, and morally contemptible for sympathizing with genocidal violence against the State of Israel and risking the physical safety of Jewish Americans in the United States; (3) acknowledges that Israel has the right to exist and defend itself; (4) emphasizes that Jewish Americans have the right to safety and security in the United States; and (5) encourages the United States Government to fully and completely support Israel and its right to exist and defend itself.
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Condemning Hamas and antisemitic student activities on college campuses in the United States.
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This resolution recognizes the 102nd anniversary of the Tulsa Race Massacre of 1921. (The Tulsa Race Massacre occurred in the neighborhood of Greenwood in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The neighborhood was referred to as America's Black Wall Street. In 1921, racial violence resulted in the deaths of hundreds of Black residents and the displacement of thousands, in what came to be known as one of the worst racial attacks in U.S. history.)
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Recognizing the 102nd anniversary of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre. Whereas, in the early 20th century, de jure segregation confined the Black residents of Tulsa, Oklahoma, into the Greenwood District Black Wall Street Whereas, at the time, White supremacy and racist violence were common throughout the United States and went largely unchecked by the justice system; Whereas reports of an alleged and disputed incident on the morning of May 30, 1921, between two teenagers, a Black man and a White woman, caused the White community of Tulsa, including the Tulsa Tribune, to call for a lynching amidst a climate of White racial hostility and White resentment over Black economic success; Whereas, on May 31, 1921, a mob of armed White men descended on the Greenwood District in Tulsa and launched what is now known as the Tulsa Race Massacre Whereas Tulsa municipal and county authorities failed to take actions to calm or contain the violence, and civil and law enforcement officials deputized many White men who were participants in the violence as their agents, directly contributing to the violence through overt and often illegal acts; Whereas, over a period of 24 hours, the violence of the White mob led to the death of an estimated 300 Black residents, and over 800 reports of injuries; Whereas the White mob looted, damaged, burned, or otherwise destroyed approximately 40 square blocks of the Greenwood District, including an estimated 1,256 homes of Black residents, and virtually every other structure, including churches, schools, businesses, a hospital, and a library, leaving nearly 9,000 Black residents of Tulsa homeless and effectively wiping out tens of millions of dollars in Black prosperity and wealth in Tulsa; Whereas, in the wake of the Tulsa Race Massacre, the Governor of Oklahoma declared martial law, and units of the Oklahoma National Guard participated in the mass arrests of all or nearly all of the surviving residents of Greenwood, removing them from Greenwood to other parts of Tulsa and unlawfully detaining them in holding centers; Whereas Oklahoma local and State governments dismissed claims arising from the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre for decades, and the event was effectively erased from collective memory and history until, in 1997, the Oklahoma State Legislature finally created a commission to study the event; Whereas, on February 28, 2001, the commission issued a report that detailed, for the first time, the extent of the Tulsa Race Massacre and decades-long efforts to suppress its recollection; Whereas none of the law enforcement officials or any of the hundreds of other White mob members who participated in the violence were ever prosecuted or held accountable for the hundreds of lives lost and tens of millions of dollars of Black wealth destroyed, despite the Tulsa Race Massacre Commission confirming their roles in the Tulsa Race Massacre, nor was any compensation ever provided to the victims of the Tulsa Race Massacre or their descendants; Whereas State government and city officials not only abdicated their responsibility to rebuild and repair the Greenwood community in the wake of the violence, but actively blocked efforts to do so, contributing to continued racial disparities in Tulsa akin to those that Black people face across the United States; Whereas the pattern of violence against Black people in the United States, often at the hands of law enforcement, shows that the fight to end State-sanctioned violence against Black people continues; and Whereas this year marks the 102nd anniversary of the Tulsa Race Massacre: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) recognizes the 102nd anniversary of the Tulsa Race Massacre; (2) acknowledges the historical significance of this event as one of the largest single instances of State-sanctioned violence against Black people in the history of the United States; (3) honors the lives and legacies of the estimated 300 Black individuals who were killed during the Tulsa Race Massacre and the nearly 9,000 Black individuals who were left homeless and penniless; (4) condemns the participants of the Tulsa Race Massacre, including the White municipal officials and law enforcement who directly participated in or who aided and abetted the unlawful violence; (5) condemns past and present efforts to cover up the truth and shield the White community, and especially State and local officials, from accountability for the Tulsa Race Massacre and other instances of violence at the hands of law enforcement; (6) condemns the continued legacy of racism, including systemic racism, and White supremacy against Black people in the United States, particularly in the form of police brutality; (7) encourages education about the Tulsa Race Massacre, including the horrors of the massacre itself, the history of White supremacy that fueled the massacre, and subsequent attempts to deny or cover up the Tulsa Race Massacre, in all elementary and secondary education settings and in institutions of higher education in the United States; and (8) recognizes the commitment of Congress to acknowledge and learn from the history of racism and racial violence in the United States, including the Tulsa Race Massacre, to reverse the legacy of White supremacy and fight for racial justice.
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Recognizing the 102nd anniversary of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre.
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This resolution expresses support for the rights, freedoms, and equal treatment of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) individuals. The resolution recognizes that LGBTQ rights are human rights and protected by the laws of the United States and international treaties. Additionally, the resolution encourages the celebration of LGBTQ Pride Month in June.
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Recognizing June 2023 as LGBTQ Pride Month Whereas individuals who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (referred to in this preamble as LGBTQ (1) from all States, territories, and the District of Columbia; and (2) from all faiths, races, national origins, socioeconomic statuses, disability statuses, education levels, and political beliefs; Whereas LGBTQ individuals in the United States have made, and continue to make, vital contributions to the United States and to the world in every aspect, including in the fields of education, law, health, business, science, research, economic development, architecture, fashion, sports, government, music, film, politics, technology, literature, and civil rights; Whereas LGBTQ individuals in the United States served on the front lines during the COVID19 pandemic as doctors, nurses, medical professionals, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and first responders in all States, territories, and the District of Columbia, and continue to serve on the front lines today; Whereas the persistent failure of Federal and State officials to collect full and accurate data on sexual orientation and gender identity causes tremendous harm to LGBTQ individuals in the United States, who remain largely invisible to the government entities entrusted with ensuring their health, safety, and well-being; Whereas LGBTQ individuals in the United States serve, and have served, in the United States Army, Coast Guard, Navy, Air Force, and Marines honorably and with distinction and bravery; Whereas a decades-long Federal policy, known as the Lavender Scare Whereas an estimated number of more than 100,000 brave service members were discharged from the Armed Forces between the beginning of World War II and 2011 because of their sexual orientation, including the discharge of more than 13,000 service members under the Dont Ask, Dont Tell Whereas transgender people were banned from military service from at least 1960, and were not permitted to serve without restriction until 2021; Whereas LGBTQ individuals in the United States serve, and have served, in positions in the Federal Government and State and local governments, including as members of Congress, Cabinet Secretaries, Governors, mayors, and city council members; Whereas the demonstrators who protested on June 28, 1969, following a law enforcement raid of the Stonewall Inn, a LGBTQ club in New York City, are pioneers of the LGBTQ movement for equality; Whereas, throughout much of the history of the United States, same-sex relationships were criminalized in many States, and many LGBTQ individuals in the United States were forced to hide their LGBTQ identities while living in secrecy and fear; Whereas, on June 26, 2015, the Supreme Court of the United States ruled in Obergefell v. Hodges, 576 U.S. 644 (2015), that same-sex couples have a constitutional right to marry and acknowledged that [n]o union is more profound than marriage, for it embodies the highest ideals of love, fidelity, devotion, sacrifice, and family Whereas Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (referred to in this preamble as AIDS HIV Whereas gay and bisexual men and transgender women of color have a higher risk of contracting HIV; Whereas people living with HIV continue to face discrimination in the United States and, in certain States, may be subject to greater criminal punishment than individuals without HIV; Whereas the LGBTQ community maintains its unwavering commitment to ending the HIV and AIDS epidemic; Whereas LGBTQ individuals in the United States face disparities in employment, healthcare, education, housing, and many other areas central to the pursuit of happiness in the United States; Whereas 28 States have no explicit ban on discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in the workplace, housing, or public accommodations, and 34 States have no explicit ban on discrimination against LGBTQ individuals in education; Whereas, as a result of discrimination, LGBTQ youth are at increased risk of (1) suicide; (2) homelessness; (3) becoming victims of bullying, violence, or human trafficking; and (4) developing mental health conditions, including anxiety and depression; Whereas only 13 States and the District of Columbia have explicit policies in place to protect foster youth from discrimination based on both sexual orientation and gender identity; Whereas LGBTQ youth of color are overrepresented in child welfare and juvenile justice systems; Whereas the LGBTQ community has faced discrimination, inequality, and violence throughout the history of the United States; Whereas State legislatures across the country have introduced and passed harmful legislation specifically targeting LGBTQ youth, particularly transgender youth, and their ability to obtain access to healthcare, participate in athletic activities, and learn about race, gender, and sexuality in schools; Whereas LGBTQ individuals in the United States, in particular transgender individuals, face a disproportionately high risk of becoming victims of violent hate crimes; Whereas members of the LGBTQ community have been targeted in acts of mass violence, including (1) the Club Q nightclub shooting in Colorado Springs, Colorado, on November 19, 2022, where 5 people were killed and 25 people were wounded; (2) the Pulse nightclub shooting in Orlando, Florida, on June 12, 2016, where 49 people were killed and 53 people were wounded; and (3) the arson attack at the UpStairs Lounge in New Orleans, Louisiana, on June 24, 1973, where 32 people died; Whereas LGBTQ individuals face persecution, violence, and death in many parts of the world, including State-sponsored violence like in Uganda, where LGBTQ people live under threat of the death penalty; Whereas, in the several years preceding 2019, hundreds of LGBTQ individuals around the world were arrested and, in some cases, tortured or even executed because of their actual or perceived sexual orientation or gender identity in countries and territories such as Chechnya, Egypt, Indonesia, and Tanzania; Whereas, in May 2019, Taiwan became the first place in Asia to extend marriage rights to same-sex couples; Whereas, since June 2019, Ecuador, Northern Ireland, and Costa Rica have extended marriage rights to same-sex couples, the most recent country-wide extensions of those rights in the world; Whereas the LGBTQ community holds Pride festivals and marches in some of the most dangerous places in the world, despite threats of violence and arrest; Whereas, in 2009, President Barack Obama signed the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act Public Law 11184 Whereas LGBTQ individuals in the United States have fought for equal treatment, dignity, and respect; Whereas LGBTQ individuals in the United States have achieved significant milestones, ensuring that future generations of LGBTQ individuals in the United States will enjoy a more equal and just society; Whereas, despite being marginalized throughout the history of the United States, LGBTQ individuals in the United States continue to celebrate their identities, love, and contributions to the United States in various expressions of Pride; Whereas, in June 2020, in Bostock v. Clayton County, 140 S. Ct. 1731 (2020), the Supreme Court of the United States affirmed that existing civil rights laws prohibit employment discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity, a landmark victory for the LGBTQ community; Whereas, in December 2022, Congress enacted the Respect for Marriage Act ( Public Law 117228 Whereas LGBTQ individuals in the United States remain determined to pursue full equality, respect, and inclusion for all individuals regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) supports the rights, freedoms, and equal treatment of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (referred to in this resolution as LGBTQ (2) acknowledges that LGBTQ rights are human rights that are to be protected by the laws of the United States and numerous international treaties and conventions; (3) supports efforts to ensure the equal treatment of all individuals in the United States, regardless of sexual orientation and gender identity; (4) supports efforts to ensure that the United States remains a beacon of hope for the equal treatment of individuals around the world, including LGBTQ individuals; and (5) encourages the celebration of June as LGBTQ Pride Month (A) to learn about the discrimination and inequality that the LGBTQ community endured and continues to endure; and (B) to celebrate the contributions of the LGBTQ community throughout the history of the United States.
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Recognizing June 2023 as LGBTQ Pride Month.
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This resolution congratulates the Louisiana State University Fighting Tigers for winning the 2023 National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I Women's Basketball Tournament Championship.
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Congratulating the Louisiana State University Fighting Tigers womens basketball team for winning the 2023 National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I Womens Basketball Tournament Championship. Whereas, on Sunday, April 2, 2023, the Louisiana State University (referred to in this preamble as LSU NCAA Whereas the LSU Fighting Tigers won their first NCAA Division I Womens Basketball National Championship in LSU history; Whereas during the NCAA Championship game (1) the LSU Fighting Tigers scored 102 points, becoming the first team to score more than 100 points in a NCAA Division I womens college basketball championship game; (2) Jasmine Carson scored 21 points in the first 20 minutes to open up a 17-point lead; (3) Alexis Morris, the only starter for the LSU Fighting Tigers returning from the 20212022 season, scored 21 points and a game-high 9 assists; and (4) LaDazhia Williams scored 20 points, along with 5 rebounds and 3 steals; Whereas head coach Kim Mulkey became the third coach with 4 or more national championships in NCAA Division I womens college basketball history, and the first to win a championship as a head coach of multiple programs; Whereas the LSU Fighting Tigers finished the season with 34 wins and only 2 losses, including 15 wins and 1 loss in the Southeastern Conference (referred to in this preamble as SEC Whereas 4 LSU Fighting Tigers players earned All-SEC Season Awards, awarded only to the premier players in the SEC, including (1) Angel Reese, who earned First Team All-SEC and SEC All-Defensive Team honors; (2) Alexis Morris, who earned First Team All-SEC honors; (3) FlauJae Johnson, who earned SEC All-Freshman Team honors; and (4) SaMyah Smith, who earned SEC All-Freshman Team honors; Whereas Angel Reese was named most outstanding player of the NCAA Division I Womens Basketball Tournament Final Four; Whereas Angel Reese set an NCAA record for most double-doubles in a single season, with 34; Whereas FlauJae Johnson was named SEC Freshman of the Year, becoming the fourth in school history to achieve that recognition; Whereas the LSU Fighting Tigers demonstrated incredible teamwork and tenacity, with 9 freshman or transfer players playing in their first season for the LSU Fighting Tigers; Whereas the LSU Fighting Tigers showed incredible sportsmanship and teamwork throughout the entire season; and Whereas the LSU Fighting Tigers have made the entire State of Louisiana proud: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) congratulates the Louisiana State University Fighting Tigers for winning the 2023 National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I Womens Basketball Tournament Championship; (2) recognizes the many achievements of the coaches, players, and staff of the Louisiana State University womens basketball team; (3) recognizes the fans and the entire State of Louisiana for their dedication and support; and (4) respectfully requests that the Secretary of the Senate transmit an enrolled copy of this resolution to (A) the head coach of the Louisiana State University womens basketball team, Kim Mulkey; (B) the associate head coach, Bob Starkey; (C) assistant coach, Daphne Mitchell; (D) assistant coach, Gary Redus II; (E) the president of Louisiana State University, William F. Tate IV; and (F) the athletic director of Louisiana State University, Scott Woodward.
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Congratulating the Louisiana State University Fighting Tigers womens basketball team for winning the 2023 National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I Womens Basketball Tournament Championship.
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This resolution permits Senators to object to the consideration of a measure unless a required amount of time has passed since the measure's introduction. An objection raised on these grounds may be waived or suspended only by an affirmative vote of three-fifths of the Senators. The required amount of time is one session day for every 20 pages included in the measure plus one session day for any number of remaining pages less than 20.
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Providing for sufficient time for legislation to be read. 1. Time for reading of legislation (a) In general It shall not be in order for the Senate to consider any bill, resolution, message, conference report, amendment between the Houses, amendment, treaty, or other measure or matter until 1 session day has passed since introduction for every 20 pages included in the measure or matter in the usual form plus 1 session day for any number of remaining pages less than 20 in the usual form. (b) Point of order (1) In general Any Senator may raise a point of order that consideration of any bill, resolution, message, conference report, amendment, treaty, or other measure or matter is not in order under subsection (a). A motion to table the point of order shall not be in order. (2) Waiver Paragraph (1) may be waived or suspended only by an affirmative vote of three-fifths of the Members, duly chosen and sworn. All motions to waive under this paragraph shall be debatable collectively for not to exceed 3 hours equally divided between the Senator raising the point of order and the Senator moving to waive the point of order or their designees. A motion to waive the point of order shall not be amendable. (c) Constitutional authority This resolution is adopted pursuant to the power granted to each House of Congress to determine the Rules of its Proceedings in article I, section 5, clause 2 of the Constitution of the United States.
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Providing for sufficient time for legislation to be read.
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This resolution recognizes National Mentoring Month.
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Recognizing January 2023 as National Mentoring Month Whereas the goals of National Mentoring Month are to raise awareness of and celebrate the powerful impact of mentoring relationships, recruit new mentors, and encourage institutions to integrate quality mentoring into their policies, practices, and programs; Whereas quality mentoring fosters positive life and social skills, promotes self-esteem, bolsters academic achievement and college access, supports career exploration, and nurtures youth leadership development; Whereas mentoring happens in many settings, including community-based programs, elementary and secondary schools, institutions of higher education, government agencies, religious institutions, and the workplace, and in various ways, including formal mentoring matches and informal relationships with teachers, coaches, neighbors, faith leaders, and others; Whereas effective mentoring of underserved and vulnerable populations helps individuals confront challenges and enjoy improved mental health and social-emotional well-being; Whereas studies have shown that incorporating culture and heritage into mentoring programs can improve academic outcomes and increase community engagement, especially for Alaska Native and American Indian youth; Whereas youth development experts agree that mentoring encourages positive youth development and smart daily behaviors, such as finishing homework and having healthy social interactions, and has a positive impact on the growth and success of a young person; Whereas mentors help young people set career goals and can help connect mentees to industry professionals to train for and find jobs; Whereas mentoring programs generally have a significant, positive impact on youth academic achievement, school connectedness and engagement, and educational success, which lead to outcomes such as improved attendance, grades and test scores, and classroom behavior; Whereas research has found that young people facing a risk of not completing high school but who had a mentor were, compared with their peers, more likely to enroll in college, to participate regularly in sports or extracurricular activities, to hold a leadership position in a club or sports team, and to volunteer regularly, and less likely to start using drugs; Whereas mentoring has long been a staple of juvenile justice and violence prevention efforts, and can offer comprehensive support to youth at risk for committing violence or victimization, as mentoring can address many risk factors at once; Whereas mentoring relationships for youth facing risk, such as foster youth, can have a positive impact on a wide range of factors, including mental health, educational functioning and attainment, peer relationships, employment, and housing stability; Whereas mentoring programs have been found to positively impact many aspects of mental well-being, including reducing unhealthy coping mechanisms, improving interpersonal relationships, and reducing parental stress; Whereas mentoring is an innovative, evidence-based practice and, uniquely, is both a prevention and intervention strategy that can support young people of all demographics and backgrounds in all aspects of their lives; Whereas each of the benefits of mentors described in this preamble serves to link youth to economic and social opportunity while also strengthening communities in the United States; Whereas, despite the benefits of mentoring, one young person of every three is growing up without a mentor, which means a third of the youth of the United States are growing up without someone outside of the home to offer real life guidance and support; and Whereas this mentoring gap That the Senate (1) recognizes National Mentoring Month (2) recognizes the caring adults who serve as staff and volunteers at quality mentoring programs and help the young people of the United States find inner strength and reach their full potential; (3) acknowledges that mentoring supports educational achievement, engagement, and self-confidence, supports young people in setting career goals and expanding social capital, reduces juvenile delinquency, and strengthens communities; (4) promotes the establishment and expansion of quality mentoring programs across the United States to equip young people with the tools needed to lead healthy and productive lives; and (5) supports initiatives to close the mentoring gap
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Recognizing January 2023 as National Mentoring Month.
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This resolution recognizes the 10th anniversary of the USA Rice-Ducks Unlimited Rice Stewardship Partnership and the contributions of Ducks Unlimited and USA Rice to environmental stewardship.
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Recognizing the 10th anniversary of the USA Rice-Ducks Unlimited Rice Stewardship Partnership. Whereas the USA Rice-Ducks Unlimited Rice Stewardship Partnership (referred to in this preamble as the Rice Stewardship Partnership Whereas the Rice Stewardship Partnership is a unique collaboration between an agricultural commodity group and a conservation organization that has led to historic outcomes for both United States rice farmers and migratory shorebirds and waterfowl, namely ducks; Whereas, since its inception, the Rice Stewardship Partnership has beneficially impacted more than 800,000 acres of rice and rice rotation lands on more than 1,000 farms, primarily through the Regional Conservation Partnership Program of the Department of Agriculture; Whereas additional conservation funding has been provided to United States rice farmers to conduct on-the-ground conservation efforts, contributing exponentially to the environment; and Whereas the work of Ducks Unlimited and USA Rice, along with tremendous support from more than 100 partners and the Natural Resources Conservation Service of the Department of Agriculture, has made the Rice Stewardship Partnership possible: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate recognizes (1) the contributions of Ducks Unlimited and USA Rice to environmental stewardship for rice farmers, conservationists, and duck hunters alike; and (2) the 10th anniversary of the USA Rice-Ducks Unlimited Rice Stewardship Partnership.
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Recognizing the 10th anniversary of the USA Rice-Ducks Unlimited Rice Stewardship Partnership.
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This resolution authorizes the Sergeant at Arms and Doorkeeper of the Senate to conduct a blood donation drive on March 30, 2023, in conjunction with the American Red Cross.
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Authorizing the Sergeant at Arms and Doorkeeper of the Senate to conduct a blood donation drive on March 30, 2023. 1. Senate blood donation drive on March 30, 2023 (a) Authorization In addition to blood donation drives conducted under Senate Resolution 78 (118th Congress), agreed to February 16, 2023, the Sergeant at Arms and Doorkeeper of the Senate, in conjunction with the American Red Cross, is authorized to conduct a blood donation drive from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on March 30, 2023, in room 902 of the Philip A. Hart Senate Office Building. (b) Implementation Physical preparations for the conduct of, and the implementation of, the blood donation drive authorized under subsection (a) shall be carried out in accordance with such conditions as the Sergeant at Arms and Doorkeeper of the Senate, in consultation with the Committee on Rules and Administration of the Senate, may prescribe.
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Authorizing the Sergeant at Arms and Doorkeeper of the Senate to conduct a blood donation drive on March 30, 2023.
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This resolution designates the week of April 23-April 29, 2023, as National Water Week.
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Designating the week of April 23 through April 29, 2023, as National Water Week Whereas each community in the United States, both large and small, and urban, rural, and Tribal, deserves to have access to affordable, safe, and clean drinking water, sanitation, and other critical water infrastructure; Whereas more than 2,000,000 people in the United States lack access to running water, indoor plumbing, or wastewater services; Whereas small, rural, and disadvantaged community water systems struggle to make needed investments while keeping rates affordable; Whereas Federal investment in core drinking water, wastewater, stormwater capture, sustainable desalination, and water recycling programs allow local utilities and the customers of those local utilities to have the resources to affordably improve in water reliability and meet Federal regulatory obligations; Whereas source control is a critical first step to reducing emerging contaminants from entering water systems and the environment, along with advancing the state of the science on the risks of those contaminants, which is essential to protect public health; Whereas water infrastructure projects often rely on specific products and technologies, and substitutions may not be readily available, so it is critical to consider the realities unique to the water sector, and the near-term challenges that water infrastructure projects face; Whereas countless disadvantaged communities in the United States struggle to make needed investments in critical water infrastructure while simultaneously keeping rates affordable; Whereas water research helps solve some of the most pressing challenges for the water sector, such as (1) aging infrastructure; (2) emerging contaminants; (3) resiliency to extreme weather; (4) drought and water scarcity; and (5) significant shifts in population; Whereas research and development aimed at finding cost-effective solutions to the most pressing challenges for the water sector (1) create more resilient and effective water systems; (2) create new jobs and support thriving communities nationwide; and (3) result in improved public health and safety and promote equitable solutions throughout the United States; and Whereas Congress and the executive branch should assist water utilities to ensure that those communities can continue to fulfill their core mission of protecting public health and the environment while supporting local economic growth by addressing challenges related to (1) managing aging water infrastructure, and escalating operation and maintenance costs, supply chain disruptions, and workforce shortages; (2) addressing growing water quality impairments and regulations from emerging contaminants and nutrients; and (3) ensuring proper climate adaptation, system resiliency, and security measures are in place: Now, therefore, be it That Congress hereby designates the week of April 23 through April 29, 2023, as National Water Week
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Designating the week of April 23 through April 29, 2023, as National Water Week.
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This resolution supports the designation of National Adult Hepatitis B Vaccination Awareness Day.
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Expressing support for the designation of April 30, 2023, as National Adult Hepatitis B Vaccination Awareness Day Whereas up to 2,400,000 individuals in the United States are chronically infected with hepatitis B, and up to 2/3 Whereas hepatitis B is a viral infection of the liver transmitted via infected blood and other bodily fluids, including through mother-to-child transmission and injection drug use; Whereas hepatitis B is associated with significant disparities among communities of color (including Asian Americans, Pacific Islanders, and African immigrants), sexual and gender minority communities, and those affected by the opioid crisis; Whereas individuals with chronic diseases, such as diabetes, HIV, hepatitis C, and chronic liver disease, and individuals on hemodialysis are at an increased risk for hepatitis B co-infection; Whereas there is no cure for hepatitis B, and individuals with chronic hepatitis B require lifelong medical care; Whereas chronic hepatitis B represents 1 of the most common causes of liver cancer; Whereas 1 in every 4 individuals with unmanaged chronic hepatitis B will develop liver cancer, cirrhosis, or liver failure, with liver cancer having a 5-year survival rate of only 18 percent in the United States; Whereas safe and highly effective vaccines to protect against hepatitis B are available; Whereas, in accordance with universal childhood hepatitis B vaccination recommendations in the United States, infants and children have been routinely vaccinated against hepatitis B since the 1990s; Whereas all adults between 19 and 59 years of age, and adults 60 and older who have hepatitis B risk factors, are recommended to be vaccinated against hepatitis B; Whereas the hepatitis B vaccine, which is 95 percent effective and was the first anticancer vaccine to be developed, is projected to have prevented 310,000,000 cases of hepatitis B worldwide from 1990 to 2020; Whereas only 30 percent of adults in the United States are vaccinated against hepatitis B; Whereas the number of reported acute hepatitis B cases increased by 11 percent nationwide from 2014 to 2018; Whereas, as a result of the drug use epidemic, there have been significant regional increases in acute hepatitis B cases in the United States, including (1) a reported 489 percent increase from 2015 to 2016 in Maine; (2) a reported 114 percent increase from 2009 to 2013 in Kentucky, West Virginia, and Tennessee; (3) a reported 78 percent increase in 2017 in southeastern Massachusetts; and (4) a reported 56 percent increase from 2014 to 2016 in North Carolina; Whereas 36 percent of new hepatitis B cases are among individuals who inject drugs; Whereas, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, hepatitis B is 50 to 100 times more infectious than HIV and 5 to 10 times more infectious than hepatitis C; and Whereas there are significant opportunities, particularly with respect to the drug use epidemic, to prevent new hepatitis B infections and thereby reduce the incidence of liver cancer and cirrhosis through efforts to (1) increase adult hepatitis B vaccination; and (2) maintain childhood hepatitis B vaccination: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) supports the designation of April 30, 2023, as National Adult Hepatitis B Vaccination Awareness Day (2) recognizes the importance of providing support and encouragement (A) for all adults to be tested for hepatitis B at least once in their lifetime in accordance with recommendations; (B) for individuals susceptible to infection to be vaccinated against hepatitis B; and (C) for individuals diagnosed with hepatitis B to be linked to appropriate care; and (3) in order to reduce the number of new hepatitis B infections and hepatitis B-related deaths, encourages a commitment to (A) increasing adult hepatitis B vaccination rates; (B) maintaining childhood hepatitis B vaccination rates; and (C) promoting provider and community awareness of adult hepatitis B vaccination.
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Expressing support for the designation of April 30, 2023, as National Adult Hepatitis B Vaccination Awareness Day.
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This resolution recognizes that Congress may not modify a resolution to amend the Constitution once it is submitted to the states for ratification or after its ratification deadline expires. The resolution further recognizes that the deadline for the Equal Rights Amendment expired, and so that amendment may not become part of the Constitution unless Congress reinitiates the entire amendment process outlined in Article V of the Constitution. The Equal Rights Amendment guarantees equal rights and equality under the law regardless of sex. Congress approved it for ratification by the states in 1972, but only 35 states ratified it (out of the 38 needed) before the statutory deadline expired in 1982. However, an additional three states ratified it after the deadline.
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Recognizing the expiration of the Equal Rights Amendment proposed by Congress in March 1972, and observing that Congress has no authority to modify a resolution proposing a constitutional amendment after the amendment has been submitted to the States or after the amendment has expired. Whereas article V of the Constitution of the United States gives two-thirds of the Senate and two-thirds of the House of Representatives the power to propose constitutional amendments and their mode of ratification by the States; Whereas the Supreme Court of the United States in Dillon v. Gloss, 256 U.S. 368 (1921) unanimously held that Congress may, in proposing a constitutional amendment, incorporate a definite period for ratification [that] shall be fixed, so that all may know what it is and speculation on what is a reasonable time may be avoided Whereas the Supreme Court in the Dillon v. Gloss decision held that whether Congress uses its power to include such a definite Whereas House Joint Resolution 208, 92nd Congress, referred to in this resolution as the Equal Rights Amendment Resolution Equal Rights Amendment Whereas, in Illinois v. Ferriero, No. 215096 (D.C. Cir. 2023), a unanimous ruling issued on February 28, 2023, the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit rejected the claim of the Attorneys General of Illinois and Nevada that a deadline in a proposing clause is not effective, with the court calling that claim unpersuasive if that were the case, then the specification of the mode of ratification in every amendment in our Nation's history would also be inoperative Whereas, in the same unanimous ruling, the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit noted that the Supreme Court has affirmed the authority of Congress to set a binding ratification deadline, and the court of appeals refused to order the Archivist to certify the Equal Rights Amendment as part of the Constitution and dismissed the lawsuit brought by Illinois and Nevada; Whereas Representative Martha Griffiths, the sponsor of the Equal Rights Amendment Resolution, said in 1971, speaking of the deadline for the Equal Rights Amendment, I think it is perfectly proper to have the 7-year statute so that it should not be hanging over our heads forever. Whereas, under article V of the Constitution, a proposed amendment does not become part of the Constitution unless it is either ratified by the Legislatures of three fourths of the several States, or by Conventions in three fourths thereof Whereas only 35 States ratified the Equal Rights Amendment before its 7-year deadline, resulting in fewer than the 38 State ratifications necessary for adoption under article V of the Constitution; Whereas, before the original deadline for the Equal Rights Amendment expired, 4 of the 35 States that voted to ratify voted to rescind their ratifications; Whereas Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg in 2020 observed, when explaining why she thought the Equal Rights Amendment needed to start over, If you count a latecomer on the plus side, how can you disregard States that said weve changed our minds? Whereas, in Idaho v. Freeman, 529 F. Supp. 1107 (D. Idaho 1981), Judge Marion Callister of the United States District Court for the District of Idaho held that article V of the Constitution did not permit Congress to extend a ratification deadline, writing, Once the proposal has been formulated and sent to the States, the time period could not be changed any more than the entity designated to ratify could be changed from the State legislature to a State convention or vice versa. Once the proposal is made, Congress is not at liberty to change it. Whereas, on March 5, 2021, Judge Rudolph Contreras of the United States District Court for the District of Columbia held in Virginia v. Ferriero, 525 F. Supp. 3d 36 (2021) that the deadline contained in the Equal Rights Amendment Resolution was constitutionally valid and that the legislative actions of 3 State legislatures in 2017 through 2020, purporting to ratify the Equal Rights Amendment, came too late to count Whereas Judge Contreras noted, Inclusion of a deadline was a compromise that helped Congress successfully propose the ERA where previous attempts to pass a proposal had failed. Whereas, while Judge Contreras found it unnecessary to reach the question of whether Congress could retroactively alter a deadline, he did observe that the effect of a ratification deadline is not the kind of question that ought to vary from political moment to political moment Yet leaving the efficacy of ratification deadlines up to the political branches would do just that. Whereas, on January 6, 2020, the Department of Justice Office of Legal Counsel issued a legal opinion stating, We do not believe, however, that Congress in 2020 may change the terms upon which the 1972 Congress proposed the ERA for the States consideration. Article V does not expressly or implicitly grant Congress such authority. To the contrary, the text contemplates no role for Congress in the ratification process after it proposes an amendment. Moreover, such a congressional power finds no support in Supreme Court precedent. Whereas the 2020 Office of Legal Counsel opinion also observed, Because Congress and the State legislatures are distinct actors in the constitutional amendment process, the 116th Congress may not revise the terms under which two-thirds of both Houses proposed the ERA Resolution and under which 35 State legislatures initially ratified it. Such an action by this Congress would seem tantamount to asking the 116th Congress to override a veto that President Carter had returned during the 92nd Congress, a power this Congress plainly does not have. Whereas in oral argument before the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit in the Virginia v. Ferriero case on September 28, 2022, Judge Robert Wilkins of that Court asked Deputy Assistant Attorney General Sarah Harrington, Why shouldnt the Archivist just certify and publish [the Equal Rights Amendment] and let Congress decide whether the deadline should be enforced ? That the Senate (1) recognizes that, under article V of the Constitution, the legitimate constitutional role of Congress in the constitutional amendment process for the Equal Rights Amendment ended when Congress proposed and submitted the Equal Rights Amendment to the States on March 22, 1972; (2) recognizes that the Equal Rights Amendment expired when its ratification deadline passed with fewer than three-fourths of the States ratifying; (3) recognizes that Congress has no power to modify a resolution proposing a constitutional amendment after the amendment has been submitted to the States, or after the amendment has expired; and (4) recognizes that the only legitimate way for the Equal Rights Amendment to become part of the Constitution is provided in article V of the Constitution, and requires reintroduction of the same or modified language addressing the same subject, through approval of a new joint resolution by the required two-thirds votes in each house of Congress.
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Recognizing the expiration of the Equal Rights Amendment proposed by Congress in March 1972, and observing that Congress has no authority to modify a resolution proposing a constitutional amendment after the amendment has been submitted to the States or after the amendment has expired.
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This resolution commends and expresses solidarity with environmental defenders. Condemning the targeting, harassment, and unlawful detention of any individual or group for exercising rights of free association and expression, the resolution recognizes the role that environmental defenders play as human rights defenders.
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Highlighting the risks that environmental defenders face around the world and commending their role in defending human rights, combating climate chaos, and supporting a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment. Whereas, around the world, environmental defendersindividuals exercising their human rights to try to peacefully protect an area or the natural resources of such area from negative environmental impact by an ongoing or proposed activityface persecution from government, private sector, and criminal actors, including restrictions on free speech and assembly, criminalization, civil lawsuits, surveillance, harassment, verbal, cyber, and physical intimidation, sexual assault, and targeted murder; Whereas at least 1,733 environmental defenders have been reported killed since 2012, with at least 200 killed in 2021; Whereas at least 1,179 environmental defenders have been reported killed in Latin America and the Caribbean since 2012, making it the region with the highest number of environmental defender deaths and persecution overall, exemplified by the cases of (1) Homero Gmez Gonzlez, who was forcibly disappeared and found dead in Mexico with reported signs of torture after fighting to protect the wintering grounds of the monarch butterfly from illegal logging; (2) Bruno Pereira, an advocate for the Indigenous Peoples of Brazils Amazon, who received threats and was murdered for standing up to illegal logging, mining, and drug trafficking; (3) Berta Cceres, a Lenca Indigenous woman, whose murder was ordered by the Honduran company, Desarrollos Energticos SA, for organizing protests that led to the cancellation of the proposed Agua Zarca Dam; and (4) the Qeqchi Mayan Indigenous community, which faces defamation, violent evictions, harassment, and assault by the Guatemalan National Civil Police Force for peacefully protesting the operations of the Fnix mine and growth of palm plantations on their territory; Whereas at least 427 environmental defenders have been reported killed in Asia since 2012, and governments in the region have also targeted environmental defenders in other manners, including (1) the Government of Vietnam, which has sought to silence environmental activist Dang Dinh Bach through imprisonment; (2) the Government of the Philippines, which has enacted red-tagging campaigns to turn public sentiment against organizations like the Kalikasan Peoples Network for the Environment; and (3) the Government of the People's Republic of China, which has falsely charged environmental activists Li Genshan, Zhang Baoqi, and Niu Haibo for illegally hunting or killing wildlife; Whereas the Government of Egypt hosted the 27th Conference of Parties (COP) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, while government security forces held environmental activists Ahmed Amasha and Seif Fateen in extended, arbitrary pretrial detention for joining a terrorist group after forcibly disappearing and torturing them for exercising their rights to free expression; Whereas Ali Ulvi Byknohutu and Aysin Byknohutu of Turkye won lawsuits against mining companies who illegally operated pollution-creating quarries, but were shot and killed by gunmen with alleged ties to those companies; Whereas fossil fuel companies, mining operations, agribusiness plantations, and mega dams are major causes of environmental destruction and are also being used to drive communities from their homes and their lands; Whereas rampant corruption and weak rule of law enables those targeting environmental defenders to operate with impunity; and Whereas civil society is, and should be, a powerful voice for individuals experiencing and at risk from the effects of worsening climate chaos, including Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral rights, lives, traditional lands, and cultural practices are disproportionately threatened by climate chaos: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) commends and expresses solidarity with environmental defenders as crucial members of civil society who defend both human rights and the environment and play a crucial role in tackling climate chaos; (2) strongly condemns the targeting, harassment, and unlawful detention of any individual or group for exercising their rights of free association and expression, including advocacy on environmental matters, reporting and seeking information on environmental violations and abuses, or cooperation with local, regional, national, or international mechanisms; (3) welcomes the relevant principles of the Rio Declaration on Environment and Development, done at Rio de Janeiro 1992, and United Nations Human Rights Council Resolution A/HRC/RES/40/11 (2019) as global advancements in recognizing the crucial role that environmental defenders play as human rights defenders; (4) welcomes the relevant principles of United Nations General Assembly Resolution A/RES/76/300 (2022) as advancing the global conversation towards the importance of a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment as an international human right; (5) welcomes the United States Governments assertion during its time as Summit Chair of the Ninth Summit of the Americas that environmental defenders should not be denied access to basic environmental information, public participation in proposed projects that would affect their communities, or justice as they seek legal redress from government authorities; (6) urges the United States Government to consult and cooperate in good faith with Indigenous Peoples who are concerned with the environment in order to obtain the free, prior, and informed consent of such Indigenous Peoples, without coercion, prior to the approval of any project affecting the lands, territories, religious practices, or other natural and cultural resources of such Indigenous Peoples; (7) welcomes the work of the Department of State-led Interagency Working Group, which invites more than 1000 officials across more than 20 Federal agencies, to reduce violence against environmental defenders and to properly monitor and address the expanding nature and cases of persecution against environmental defenders; (8) calls for the President to prioritize the global leadership of the United States in tackling reprisals against environmental defenders through a whole-of-government approach in collaboration with foreign governments, multilateral organizations, and civil society organizations; (9) urges the Department of State to integrate concerns about environmental defenders in all appropriate engagements to exert diplomatic pressure and speak out publicly in countries where environmental defenders are at risk; (10) requests that the Department of State establish a position focused on environmental defenders within the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor; (11) requests that the United States Agency for International Development prioritize the finalization of an independent accountability mechanism and the establishment of a position to integrate protection of environmental defenders across broader environmental, economic growth, and human rights and democracy programming in order to better achieve its 20222030 Climate Strategy, which seeks to promote a safe and secure political environment at all levels of governance for Indigenous Peoples, human rights and environmental defenders, and local communities to participate in climate actions and the protection of civil society and environmental defenders, including land and resource rights for effective climate outcomes; (12) encourages the United States International Development Finance Corporation to improve transparency through its independent accountability mechanism, conduct due diligence with partners, and engage in local consultation processes based on free, prior, and informed consent; (13) encourages the United States Government to use its voice and vote within international financial institutions to ensure that United States taxpayer dollars do not support individuals, foreign governments, or private sector entities that adversely affect the environment or target or expose to harm persons who speak out against such individuals and entities; (14) encourages the United States to use its leadership in the United Nations Human Rights Council to ensure that the intergovernmental working group on transnational corporations and other business enterprises with respect to human rights that was adopted by United Nations Human Rights Council Resolution A/HRC/RES/26/9 (2014), creates an internationally legally binding instrument that supports and protects human rights defenders, including environmental defenders; (15) calls for responsible conduct of United States companies, financial institutions, and investors in relation to the freedoms and rights of Indigenous communities and other environmental defenders, particularly in the agribusiness, fossil fuel, mining, and hydroelectricity sectors; and (16) calls for the United States to use its influence as a member of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change to push for the Conference of Parties to only take place in countries that have and actively encourage a thriving civil society and have taken concrete actions to tackle climate chaos, which stands in contrast to the selection of Egypt and the United Arab Emirates who were selected as hosts in 2022 and 2023, respectively.
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Highlighting the risks that environmental defenders face around the world and commending their role in defending human rights, combating climate chaos, and supporting a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment.
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This resolution congratulates the National Treasury Employees Union on its 85th anniversary.
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Congratulating the National Treasury Employees Union on its 85th anniversary and commending the dedication shown Federal employees and continued service provided by the National Treasury Employees Union and the members of the National Treasury Employees Union. Whereas, in 1938, a group of employees in Wisconsin banded together to eliminate political influence in the jobs of those employees as revenue collectors, marking the beginning of the National Treasury Employees Union (referred to in this preamble as NTEU Whereas that group persisted for 14 years and finally won civil service protections, leading to the establishment of the professional workforce at the Internal Revenue Service that exists today; Whereas, in 1972, NTEU signed the first negotiated bargaining agreement of NTEU, which developed a shared set of responsibilities for managers and bargaining unit employees that were designed to improve the workforce and achieve the mission of the Internal Revenue Service; Whereas, since that initial agreement, NTEU has promoted new and innovative workplace policies that benefit Federal employees and agencies, such as alternative work schedules and telework policies; Whereas NTEU (1) serves as a powerful voice for the members of NTEU and for Federal employees in general; (2) has successfully sought to promote and defend Federal service as a noble calling involving a variety of challenging and rewarding professions; and (3) has fought tirelessly to ensure that Federal employees are free from discrimination, politicization, and retaliation for disclosing Federal Government waste, fraud, and abuse; Whereas the work of NTEU and the knowledge and skills of the highly trained individuals represented by NTEU who work for the Federal Government contribute significantly to the greatness and prosperity of the United States; Whereas NTEU has grown to represent approximately 150,000 employees from 34 different Federal agencies, and the members of NTEU, among other things (1) collect the revenue that funds the Federal Government; (2) help protect the borders of the United States; (3) ensure that individuals in the United States have clean air and water; (4) protect consumers, investors, bank depositors, and agriculture commodity traders; (5) serve the beneficiaries of important health and social programs and ensure the safety of food and drugs in the United States; and (6) protect and preserve the national parks and public lands of the United States; Whereas the mission of NTEU, to help create workplaces in which every Federal employee is treated with dignity and respect, has been met by the efforts of NTEU to (1) advocate for fair pay and benefits; (2) negotiate for work-life balance initiatives; and (3) ensure a merit-based, nonpartisan civil service; Whereas, whether advocating on Capitol Hill, at the bargaining table, or in workplaces across the United States, NTEU continues to make history through its accomplishments; and Whereas, in 2023, NTEU is celebrating its 85th anniversary: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) congratulates the National Treasury Employees Union on its 85th anniversary; and (2) commends (A) the work of the National Treasury Employees Union; and (B) the members of the National Treasury Employees Union for their outstanding contributions to the United States.
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Congratulating the National Treasury Employees Union on its 85th anniversary and commending the dedication shown Federal employees and continued service provided by the National Treasury Employees Union and the members of the National Treasury Employees Union.
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This resolution supports the designation of October 1 through October 7, 2023, as National 4–H Week and recognizes the important role of 4–H in youth development and education.
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Expressing support for the designation of October 1 through October 7, 2023, as National 4H Week Whereas 4H is the largest youth development organization in the United States, supporting nearly 6,000,000 young people across the country; Whereas 4H helps young people become confident, independent, resilient, and compassionate leaders; Whereas 4H is delivered by the Cooperative Extension System, a community of more than 110 land-grant universities across the United States that provides experiences for young people to learn through hands-on projects in the important areas of health, science, agriculture, and civic engagement; Whereas the National Institute of Food and Agriculture of the Department of Agriculture serves as the Federal partner of 4H in collaboration with land-grant universities, the Cooperative Extension System, and the National 4H Council; Whereas National 4H Week showcases the incredible ways that 4H provides opportunities for all young people and highlights the remarkable members of 4H in all 50 States and across the globe who work each day to make a positive impact on other individuals; Whereas the 4H network of nearly 600,000 volunteers and 3,500 professionals provides caring and supportive mentoring to all members of 4H, helping members to grow into true leaders, entrepreneurs, and visionaries; and Whereas members of 4H will celebrate National 4H Week That the Senate (1) supports the designation of October 1 through 7, 2023, as National 4H Week (2) recognizes the important role of 4H in youth development and education; and (3) encourages all citizens to recognize 4H for the significant impact the organization and members have made and continue to make by empowering young people with the skills needed to lead for a lifetime.
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Expressing support for the designation of October 1 through October 7, 2023, as National 4H Week.
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This resolution permits Senators to object to the consideration of any measure unless the cost estimate and text of the measure has been available for a minimum amount of time. Specifically, Senators may object to consideration of a measure if the cost estimate produced by the Congressional Budget Office for the exact text of the measure has not been available for at least 24 hours. An objection raised on these grounds may be waived or suspended by an affirmative vote of two-thirds of the Senate. The resolution further permits an objection to the consideration of any measure that has not been publicly available in electronic form for the mandatory minimum review period. This period is the greater of (1) the number of minutes that are equal to two times the number of pages in the measure, or (2) 72 hours, as calculated from the time the measure is made publicly available. The resolution also requires Senators to certify that they have read each measure prior to voting on it.
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Amending the Standing Rules of the Senate to prohibit the consideration of legislation in the Senate unless the text of the legislation that will be considered has been made publicly available in electronic form for a mandatory minimum review period. 1. Prohibiting consideration of text of legislation until completion of mandatory minimum review period (a) In general Rule XII of the Standing Rules of the Senate is amended by adding at the end the following: (5) (a) It shall not be in order to consider a bill, joint resolution, resolution, or conference report unless the text of the bill, joint resolution, resolution, or conference report to be considered has been publicly available in electronic form for the mandatory minimum review period. (b) Each Senator shall self certify that the Senator has read a bill, joint resolution, resolution, or conference report before voting on the bill, joint resolution, resolution, or conference report. (c) In this paragraph, the term mandatory minimum review period (i) the period (I) beginning on the first hour after the text of the bill, joint resolution, resolution, or conference report to be considered is first made publicly available in electronic form; and (II) that consists of a number of minutes equal to 2 times the number of pages of the text of the bill, joint resolution, resolution, or conference report to be considered; and (ii) 72 hours after the text of the bill, joint resolution, resolution, or conference report to be considered is first made publicly available in electronic form. . (b) Technical and conforming amendments The Standing Rules of the Senate is amended (1) in paragraph 1 of rule VIII, by inserting the text of which has been available for the mandatory minimum review period, as defined in paragraph 5 of rule XII, and bills and resolutions (2) in rule XIV (A) in paragraph 3, by striking on that day before the expiration of the mandatory minimum review period, as defined in paragraph 5 of rule XII, (B) in paragraph 6, by striking one day for the mandatory minimum review period, as defined in paragraph 5 of rule XII, (3) in paragraph 5 of rule XVII, by striking two calendar days (excluding Sundays and legal holidays the mandatory minimum review period, as defined in paragraph 5 of rule XII, (4) in paragraph 5 of rule XXVIII, by striking shall be immediately put shall be put after the expiration of the mandatory minimum review period, as defined in paragraph 5 of rule XII 2. CBO cost estimate (a) Point of order It shall not be in order in the Senate to consider any bill, joint resolution, motion, amendment, amendment between the Houses, or conference report unless a cost estimate under section 402(1) of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 ( 2 U.S.C. 653(1) (b) Waiver and appeal Subsection (a) may be waived or suspended in the Senate only by an affirmative vote of two-thirds of the Members, duly chosen and sworn. An affirmative vote of two-thirds of the Members of the Senate, duly chosen and sworn, shall be required to sustain an appeal of the ruling of the Chair on a point of order raised under subsection (a).
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Amending the Standing Rules of the Senate to prohibit the consideration of legislation in the Senate unless the text of the legislation that will be considered has been made publicly available in electronic form for a mandatory minimum review period.
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This resolution expresses the sense of the Senate that Canada should not allow construction of a nuclear waste repository within the Great Lakes Basin. It also states that the President and the Department of State should work with Canada to prevent such construction and craft a long-term solution for nuclear waste storage that does not threaten the Great Lakes.
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Expressing the sense of the Senate that the President and the Secretary of State should ensure that the Government of Canada does not permanently store nuclear waste in the Great Lakes Basin. Whereas the water resources of the Great Lakes Basin are precious public natural resources shared by the Great Lakes States and the Provinces of Canada; Whereas, since 1909, the United States and Canada have worked to maintain and improve the water quality of the Great Lakes through water quality agreements; Whereas more than 40,000,000 individuals in Canada and the United States depend on the fresh water from the Great Lakes for drinking water; Whereas the Government of Canada is proposing to build a permanent deep geological repository for high-level nuclear waste in the Great Lakes Basin; Whereas the Nuclear Waste Management Organization of Canada is examining building a permanent deep geological repository for nuclear waste in the Great Lakes Basin, less than 40 miles from Lake Huron in South Bruce, Ontario, Canada; Whereas nuclear waste is highly toxic and can take tens of thousands of years to decompose to safe levels; Whereas a spill of nuclear waste into the Great Lakes, including during transit to a permanent deep geological repository for nuclear waste, could have lasting and severely adverse environmental, health, and economic impacts on the Great Lakes and the individuals who depend on the Great Lakes for their livelihoods; Whereas more than 232 State, Tribal, county, and local governments have passed resolutions in opposition to the formerly proposed nuclear waste repository of Ontario Power Generation; Whereas Tribes and First Nations citizens have a strong spiritual and cultural connection to the Great Lakes; Whereas the Saugeen Ojibway Nation exercised its Aboriginal and treaty rights by voting against Ontario Power Generation building a permanent nuclear waste repository in Kincardine, Ontario; Whereas the protection of the Great Lakes is fundamental to treaty rights; and Whereas, during the 1980s, when the Department of Energy was studying potential sites for a permanent nuclear waste repository in the United States in accordance with the Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1982 ( 42 U.S.C. 10101 et seq. That it is the sense of the Senate that (1) the Government of Canada should not allow a permanent nuclear waste repository to be built within the Great Lakes Basin; (2) the President and the Secretary of State should take appropriate action to work with the Government of Canada to prevent a permanent nuclear waste repository from being built within the Great Lakes Basin; and (3) the President and the Secretary of State should work together with their counterparts in the Government of Canada on a solution for the long-term storage of nuclear waste that (A) is safe and responsible; and (B) does not pose a threat to the Great Lakes.
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Expressing the sense of the Senate that the President and the Secretary of State should ensure that the Government of Canada does not permanently store nuclear waste in the Great Lakes Basin.
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This resolution designates National Hospice and Palliative Care Month. It also encourages individuals to increase their understanding and awareness of care at the end of life.
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Designating November 2023 as National Hospice and Palliative Care Month Whereas palliative care and hospice services (1) can empower individuals to live as fully as possible, surrounded and supported by family and loved ones, despite serious illnesses or injuries; and (2) are critical parts of the continuum of supports and services that individuals with serious illness and their families need; Whereas ensuring access to palliative care and hospice for all individuals in the United States who are in need, regardless of age, race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status, is important; Whereas palliative care and hospice aims to bring patients and family caregivers high-quality care delivered by an interdisciplinary team of skilled health care professionals, including (1) physicians; (2) nurses; (3) social workers; (4) therapists; (5) counselors; (6) health aides; (7) spiritual care providers; and (8) other health care professionals; Whereas there is a need to increase training opportunities for health care professionals to receive interdisciplinary team-based training in palliative care and hospice; Whereas hospice focuses on quality of life through pain management and symptom control, caregiver assistance, and emotional and spiritual support, with the goal of allowing patients to live fully until the end of life, surrounded and supported by loved ones, friends, and caregivers; Whereas trained palliative care and hospice professionals, during a time of trauma and loss, can provide grief and bereavement support services to individuals with a serious illness or injury, the family members of those individuals, and others; Whereas palliative care is a patient and family-centered approach to care that (1) provides relief from symptoms and stress; (2) can be complementary to curative treatments; and (3) improves the quality of life of patients and their families; Whereas, in 2021, more than 1,700,000 individuals in the United States living with a serious illness or injury, and the families of those individuals, received care and support from more than 5,350 hospice providers in communities across the United States; Whereas volunteers continue to play a vital role in supporting hospice care and operations; and Whereas palliative care and hospice providers encourage all patients to learn more about their options for care and to share their preferences with family, loved ones, and health care professionals: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) designates November 2023 as National Hospice and Palliative Care Month (2) encourages the people of the United States (A) to increase their understanding and awareness of (i) care for hospice patients with a serious illness or injury; (ii) the benefits of integrating palliative care early into the treatment plans for patients with a serious illness or injury; and (iii) the importance of grief support for caregivers and loved ones during hospice care and after death; (B) to recognize the care and dedication of (i) millions of family caregivers; and (ii) tens of thousands of palliative care and hospice staff and volunteers; and (C) to observe National Hospice and Palliative Care Month
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Designating November 2023 as National Hospice and Palliative Care Month.
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This resolution designates Maternal Health Awareness Day.
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Designating January 23, 2023, as Maternal Health Awareness Day Whereas, each year in the United States, approximately 700 individuals die as a result of complications related to pregnancy and childbirth; Whereas the pregnancy-related mortality ratio, defined as the number of pregnancy-related deaths per 100,000 live births, more than doubled in the United States between 1987 and 2017; Whereas the United States is one of the only Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development member countries in which the maternal mortality rate has increased over the last several decades; Whereas, of all pregnancy-related deaths in the United States between 2011 and 2016 (1) nearly 32 percent occurred during pregnancy; (2) approximately 35 percent occurred during childbirth or the week after childbirth; and (3) 33 percent occurred between 1 week and 1 year postpartum; Whereas more than 80 percent of maternal deaths in the United States are preventable; Whereas, each year, more than 50,000 individuals in the United States suffer from a near miss Whereas approximately 17 percent of individuals who give birth in a hospital in the United States report experiencing 1 or more types of mistreatment, such as (1) loss of autonomy; (2) being shouted at, scolded, or threatened; or (3) being ignored or refused or receiving no response to requests for help; Whereas certain social determinants of health, including bias and racism, have a negative impact on maternal health outcomes; Whereas significant disparities in maternal health outcomes exist in the United States, including that (1) Black individuals are more than 3 times as likely to die from a pregnancy-related cause as are White individuals; (2) American Indian and Alaska Native individuals are more than twice as likely to die from a pregnancy-related cause as are White individuals; (3) Black, American Indian, and Alaska Native individuals with at least some college education are more likely to die from a pregnancy-related cause than are individuals of all other racial and ethnic backgrounds with less than a high school diploma; (4) Black, American Indian, and Alaska Native individuals are about twice as likely to suffer from severe maternal morbidity as are White individuals; (5) individuals who live in rural areas have a greater likelihood of severe maternal morbidity and mortality, compared to individuals who live in urban areas; (6) less than of rural counties have a hospital with obstetric services; (7) counties with more Black and Hispanic residents and lower median incomes are less likely to have access to hospital obstetric services; (8) more than 50 percent of individuals who live in a rural area must travel more than 30 minutes to access hospital obstetric services, compared to 7 percent of individuals who live in urban areas; and (9) American Indian and Alaska Native individuals living in rural communities are twice as likely as their White counterparts to report receiving late or no prenatal care; Whereas pregnant individuals may be at increased risk for severe outcomes associated with COVID19, as (1) COVID19 contributed to 25 percent of maternal deaths from 2020 to 2021; (2) pregnant individuals with symptomatic COVID19 are more likely to be admitted to an intensive care unit, receive invasive ventilation, and receive extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (commonly known as ECMO (3) pregnant individuals with symptomatic COVID19 have a risk of dying that is 7 times higher than nonpregnant individuals with symptomatic COVID19; and (4) pregnant individuals with COVID19 are at risk for pre-term delivery and stillbirth; Whereas 49 States have designated committees to review maternal deaths; Whereas State and local maternal mortality review committees are positioned to comprehensively assess maternal deaths and identify opportunities for prevention; Whereas 48 States and the District of Columbia are participating in the Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health, which promotes consistent and safe maternity care to reduce maternal morbidity and mortality; Whereas community-based maternal health care models, including midwifery childbirth services, doula support services, community and perinatal health worker services, and group prenatal care, in collaboration with culturally competent physician care, show great promise in improving maternal health outcomes and reducing disparities in maternal health outcomes; Whereas many organizations have implemented initiatives to educate patients and providers about (1) all causes of, contributing factors to, and disparities in maternal mortality; (2) the prevention of pregnancy-related deaths; and (3) the importance of listening to and empowering all people to report pregnancy-related medical issues; and Whereas several States, communities, and organizations recognize January 23 as Maternal Health Awareness Day That the Senate (1) designates January 23, 2023, as Maternal Health Awareness Day (2) supports the goals and ideals of Maternal Health Awareness Day, including (A) raising public awareness about maternal mortality, maternal morbidity, and disparities in maternal health outcomes; and (B) encouraging the Federal Government, States, territories, Tribes, local communities, public health organizations, physicians, health care providers, and others to take action to reduce adverse maternal health outcomes and improve maternal safety; (3) promotes initiatives (A) to address and eliminate disparities in maternal health outcomes; and (B) to ensure respectful and equitable maternity care practices; (4) honors those who have passed away as a result of pregnancy-related causes; and (5) supports and recognizes the need for further investments in efforts to improve maternal health, eliminate disparities in maternal health outcomes, and promote respectful and equitable maternity care practices.
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Designating January 23, 2023, as Maternal Health Awareness Day.
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This resolution supports observing National Women's Sports Week as the week of June 18-June 24, 2023, to recognize the expansion of opportunities for female athletes since the enactment of Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 and marks the observance of such week with appropriate programs and activities and legislative efforts to protect single-sex sports.
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Supporting the designation of the week of June 18 through June 24, 2023, as National Womens Sports Week Whereas title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 ( 20 U.S.C. 1681 et seq. title IX Whereas title IX transformed sports by guaranteeing women and girls the right to equal athletic opportunities; Whereas the purposes and benefits of title IX are negated for women whenever men claiming to be women are granted access to female sports; Whereas title IX has resulted in a 545-percent increase in the percentage of women playing college sports and a 990-percent increase in the percentage of women playing high school sports; Whereas athletic participation helps women and girls develop confidence, initiative, and leadership skills; Whereas policies allowing for the inclusion of men in womens sports have no basis in biological fact or valid medical research; Whereas providing equal athletic opportunities in sports to women is impossible without single-sex teams and competitions reserved exclusively for female athletes; Whereas, without separate single-sex teams and competitions based on biological sex for men and women, men will dominate competitive sports where size, strength, and speed are factors, depriving female athletes of athletic and academic opportunities; Whereas the biological differences between men and women have led to women being injured by men competing in womens sports; Whereas, since 2017, men have won at least 24 professional womens sports titles and an innumerable number of unreported titles at the middle school, high school, and collegiate levels; and Whereas, in 2018, at least 300 high school-aged boys in the United States ran the 400-meter dash faster than the most decorated female Olympic champion in the world has run it in her lifetime: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate supports (1) observing National Womens Sports Week (A) the incredible expansion of opportunities for female athletes since the enactment of title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 ( 20 U.S.C. 1681 et seq. (B) the role of the provisions of law described in subparagraph (A) in guaranteeing equal athletic opportunities for members of both sexes; and (2) marking the observance of National Womens Sports Week with (A) appropriate programs and activities that (i) celebrate the contributions of individual female athletes in the United States; (ii) honor the coaches and parents who support female athletes in the United States; (iii) promote equal access to athletic opportunities for members of both sexes; and (iv) support the commitment of the United States to supporting female athletes; and (B) legislative efforts to protect single-sex sports.
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Supporting the designation of the week of June 18 through June 24, 2023, as National Womens Sports Week to celebrate the anniversary of the enactment of title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 and the growth of womens sports.
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This resolution designates March 3, 2023, as National Speech and Debate Education Day.
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Designating March 3, 2023, as National Speech and Debate Education Day Whereas it is essential for youth to learn and practice the art of communicating with and without technology; Whereas speech and debate education offers students myriad forms of public speaking through which students may develop talent and exercise unique voice and character; Whereas speech and debate education gives students the 21st century skills of communication, critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration; Whereas critical analysis and effective communication allow important ideas, texts, and philosophies the opportunity to flourish; Whereas personal, professional, and civic interactions are enhanced by the ability of the participants in those interactions to listen, concur, question, and dissent with reason and compassion; Whereas students who participate in speech and debate have chosen a challenging activity that requires regular practice, dedication, and hard work; Whereas teachers and coaches of speech and debate devote in-school, afterschool, and weekend hours to equip students with life-changing skills and opportunities; Whereas National Speech and Debate Education Day emphasizes the lifelong impact of providing people of the United States with the confidence and preparation to both discern and share views; Whereas National Speech and Debate Education Day acknowledges that most achievements, celebrations, commemorations, and pivotal moments in modern history begin, end, or are crystallized with public address; Whereas National Speech and Debate Education Day recognizes that learning to research, construct, and present an argument is integral to personal advocacy, social movements, and the making of public policy; Whereas the National Speech & Debate Association, in conjunction with national and local partners, honors and celebrates the importance of speech and debate through National Speech and Debate Education Day; and Whereas National Speech and Debate Education Day emphasizes the importance of speech and debate education and the integration of speech and debate education across grade levels and disciplines: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) designates March 3, 2023, as National Speech and Debate Education Day (2) strongly affirms the purposes of National Speech and Debate Education Day; and (3) encourages educational institutions, businesses, community and civic associations, and all people of the United States to celebrate and promote National Speech and Debate Education Day.
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Designating March 3, 2023, as National Speech and Debate Education Day.
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This resolution condemns the December 6, 2019, terrorist attack at Naval Air Station Pensacola and commemorates the service members and civilians who lost their lives or were injured in the attack. Additionally, the resolution remembers Ensign Joshua Kaleb Watson, Petty Officer Third Class Mohammed Sameh Haitham, and Petty Officer Third Class Cameron Scott Walters, who were killed in the attack. Finally, the resolution commends (1) the decision to give medals and awards to the law enforcement officers, uniformed service members, and civilians who responded to the attack; and (2) the efforts undertaken by the Department of Defense to enhance security at military installations.
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Remembering the December 6, 2019, terrorist attack at Naval Air Station Pensacola and commemorating those who lost their lives, and those who were injured, in the line of duty. Whereas December 6, 2023, the 4-year anniversary of the terrorist attack at Naval Air Station Pensacola (referred to in this preamble as the terrorist attack (1) Ensign Joshua Kaleb Watson of Enterprise, Alabama; (2) Petty Officer Third Class Mohammed Sameh Haitham of St. Petersburg, Florida; and (3) Petty Officer Third Class Cameron Scott Walters of Richmond Hill, Georgia; Whereas the 3 servicemembers who died in the terrorist attack were posthumously awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal and the Purple Heart; Whereas the terrorist who committed the terrorist attack was a Saudi Arabian foreign military student who had been radicalized and established contacts with Al Qaeda operatives prior to attending flight training at Naval Air Station Pensacola; Whereas Naval Air Station Pensacola security forces and Escambia County, Florida, law enforcement officers took decisive action to end the terrorist attack and have rightly earned the praises and awards bestowed upon them; Whereas 2 civilians were awarded the Department of the Navy Superior Civilian Medal for Valor for their heroic actions during the terrorist attack; Whereas 8 individuals were awarded the Purple Heart, or the law enforcement equivalent, for injuries sustained during the terrorist attack; Whereas 9 military personnel were awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal for their heroic actions during the terrorist attack; Whereas 8 military personnel were awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal for their heroic actions during the terrorist attack; Whereas 8 law enforcement officers were awarded the Medal of Valor for their actions taken during the terrorist attack; and Whereas December 6, 2023, marks 4 years since the lives of 3 military personnel were tragically cut short by the egregious act of terrorism at Naval Air Station Pensacola: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) condemns the December 6, 2019, terrorist attack at Naval Air Station Pensacola (referred to in this resolution as the terrorist attack (2) commemorates in sorrow the servicemembers and civilians who lost their lives, or who were injured, and the harm caused to the surrounding community, as a result of the terrorist attack; (3) remembers Ensign Joshua Kaleb Watson, Petty Officer Third Class Mohammed Sameh Haitham, and Petty Officer Third Class Cameron Scott Walters, who were killed in the terrorist attack; (4) expresses gratitude for the heroic actions that the civilians, uniformed personnel, and law enforcement performed during and in the aftermath of the terrorist attack; (5) lauds the decision to give medals and awards to the law enforcement officers, uniformed servicemembers, and civilians who responded heroically on the morning of December 6, 2019; and (6) commends the efforts undertaken by the Department of Defense to enhance security at military installations to ensure that the tragedy represented by the terrorist attack is never repeated.
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Remembering the December 6, 2019, terrorist attack at Naval Air Station Pensacola and commemorating those who lost their lives, and those who were injured, in the line of duty.
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This resolution includes bills, joint resolutions, and messages from the House of Representatives within the scope of a point of order that prohibits the Senate from considering legislation unless each congressionally directed spending item (i.e., earmark), limited tax benefit, or limited tariff benefit in the legislation has been publicly identified. Currently, the point of order only applies to Senate bills or joint resolutions that are not reported by committee.
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Amending rule XLIV of the Standing Rules of the Senate to include amendments of the House of Representatives in the requirements for identifying spending items, and for other purposes. That rule XLIV of the Standing Rules of the Senate is amended (1) in paragraph 2(a) (A) in the matter preceding clause (1) (i) by striking Senate (ii) by inserting or a message from the House of Representatives by committee (B) in clause (1) (i) by striking or joint resolution , joint resolution, or message (ii) by striking Senator Member of Congress (2) in paragraph 3(a)(1), by striking Senator Member of Congress (3) in paragraph 5(a), by striking Senator Member of Congress (4) in paragraph 7, by striking or conference report conference report, or message from the House
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Amending rule XLIV of the Standing Rules of the Senate to include amendments of the House of Representatives in the requirements for identifying spending items, and for other purposes.
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This resolution expresses deep condolences to the families and colleagues of Mississippi police officers Sergeant Steven Robin and Officer Branden Estorffe, who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
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Honoring the lives of 2 fallen Mississippi police officers, Sergeant Steven Robin and Officer Branden Estorffe, and expressing condolences to their families. Whereas Sergeant Steven Robin and Officer Branden Estorffe passed away in the line of duty on Wednesday, December 14, 2022, in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi; Whereas Sergeant Steven Robin served Mississippi with the Bay St. Louis Police Department, Hancock County Sheriffs Department, and the Waveland Police Department; Whereas Sergeant Steven Robin is survived by his wife, Amy Bush Robin, his parents, Michael and Julie Robin, his son, Brandon Boudreaux, his 2 special girls whom Steven considered daughters, Tessa Delsied and Emmaleigh Melton, his granddaughter, Rosie Labelle, his 2 brothers, Brian and Glenn Robin, his father-in-law, Lester Bush, his mother-in-law, Mary Bush, his brother-in-law, Brad Bush, his sister-in-law, Stephanie Bush, and his 2 godchildren, Braeleigh and Addilyn Delsied; Whereas Officer Branden Estorffe served Mississippi with the Bay St. Louis Police Department and the Mississippi Military Department Gulfport Combat Readiness Training Center; Whereas Officer Branden Estorffe is survived by his parents, Ian and Heather Estorffe and Jennifer Gilkerson, his siblings, Lilly and Sophia Estorffe, Jordana and Chloe Gilkerson, and Andrew Porter, his grandparents, Rex and Lynda Estorffe and Tommy and Sheila Burkett, and his aunts and uncles, Lauren and Greg Walters, Jennifer and Jason Polk, and Chad Goodfellow; Whereas Sergeant Steven Robin and Officer Branden Estorffe received numerous accolades in recognition of their dedication and expertise; Whereas Sergeant Steven Robin received Overall Top Academic Honors with the Hancock County Law Enforcement Training Academy and took on supervisory roles at the Waveland and Bay St. Louis Police Departments, including as Field Training Officer and Sergeant with both departments, and his passion for the job propelled him into a leadership role on shift with his fellow officers; Whereas Officer Branden Estorffe was recognized for Top Academics with the Combat Readiness Training Center, earned the Firearms Award with the Harrison County Law Enforcement Training Academy and maintained high firearms standards with the National Rifle Association and the Hancock County Sheriffs Office Special Response Team, and was known to be proactive on duty and always ready to back up his fellow officers; and Whereas Sergeant Steven Robin and Officer Branden Estorffe will be remembered as heroes who protected their community and loved their families and friends: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) expresses deep condolences to the families and colleagues of the Mississippi police officers Sergeant Steven Robin and Officer Branden Estorffe, who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty and whose sacrifice will not be forgotten; (2) recognizes all of the countless selfless and heroic actions carried out by local law enforcement officers; (3) expresses strong support for law enforcement officers in Mississippi and across the United States who serve and protect their communities; and (4) acknowledges the importance of honoring and remembering fallen local law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty.
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Honoring the lives of 2 fallen Mississippi police officers, Sergeant Steven Robin and Officer Branden Estorffe, and expressing condolences to their families.
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This resolution designates the week of September 24 through September 30, 2023, as Gold Star Families Remembrance Week and recognizes the sacrifices made by veterans' families and the families of members of the Armed Forces who made the ultimate sacrifice in order to defend freedom and protect the United States.
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Designating the week of September 24 through September 30, 2023, as Gold Star Families Remembrance Week Whereas the last Sunday in September (1) is designated as Gold Star Mothers Day (2) was first designated as Gold Star Mothers Day Joint Resolution designating the last Sunday in September as Gold Star Mother's Day Whereas there is no date dedicated to families affected by the loss of a loved one who died in service to the United States; Whereas a gold star symbolizes a family member who died in the line of duty while serving in the Armed Forces; Whereas the members and veterans of the Armed Forces, through their service, bear the burden of protecting the freedom of the people of the United States; Whereas the selfless example of the service of the members and veterans of the Armed Forces, as well as the sacrifices made by the families of those individuals, inspires all individuals in the United States to sacrifice and work diligently for the good of the United States; and Whereas the sacrifices of the families of the fallen members of the Armed Forces and the families of veterans of the Armed Forces should never be forgotten: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) designates the week of September 24 through September 30, 2023, as Gold Star Families Remembrance Week (2) honors and recognizes the sacrifices made by (A) the families of members of the Armed Forces who made the ultimate sacrifice in order to defend freedom and protect the United States; and (B) the families of veterans of the Armed Forces; and (3) encourages the people of the United States to observe Gold Star Families Remembrance Week by (A) performing acts of service and good will in their communities; and (B) celebrating families in which loved ones made the ultimate sacrifice so that others could continue to enjoy life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
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Designating the week of September 24 through September 30, 2023, as Gold Star Families Remembrance Week.
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This resolution designates June 12, 2023, as Women Veterans Appreciation Day to recognize the service and sacrifices of women veterans.
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Designating June 12, 2023, as Women Veterans Appreciation Day Whereas, throughout every period of the history of the United States, women have proudly served the United States to secure and preserve freedom and liberty for (1) the people of the United States; and (2) the allies of the United States; Whereas women have formally been a part of the Armed Forces since the establishment of the Army Nurse Corps in 1901 but have informally served since the inception of the United States military; Whereas 2023 marks the 75th anniversary of the signing of the Womens Armed Services Integration Act of 1948 (62 Stat. 356, chapter 449), legally allowing women to serve in all 4 branches of the military; Whereas more than 3,000,000 women have served the United States honorably and with valor on land, on sea, in the air, and in space, including (1) as Molly Pitchers (2) by passing as men to serve as soldiers during the Revolutionary War, the Early Republic, and the Civil War; (3) as doctors, nurses, ambulance drivers, and Signal Corps telephone operator Hello Girls (4) during World War II (A) as members of the Women's Army Corps (commonly known as WACs (B) as Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service (commonly known as WAVES (C) as members of the Coast Guard Women's Reserve (commonly known as SPARS (D) as Women Airforce Service Pilots (commonly known as WASPs (E) as nurses; (5) as permanent members of the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force, serving as nurses, physicians, physical therapists, air traffic controllers, intelligence specialists, communications specialists, logisticians, and clerks during the Korean War and Vietnam War; and (6) as fixed and rotary wing combat pilots, surface warfare sailors, submariners, artillerists, air defenders, engineers, military police, intelligence specialists, civil affairs specialists, logisticians, and, most recently, in all combat roles in the Persian Gulf, Iraq, and Afghanistan; Whereas, as of 2021, women constituted approximately 17 percent of Armed Forces personnel on active duty, including (1) 21 percent of active duty personnel in the Air Force; (2) 21 percent of active duty personnel in the Navy; (3) 16 percent of active duty personnel in the Army; (4) 9 percent of active duty personnel in the Marine Corps; (5) 15 percent of active duty personnel in the Coast Guard; and (6) 20 percent of active duty personnel in the Space Force; Whereas, as of 2021, women constituted more than 21 percent of personnel in the National Guard and Reserves; Whereas women were critical to COVID19 relief, including as part of the personnel in the National Guard and Reserves activated to support COVID19 response efforts; Whereas women have been critical to responding to the unjustified invasion of Ukraine by the Russian Federation, including as members of the National Guard and as active duty personnel in the Armed Forces who have been deployed to contribute to foreign assistance efforts; Whereas 13 members of the Armed Forces, including 2 women, were killed during Operation Allies Refuge, in which more than 120,000 people were evacuated in the largest civilian airlift in the history of the United States; Whereas, in 2023 (1) the population of women veterans is more than 2,066,000, which represents a significant increase from 713,000 women veterans in 1980; and (2) women veterans constitute approximately 11 percent of the total veteran population; Whereas women are the fastest growing group in the veteran population; Whereas an estimated 1 in 3 women veterans who are enrolled in the healthcare system of the Department of Veterans Affairs report having experienced military sexual trauma (MST) during their military service; Whereas the United States is proud of, and appreciates, the service of all women veterans, who have demonstrated great skill, sacrifice, and commitment to defending the principles upon which the United States was founded and which the United States continues to uphold; Whereas women veterans have unique stories and should be encouraged to share their recollections through the Veterans History Project, a part of the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress, which has worked since 2000 to collect and share the personal accounts of wartime veterans in the United States; and Whereas, by designating June 12, 2023, as Women Veterans Appreciation Day (1) highlight the growing presence of women in the Armed Forces and the National Guard; and (2) pay respect to women veterans for their patriotic military service: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate designates June 12, 2023, as Women Veterans Appreciation Day
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Designating June 12, 2023, as Women Veterans Appreciation Day.
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This resolution underscores the urgency of combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing and protecting oceanic biodiversity in Latin America and the Caribbean. The resolution also (1) encourages greater coordination among the governments of Latin America and the Caribbean to facilitate information sharing and law enforcement responses to IUU fishing; and (2) calls on the Department of State, in coordination with the U.S. Agency for International Development and other federal agencies, to counter IUU fishing.
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Expressing concern that illegal, unregulated, and unreported fishing threatens security, prosperity, and biodiversity in Latin America and the Caribbean and facilitates human trafficking, including forced labor, and other inhumane and criminal practices in the region. Whereas illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing (referred to in this preamble as IUU fishing (1) are in violation of applicable national, regional, or international laws, regulations, or obligations; (2) are not reported or misreported to relevant authorities; and (3) occur in areas or for fishing stocks for which there are no applicable conservation or management measures; Whereas in 2020, the United States Coast Guard declared that IUU fishing has replaced piracy as the leading global maritime security threat; Whereas the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime has expressed serious concerns about the fishing industrys vulnerability to several forms of transnational organized crime, including trafficking in persons, money laundering, and smuggling of drugs and weapons, which are often linked to IUU fishing; Whereas, according to the International Labor Organization's 2022 Global Estimates of Modern Slavery, approximately 128,000 fishers are subjected to forced labor aboard fishing vessels around the world in conditions characterized by extreme isolation, hazardous working and living conditions, and gaps in regulatory oversight, and IUU fishing is closely linked to these and other forms of human trafficking; Whereas IUU fishing threatens biodiversity and marine ecosystems, increases the risk of food insecurity, and creates unfair competition in the marketplace for lawful seafood industries; Whereas approximately 600,000,000 people worldwide are partially dependent on fisheries and aquaculture for their lives and livelihoods, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reports that IUU fishing deprives law-abiding fishermen and coastal communities of up to $23,000,000,000 in seafood products annually; Whereas, according to the United States Government's Global Food Security Strategy, the percentage of stocks fished at biologically unsustainable levels increased from 10 percent in 1974 to 34.2 percent in 2017, with IUU fishing being a key factor affecting the sustainability of fisheries; Whereas, according to a 2017 report by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (1) IUU fishing off of South Americas Southeast Pacific coast and Southwest Atlantic Oceans contributes to the second highest proportions of biologically unsustainable fishing stock levels in the world; and (2) transformative changes are needed to address growing threats to sustainable fisheries and food security globally; Whereas large-scale operations of distant-water fishing fleets, particularly such fleets that are provided with billions of dollars in subsidies annually by the Peoples Republic of China, are primarily responsible for IUU fishing along the Pacific Coast of South America and the Southwest Atlantic Ocean, while small-scale artisanal fleets are primarily responsible for IUU fishing in the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America; Whereas Chinese industrial fishing in the South Pacific coast of South America increased 13-fold between 2009 and 2020, contributing to a significant rise in IUU fishing in that region; Whereas, between July and August 2020, 350 Chinese distant-water fishing vessels disabled required tracking systems and engaged in 73,000 hours of fishing off the exclusive economic zone of the Galapagos archipelago, which is a United Nations World Heritage Site; Whereas, in November 2020, the Governments of Ecuador, of Chile, of Colombia, and of Peru (1) jointly condemned IUU fishing perpetrated by large fleets of foreign vessels; and (2) pledged to increase cooperation through regulatory bodies, such as the Permanent Commission for the South Pacific; Whereas the United States, Canada, and 12 countries in Latin America and the Caribbean are parties to the Agreement on Port State Measures to Prevent, Deter, and Eliminate Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing, Agreement, done at Rome November 22, 2009 (commonly known as the Port State Measures Agreement Whereas governments in Latin America and the Caribbean often lack the capacity to effectively monitor and prosecute IUU fishing, with many countries in the region investing less than 10 percent of their fisheries budgets on monitoring and surveillance; Whereas regional fisheries management organizations, such as the South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organization and the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Mechanism, establish conservation and management standards, but face difficulties in enforcing such standards and executing coordinated action to counter IUU fishing; Whereas Uruguay is seeking to advance the creation of a regional fisheries management organization with Brazil and Argentina to combat IUU fishing in the Southwest Atlantic Ocean, which is the only sea area in the world without a fisheries management government structure; Whereas the United StatesMexicoCanada Agreement, which was approved by Congress under section 101(a)(1) of the United StatesMexicoCanada Agreement Implementation Act ( 19 U.S.C. 4511(a) (1) prohibits subsidies for vessels or operators involved in IUU fishing; (2) requires customs inspections for shipments at ports of entry; (3) prohibits the importation of goods made by forced labor; and (4) requires efforts to seek the elimination of forced labor; Whereas similar provisions related to IUU fishing have not been enshrined in other free trade agreements in North America; Whereas, at the 12th Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organization in June 2022, member states reached a multilateral agreement to prohibit certain harmful subsidies for fishing activities that threaten the sustainable use and conservation of marine resources, including subsidies to vessels engaged in IUU fishing; Whereas, the Maritime SAFE Act (subtitle C of title XXXV of Public Law 11692 (1) Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Ecuador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Panama, and Peru as Tier I priority regions at risk for IUU fishing; and (2) the rest of Latin America and the Caribbean as Tier II priority regions at risk for IUU fishing; and Whereas the United States Government has undertaken several initiatives to counter IUU fishing in Latin America and the Caribbean, including (1) conducting joint cooperation exercises in January 2021 involving the United States Southern Command, the United States Coast Guard, and partners in Brazil, Guyana, Portugal, and Uruguay; (2) certifying countries based on their actions to curb the flow of IUU fishing through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, including issuing a negative certification in August 2021 for Mexico and a positive certification for Ecuador; (3) issuing National Security Memorandum 11 on June 27, 2022, which directs Federal executive departments and agencies to coordinate with each other, foreign governments, multilateral organizations, and other public and private stakeholders to combat labor abuses and other crimes associated with IUU fishing; (4) carrying out the first United States Coast Guard IUU fishing patrol under the auspices of the South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organization, in August 2022 off the exclusive economic zone of the Galpagos archipelago, during which the Coast Guard conducted high seas boardings and inspections of vessels suspected of engaging in IUU fishing; (5) issuing sanctions on December 9, 2022, against entities based in the Peoples Republic of China that are implicated in global activities related to IUU fishing, including activities in Latin America and the Caribbean; and (6) proposing that Chinese flagged vessels suspected of engaging in IUU fishing that refuse to allow on sea boarding and inspection be included in the South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management organizations IUU vessel list: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) underscores the urgency of combating IUU fishing and its associated crimes, including human trafficking, and protecting oceanic biodiversity, the livelihoods of coastal communities, regional licit economies, human rights, and hemispheric security from the Peoples Republic of China, other extra-regional actors, and transnational criminal organizations engaged in IUU fishing in Latin America and the Caribbean; (2) calls on the United States Government and governments in Latin America and the Caribbean to incorporate concerns regarding human trafficking and violations of labor rights, when determining whether activities qualify as IUU fishing; (3) encourages greater coordination among the Governments of Latin America and of the Caribbean to facilitate information sharing and law enforcement responses to IUU fishing, including by acceding to the Port State Measures Agreement, strengthening existing regional fisheries management organizations, and creating a regional fisheries management organization for the Southwest Atlantic Ocean; (4) encourages the Office of the United States Trade Representative, in coordination with the Department of State, to consider the implementation of IUU fishing provisions within current and future free trade agreements with countries of Latin America and the Caribbean to enhance accountability over such activities; and (5) calls on the Secretary of State, in coordination with the Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development and the heads of other relevant Federal departments and agencies, to counter IUU fishing by (A) undertaking public education initiatives in Latin America and the Caribbean to elevate awareness of the harms caused by IUU fishing and its associated crimes; (B) assisting with the monitoring and dissemination of information regarding the activities of Chinese and other distant-water fishing fleets, and using multilateral fora, including regional fisheries management organizations, to address such concerns; (C) limiting the importation and consumption of fish and seafood caught by IUU actors, and use the United States role and influence in global markets to drive change in global seafood supply chains; (D) using sanctions and visa restriction authorities to hold accountable entities that are credibly suspected of engaging in IUU fishing, including (i) distant water fishing fleets from the Peoples Republic of China; (ii) other extra-regional actors; and (iii) transnational criminal organizations; and (E) utilizing available resources to support and assist the Office of the United States Trade Representative in reaching a final multilateral agreement under the World Trade Organization that (i) addresses the use of forced labor on IUU fishing vessels; (ii) strengthens relevant reporting requirements; and (iii) addresses harmful subsidies that contribute to fishing fleet overcapacity.
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Expressing concern that illegal, unregulated, and unreported fishing threatens security, prosperity, and biodiversity in Latin America and the Caribbean and facilitates human trafficking, including forced labor, and other inhumane and criminal practices in the region.
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This resolution designates November 2023 as National Lung Cancer Awareness Month. The bill also designates the first week of November 2023 as National Women's Lung Cancer Awareness Week and the second Saturday of November 2023 as National Lung Cancer Screening Day. The resolution also promotes awareness of, education about, and research on lung cancer.
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Designating November 2023 as National Lung Cancer Awareness Month Whereas lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death among individuals in the United States, accounting for more deaths than colon cancer, breast cancer, and prostate cancer combined; Whereas, in 2023, an estimated 238,340 individuals in the United States will be diagnosed with lung cancer, and 127,070 individuals (approximately 350 individuals per day) will die from the disease; Whereas 1 in 16 men and 1 in 17 women in the United States will develop lung cancer during their lifetimes; Whereas the rate of lung cancer death in women in the United States has increased by 92 percent over the 50-year span from 1971 to 2021; Whereas, each year, more women die from lung cancer than breast cancer and ovarian cancer combined; Whereas, in 2023, 20,500 people will die from lung cancer unrelated to smoking, which would be the eighth leading cause of cancer death if classified as a separate disease; Whereas 18 percent of lung cancers are unrelated to smoking, and the proportion of lung cancers diagnosed in individuals who have never smoked is increasing in the United States; Whereas, in 2023, approximately 103,000 of the 127,070 lung cancer deaths (81 percent) will be caused by cigarette smoking directly, with an additional 3,560 lung cancer deaths caused by second-hand smoke; Whereas the 5-year survival rate for localized lung cancer is 63 percent, yet a majority of lung cancers are diagnosed at a distant stage, for which the 5-year survival rate is 8 percent; Whereas screening with low-dose computed tomography can detect lung cancer in its earliest stages and ultimately save lives, yet only 3 to 7 percent of individuals in the United States at high risk for lung cancer undergo lung cancer screening; Whereas geographic availability of facilities and transportation barriers are persistent challenges to lung cancer screening; Whereas nearly 70 percent of adults are not familiar with lung cancer screening and the low-dose computed tomography scan; Whereas lung cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in veterans; Whereas veterans are 25 percent more likely to develop lung cancer compared to the general public, and, although approximately 1,000,000 to 2,000,000 veterans have an elevated risk of lung cancer and are eligible for screening, less than 3 percent of veterans get screened; Whereas Black men have the highest incidence of lung cancer and the highest mortality rate from lung cancer in the United States, and non-White individuals are 14 to 17 percent less likely to be diagnosed with lung cancer early; Whereas changes made to the United States Preventive Services Task Force lung cancer screening guidelines in 2021 increased the number of individuals in the United States who are recommended to receive screening from 8,000,000 to 14,500,000; Whereas the stigma surrounding lung cancer (1) creates barriers to early diagnosis, treatment, and research; (2) has a detrimental impact on the quality of life of lung cancer patients; and (3) hinders funding into lung cancer risk factors unrelated to smoking; Whereas lung cancer research is leading to breakthroughs in biomarker identification and the development of immunotherapies and targeted therapies that are highly effective for some cancer subtypes, yet accessing cutting edge testing as part of the lung cancer diagnostic process can be difficult; and Whereas educational efforts can increase awareness of lung cancer and lung cancer screening among the general public, patients and their families, and health care workers, thereby increasing the early detection of lung cancer: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) designates November 2023 as National Lung Cancer Awareness Month (2) designates the first week of November 2023 as National Womens Lung Cancer Awareness Week (3) designates the second Saturday of November 2023 as National Lung Cancer Screening Day (4) supports the purposes and ideals of National Lung Cancer Awareness Month; (5) promotes efforts to increase awareness of, education about, and research on (A) mitigation of risk factors; (B) lung cancer screening; (C) treatment of lung cancer; (D) lung cancer affecting minorities and individuals who have never smoked; and (6) encourages the people of the United States to observe National Lung Cancer Awareness Month with appropriate awareness and educational activities.
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Designating November 2023 as National Lung Cancer Awareness Month and expressing support for early detection and treatment of lung cancer.
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This resolution reaffirms the strong and long-standing partnership between the governments of the United States and India. The resolution also encourages further defense, commercial, and investment ties between the countries, as well as continued cooperation for a free, open, and resilient Indo-Pacific.
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Recognizing the importance of United States-India relations. Whereas the Republic of India achieved its independence on August 15, 1947, and is celebrating 75 years of its independence; Whereas the United States-India Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership is critical for regional and global prosperity; Whereas, according to United Nations population estimates, India will become the most populous country in the world in 2023, with an estimated population of more than 1,425,000,000 people; Whereas strong people-to-people and educational exchanges between the United States and the Republic of India cement our nations ties and serve as the foundation for deeper cooperation; Whereas students from the Republic of India comprise nearly 20 percent of all international students studying in the United States, that this community is expected to soon become the largest foreign student community in the United States, and in 2022, the United States Mission in India issued more than 82,000 Indian student visas, a record-breaking amount; Whereas, according to International Monetary Fund data, India is the fifth largest economy in the world; Whereas the furthering of trade and investment between the United States and the Republic of India, two of the worlds largest economies, is in the interest of both countries as well as the broader global economy; Whereas the United States became Indias largest trading partner in 2022, with bilateral goods and services trade almost doubling since 2014, and exceeding $191,000,000,000 in 2022; Whereas the Republic of India hosted the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity (IPEF) negotiating round in February 2023; Whereas the United States designated India as a Major Defense Partner in 2016, and a strong United States-India defense partnership is critical for United States and Indian interests in the Indo-Pacific region; Whereas military-to-military ties between our two countries have deepened, with both countries undertaking bilateral and multilateral military exercises across air, land, and maritime domains, and are taking steps to strengthen defense industrial base collaboration; Whereas the Republic of Indias G20 presidency reflects its economic rise and demonstrates its commitment to furthering multilateral coordination and progress in the areas of inclusive growth, environmental protection, technology and knowledge-sharing, women-led development, and more; Whereas the United States and India have coordinated closely in numerous multilateral forums such as the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue ( the Quad Whereas the United States and India have been partners in advancing global health security, especially during the COVID19 pandemic, during which India assisted other countries, including in the developing world through the deployment of vaccines and medicines; Whereas there are significant opportunities to work together to develop emerging technologies through private sector and academic and research partnerships to achieve shared energy goals; Whereas the United States and India announced the Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET) in May 2022, as a significant line of partnership to expand defense industrial and technological cooperation, including in areas such as artificial intelligence, quantum and high-performance computing, space, next generation telecommunications, and semiconductor supply chains; and Whereas the diverse Indian American community, which numbers over 4,000,000 individuals, is critical to the strong people-to-people ties between India and the United States and has made critical contributions to the culture and economy of the United States, and forms one of the strongest bonds linking our two countries together: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) reaffirms the strong and long-standing partnership between the Governments of the United States and the Republic of India, rooted in people to people ties, strategic interests, including upholding peace, security, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region; (2) encourages the United States and India to continue and expand cooperation for a free, open, and resilient Indo-Pacific, including through the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue; (3) welcomes the Republic of Indias participation in economic initiatives, including through bilateral and multilateral forums, its participation in the Quad, and other venues of cooperation; (4) supports the United States and the Republic of India identifying further opportunities to deepen engagement and further defense, commercial, and investment ties; (5) affirms the importance of technology cooperation between the United States and India, including through the Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology; (6) recognizes the importance of expanding people-to-people programs between the United States and India, particularly between educational institutions; (7) appreciates the contributions of Americans of Indian origin, and desires closer relations between the people of the United States and the people of India; and (8) views the bilateral relationship as holding the potential to bring significant benefit to the citizens of both nations, and to make considerable contributions to addressing the global challenges of the 21st century.
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Recognizing the importance of United States-India relations.
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This resolution reaffirms the U.S. commitment to protect the safety, health, and well-being of refugees and asylum seekers. The resolution calls upon the Department of State, the Department of Homeland Security, and the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations to partner with the international community to solve existing conflicts, prevent new conflicts from emerging, and tackle the root causes of involuntary migration.
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Reaffirming the importance of the United States promoting the safety, health, and well-being of refugees and displaced persons in the United States and around the world. Whereas June 20, 2023, is an international day designated by the United Nations as World Refugee Day, Whereas July 28, 2023, is the 72nd anniversary of the adoption of the Convention relating to the Status of Refugees, done at Geneva July 28, 1951, which defines the term refugee Whereas the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (referred to in this preamble as UNHCR (1) there are more than 108,000,000 displaced people who have been forced from their homes worldwide, which is more displaced people than at any other time in recorded history, including more than 35,200,000 refugees and 62,500,000 internally displaced persons; (2) 67 percent of the worlds refugees originate from just Syria, Ukraine, Afghanistan, or Venezuela; (3) more than 50 percent of the population of Syria (at least 13,000,000 people) have been displaced since the beginning of the Syrian civil war in 2011, either exiting Syria across the international border or going to other areas within Syria, and this displacement crisis has been exacerbated by major earthquakes that struck Turkiye and Syria in early February 2023; (4) more than 14,000,000 Ukrainian nationals and other third country nationals are currently displaced as a result of Russias ongoing invasion of Ukraine; (5) there are an estimated 5,700,000 Afghan refugees around the world, of whom more than 90 percent are hosted in either Iran or Pakistan, while an additional 3,500,000 Afghans are internally displaced, having fled their homes searching for refuge within Afghanistan; (6) Latin America and the Caribbean currently host 84 percent of the more than 7,000,000 Venezuelan refugees and migrants globally, and the Americas currently host approximately 20,000,000 refugees, asylum-seekers, and stateless people from around the world; (7) more than 1,800,000 people are currently displaced due to the ongoing conflict in Sudan, and a large majority of such people are women and children who are traveling to neighboring countries; and (8) 76 percent of all refugees worldwide are hosted in low and middle income countries and fewer than 1 percent of vulnerable refugees in need of resettlement have had such opportunity due to lack of sufficient resettlement places; Whereas welcoming people from around the world who have been oppressed and persecuted is a central tenet of our great Nation, and the United States is home to a diverse population of refugees and immigrants who have added to the economic strengths and cultural richness of our communities; Whereas, since seeking asylum is a protected right under United States domestic and international law, the United States is legally obligated to contribute to the maintenance of a humane and functioning international asylum system; Whereas the principle of non-refoulement is also a central tenet of the United States refugee and asylum systems, and thousands of people living in the United States who immigrated from countries around the world would be subject to harm if they were deported to their countries of origin due to widespread conflict or persecution in such countries; Whereas the United States Refugee Admissions Program, which was established in 1980 (1) is a lifesaving pillar of global humanitarian efforts; (2) advances United States national security and foreign policy goals; and (3) supports regional host countries; Whereas resettlement is an essential part of a comprehensive strategy to respond to refugee crises, promote regional stability, and strengthen United States national security; Whereas resettlement to the United States is available for the most vulnerable refugees who undergo rigorous security vetting and medical screening processes; Whereas the United States supports the efforts of the UNHCR to increase protection for, and the global resettlement of, LGBTQI+ refugees overseas; Whereas women and girls have an increased risk of sexual violence, exploitation, and trafficking while they are traveling to seek safe living conditions; Whereas through the United States Refugee Resettlement Program (1) only 11,411 refugees arrived in the United States during fiscal year 2021, which is the lowest number of refugees for any fiscal year since the program began; (2) only 25,465 refugees arrived in the United States during fiscal year 2022 despite an admissions goal of 125,000; and (3) as of May 30, 2023, only 31,797 refugees had arrived in the United States during fiscal year 2023; Whereas resettlement organizations, businesses, and other community and faith-based groups offer support for refugees who resettle in the United States; Whereas, between 2005 and 2014, refugees who have resettled in the United States contributed an estimated $269,100,000,000 to the national economy, which far surpasses the $206,100,000,000 spent by the United States to assist refugees worldwide during such period; and Whereas most refugees integrate and quickly become self-sufficient by joining the workforce, paying taxes, supporting local commerce, helping to fill labor shortages in critical industries, and creating new jobs: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) recognizes the urgency to establish and follow comprehensive, fair, and humane policies to address forced migration and refugee challenges; (2) reaffirms the bipartisan commitment of the United States to promote the safety, health, and well-being of millions of refugees and asylum seekers, including the education of refugee children and displaced persons fleeing war, persecution, or torture in search of protection, peace, hope, and freedom; (3) recognizes the many individuals who have risked their lives working, either individually or on behalf of nongovernmental organizations or international agencies, such as the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (referred to in this resolution as UNHCR (4) reaffirms the imperative to fully restore United States asylum protections enshrined in the Refugee Act of 1980 ( Public Law 96212 (5) reaffirms the importance of the United States Refugee Resettlement Program as a critical tool of the United States Government (A) to strengthen national and regional security; and (B) to encourage international solidarity with host countries; and (6) calls upon the Secretary of State, the Secretary of Homeland Security, and the United States Ambassador to the United Nations (A) to uphold the United States international leadership role in responding to displacement crises with humanitarian assistance, and restoring its leadership role in the protection of vulnerable refugee populations that endure gender-based violence, human trafficking, persecution, and violence against religious minorities, forced conscription, genocide, and exploitation; (B) to work in partnership with the international community to find solutions to existing conflicts, prevent new conflicts from emerging, and tackle the root causes of involuntary migration; (C) to continue supporting the efforts of the UNHCR and advance the work of nongovernmental organizations to protect refugees and asylum seekers regardless of their country of origin, race, ethnicity, or religious beliefs; (D) to continue to alleviate pressures, through humanitarian and development assistance, on frontline refugee host countries that absorb the majority of the worlds refugees, while effectively advocating for refugee well-being, including access to education and livelihoods; (E) to meaningfully include refugees and displaced populations in creating and achieving the policy solutions affecting them; (F) to respond to the global refugee crisis by meeting robust refugee admissions goals; (G) to actively participate in the Global Refugee Forum scheduled to take place in Geneva in December 2023 to advance United States goals and gain commitments from the global community to expand refugee protection; and (H) to reaffirm the goals of World Refugee Day
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Reaffirming the importance of the United States promoting the safety, health, and well-being of refugees and displaced persons in the United States and around the world.
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This resolution designates the week of September 25-29, 2023, as National Clean Energy Week.
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Designating the week of September 25 through September 29, 2023, as National Clean Energy Week Whereas, across the United States, clean and readily abundant forms of energy are powering more homes and businesses than ever before; Whereas clean energy generation is readily available from zero- and low-emissions sources; Whereas the clean energy sector is a growing part of the economy and has been a key driver of economic growth in the United States in recent years; Whereas technological innovation can further reduce costs, enhance reliability, and increase deployment of clean energy sources; Whereas the report of the Department of Energy entitled United States Energy & Employment Report 2023 Whereas the scaling of affordable and exportable clean energy is essential to reducing global emissions; Whereas clean energy jobs contribute to the growth of local economies; and Whereas innovative clean energy solutions and clean energy jobs are part of the energy future of the United States: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) designates the week of September 25 through September 29, 2023, as National Clean Energy Week (2) encourages individuals and organizations across the United States to support commonsense solutions that address the economic, environmental, and energy needs of the United States in the 21st century; (3) encourages the Federal Government, States, municipalities, and individuals to invest in affordable, clean, and low-emitting energy technologies; (4) supports reliable and affordable energy for the people of the United States; and (5) recognizes the role of entrepreneurs and small businesses in ensuring the leadership of the United States in the global energy marketplace and in supporting low-cost, clean, and reliable energy in the United States.
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Designating the week of September 25 through September 29, 2023, as National Clean Energy Week.
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This resolution designates June 2023 as National Post-Traumatic Stress Awareness Month and June 27, 2023, as National Post-Traumatic Stress Awareness Day. The resolution supports (1) the education of members of the Armed Forces, veterans, their families, and the public about post-traumatic stress; and (2) efforts by the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Department of Defense to foster cultural change around the issue of post-traumatic stress. The resolution also encourages the leadership of the Armed Forces to support treatment of members of the Armed Forces who suffer from post-traumatic stress.
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Designating June 2023 as National Post-Traumatic Stress Awareness Month National Post-Traumatic Stress Awareness Day Whereas the brave men and women of the Armed Forces, who proudly serve the United States (1) risk their lives to protect the freedom, health, and welfare of the people of the United States; and (2) deserve the investment of every possible resource to ensure their lasting physical, mental, and emotional well-being; Whereas, since the events of September 11, 2001, nearly 2,800,000 members of the Armed Forces have deployed overseas and served in places such as Afghanistan and Iraq; Whereas the current generation of men and women in the Armed Forces has sustained a high rate of operational deployments, with many members of the Armed Forces serving overseas multiple times, placing those members at high risk of enduring traumatic combat stress; Whereas, when left untreated, exposure to traumatic combat stress can lead to severe and chronic post-traumatic stress responses, which are commonly referred to as post-traumatic stress disorder or post-traumatic stress injury; Whereas many men and women of the Armed Forces and veterans who served before September 11, 2001, live with mental health needs from post-traumatic stress and remain at risk for responses to that stress; Whereas many post-traumatic stress responses remain unreported, undiagnosed, and untreated due to a lack of awareness about post-traumatic stress and the persistent stigma associated with mental health conditions; Whereas post-traumatic stress significantly increases the risk of post-traumatic stress responses, including anxiety, depression, homelessness, substance abuse, and suicide, especially if left untreated; Whereas the Secretary of Veterans Affairs reports that (1) approximately 20 percent of veterans who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom or Operation Enduring Freedom have post-traumatic stress in a given year; (2) approximately 12 percent of veterans who served in the Persian Gulf War have post-traumatic stress in a given year; and (3) approximately 30 percent of veterans who served in the Vietnam era have had post-traumatic stress in their lifetimes; Whereas public perceptions of post-traumatic stress as a mental health disorder create unique challenges for veterans seeking employment; Whereas the Department of Defense, the Department of Veterans Affairs, veterans service organizations, and the private and public medical community have made significant advances in the identification, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of post-traumatic stress and the symptoms of post-traumatic stress, but many challenges remain; Whereas increased understanding of post-traumatic stress can help eliminate stigma attached to the mental health issues of post-traumatic stress; Whereas additional efforts are needed to find further ways to eliminate the stigma associated with post-traumatic stress, including (1) an examination of how post-traumatic stress is discussed in the United States; and (2) a recognition that post-traumatic stress is a common injury that is treatable; Whereas timely and appropriate treatment of post-traumatic stress responses can diminish complications and avert suicides; Whereas post-traumatic stress (1) can result from any number of stressors other than combat, including rape, sexual assault, battery, torture, confinement, child abuse, car accidents, train wrecks, plane crashes, bombings, natural disasters, or global pandemics; and (2) affects approximately 8,000,000 adults in the United States annually; Whereas traumatic events such as the COVID19 pandemic could (1) increase the number of individuals impacted by post-traumatic stress; or (2) exacerbate the responses of post-traumatic stress; Whereas the diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder was first defined by the American Psychiatric Association in 1980 to commonly and more accurately understand and treat survivors of physical and psychological trauma, including veterans who had endured severe traumatic combat stress; Whereas the word disorder post-traumatic stress Whereas the designation of a National Post-Traumatic Stress Awareness Month and a National Post-Traumatic Stress Awareness Day raises public awareness about issues relating to post-traumatic stress, reduces the stigma associated with post-traumatic stress, and helps ensure that individuals suffering from the invisible wounds of war receive proper treatment: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) designates (A) June 2023 as National Post-Traumatic Stress Awareness Month (B) June 27, 2023, as National Post-Traumatic Stress Awareness Day (2) supports the efforts of the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, the Secretary of Defense, and the entire medical community to educate members of the Armed Forces, veterans, the families of members of the Armed Forces and veterans, and the public about the causes, symptoms, and treatment of post-traumatic stress; (3) supports efforts by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs and the Secretary of Defense to foster (A) cultural change around the issue of post-traumatic stress; and (B) understanding that personal interactions can save lives and advance treatment; (4) welcomes the efforts of local Vet Centers (as defined in section 1712A(h) of title 38, United States Code) to provide assistance to veterans who are suffering from the effects of post-traumatic stress; (5) encourages the leadership of the Armed Forces to support appropriate treatment of men and women of the Armed Forces who suffer from post-traumatic stress; (6) recognizes the impact of post-traumatic stress on the spouses and families of members of the Armed Forces and veterans; and (7) respectfully requests that the Secretary of the Senate transmit a copy of this resolution to (A) the Secretary of Veterans Affairs; and (B) the Secretary of Defense.
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Designating June 2023 as National Post-Traumatic Stress Awareness Month and June 27, 2023, as National Post-Traumatic Stress Awareness Day.
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This resolution honors the memories of the victims of the attack at the Covenant School in Nashville, Tennessee, on March 27, 2023. The resolution offers condolences to the families and friends of the victims and expresses gratitude to the first responders.
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Honoring the memories of the victims of the senseless attack at the Covenant School on March 27, 2023. Whereas, on March 27, 2023, a mass shooting that claimed the lives of 6 teachers and students took place at the Covenant School in Nashville, Tennessee; Whereas these victims included 9-year-old students, Evelyn Dieckhaus, William Kinney, and Hallie Scruggs, head of the school Dr. Katherine Koonce, custodian Mike Hill, and substitute teacher Cynthia Peak; Whereas the people of Tennessee and the United States continue to pray for the individuals who were affected by this unspeakable evil; Whereas the Nashville community has shown strength, compassion, and unity; and Whereas officers of the Nashville Police Department and other first responders demonstrated incredible bravery preventing the loss of additional life: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) honors the memories of the victims of the senseless and cowardly attack at the Covenant School on March 27, 2023, and offers heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies to the families, loved ones, friends, and church family of the victims; (2) recognizes the strength and resilience of the Covenant School community, the City of Nashville, and the State of Tennessee; (3) expresses deep gratitude to the first responders, including police officers, emergency medical personnel, fire department officials, and local, State, and Federal agents and officers, including Nashville Police Chief John Drake, whose incredible bravery prevented the loss of additional life; and (4) applauds the heroism displayed by the officers, including officers Rex Engelbert and Michael Collazo, who willingly ran toward danger, putting their lives on the line to save others.
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Honoring the memories of the victims of the senseless attack at the Covenant School on March 27, 2023.
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This resolution designates August 6-August 12, 2023, as National Farmers Market Week. The resolution also recognizes the vital role that farmers markets play in bringing communities together and in supporting the livelihoods of millions of people in the United States.
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Designating the week of August 6 through August 12, 2023, as National Farmers Market Week Whereas farmers markets accounted for $1,700,000,000 in income for farmers of the United States in 2020, demonstrating the crucial role of farmers markets in local economies; Whereas, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service of the Department of Agriculture, the number of farmers markets in the United States rose from 1,755 in 1994 to 8,771 in 2019, an average growth of nearly 7 percent per year; Whereas farmers markets serve as significant educational sites and as bridges between urban and rural communities, contributing to a better public understanding of farming and ranching; Whereas the adoption of more sustainable farming practices is closely associated with farmer-to-consumer interactions facilitated by farmers markets; Whereas farmers markets and direct marketing farmers help improve the health and wellness of low-income people in the United States who receive Federal nutrition benefits; and Whereas National Farmers Market Week is a time to recognize the unique and indispensable role farmers markets play in supporting food access, bolstering local economies, promoting healthy communities, and fostering sustainable farming: Now, therefore be it That the Senate (1) designates the week of August 6 through August 12, 2023, as National Farmers Market Week (2) recognizes the vital role that farmers markets play in bringing communities together and in supporting the livelihoods of millions of people in the United States, from farmers and food producers to consumers.
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Designating the week of August 6 through August 12, 2023, as National Farmers Market Week.
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This resolution recognizes the Little Sisters of the Poor of Indianapolis on its 150th Anniversary for its philanthropic work and service to the community.
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Recognizing the Little Sisters of the Poor of Indianapolis on its 150th Anniversary. Whereas, in 1839, Saint Jeanne Jugan brought a blind, paralyzed woman in from the cold and placed the woman in Saint Jeanne Jugan's own bed; Whereas, in 1841, the family Whereas Saint Jeanne Jugan and the other caregivers Whereas Saint Jeanne Jugan was elected Mother Superior of the Little Sisters of the Poor; Whereas the Little Sisters of the Poor Whereas Pope Pius XI recognized the Little Sisters of the Poor as a Pontifical Institute on July 9, 1854; Whereas Pope Leo XIII approved of the Constitutions of the Little Sisters of the Poor on March 1, 1879, when there were 2,400 Little Sisters of the Poor in 9 countries; Whereas the congregation spread across Europe and North Africa before coming to the United States; Whereas, in February of 1873, the Little Sisters of the Poor came to Indianapolis, Indiana, and opened a small home on Kentucky Avenue; Whereas, in the spring of 1878, the Little Sisters of the Poor received a permit to construct a new building to support the large demand for their assistance; Whereas the cornerstone for the new home of the Little Sisters of the Poor was completed in 1878, and Bishop Silas Francis Marean Chatard dedicated the building in 1879; and Whereas the Little Sisters of the Poor have provided food, shelter, and medical care to the Indianapolis, Indiana, community since 1873: Now, therefore, be it That it is the sense of the Senate that (1) the Little Sisters of the Poor should be commended for its philanthropy, the care it provides for the aging poor, and its dedication to the care of those in need, all of which have been vital to the health and well-being of the at-risk community in Indiana; (2) the work of the Little Sisters of the Poor continues to enrich the United States and the world through (A) dedication to the health and wellness of those who are unable to provide for themselves; and (B) service to the community; and (3) the work of the Little Sisters of the Poor should be recognized, emulated, and celebrated, especially during February 2023, which marks 150 years of service to the Indianapolis, Indiana, community by the Little Sisters of the Poor.
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Recognizing the Little Sisters of the Poor of Indianapolis on its 150th Anniversary.
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This resolution authorizes the Senate Committee on the Budget to make specified expenditures and employ personnel for the 118th Congress.
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Authorizing expenditures by the Committee on the Budget. 1. General authority In carrying out its powers, duties, and functions under the Standing Rules of the Senate, in accordance with its jurisdiction under rule XXV of the Standing Rules of the Senate, including holding hearings, reporting such hearings, and making investigations as authorized by paragraphs 1 and 8 of rule XXVI of the Standing Rules of the Senate, the Committee on the Budget (in this resolution referred to as the committee (1) make expenditures from the contingent fund of the Senate; (2) employ personnel; and (3) with the prior consent of the Government department or agency concerned and the Committee on Rules and Administration, use on a reimbursable or nonreimbursable basis the services of personnel of any such department or agency. 2. Expenses (a) Expenses for period ending September 30, 2023 The expenses of the committee for the period March 1, 2023, through September 30, 2023, under this resolution shall not exceed $4,368,375, of which amount (1) not to exceed $15,000 may be expended for the procurement of the services of individual consultants, or organizations thereof (as authorized by section 202(i) of the Legislative Reorganization Act of 1946 ( 2 U.S.C. 4301(i) (2) not to exceed $18,000 may be expended for the training of the professional staff of the committee (under procedures specified by section 202(j) of that Act). (b) Expenses for fiscal year 2024 period The expenses of the committee for the period October 1, 2023, through September 30, 2024, under this resolution shall not exceed $7,488,643, of which amount (1) not to exceed $40,000 may be expended for the procurement of the services of individual consultants, or organizations thereof (as authorized by section 202(i) of the Legislative Reorganization Act of 1946 ( 2 U.S.C. 4301(i) (2) not to exceed $30,000 may be expended for the training of the professional staff of the committee (under procedures specified by section 202(j) of that Act). (c) Expenses for period ending February 28, 2025 The expenses of the committee for the period October 1, 2024, through February 28, 2025, under this resolution shall not exceed $3,120,268, of which amount (1) not to exceed $10,000 may be expended for the procurement of the services of individual consultants, or organizations thereof (as authorized by section 202(i) of the Legislative Reorganization Act of 1946 ( 2 U.S.C. 4301(i) (2) not to exceed $10,000 may be expended for the training of the professional staff of the committee (under procedures specified by section 202(j) of that Act). 3. Expenses and agency contributions (a) Expenses of the committee (1) In general Except as provided in paragraph (2), expenses of the committee under this resolution shall be paid from the contingent fund of the Senate upon vouchers approved by the chairman of the committee. (2) Vouchers not required Vouchers shall not be required for (A) the disbursement of salaries of employees paid at an annual rate; (B) the payment of telecommunications provided by the Office of the Sergeant at Arms and Doorkeeper; (C) the payment of stationery supplies purchased through the Keeper of the Stationery; (D) payments to the Postmaster of the Senate; (E) the payment of metered charges on copying equipment provided by the Office of the Sergeant at Arms and Doorkeeper; (F) the payment of Senate Recording and Photographic Services; or (G) the payment of franked and mass mail costs by the Sergeant at Arms and Doorkeeper. (b) Agency contributions There are authorized to be paid from the appropriations account for Expenses of Inquiries and Investigations (1) for the period March 1, 2023, through September 30, 2023; (2) for the period October 1, 2023, through September 30, 2024; and (3) for the period October 1, 2024, through February 28, 2025.
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Authorizing expenditures by the Committee on the Budget.
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This resolution expresses support for observing National Trafficking and Modern Slavery Prevention Month during the period of January 1-February 1, 2023.
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Supporting the observation of National Trafficking and Modern Slavery Prevention Month during the period beginning on January 1, 2023, and ending on February 1, 2023, to raise awareness of, and opposition to, human trafficking and modern slavery. Whereas the United States abolished the transatlantic slave trade in 1808 and abolished chattel slavery and prohibited involuntary servitude in 1865; Whereas, because the people of the United States remain committed to protecting individual freedom, there is a national imperative to eliminate human trafficking and modern slavery, which is commonly considered to mean (1) the recruitment, harboring, transportation, provision, or obtaining of an individual through the use of force, fraud, or coercion for the purpose of subjecting that individual to involuntary servitude, peonage, debt bondage, or slavery; or (2) the inducement of a commercial sex act by force, fraud, or coercion, or in which the individual induced to perform that act is younger than 18 years of age; Whereas forced labor and human trafficking generates revenues of approximately $150,000,000,000 annually worldwide, and there are an estimated 50,000,000 victims of human trafficking and modern slavery across the globe; Whereas victims of human trafficking are difficult to identify and are subject to manipulation, force, fraud, coercion, and abuse; Whereas children and youths experiencing homelessness are vulnerable and susceptible to manipulation, making them a prime target for the lucrative criminal industry of human trafficking; Whereas the Department of Justice has reported that human trafficking and modern slavery has been reported and investigated in each of the 50 States and the District of Columbia; Whereas the Department of State has reported that the top 3 countries of origin of federally identified human trafficking victims in the United States in fiscal year 2021 were the United States, Mexico, and Honduras; Whereas, to help businesses in the United States combat child labor and forced labor in global supply chains, the Department of Labor has identified 158 goods from 77 countries that are made by child labor and forced labor; Whereas, since 2007, the National Human Trafficking Hotline has identified 82,301 cases of human trafficking involving 164,839 victims; Whereas there are known risk factors that contribute to youths running away, including domestic violence, child sexual abuse, and neglect, and runaway youths who experience homelessness are potential targets for human trafficking; Whereas, of the more than 26,500 endangered runaways reported to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children in 2020, 1 in 6 were likely child sex trafficking victims; Whereas youth experiencing homelessness experience high rates of human trafficking and 1 in 5 homeless youths is a victim of sex trafficking, labor trafficking, or both; Whereas 22 percent of youths who experience homelessness were approached for paid sex on their first night of homelessness; Whereas LGBTQ youths are disproportionally affected, accounting for 33.8 percent of sex trafficking victims; Whereas youths facing homelessness have a lower probability of being trafficked if they have a supportive adult in their life; Whereas the Administration for Native Americans of the Department of Health and Human Services reports that American Indian, Alaska Native, and Pacific Islander women and girls have a heightened risk for sex trafficking; Whereas the Department of Justice found that studies on the topic of human trafficking of American Indians and Alaska Natives suggest there are (1) high rates of sexual exploitation of Native women and girls; (2) gaps in data and research on trafficking of American Indian and Alaska Native victims; and (3) barriers that prevent law enforcement agencies and victim service providers from identifying and responding appropriately to Native victims; Whereas, according to the Government Accountability Office, from fiscal year 2013 through fiscal year 2016, there were only 14 Federal investigations and 2 Federal prosecutions of human trafficking offenses in Indian country; Whereas, to combat human trafficking and modern slavery in the United States and globally, the people of the United States, the Federal Government, and State, Tribal, and local governments must be (1) aware of the realities of human trafficking and modern slavery; and (2) dedicated to stopping the horrific enterprise of human trafficking and modern slavery; Whereas the United States should hold accountable all individuals, groups, organizations, governments, and countries that support, advance, or commit acts of human trafficking and modern slavery; Whereas, through education, the United States must also work to end human trafficking and modern slavery in all forms in the United States and around the world; Whereas victims of human trafficking deserve a trauma-informed approach that integrates the pursuit of justice and provision of social services designed to help them escape, and recover from, the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual trauma they endured; Whereas combating human trafficking requires a whole-of-government effort that rests on a unified and coordinated response among Federal, State, Tribal, and local agencies and that places equal value on the prevention of trafficking, the identification and stabilization of victims, and the investigation and prosecution of traffickers; Whereas laws to prosecute perpetrators of human trafficking and to assist and protect victims of human trafficking and modern slavery have been enacted in the United States, including (1) the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000 ( 22 U.S.C. 7101 et seq. (2) title XII of the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013 ( Public Law 1134 (3) the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act of 2015 ( Public Law 11422 (4) sections 910 and 914(e) of the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act of 2015 ( Public Law 114125 (5) section 1298 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2017 ( 22 U.S.C. 7114 (6) the Abolish Human Trafficking Act of 2017 ( Public Law 115392 (7) the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2017 ( Public Law 115393 (8) the Frederick Douglass Trafficking Victims Prevention and Protection Reauthorization Act of 2018 ( Public Law 115425 (9) the Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act of 2017 ( Public Law 115427 (10) the Violence Against Women Act Reauthorization Act of 2022 ( Public Law 117103 (11) the Abolish Trafficking Reauthorization Act of 2022 ( Public Law 117347 (12) the Trafficking Victims Prevention and Protection Reauthorization Act of 2022 ( Public Law 117348 (13) the End Human Trafficking in Government Contracts Act of 2022 ( Public Law 117211 Whereas the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act of 2015 ( Public Law 11422 Whereas the Department of Defense, the General Services Administration, and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration issued a final rule (80 Fed. Reg. 4967) to implement Executive Order 13627, entitled Strengthening Protections Against Trafficking in Persons in Federal Contracts Whereas, although such laws and regulations are currently in force, it is essential to increase public awareness, particularly among individuals who are most likely to come into contact with victims of human trafficking and modern slavery, regarding conditions and dynamics of human trafficking and modern slavery, precisely because traffickers use techniques that are designed to severely limit self-reporting and evade law enforcement; Whereas January 1 is the anniversary of the effective date of the Emancipation Proclamation; Whereas February 1 is (1) the anniversary of the date on which President Abraham Lincoln signed the joint resolution sending the 13th Amendment to the Constitution of the United States to the States for ratification to forever declare, Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction (2) a date that has long been celebrated as National Freedom Day, as described in section 124 of title 36, United States Code; and Whereas, under the authority of Congress to enforce the 13th Amendment to the Constitution of the United States by appropriate legislation 22 U.S.C. 7101 et seq. 3P That the Senate supports (1) observing National Trafficking and Modern Slavery Prevention Month during the period beginning on January 1, 2023, and ending on February 1, 2023, to recognize the vital role that the people of the United States have in ending human trafficking and modern slavery; (2) marking the observation of National Trafficking and Modern Slavery Prevention Month with appropriate programs and activities, culminating in the observance on February 1, 2023, of National Freedom Day, as described in section 124 of title 36, United States Code; (3) urging continued partnerships with Federal, State, Tribal, and local agencies, as well as survivors of human trafficking, social service providers, and nonprofit organizations to address human trafficking with a collaborative, victim-centered approach; and (4) all other efforts to prevent, eradicate, and raise awareness of, and opposition to, human trafficking and modern slavery.
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Supporting the observation of National Trafficking and Modern Slavery Prevention Month during the period beginning on January 1, 2023, and ending on February 1, 2023, to raise awareness of, and opposition to, human trafficking and modern slavery.
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This resolution authorizes (1) Daniel Schwager, a former employee of the Office of the Secretary of the Senate, to provide relevant testimony in the case of United States v. Kelly, except concerning matters for which a privilege should be asserted; and (2) the Senate Legal Counsel to represent Mr. Schwager and any current or former officer or employee of his office in connection with this case.
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To authorize testimony and representation in United States v. Kelly Whereas, in the case of United States v. Kelly Whereas, pursuant to sections 703(a) and 704(a)(2) of the Ethics in Government Act of 1978, 2 U.S.C. 288b(a) and 288c(a)(2), the Senate may direct its counsel to represent current and former officers and employees of the Senate with respect to any subpoena, order, or request for evidence relating to their official responsibilities; Whereas, by the privileges of the Senate of the United States and Rule XI of the Standing Rules of the Senate, no evidence under the control or in the possession of the Senate may, by the judicial or administrative process, be taken from such control or possession but by permission of the Senate; and Whereas, when it appears that evidence under the control or in the possession of the Senate may promote the administration of justice, the Senate will take such action as will promote the ends of justice consistent with the privileges of the Senate: Now, therefore, be it That Daniel Schwager, a former employee of the Office of the Secretary of the Senate, is authorized to provide relevant testimony in the case of United States v. Kelly 2. The Senate Legal Counsel is authorized to represent Mr. Schwager, and any current or former officer or employee of the Secretarys office, in connection with the production of evidence authorized in section one of this resolution.
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To authorize testimony and representation in United States v. Kelly.
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This resolution designates February 1, 2023, as Blue Star Mother's Day and honors the contributions of the Blue Star Mothers of America, Inc.
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Designating February 1, 2023, as Blue Star Mothers Day Whereas, on January 22, 1942, in the midst of the Second World War, Army Captain George Maines ran an advertisement in the Flint News-Advertiser calling for mothers of members of the Armed Forces to meet; Whereas, on February 1, 1942, 300 mothers of members of the Armed Forces held their first meeting at the Durant Hotel in Flint, Michigan, and February 1, 2023, is the 81st anniversary of that meeting; Whereas, on July 14, 1960, the Blue Star Mothers of America, Inc., received its charter from Congress; Whereas Blue Star Mothers make enormous sacrifices while their sons and daughters are providing for the defense of the United States; Whereas Blue Star Mothers pack and ship thousands of care packages every year to members of the Armed Forces deployed overseas, volunteer to help homeless veterans, provide support for wounded warriors, visit with hospitalized veterans, honor fallen heroes during funeral services, and offer a compassionate community for the mothers of men and women of the Armed Forces serving in harms way; Whereas Blue Star Mothers promote the values of the United States, demonstrate a patriotic spirit, and advance a national sense of pride and appreciation for the men and women of the Armed Forces; and Whereas there are more than 200 chapters of the Blue Star Mothers of America, Inc., throughout the United States representing thousands of military families: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) designates February 1, 2023, as Blue Star Mothers Day (2) honors and recognizes (A) the contributions of the members of the Blue Star Mothers of America, Inc.; and (B) the important role Blue Star Mothers play in supporting each other and members and veterans of the Armed Forces; and (3) encourages the people of the United States (A) to observe Blue Star Mothers Day; and (B) to support the work of local chapters of the Blue Star Mothers of America, Inc.
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Designating February 1, 2023, as Blue Star Mothers Day.
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This resolution supports World Malaria Day, recognizes the importance of reducing malaria in sub-Saharan Africa and globally, and commends progress in doing so. The resolution welcomes public-private partnerships to develop more effective and affordable tools for malaria surveillance, diagnostics, treatment, and prevention, and supports continued U.S. leadership in working with countries to respond to this illness.
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Supporting the goals and ideals of World Malaria Day. Whereas April 25 of each year is recognized internationally as World Malaria Day; Whereas malaria is a leading cause of death and disease in many developing countries, with nearly 1/2 Whereas, at of the end of 2021, there were an estimated 247,000,000 malaria cases in 84 endemic countries and 619,000 deaths from malaria; Whereas young children and pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to, and disproportionately affected by, malaria, with children younger than 5 years of age accounting for 76 percent of malaria deaths each year; Whereas, between 2019 and 2021, an estimated additional 13,400,000 cases of malaria were attributed to disruptions during that period of the COVID19 pandemic; Whereas malaria was once a leading cause of death in the United States; Whereas fighting malaria is in the national interest of the United States because reducing the risk of malaria protects members of the Armed Forces and other people of the United States serving overseas in malaria-endemic regions, and reducing malaria deaths helps to lower risks of instability in less developed countries; Whereas the support of the United States for efforts to fight malaria (1) is in the diplomatic and moral interests of the United States; (2) generates goodwill toward the United States; and (3) highlights the values of the people of the United States through the work of governmental, nongovernmental, and faith-based organizations of the United States; Whereas, between 2000 and 2021, global investments made in malaria intervention programs averted an estimated 2,000,000,000 malaria cases and 11,700,000 malaria deaths; Whereas the Government of the United States has played a leading role in the recent progress made toward reducing the global burden of malaria, particularly through the Presidents Malaria Initiative and the contribution of the United States to the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria; Whereas, in fiscal year 2021, the Presidents Malaria Initiative protected nearly 100,000,000 individuals by providing them with insecticide-treated bednets, more than 21,000,000 individuals by providing them with indoor insecticide spraying, more than 8,000,000 children by providing them with seasonal preventive treatments, and more than 5,000,000 women by providing them with preventive treatments in pregnancy; Whereas the United States is the largest donor to the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, and every $1 contributed by the United States leverages an additional $2 from other donors, as required by law; and Whereas the Government of the United States is pursuing a comprehensive approach to ending malaria deaths through the Presidents Malaria Initiative and the United States Agency for International Development, with assistance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Department of State, the Department of Health and Human Services, the National Institutes of Health, the Department of Defense, and private sector entities: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) supports the goals and ideals of World Malaria Day; (2) recognizes the importance of reducing malaria prevalence and deaths to improve overall child and maternal health, especially in sub-Saharan Africa; (3) commends the recent progress made toward reducing global malaria morbidity, mortality, and prevalence, particularly through the efforts of the Presidents Malaria Initiative and the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria; (4) commends the efforts and achievements of endemic countries in preventing and treating malaria at home, with locally driven programs; (5) welcomes ongoing public-private partnerships to research and develop more effective and affordable tools for malaria prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and vaccination; (6) recognizes the goals, priorities, and authorities to combat malaria set forth in the Tom Lantos and Henry J. Hyde United States Global Leadership Against HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria Reauthorization Act of 2008 ( Public Law 110293 (7) supports efforts to reduce malaria case incidence and malaria mortality rates by not less than 90 percent by 2030; (8) supports continued leadership by the United States in bilateral, multilateral, and private sector efforts to combat malaria and to work with developing countries to create long-term strategies to increase ownership over malaria programs; and (9) encourages other members of the international community to sustain and increase their support for, and financial contributions to, efforts to combat malaria worldwide.
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Supporting the goals and ideals of World Malaria Day.
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This resolution designates June 2, 2023, as National Rough Rider Day.
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Honoring the 125th anniversary of the Rough Riders in the Spanish American War and designating June 2, 2023, as National Rough Rider Day Whereas the brief history of the 1st United States Volunteer Cavalry Regiment (referred to in this preamble as the Rough Riders Whereas the Rough Riders were 1 of 3 volunteer cavalry regiments created by Congress on April 25, 1898, with Leonard Wood named Colonel of the regiment and Theodore Roosevelt named Lieutenant Colonel of the regiment; Whereas, although the volunteer cavalry regiments were initially to recruit from the Texas, Arizona, New Mexico, and Oklahoma Territories, the notoriety of the leaders of the Rough Riders inspired recruits from all portions of the United States to go to San Antonio, Texas, to enlist; Whereas the Rough Riders were given numerous nicknames, with the most prevalent being Roosevelts Rough Riders Whereas the Rough Riders trained in Texas and were ordered on May 8, 1898, to board 7 trains and proceed to Tampa, Florida; Whereas June 2, 2023, marks the 125th anniversary of the Rough Riders arrival to Tampa, Florida, to join the 5th Corps of the Army and await embarkation for the invasion of Cuba; Whereas the Rough Riders (1) were ordered to embark on June 8, 1898, with the Army invasion fleet; and (2) in their eagerness to be part of the invasion fleet, infamously commandeered a train to take them to Port Tampa to embark; Whereas, at Port Tampa, things were in great disarray, and the 5th Corps was highly disorganized; Whereas, in the confusion of moving the 5th Corps invasion forces on to the Army invasion fleet transports (1) several 5th Corps regiments were assigned to the same transport vessel, the S.S. Yucatan; and (2) Lieutenant Colonel Roosevelt got his men aboard the S.S. Yucatan, and realizing that once aboard they would probably not be forced to disembark, the Rough Riders stayed aboard, to the chagrin of the other regiments; Whereas the Army invasion fleet sailed on June 14 with the Rough Riders, and the 5th Corps landed at Daquiri, Cuba on June 22, 1898; Whereas, on June 24, 1898, the Rough Riders, along with the 10th United States Cavalry Regiment (referred to in this preamble as the Buffalo Soldiers (1) led the advance of the 5th Corps; and (2) met, engaged, and caused the retreat, of Spanish forces at the Battle of Las Guasimas, while sustaining the first casualties of the Cuba campaign; Whereas, on July 1, 1898, the Rough Riders, under the command of the future President Lieutenant Colonel Roosevelt, led the charge at Kettle Hill and San Juan Hill, serving alongside the Buffalo Soldiers; Whereas, despite the Rough Riders sustaining considerable losses, the Rough Riders participated in the siege of Santiago de Cuba and were present for the surrender of the enemy forces, which signaled the end of hostilities in Cuba; Whereas, during the Cuba campaign, the courage and tenacity of the Rough Riders in battle resulted in (1) 2 officers and 21 enlisted killed in action; and (2) 7 officers and 97 enlisted wounded in action; Whereas Lieutenant Colonel Roosevelt was promoted to Colonel and the Rough Riders proved their worth and lived up to the publicity they had already received; Whereas Colonel Roosevelt was nominated for and later received the Medal of Honor for his leadership actions and bravery in leading from the front at Kettle Hill and San Juan Hill; Whereas, in August 1898, the Rough Riders departed Cuba for Montauk, New York, and were disbanded on September 15, 1898; Whereas from the formation of the Rough Riders to its disbandment, the Rough Riders suffered a 37 percent casualty rate during the Cuba campaign, the highest of any cavalry or infantry regiment in the Armed Forces; Whereas, after their service, numerous members of the Rough Riders went on to serve the United States in various roles, including (1) as President of the United States; (2) as Secretary of the Navy; (3) as various State Governors; (4) as Army Generals and Colonels; (5) as educators; and (6) in many other professions; Whereas the history and military achievements of the members of the Rough Riders, including their post-service contributions to the United States and their fight to defend the United States and liberate an oppressed people, warrant special expressions of the gratitude by the people of the United States; and Whereas the decedents and beneficiaries of the achievements of the Rough Riders celebrate June 2, 2023, as the 125th Anniversary of the Rough Riders in the Spanish American War: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) designates June 2, 2023, as National Rough Rider Day (2) encourages the people of the United States to observe the day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.
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Honoring the 125th anniversary of the Rough Riders in the Spanish American War and designating June 2, 2023, as National Rough Rider Day.
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This resolution expresses the sense of the Senate that Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas does not have the confidence of the Senate or of the American people to faithfully carry out his duties.
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Expressing the sense of the Senate that Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Nicholas Mayorkas does not have the confidence of the Senate or of the American people to faithfully carry out the duties of his office. Whereas, while serving as Secretary of Homeland Security, Alejandro Nicholas Mayorkas, in violation of his constitutional oath, has engaged in a pattern of conduct that is incompatible with his constitutional and statutory duties as Secretary of Homeland Security, including by (1) failing to take all actions the Secretary determines necessary and appropriate to achieve and maintain operational control over the entire international land and maritime borders of the United States 8 U.S.C. 1701 the prevention of all unlawful entries into the United States, including entries by terrorists, other unlawful aliens, instruments of terrorism, narcotics, and other contraband (A) more than 5,500,000 illegal aliens crossing the United States southern border during Secretary Mayorkas' term in office, including aliens encountered by U.S. Customs and Border Protection and known got-aways, and 20 consecutive months with more than 150,000 illegal border crossings; (B) the apprehension of 98 individuals that match records within the Terrorist Screening Database at the southern border during fiscal year 2022, which is more such apprehensions than occurred during the previous 5 years combined, and the apprehension of 80 such individuals during fiscal year 2023 to date, which may lead to a higher rate of apprehensions of such individuals during fiscal year 2023 than took place during fiscal year 2022; and (C) the failure of the Department of Homeland Security, under the leadership of Secretary Mayorkas, to comply with provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act ( 8 U.S.C. 1101 et seq. (2) gravely endangering the national security of the United States, undermining the operational control of our southern border, and encouraging illegal immigration by (A) terminating contracts for additional border wall construction for which Congress appropriated funding; and (B) issuing memoranda rescinding the Migrant Protection Protocols (commonly known as Remain in Mexico Whereas Secretary Mayorkas, in the memorandum announcing the termination of the Migrant Protection Protocols program (MPP) on June 1, 2021, acknowledged, some removal proceedings conducted pursuant to MPP were completed more expeditiously than is typical for non-detained cases Whereas Federal authorities seized more than 14,000 pounds of illicit fentanyl along the southwest border during fiscal year 2022 and 13,800 pounds of illicit fentanyl during fiscal year 2023 to date, which is evidence of increased efforts by transnational criminal organizations to traffic dangerous substances into the United States; Whereas, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 107,000 Americans died of drug overdoses in 2021, which exceeds the number of such deaths in any previous year, and 2/3 Whereas, under the leadership of Secretary Mayorkas, the Department of Homeland Security formally opposed efforts to keep in place the order of suspension issued by the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention under section 362 of the Public Health Service Act ( 42 U.S.C. 265 title 42 order Whereas with the termination of the title 42 order, the Department of Homeland Security is planning to reroute asylum and parole applicants through the CBP One mobile application and formal parole programs in order to obscure border encounter numbers; Whereas on multiple occasions while serving as Secretary of Homeland Security, Alejandro Nicholas Mayorkas, in violation of his constitutional oath, has willfully provided perjurious, or false and misleading testimony to Congress, including (1) on April 28, 2022, during a hearing of the Committee on the Judiciary of the House of Representatives Will you testify under oath that we have operational control of the border? Yes we do operational control the prevention of all unlawful entries into the United States, including entries by terrorists, other unlawful aliens, instruments of terrorism, narcotics, and other contraband (2) on November 15, 2022, during a hearing of the Committee on Homeland Security of the House of Representatives Do you continue to maintain that the border is secure? Yes, and we are working day in and day out to enhance security, Congressman. Whereas section 1621 of title 18, United States Code, clearly states that anyone under oath who willfully and contrary to such oath states or subscribes any material matter which he does not believe to be true Whereas the record-breaking number of illegal alien encounters, including more 1,000,000 known got-aways Whereas U.S. Border Patrol Chief Raul Ortiz, in a field hearing before the Committee on Homeland Security of the House of Representatives Committee on the Judiciary of the House of Representatives Whereas, in September 2021, while Alejandro Nicholas Mayorkas was serving as Secretary of Homeland Security (1) approximately 15,000 Haitian migrants crossed the border from Mexico into the United States and were concentrated in an encampment underneath the international bridge between Mexico and the Del Rio, Texas, Port of Entry and in surrounding areas; (2) mounted Border Patrol agents and troopers with the Texas Department of Public Safety dispersed a large group of migrants gathered near a boat ramp located in the United States along the Rio Grande River, approximately 500 yards east of the Del Rio Port of Entry and then attempted to stop the flow of all migrants illegally crossing the Rio Grande River into the United States at that location; (3) within hours of the incident described in paragraph (2) (A) images and video surfaced on social media that showed multiple Border Patrol agents on horseback using their horses to keep several illegal immigrants from entering the United States after crossing the Rio Grande in Del Rio, Texas; (B) extremist liberal activists rushed to judgement and falsely accused the agents of whipping the illegal immigrants with their horse reins, in spite of a statement by the photographer that the pictures were misconstrued as showing abusive behavior; and (C) some activists made the disgusting false equivalency to slavery; and (4) Secretary Mayorkas, after Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security for Public Affairs Marsha Espinosa emailed to him a news article explaining that the photographer who took the images did not see the agents whipping anyone (A) misled the general public by publicly supporting the Biden administrations false narrative that Border Patrol agents whipped Haitian migrants; and (B) participated in a White House press conference during which he publicly and falsely slandered the Border Patrol agents referred to in paragraph (2), calling the images horrifying systemic racism Whereas a 511-page report by the U.S. Customs and Border Protections Office of Personal Responsibility found no evidence that [Border Patrol agents] involved in this incident struck, intentionally or otherwise, any migrant with their reins Whereas the National Border Patrol Council, which is the labor union representing Border Patrol agents and support staff, is considering supporting the impeachment of Secretary Mayorkas; Whereas the actions of Secretary Mayorkas department have encouraged foreign nationals to attempt to illegally enter the United States at historic levels, as evidenced by 251,012 enforcement encounters along the southern border in December 2022, which is the highest number of encounters ever recorded in a single month; Whereas a major component of these failed immigration enforcement policies is the Department of Homeland Securitys disregard for its responsibility to enforce Federal immigration laws, including Secretary Mayorkas abuse of discretion in granting humanitarian parole, which, according to section 212(d)(5)(A) of the Immigration and Nationality Act ( 8 U.S.C. 1182(d)(5)(A) case-by-case basis for urgent humanitarian reasons or significant public benefit Processes for Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans Whereas the policies of the Department of Homeland Security, under the leadership of Secretary Mayorkas, have encouraged increased numbers of unaccompanied migrant children to enter the United States during the 2-year period immediately preceding the date on which this resolution was introduced, with large numbers of such children revealed by the New York Times to have been forced into dangerous jobs in violations of child labor laws; Whereas, on March 28, 2023, Ranking Member Senator Lindsey Graham, during a hearing of the Committee on the Judiciary of the Senate (1) the southern border of the United States has gone from the lowest illegal crossings in December 2020 to all-time highs with over 2,000,000 last fiscal year (2) fentanyl is coming in at a pace we have never seen (3) more terrorists on the watch list are coming than any time since we've been measuring these things Whereas, during the same hearing, Senator Josh Hawley (1) compared the CBP One mobile application used to schedule appointments and request humanitarian parole and asylum to a concierge service for illegal immigrants (2) commented to Secretary Mayorkas, rather than building a wall, Mr. Secretary, you have built Ticketmaster for illegal immigrants Whereas during the same hearing (1) Secretary Mayorkas told Senator Ted Cruz that he did not recognize wristbands abandoned along the border, which cartels commonly use for human smuggling and trafficking and which act as a sort of registration system, with different colors and patterns denoting the cartel responsible, how many times a person has attempted to cross, and how much they owe to the cartel; and (2) Senator Cruz replied in frustration to Senator Mayorkas by calling him incompetent and telling him, If you had integrity, you would resign. Now, therefore, be it That it is the sense of the Senate that Secretary Alejandro Nicholas Mayorkas no longer holds the confidence of the Senate or of the American people to faithfully carry out his duties as Secretary of Homeland Security.
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Expressing the sense of the Senate that Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Nicholas Mayorkas does not have the confidence of the Senate or of the American people to faithfully carry out the duties of his office.
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This resolution designates September 2023 as National Child Awareness Month to (1) promote awareness of youth-serving charities and organizations throughout the United States, (2) recognize the efforts made by those charities and organizations as critical contributions to the future of the United States, and (3) recognize the importance of meeting the needs of at-risk children and youth.
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Designating September 2023 as National Child Awareness Month Whereas millions of children and youth in the United States represent the hopes and the future of the United States; Whereas numerous individuals, charities benefitting children, and youth-serving organizations that work with children and youth collaborate to provide invaluable services to enrich and better the lives of children and youth throughout the United States; Whereas raising awareness of and increasing support for organizations that provide access to health care, social services, education, the arts, sports, and other services will result in the development of character in, and the future success of, the children and youth of the United States; Whereas the month of September, as the school year begins, is a time when parents, families, teachers, school administrators, and communities increase the focus on children and youth throughout the United States; Whereas the month of September is a time for the people of the United States to highlight and be mindful of the needs of children and youth; Whereas private corporations and businesses have joined with hundreds of national and local charitable organizations throughout the United States in support of a month-long focus on children and youth; and Whereas designating September 2023 as National Child Awareness Month That the Senate designates September 2023 as National Child Awareness Month (1) to promote awareness of charities that benefit children and youth-serving organizations throughout the United States; (2) to recognize the efforts made by those charities and organizations on behalf of children and youth as critical contributions to the future of the United States; and (3) to recognize the importance of meeting the needs of at-risk children and youth, including children and youth who (A) have experienced homelessness; (B) are in the foster care system; (C) have been victims, or are at risk of becoming victims, of child sex trafficking; (D) have been impacted by violence; (E) have experienced trauma; and (F) have serious physical and mental health needs.
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Designating September 2023 as National Child Awareness Month to promote awareness of charities that benefit children and youth-serving organizations throughout the United States and recognizing the efforts made by those charities and organizations on behalf of children and youth as critical contributions to the future of the United States.
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This resolution celebrates the 2023 NATO summit in Vilnius, Lithuania and urges Turkey and Hungary to ratify Sweden's accession to NATO without further delay. It also encourages allies to (1) operationalize the 2022 NATO Strategic Concept, which includes countering Chinese aggressive and coercive behavior; (2) spend at least 2 percent of Gross Domestic Product on defense; and (3) support Ukraine.
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Celebrating the 2023 NATO Summit in Vilnius, Lithuania, and expressing priorities related to transatlantic security and the NATO Strategic Concept. Whereas the United States signed the North Atlantic Treaty, done at Washington, DC, April 4, 1949 (commonly known as the Washington Treaty Whereas the United States and its allies recognized that security cooperation was a necessary precursor to enhanced political and economic stabilization and engagement; Whereas, in 1991, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (commonly known as NATO Alliance Whereas, in 1994, NATO established the Partnership for Peace to enable partner countries to share information and modernize and democratize their political and security infrastructure with NATO; Whereas, in 1999, NATO established the Membership Action Plan to facilitate the accession of aspiring member countries by providing advice, assistance, and support in meeting the political and military principles of the Alliance; Whereas any country that wishes may pursue NATO membership consistent with the 1995 Study on Enlargement and article 10 of the Washington Treaty by (1) pursuing formal accession talks with the Alliance; (2) sending a letter of intent to NATO, including a timeline for the completion of necessary reforms recommended by the Alliance; (3) working with member countries so that accession protocols are signed and ratified by such member countries; (4) receiving an invitation from the Secretary General of NATO to accede to the Washington Treaty; and (5) acceding to the Washington Treaty in accordance with national procedures and by depositing instruments of accession; Whereas, following the terrorist attacks on the United States on September 11, 2001, NATO invoked article 5 of the Washington Treaty for the first time, calling on the Alliance to provide for collective defense; Whereas Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia, which were among the first Eastern European nations to declare independence from the Soviet Union, formally joined NATO in 2004 and have provided notable support for NATO operations, including (1) operations in Iraq and Afghanistan; (2) operations that have been enhanced in response to increased threats; and (3) operations in response to the invasion of Ukraine by the Russian Federation in February 2022; Whereas, in 2006, the Alliance agreed that each member country would commit at least 2 percent of their Gross Domestic Product to defense spending to ensure sustained readiness; Whereas the Alliance consists of 31 independent member countries, including Albania, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Montenegro, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Trkiye, the United Kingdom, and the United States; Whereas, in response to the unprovoked and illegal war on Ukraine by the Russian Federation, Finland and Sweden applied for NATO membership in May 2022; Whereas, during the 2022 NATO Summit in Madrid, Spain, NATO formally extended an invitation to Finland and Sweden to join the Alliance; Whereas Finland formally ascended to the Alliance on April 4, 2023, as the most recent country to join NATO; Whereas the accession of Sweden into NATO awaits final ratification by Hungary and Turkiye; Whereas NATO (1) leads operations in Kosovo and other countries in the Mediterranean region to maintain peace and stability; (2) supports operations around the world, including in Europe and the African Union, to advance priorities of the Alliance; and (3) facilitates a training mission in Iraq to develop the capacity of the security infrastructure of Iraq; Whereas, since the further invasion of Ukraine by the Russian Federation on February 24, 2022, which followed the illegal annexation of Crimea by the Russian Federation in 2014, the Alliance is the strongest and most united it has ever been; Whereas, as the Russian Federation illegally attacks the sovereignty of Ukraine, individual members of the Alliance have contributed essential military and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine, including through the Ukraine Defense Contact Group established by the United States; Whereas, in response to the brutal war on Ukraine by the Russian Federation, NATO enhanced its presence on the eastern flank of the Alliance by reinforcing existing multinational battlegroups and establishing new multinational battlegroups in Bulgaria, Hungary, Romania, and Slovakia; Whereas efforts by NATO to bolster the security of the eastern flank and to counter aggression by the Russian Federation followed efforts in 2016 by establishing NATO forward presences in the northeast and southeast of the Alliance; Whereas the Alliance recognizes the strategic importance of the Black Sea region, which the Russian Federation has tried to weaponize, including by attempting to block shipments of grain from Ukraine through the Black Sea, bringing the world to the brink of a global food security crisis; Whereas, for the first time in history, the 2022 NATO Strategic Concept recognized that the stated ambitions and coercive policies of the People's Republic of China challenge the interests of the Alliance; Whereas the Alliance recognizes that deepening ties between the People's Republic of China and the Russian Federation have resulted in immediate and long-term challenges to the rules-based international world order; Whereas NATO is prepared to respond to existing and emerging threats to transatlantic security; Whereas Vilnius, Lithuania, will host the 2023 NATO Summit following the 700-year jubilee of the city on January 25, 2023; Whereas the 2023 NATO Summit will highlight the leadership of the Baltic States in NATO and as supporters of democratic values globally; Whereas Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania are among the top 5 per capita contributors of assistance to Ukraine; Whereas, despite continued belligerence by the Russian Federation, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania have welcomed exiled opposition leaders from the Republic of Belarus and the Russian Federation; Whereas the choice of Vilnius as the location for the 2023 NATO Summit underscores the Baltic States as vital NATO members and further demonstrates the strength of the Alliance; and Whereas the 2023 NATO Summit is an opportunity to build upon the work of previous summits to continue strengthening the Alliance and pave the way for new NATO member countries that can join in upholding democratic values: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) reaffirms that, for 74 years, the unity and strength of North Atlantic Treaty Organization (commonly known as NATO Alliance (2) celebrates that the 2023 NATO Summit will be held in Vilnius, Lithuania, on July 11 and 12, 2023; (3) acknowledges individuals around the world who have served in NATO missions and operations since the Alliance was founded; (4) supports the sovereignty of all nations to decide whether to pursue membership to the Alliance; (5) urges Hungary and Turkiye to ratify the accession of Sweden to NATO without further delay; (6) recognizes that Sweden would bring new and unique capabilities to NATO, which would enable the Alliance to respond to existing and emerging threats to transatlantic security; (7) encourages the Alliance to operationalize the 2022 Strategic Concept, including by countering the aggressive and coercive behavior exhibited by the Peoples Republic of China; (8) expresses support for the decision of NATO to open an office in Tokyo, Japan, to address pacing challenges to transatlantic security in the Indo-Pacific Region; (9) asserts that NATO members should consider the commitment to spend 2 percent of Gross Domestic Product as the lowest percent contribution to ensure the sustainability, resilience, and readiness of the Alliance; (10) emphasizes that the Alliance should continue to support Ukraine as it fights for freedom, sovereignty, and territorial integrity; and (11) reaffirms the commitment of the United States to meet obligations as a member of the North Atlantic Treaty, done at Washington, DC, April 4, 1949.
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Celebrating the 2023 NATO Summit in Vilnius, Lithuania, and expressing priorities related to transatlantic security and the NATO Strategic Concept.
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This resolution (1) designates July 2023 as National Blueberry Month; and (2) recognizes the contributions of blueberry growers in the United States and their families, and that purchasing blueberries grown in the United States supports farmers, jobs, communities, and the economy of the United States.
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Recognizing the importance of the blueberry industry to the United States and designating July 2023 as National Blueberry Month Whereas blueberries are a native North American fruit, first managed and harvested as wild blueberries by the native Wabanaki; Whereas wild blueberries continue to be managed and harvested in Maine by farmers, including the Wabanaki, as a native, naturally occurring crop; Whereas the pioneering work conducted in New Jersey in the early 1900s by Elizabeth White and Dr. Frederick Coville, a botanist at the Department of Agriculture, to domesticate wild lowbush blueberries resulted in the development of the hybrid variety of cultivated highbush blueberries; Whereas, because of these early efforts, highbush blueberries are large, sweet, juicy berries that can be commercially produced and shipped; Whereas wild blueberries (1) are small and sweet; and (2) are not planted, but still grow and are harvested where they have naturally occurred for thousands of years; Whereas the blueberry industry in the United States is an important sector of United States agriculture with an annual economic impact of $4,700,000,000; Whereas highbush and wild blueberries have a total harvested area estimated at more than 140,000 acres and are produced in 48 States by nearly 13,185 farms; Whereas blueberry production in the United States has continually increased, with particular growth in the first 2 decades of the 21st century, to reach a harvest of 731,400,000 pounds in 2022; Whereas blueberries are low in fat and are a source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals; Whereas blueberries are being studied to examine the role the berries may play in promoting good health in areas such as cardiovascular health, brain health, exercise, insulin response, and gut health; and Whereas blueberries are harvested in the United States from March through early September, with the harvest reaching its peak in July: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) designates July 2023 as National Blueberry Month (2) recognizes the contributions of blueberry growers in the United States and their families; and (3) recognizes that purchasing blueberries grown in the United States supports farmers, jobs, communities, and the economy of the United States.
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Recognizing the importance of the blueberry industry to the United States and designating July 2023 as National Blueberry Month.
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This resolution designates February 26-March 4, 2023, as National Fentanyl Awareness Week.
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Expressing support for the designation of February 26, 2023, to March 4, 2023, as National Fentanyl Awareness Week Whereas, as of August 2022, drug overdoses during the previous 12 months claimed a reported 101,552 lives in the United States; Whereas countless families in the United States are now facing the unimaginable pain of losing a child, mother, father, sibling, or loved one taken by deadly, illegal fentanyl; Whereas the life expectancy in the United States has dropped to its lowest point in 2 decades, in part because of street drugs like fentanyl; Whereas fentanyl is 50 times more potent than heroin, and is considered the deadliest drug threat in the United States; Whereas drug traffickers use illicit fentanyl to produce fake and counterfeit pills; Whereas drug traffickers are using fentanyl-laced fake and counterfeit pills to exploit the opioid crisis in the United States; Whereas those illicit drugs are primarily made in secret factories in Mexico with chemicals mostly from China; Whereas, without laboratory testing, there is no safe way to know how much fentanyl is concentrated in a pill or powder; Whereas the Drug Enforcement Agency has issued warnings about brightly colored fentanyl-laced pills being used to target young individuals in the United States; Whereas less than 2 milligrams is considered a deadly dose of fentanyl; Whereas the Drug Enforcement Agency announced that in 2022 alone, the Drug Enforcement Agency seized over 379,000,000 doses of potentially deadly fentanyl, enough to kill every individual in the United States, which included (1) more than 50,600,000 fentanyl-laced pills; and (2) 10,000 pounds of fentanyl powder; Whereas U.S. Customs and Border Protection seized more than 17,000 pounds of fentanyl in fiscal year 2022; Whereas fentanyl has also been found in street drugs such as cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine; and Whereas, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, fentanyl-related poisonings are currently the leading cause of death for individuals in the United States ages 18 to 49: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) applauds the work of Federal, State, and local law enforcement agencies for their work in combating the fentanyl crisis; (2) applauds the work of treatment and recovery organizations that help individuals with substance use disorder; (3) encourages all individuals to only use medication prescribed by their physician; (4) encourages individuals suffering from substance use disorder to seek assistance; and (5) designates February 26, 2023, through March 4, 2023, as National Fentanyl Awareness Week
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Expressing support for the designation of February 26, 2023, to March 4, 2023, as National Fentanyl Awareness Week and raising awareness of the negative impacts of fentanyl in the United States.
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This resolution honors the life of former Senator Lowell P. Weicker, Jr., of Connecticut, who died June 28, 2023. The Senate recognizes his death with sorrow and regret, and will stand adjourned in respect to his memory.
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Honoring the life of Lowell Palmer Weicker, Jr., former Senator for the State of Connecticut. Whereas Lowell P. Weicker, Jr. (1) was born in Paris, France, in 1931; and (2) graduated from Yale University, in New Haven, Connecticut, and the University of Virginia Law School; Whereas Lowell P. Weicker, Jr. served in the United States Army from 1953 through 1955, achieving the rank of first lieutenant; Whereas Lowell P. Weicker, Jr. was elected to the House of Representatives in 1968; Whereas Lowell P. Weicker, Jr. was first elected to the Senate in 1970 and was reelected in 1976 and 1982; Whereas Lowell P. Weicker, Jr. served on the Senate Watergate Committee, where he was the first Republican senator to call for the resignation of President Richard Nixon, an act of political courage and dedication to public service; Whereas Lowell P. Weicker, Jr. was an early and strong advocate in the Senate for the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 ( 42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq. Whereas, while serving in the Senate, Lowell P. Weicker, Jr. was a strong advocate for protecting public health, shown through his efforts to (1) prevent cuts in funding for the National Institutes of Health; (2) support scientific and medical research efforts; and (3) secure funding for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) treatment; Whereas, after his tenure in the Senate, Lowell P. Weicker, Jr. was elected Governor of Connecticut in 1990; Whereas, as Governor of Connecticut, Lowell P. Weicker, Jr. secured the passage of a state income tax that, while unpopular, balanced the budget of the State; Whereas, as Governor of Connecticut, Lowell P. Weicker, Jr. signed many laws that sought to improve the quality of life for residents of the State, including a ban on assault rifles for the first time in State history; Whereas, after leaving public office, Lowell P. Weicker, Jr. continued his work to improve the public health, founding Trust for America's Health, a nonprofit working on disease prevention, and serving as the president of the organization from 2001 through 2011; and Whereas Lowell P. Weicker, Jr. is survived by his wife, Claudia Weicker, as well as his 5 sons, 2 stepsons, 12 grandchildren, and 4 great-grandchildren: Now, therefore, be it That (1) the Senate has heard with profound sorrow and deep regret the announcement of the death of Lowell P. Weicker, Jr., former member of the Senate; (2) the Senate directs the Secretary of the Senate to communicate this resolution to the House of Representatives and transmit an enrolled copy of this resolution to the family of Lowell P. Weicker, Jr.; and (3) when the Senate adjourns today, it stand adjourned as a further mark of respect to the memory of the late Lowell P. Weicker, Jr.
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Honoring the life of Lowell Palmer Weicker, Jr., former Senator for the State of Connecticut.
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This resolution designates September 25, 2023, as National Lobster Day and encourages the people of the United States to observe the day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.
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Designating September 25, 2023, as National Lobster Day Whereas lobstering has served as an economic engine and family tradition in the United States for centuries; Whereas thousands of families in the United States make their livelihoods from catching, processing, or serving lobsters; Whereas the lobster industry employs people of all ages year-round, and many harvesters begin fishing as children and stay in the industry for their entire working lives; Whereas the lobster industry has spearheaded sustainability measures for more than 150 years, ensuring the health of the lobster stock and the marine environment; Whereas consumers are looking to add more sustainable seafood to their diets, and more people are enjoying lobster at home; Whereas historical lore notes that lobster likely joined turkey on the table at the very first Thanksgiving feast in 1621, and lobster continues to be a mainstay during many other holiday traditions; Whereas lobster harvesters are evolving and diversifying their businesses to help maintain the health of the ocean, including through kelp farming, which absorbs carbon dioxide from seawater; Whereas throughout history, Presidents of the United States have served lobster at their inaugural celebrations and state dinners with international leaders; Whereas lobster is a versatile source of lean protein that is low in saturated fat and high in vitamin B12; Whereas lobster is continually incorporated into foods such as pho, gnocchi, doughnuts, cocktails, ice cream, and butter; Whereas the peak of the lobstering season in the United States occurs in late summer; Whereas the Unicode Consortium added a lobster to its emoji set in 2018 in recognition of the popularity of the lobster around the world; Whereas lobsters have inspired artists in the United States and throughout the world for hundreds of years; Whereas lobsters have been, and continue to be, used as mascots for sports teams; Whereas lobsters inspire innovation of all kinds beyond the culinary realm, including skincare, fertilizer, robotics, and biodegradable golf balls; Whereas countless people in the United States enjoy lobster rolls to celebrate summer, from beaches to backyards, and from fine-dining restaurants to lobster shacks; and Whereas lobster is a staple on the menus of beloved restaurants across the United States, and in kitchens across the United States, bringing families and friends together: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) designates September 25, 2023, as National Lobster Day (2) encourages the people of the United States to observe the day with appropriate ceremonies and activities.
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Designating September 25, 2023, as National Lobster Day.
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This resolution generally permits the Senate to consider up to 10 nominations for most federal positions using a single motion to proceed (a proposal, typically offered by the Majority Leader, to bring a measure, nomination, or treaty to the Senate floor for debate and vote). However, certain nominations still require individual motions to proceed, namely nominations for Cabinet officials and other positions at Level I of the Executive Service, appellate judges, and Supreme Court Justices.
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Amending the Standing Rules of the Senate to authorize the Majority Leader to move to proceed to the en bloc consideration of certain nominations. 1. En bloc consideration of certain nominations Rule XXXI of the Standing Rules of the Senate is amended by adding at the end the following: 8.(a) In this paragraph, the term covered nomination (1) at level I of the Executive Schedule under section 5312 of title 5, United States Code; (2) as a judge of a court of appeals of the United States; or (3) as Chief Justice of the United States or as an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States. (b) It shall be in order for the Majority Leader to move to proceed to the en bloc consideration of not more than 10 covered nominations that were reported to the Senate by the same committee of the Senate and placed on the calendar. (c) Consideration of a motion to proceed under subparagraph (b), and the en bloc consideration of the nominations that are the subject of the motion, shall be conducted in the same manner as if it were a motion to proceed to the consideration of a single nomination. .
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Amending the Standing Rules of the Senate to authorize the Majority Leader to move to proceed to the en bloc consideration of certain nominations.
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This resolution expresses the sense of the Senate that access to reliable and clean drinking water is critically important to the health and welfare of American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians. Further, the resolution calls upon the federal government to ensure water access for tribal members and communities.
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Recognizing the critical importance of access to reliable, clean drinking water for Native Americans and affirming the responsibility of the Federal Government to ensure such water access. Whereas access to reliable, clean drinking water is an essential human need that is critical to the public health, well-being, educational attainment, and economic development of all communities in the United States; Whereas many countries, along with the United Nations, have recognized the urgency of water access by passing laws or resolutions relating to the human right to water, including recognition of this right among indigenous peoples and establishing aggressive targets for achieving universal access to this basic right; Whereas, in the United States, access to reliable, clean drinking water has long been a significant problem in many Native communities, such that nearly 1/2 Whereas reliable, clean drinking water may be unavailable to Native households for many reasons, including because (1) there is no piped water system connecting to the house; (2) the water available to the household does not meet minimum protective standards; (3) the water infrastructure is deteriorating or insufficient; or (4) Indian Tribes, Alaska Native Villages, and Native Hawaiian communities are unable to support the operation and maintenance needs of existing water infrastructure; Whereas many Native communities have significant unresolved claims for federally reserved water rights, many of which have been unresolved for decades and which may not be resolved for many years to come, due in part to the complex and significant issues typically involved in water rights adjudication and settlements; Whereas the development of water infrastructure on Federal Indian reservations, in particular, has frequently been conditioned on the settlement of Tribal reserved water rights and has been prevented or delayed by (1) continuing uncertainty over the status of Tribal water rights; (2) the years-long process of Tribal water rights settlements; or (3) conflict over the quantification of Tribal reserved water rights in State water rights adjudications; Whereas the quantity of water that would be required to supply reliable, clean drinking water to provide for the basic needs of each Native community is typically only a small fraction of the total quantity water allocated to the Native community; Whereas the trust responsibility of the Federal Government to Indian Tribes, Alaska Native Villages, and Native Hawaiian communities requires the Federal Government to ensure the survival and welfare of Native Americans, and the failure to provide basic water service cannot be reconciled with this trust responsibility; Whereas the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act ( 25 U.S.C. 5301 et seq. Whereas the COVID19 pandemic provided a stark reminder that access to reliable, clean drinking water to support basic hygiene is a matter of life or death for all individuals of the United States and Native communities suffer disproportionate impacts during epidemics and disasters due to a multitude of factors, including (1) persistent economic disadvantages on Federal Indian reservations, in Alaska Native Villages, and in Native Hawaiian communities; (2) lack of on-reservation affordable and safe housing; and (3) lack of public health infrastructure, including access to running water; Whereas, on January 27, 2021, President Biden issued Executive Order 14008 (86 Fed. Reg. 7619; relating to tackling the climate crisis), which provides that it is the policy of the Biden Administration to secure environmental justice and spur economic opportunity for disadvantaged communities that have been historically marginalized and overburdened by pollution and underinvestment in housing, transportation, water and wastewater infrastructure, and health care; Whereas, through the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act ( Public Law 11758 IIJA Public Law 117169 IRA Whereas many Native communities need technical assistance to ensure that the Native communities can (1) access and take advantage of the new construction funding made available through the IIJA and IRA; (2) develop the managerial, financial, and regulatory framework necessary for a fully functional and self-sustaining utility; and (3) engage appropriate outside support to assist, as needed; Whereas advances in water technology, including treatment, sensors, and innovative pipeline materials, can assist in (1) accelerating efforts to provide universal access to reliable, clean, and drinkable water for all Native communities; and (2) enhancing resilience in the face of climate change; Whereas it is in the interest of the United States, and it is the policy of the United States, that all existing Native communities be provided with safe and adequate water supply systems as soon as practicable; and Whereas appropriate funding at the level of unmet need and a whole-of-government approach among all Federal agencies are both essential to provide a meaningful solution to the lack of access to clean water in Native communities: Now, therefore, be it That (1) it is the sense of the Senate that (A) access to reliable, clean drinking water is an essential human need, and such access on Federal Indian reservations, Alaska Native villages, and in Native Hawaiian communities is (i) critical to the health, well-being, and economic development of the individuals living on those lands and in those communities; and (ii) integral to maintaining the public health of the people of the United States; (B) settlement or adjudication of Tribal claims of reserved water rights is not and should not be a prerequisite to the provision of this basic human service to households located in Native communities, nor should the provision of basic human services be used to leverage the resolution of Tribal reserved water rights and claims; (C) the provision of reliable, clean drinking water to support the domestic requirements of Indian Tribes, Alaska Native Villages, and Native Hawaiian communities is an essential component of the Federal trust responsibility to Native Americans and critical to supporting permanent homelands; (D) while funding for safe drinking water systems for Native communities received a significant and groundbreaking boost from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act ( Public Law 11758 IIJA Public Law 117169 IRA (E) technical assistance is urgently needed to allow Native communities to plan and design the systems necessary to remedy the longstanding problem of lack of access to clean drinking water and bring those plans to the shovel ready (F) Native communities need support to develop the managerial, financial, and regulatory capacity necessary for a fully functional and self-sustaining utility and to support the operation and maintenance of water systems; and (G) further measures are necessary to ensure that the benefits of the historic investments made by the IIJA and IRA in infrastructure are fully realized; and (2) the Senate (A) calls upon the Federal executive branch to (i) work in collaboration with the relevant Native governmental entities and State and local jurisdictions to expedite the planning, design, development, and operation of the infrastructure necessary to provide reliable, clean drinking water on Federal Indian reservations, in Alaska Native Villages, and in Native Hawaiian communities; and (ii) inform Congress of further authorizations and expenditures that may be necessary to meet the objective described in clause (i); (B) calls upon the Federal executive branch to (i) employ a whole-of-government (ii) create an interagency task force consisting of high-level representatives from departments and agencies with authority to provide water infrastructure that will work to remove barriers, optimize funding, and make immediate and tangible progress on meeting the objective described in clause (i); and (iii) report annually to Congress on the progress toward the objective described in clause (i); and (C) calls upon the Federal executive branch, State governments, and affected water agencies to (i) affirmatively support de-coupling the planning, design, development, and operation of water infrastructure from the settlement or adjudication of Tribal reserved water rights; and (ii) support the development of water infrastructure necessary to provide reliable, clean drinking water in Native communities independent of settlements or adjudications of Tribal reserved water rights.
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Recognizing the critical importance of access to reliable, clean drinking water for Native Americans and affirming the responsibility of the Federal Government to ensure such water access.
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This resolution recognizes the role that the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), a program established in 2003 that invests in the international AIDS response, has played in the global fight against HIV/AIDS. It applauds the successes and accomplishments of PEPFAR and urges continued funding and support.
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Recognizing the critical role that PEPFAR has played in the global fight against HIV/AIDS. Whereas the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (referred to in this preamble as PEPFAR Whereas private organizations, including the ONE Campaign and the Elton John AIDS Foundation, like many others, have been indispensable partners in supporting PEPFAR and advancing its causes; Whereas PEPFAR has been a critical tool in the global fight against HIV/AIDS, providing vital resources and support to countries most affected by the HIV/AIDS epidemic and saving more than 25,000,000 lives; Whereas PEPFAR has supported HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment, and care programs in more than 50 countries and currently provides life-saving antiretroviral treatment to 20,100,000 individuals; Whereas, since 2010, PEPFAR has achieved a 50 percent reduction in new HIV cases in young women between 15 and 24 years of age and a 65 percent reduction in new HIV cases in young men between 15 and 24 years of age; Whereas PEPFAR has contributed to progress in reducing mother-to-child transmission of HIV, with more than 5,500,000 babies born HIV-free to mothers who have HIV and who received antiretroviral medication through PEPFAR-supported programs; Whereas, as of September 30, 2022, 1,500,000 individuals are receiving antiretroviral pre-exposure prophylaxis (referred to in this clause as PrEP Whereas PEPFAR has supported the expansion of HIV/AIDS services for children, adolescents, and young people, including for the more than 1,500,000 children receiving HIV treatment through PEPFAR-supported programs; Whereas PEPFAR has dramatically reduced the stigma and discrimination associated with HIV/AIDS; Whereas PEPFAR prioritizes reaching adolescent girls and young women, who are disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa, through the Determined, Resilient, Empowered, AIDS-free, Mentored, and Safe program (commonly known as DREAMS Whereas PEPFAR has been a key partner in the global COVID19 response, supporting the delivery of essential HIV/AIDS services and strengthening health systems to ensure continuity of care, including by delivering more than 60,000,000 doses of the COVID19 vaccine in sub-Saharan Africa; and Whereas challenges in combating HIV/AIDS, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, remain and will not be overcome without continued PEPFAR support: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) recognizes the critical role that the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (referred to in this resolution as PEPFAR (2) applauds the successes and accomplishments of PEPFAR to date; and (3) urges continued funding and support for PEPFAR to help achieve the goal of ending HIV/AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.
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Recognizing the critical role that PEPFAR has played in the global fight against HIV/AIDS.
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This resolution expresses support for Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism Awareness Month. Deep vein thrombosis is a condition caused by a blood clot in the deep veins of the body; pulmonary embolisms (i.e., where a blood clot breaks off and lodges in the lung) are a potentially life-threatening complication of this condition.
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Supporting the goals and ideals of Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism Awareness Month Whereas deep vein thrombosis (referred to in this preamble as DVT Whereas a potentially life-threatening complication of DVT is pulmonary embolism (referred to in this preamble as PE Whereas DVT and PE are serious but often preventable medical conditions; Whereas DVT and PE affect as many as 900,000 individuals in the United States each year; Whereas DVT and PE kill an estimated 60,000 to 100,000 individuals in the United States each year, and 1 out of 4 individuals who have a PE die without warning; Whereas DVT and PE deaths are often preventable; Whereas DVT and PE are leading causes of preventable hospital death in the United States; Whereas DVT and PE are a common complication faced by cancer patients, and survival rates are lower for individuals with cancer who also have blood clots; Whereas pregnancy increases the risk of DVT and PE, and that risk remains elevated for up to 3 months after giving birth; Whereas immobility, surgery, older age, and a family history of clotting and thrombophilia increase the risk of DVT and PE; Whereas DVT and PE contributes to up to $10,000,000,000 in incremental medical costs each year in the United States; and Whereas the establishment of March as Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism Awareness Month That the Senate (1) supports the goals and ideals of Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism Awareness Month (2) recognizes the importance of raising awareness of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism.
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Supporting the goals and ideals of Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism Awareness Month.
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This resolution congratulates the Louisiana State University Fighting Tigers for winning the 2023 National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I Women's Basketball National Championship.
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Congratulating the Louisiana State University Fighting Tigers womens basketball team for winning the 2023 National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I Womens Basketball National Championship. Whereas, on Sunday, April 2, 2023, the Louisiana State University (referred to in this preamble as LSU NCAA national championship Whereas the LSU Fighting Tigers won their first NCAA national championship in LSU history, with 9 freshman or transfer players playing in their first season for the team; Whereas during the national championship game (1) the LSU Fighting Tigers scored 102 points, becoming the first team to score more than 100 points in a national championship game; (2) Jasmine Carson scored 21 points in the first 20 minutes to open up a 17 point lead; (3) Alexis Morris, the only starter for the LSU Fighting Tigers returning from the 20212022 season, scored 21 points and a game-high 9 assists; and (4) LaDazhia Williams scored 20 points, along with 5 rebounds and 3 steals; Whereas head coach Kim Mulkey became the third coach with 4 or more national championships in NCAA Division I womens college basketball history, and the first to win a championship as a head coach of multiple programs; Whereas associate head coach Bob Starkey, assistant coach Daphne Mitchell, and assistant coach Gary Redus II deserve recognition for their historic accomplishment; Whereas the LSU Fighting Tigers finished the season with 34 wins and 2 losses, with 15 wins and 1 loss in the Southeastern Conference (referred to in this preamble as SEC Whereas 4 LSU Fighting Tigers players earned All-SEC Season honors, including (1) Angel Reese, First Team All-SEC and SEC All-Defensive Team; (2) Alexis Morris, First Team All-SEC; (3) Sa'Myah Smith, SEC All-Freshman Team; and (4) FlauJae Johnson, SEC All-Freshman Team, and was named SEC Freshmen of the Year; and Whereas Angel Reese was named most outstanding player of the NCAA Division I Womens Basketball Tournament Final Four and set the record for most double-doubles in a single season, with 34: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) congratulates the Louisiana State University Fighting Tigers for winning the 2023 National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I Womens Basketball National Championship; (2) recognizes the many achievements of the coaches, players, and staff of the Louisiana State University womens basketball team; (3) recognizes the fans and the entire State of Louisiana for their dedication and support; and (4) respectfully requests that the Secretary of the Senate transmit an enrolled copy of this resolution to (A) the head coach of the Louisiana State University womens basketball team, Kim Mulkey; (B) the president of Louisiana State University, William F. Tate IV; and (C) the athletic director of Louisiana State University, Scott Woodward.
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Congratulating the Louisiana State University Fighting Tigers womens basketball team for winning the 2023 National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I Womens Basketball National Championship.
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This resolution honors the contributions of small businesses in the United States and supports the designation of National Small Business Week.
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Expressing support for the designation of the week of April 30, 2023, through May 6, 2023, as National Small Business Week Whereas a National Small Business Week Whereas there are more than 33,000,000 small businesses in the United States that support more than 62,000,000 jobs; Whereas small businesses play an integral role in building the economy of the United States; and Whereas April 30, 2023, through May 6, 2023, would be an appropriate week to celebrate National Small Business Week That the Senate (1) honors and celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit and contributions of small businesses in every community in the United States; (2) applauds the efforts and achievements of the owners of small businesses and their employees in every community of the United States; (3) recognizes that, in the face of significant challenges, the owners of small businesses have demonstrated incredible resilience; (4) supports the designation of the week of April 30, 2023, through May 6, 2023, as National Small Business Week (5) acknowledges the importance of providing access to underserved small businesses; and (6) supports efforts (A) to hold Federal agencies accountable for fraud, waste, and abuse of taxpayer dollars; and (B) to create an environment that enables small businesses to grow and create jobs.
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Expressing support for the designation of the week of April 30, 2023, through May 6, 2023, as National Small Business Week to celebrate the contributions of small businesses and entrepreneurs in every community in the United States.
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This resolution designates the Senate minority party's membership for the 118th Congress on the following committees: the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry; the Committee on Appropriations; the Committee on Armed Services; the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs; the Committee on the Budget; the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation; the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources; the Committee on the Environment and Public Works; the Committee on Finance; the Committee on Foreign Relations; the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions; the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs; the Committee on Indian Affairs; the Committee on the Judiciary; the Committee on Rules and Administration; the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship; the Committee on Veterans' Affairs; the Joint Economic Committee; the Select Committee on Ethics; the Select Committee on Intelligence; and the Special Committee on Aging.
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To constitute the majority party's membership on certain committees for the One Hundred Eighteenth Congress, or until their successors are chosen. That the following shall constitute the minority party's membership on the following committees for the One Hundred Eighteenth Congress, or until their successors are chosen: Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry: Mr. Boozman, Mr. McConnell, Mr. Hoeven, Ms. Ernst, Mrs. Hyde-Smith, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Tuberville, Mr. Braun, Mr. Grassley, Mr. Thune, Mrs. Fischer. Committee on Appropriations: Ms. Collins, Mr. McConnell, Ms. Murkowski, Mr. Graham, Mr. Moran, Mr. Hoeven, Mr. Boozman, Mrs. Capito, Mr. Kennedy, Mrs. Hyde-Smith, Mr. Hagerty, Mrs. Britt, Mr. Rubio, Mrs. Fischer. Committee on Armed Services: Mr. Wicker, Mrs. Fischer, Mr. Cotton, Mr. Rounds, Ms. Ernst, Mr. Sullivan, Mr. Cramer, Mr. Scott (FL), Mr. Tuberville, Mr. Mullin, Mr. Budd, Mr. Schmitt. Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs: Mr. Scott (SC), Mr. Crapo, Mr. Rounds, Mr. Tillis, Mr. Kennedy, Mr. Hagerty, Ms. Lummis, Mr. Vance, Mrs. Britt, Mr. Cramer, Mr. Daines. Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation: Mr. Cruz, Mr. Thune, Mr. Wicker, Mrs. Fischer, Mr. Moran, Mr. Sullivan, Mrs. Blackburn, Mr. Young, Mr. Budd, Mr. Schmitt, Mr. Vance, Mrs. Capito, Ms. Lummis. Committee on Energy and Natural Resources: Mr. Barrasso, Mr. Risch, Mr. Lee, Mr. Daines, Ms. Murkowski, Mr. Hoeven, Mr. Cassidy, Mrs. Hyde-Smith, Mr. Hawley. Committee on the Environment and Public Works: Mrs. Capito, Mr. Cramer, Ms. Lummis, Mr. Mullin, Mr. Ricketts, Mr. Boozman, Mr. Wicker, Mr. Sullivan, Mr. Graham. Committee on Finance: Mr. Crapo, Mr. Grassley, Mr. Cornyn, Mr. Thune, Mr. Scott (SC), Mr. Cassidy, Mr. Lankford, Mr. Daines, Mr. Young, Mr. Barrasso, Mr. Johnson, Mr. Tillis, Mrs. Blackburn. Committee on Foreign Relations: Mr. Risch, Mr. Rubio, Mr. Romney, Mr. Ricketts, Mr. Paul, Mr. Young, Mr. Barrasso, Mr. Cruz, Mr. Hagerty, Mr. Scott (SC). Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions: Mr. Cassidy, Mr. Paul, Ms. Collins, Ms. Murkowski, Mr. Braun, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Romney, Mr. Tuberville, Mr. Mullin, Mr. Budd. Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs: Mr. Paul, Mr. Johnson, Mr. Lankford, Mr. Romney, Mr. Scott (FL), Mr. Hawley, Mr. Marshall. Committee on the Judiciary: Mr. Graham, Mr. Grassley, Mr. Cornyn, Mr. Lee, Mr. Cruz, Mr. Hawley, Mr. Cotton, Mr. Kennedy, Mr. Tillis, Mrs. Blackburn. Select Committee on Intelligence: Mr. Rubio, Mr. Risch, Ms. Collins, Mr. Cotton, Mr. Cornyn, Mr. Moran, Mr. Lankford, Mr. Rounds. Special Committee on Aging: Mr. Braun, Mr. Scott (SC), Mr. Rubio, Mr. Scott (FL), Mr. Vance, Mr. Ricketts. Committee on the Budget: Mr. Grassley, Mr. Crapo, Mr. Graham, Mr. Johnson, Mr. Romney, Mr. Marshall, Mr. Braun, Mr. Kennedy, Mr. Scott (FL), Mr. Lee. Committee on Indian Affairs: Ms. Murkowski, Mr. Hoeven, Mr. Daines, Mr. Mullin, Mr. Rounds. Joint Economic Committee: Mr. Lee, Mr. Cotton, Mr. Schmitt, Mr. Vance. Committee on Rules and Administration: Mrs. Fischer, Mr. McConnell, Mr. Cruz, Mrs. Capito, Mr. Wicker, Mrs. Hyde-Smith, Mr. Hagerty, Mrs. Britt. Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship: Ms. Ernst, Mr. Rubio, Mr. Risch, Mr. Paul, Mr. Scott (SC), Mr. Young, Mr. Kennedy, Mr. Hawley, Mr. Budd. Committee on Veterans' Affairs: Mr. Moran, Mr. Boozman, Mr. Cassidy, Mr. Rounds, Mr. Tillis, Mr. Sullivan, Mrs. Blackburn, Mr. Cramer, Mr. Tuberville. Select Committee on Ethics: Mr. Lankford, Mr. Risch, Mrs. Fischer.
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To constitute the majority party's membership on certain committees for the One Hundred Eighteenth Congress, or until their successors are chosen.
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This resolution designates October 16, 2023, and October 16, 2024, as World Food Day and encourages the people of the United States to observe the days with appropriate ceremonies and activities.
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Designating October 16, 2023, and October 16, 2024, as World Food Day Whereas hunger and malnutrition are daily facts of life for hundreds of millions of people around the world; Whereas women and children suffer the most serious effects of hunger and malnutrition; Whereas millions of children die each year from hunger-related illness and disease; Whereas many people suffer permanent physical or mental impairment because of vitamin or protein deficiencies; Whereas those in rural areas experience disproportionate levels of hunger; Whereas the severity and frequency of food insecurity remained unacceptably high in 2022, represented by (1) the 2,400,000,000 people, nearly 30 percent of the global population, who experienced moderate to severe food insecurity in 2022, an increase of 391,000,000 compared to 2019; (2) the more than 3,100,000,000 people, over 40 percent of the global population, who were unable to afford a healthy diet in 2022, an increase of 134,000,000 compared to 2019; and (3) the approximately 735,000,000 people who faced hunger in 2022, an increase of 122,000,000 compared to 2019; Whereas the United States has a long tradition of demonstrating humanitarian concern for the hungry and malnourished people of the world; Whereas there is an ever-increasing concern in the United States and in other countries about threats to the future food supply, including (1) misuse and overuse of land and water; (2) loss of biological diversity; (3) erosion of genetic resources on a global scale; and (4) transboundary pests and diseases, such as the desert locust for plants and anthrax for livestock; Whereas the world community increasingly and consistently calls upon the United States to resolve food problems stemming from natural- and human-made disasters by providing humanitarian assistance; Whereas the United States (1) plays a major role in the development and implementation of international food and agricultural trade standards and practices; and (2) recognizes the positive role that the global food trade can play in enhancing human nutrition and alleviating hunger; Whereas, although progress has been made in reducing the incidence of hunger and malnutrition in the United States, certain groups remain vulnerable to malnutrition and related diseases; Whereas the conservation of natural resources, the preservation of biological diversity, and strong public and private agricultural research programs are required for the United States to (1) remain food secure; (2) continue to aid the hungry and malnourished people of the world; (3) assist in building a more resilient global food system; and (4) preserve and sustain our forests, land, oceans, and waterways; Whereas the United States is a world leader in the development of agricultural innovation and technology aimed at enhancing the improved production, safety, and quality of the world food supply, and the United States must continue to maintain that role; Whereas private voluntary organizations and businesses working with national governments and the international community is essential in the search for ways to increase food production in developing countries and improve food distribution to hungry and malnourished people; Whereas the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (referred to in this preamble as the FAO Whereas the member nations of the FAO have unanimously designated October 16 of each year as World Food Day Whereas the FAO has worked to organize activities and efforts on World Food Day Whereas past observances of World Food Day (1) by proclamations of Congress, the President, the 50 States, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and the territories and possessions of the United States; and (2) by programs of the Department of Agriculture and other Federal departments and agencies; Whereas private voluntary organizations and community leaders are participating in planning World Food Day World Food Day Whereas the people of the United States can express their concern for the plight of hungry and malnourished people throughout the world by studying, advocating, and taking action: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) designates October 16, 2023, and October 16, 2024, as World Food Day (2) encourages the people of the United States to observe the days with appropriate ceremonies and activities.
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Designating October 16, 2023, and October 16, 2024, as World Food Day.
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This resolution honors the memories of the victims killed in the attack on February 14, 2018, at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, and offers condolences to the families, loved ones, and friends of the victims. The resolution (1) honors the survivors and pledges continued support for their recovery, (2) recognizes the strength and resilience of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School community, and (3) expresses gratitude to the emergency medical and health care professionals of the Parkland community for their efforts in responding to the attack and caring for the victims and survivors.
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Honoring the memories of the victims of the senseless attack at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School on February 14, 2018. Whereas, on February 14, 2018, a mass shooting that took the lives of 17 teachers and students took place at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida; Whereas the people of the United States continue to pray for the individuals who were affected by this tragedy; Whereas the Parkland community has shown strength, compassion, and unity over the past 5 years; and Whereas February 14, 2023, marks 5 years since the horrific attack: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) honors the memories of the victims of the senseless attack at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School on February 14, 2018, and offers heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies to the families, loved ones, and friends of the victims; (2) honors the survivors of the attack and pledges continued support for their recovery; (3) recognizes the strength and resilience of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School community; and (4) expresses gratitude to the emergency medical and health care professionals of the Parkland community for their efforts in responding to the attack and caring for the victims and survivors.
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Honoring the memories of the victims of the senseless attack at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School on February 14, 2018.
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This resolution sets the daily meeting time of the Senate at noon unless otherwise ordered.
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Fixing the hour of daily meeting of the Senate. That the daily meeting of the Senate be 12 o'clock meridian unless otherwise ordered.
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Fixing the hour of daily meeting of the Senate.
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This resolution authorizes the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources to make specified expenditures and employ personnel for the 118th Congress.
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Authorizing expenditures by the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. 1. General authority In carrying out its powers, duties, and functions under the Standing Rules of the Senate, in accordance with its jurisdiction under rule XXV of the Standing Rules of the Senate, including holding hearings, reporting such hearings, and making investigations as authorized by paragraphs 1 and 8 of rule XXVI of the Standing Rules of the Senate, the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources (in this resolution referred to as the committee (1) make expenditures from the contingent fund of the Senate; (2) employ personnel; and (3) with the prior consent of the Government department or agency concerned and the Committee on Rules and Administration, use on a reimbursable or nonreimbursable basis the services of personnel of any such department or agency. 2. Expenses (a) Expenses for period ending September 30, 2023 The expenses of the committee for the period March 1, 2023, through September 30, 2023, under this resolution shall not exceed $4,145,833, of which amount (1) not to exceed $17,500 may be expended for the procurement of the services of individual consultants, or organizations thereof (as authorized by section 202(i) of the Legislative Reorganization Act of 1946 ( 2 U.S.C. 4301(i) (2) not to exceed $8,750 may be expended for the training of the professional staff of the committee (under procedures specified by section 202(j) of that Act). (b) Expenses for fiscal year 2024 period The expenses of the committee for the period October 1, 2023, through September 30, 2024, under this resolution shall not exceed $7,107,142, of which amount (1) not to exceed $30,000 may be expended for the procurement of the services of individual consultants, or organizations thereof (as authorized by section 202(i) of the Legislative Reorganization Act of 1946 ( 2 U.S.C. 4301(i) (2) not to exceed $15,000 may be expended for the training of the professional staff of the committee (under procedures specified by section 202(j) of that Act). (c) Expenses for period ending February 28, 2025 The expenses of the committee for the period October 1, 2024, through February 28, 2025, under this resolution shall not exceed $2,961,309, of which amount (1) not to exceed $12,500 may be expended for the procurement of the services of individual consultants, or organizations thereof (as authorized by section 202(i) of the Legislative Reorganization Act of 1946 ( 2 U.S.C. 4301(i) (2) not to exceed $6,250 may be expended for the training of the professional staff of the committee (under procedures specified by section 202(j) of that Act). 3. Expenses and agency contributions (a) Expenses of the committee (1) In general Except as provided in paragraph (2), expenses of the committee under this resolution shall be paid from the contingent fund of the Senate upon vouchers approved by the chairman of the committee. (2) Vouchers not required Vouchers shall not be required for (A) the disbursement of salaries of employees paid at an annual rate; (B) the payment of telecommunications provided by the Office of the Sergeant at Arms and Doorkeeper; (C) the payment of stationery supplies purchased through the Keeper of the Stationery; (D) payments to the Postmaster of the Senate; (E) the payment of metered charges on copying equipment provided by the Office of the Sergeant at Arms and Doorkeeper; (F) the payment of Senate Recording and Photographic Services; or (G) the payment of franked and mass mail costs by the Sergeant at Arms and Doorkeeper. (b) Agency contributions There are authorized to be paid from the appropriations account for Expenses of Inquiries and Investigations (1) for the period March 1, 2023, through September 30, 2023; (2) for the period October 1, 2023, through September 30, 2024; and (3) for the period October 1, 2024, through February 28, 2025.
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Authorizing expenditures by the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
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This resolution expresses the urgency of protecting biodiversity in Latin America and the Caribbean, ending impunity for environmental crimes, and protecting environmental and land defenders. Urging governments in the region to pursue environmental justice and protect the rights of Indigenous peoples and other environmental and land defenders, the resolution also calls for U.S. efforts to support and assist governments in Latin America and the Caribbean in meeting regional and international standards and commitments toward those goals.
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Expressing concern about environmental crimes and attacks on the human rights of environmental and land defenders in Latin America and the Caribbean. Whereas rising instances of environmental crimes, land grabbing, unregulated and illegal natural resource destruction and extraction, and irresponsible infrastructure development threaten biodiversity and rural and Indigenous community livelihoods in Latin America and the Caribbean, which is home to 40 percent of the worlds species and more than 24 percent of the Earths forests; Whereas harassment, threats, assaults, and killings against environmental and land defenders protesting such crimes and development have increased throughout the region since 2018; Whereas, according to Global Witness, Latin America is the deadliest region in the world for environmental and land defenders, with nearly 75 percent of the 200 known attacks against such defenders during 2021 taking place in the region, including (1) in Mexico, where 54 environmental and land defenders were murdered in 2021, representing the highest number of such murders in any country that year; (2) in Colombia, where 33 environmental and land defenders were murdered during 2021, representing the second highest number of such murders in any country that year; (3) in Brazil, where 342 environmental and land defenders have been murdered since 2012, representing the highest number of such murders of any country since the reporting of such murders began; and (4) in Peru, Venezuela, and Brazil, where 78 percent of the attacks against environmental and land defenders in the Amazon region occurred; Whereas more than 25 percent of the attacks on environmental and land defenders during 2021 were reportedly linked to resource exploitation, including logging, mining, large scale agribusiness, hydroelectric dams, and other infrastructure; Whereas, approximately 40 to 60 percent of logging activities in the Peruvian Amazon are illegal, according to INTERPOL, and approximately 95 percent of deforestation in Brazil in 2021 was irregular, according to the Brazilian Annual Land Use and Land Cover Mapping Project; Whereas, in 2021, Indigenous peoples made up more than 40 percent of victims in fatal attacks against environmental and land defenders worldwide, despite Indigenous peoples only comprising approximately 5 percent of the worlds population; Whereas Indigenous peoples, who steward more than 80 percent of the worlds biodiversity, are disproportionately vulnerable to the effects of environmental loss and more frequently targeted in attacks on environmental and land defenders; Whereas women acting in defense of their lands and natural environments in Latin America face additional threats to their human rights, as Latin America has the highest rates of gender-based violence in the world; Whereas many countries in Latin America and the Caribbean lack sufficient oversight capacity, transparency, and accountability for regulations of environmental permits and investigations of environmental crimes, especially in Indigenous lands, nationally protected forests, and other remote geographical areas with limited government presence, forcing affected populations to advocate for their land and natural resources at great personal risk; Whereas corruption in Latin America and the Caribbean enables the subversion of laws designed to prevent environmental crime and protect natural resources, undermining efforts to prevent ecological destruction; Whereas the COVID19 pandemic has strained the resources and institutional capacity of Latin American and Caribbean Governments to address environmental crimes and prevent the expansion of nonstate actors into remote areas and border regions where these groups target environmental and land defenders and engage in illicit mining and drug trafficking activities; Whereas the United States Agency for International Development has developed programs to reduce environmental crimes and other threats to the Amazons forests, waters, and peoples throughout Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Peru, and Suriname; Whereas all Latin American and Caribbean countries have ratified the decision by the 21st Conference of Parties of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, adopted at Paris December 12, 2015 (commonly known as the Paris Climate Agreement Parties should, when taking action to address climate change, respect, promote, and consider their respective obligations on human rights, the right to health, the rights of indigenous peoples, local communities, migrants, children, persons with disabilities and people in vulnerable situations Whereas 15 countries in Latin America ratified the Indigenous and Tribal Peoples Convention, 1989 (No. 169) of the International Labor Organization, establishing the rights of Indigenous people to land, natural resources, and prior consultation on projects affecting their communities, although many such countries have consistently failed to respect these legally binding standards; Whereas 25 countries in Latin America and the Caribbean have signed, and 14 of these 25 countries have ratified, the Regional Agreement on Access to Information, Public Participation and Justice in Environmental Matters in Latin America and the Caribbean, adopted at Escaz, Costa Rica March 4, 2018 (commonly known as the Escaz Agreement Whereas, on June 9, 2022, at the Ninth Summit of the Americas in Los Angeles, heads of State and Government of the Western Hemisphere adopted Our Sustainable Green Future (1) to respond to threats and attacks on environmental defenders and collect data on such threats and attacks, in accordance with domestic law; (2) to enact, as appropriate, and enforce domestic laws to protect environmental defenders and the resources they defend: and (3) to carry out and implement environmental assessments in accordance with existing domestic law: Now, therefore be it That the Senate (1) underscores the urgency of protecting biodiversity in Latin America and the Caribbean, ending impunity for environmental crimes, protecting environmental and land defenders, and confronting risks and addressing threats to such actors; (2) urges governments in Latin America and the Caribbean to protect the rights of Indigenous peoples and other environmental and land defenders, including (A) strengthening efforts and initiatives aimed at combating environmental crimes and protecting the territory of environmental and land defenders; (B) complying with commitments made under the Paris Climate Agreement, Convention 169 of the International Labor Organization, and the Escaz Agreement to pursue environmental justice and protect the rights of Indigenous peoples and other environmental and land defenders, particularly in relation to rights to land titling and prior consultation; and (C) implementing Our Sustainable Green Future (3) calls on the Secretary of State, in coordination with the Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development, to support and assist governments in Latin America and the Caribbean in meeting regional and international standards and commitments for the protection of Indigenous peoples and other environmental and land defenders, including through (A) capacity building initiatives aimed at strengthening networks of environmental and land defenders, Indigenous peoples, and civil society organizations; (B) providing technical assistance and other support to combat corruption within agencies dealing with forestry management and environmental crimes; (C) collaborating with law enforcement authorities, including through the sharing of intelligence, to help dismantle criminal groups responsible for committing environmental crime and violence against environmental and land defenders; (D) reinforcing the importance of free, prior, and informed consent of Indigenous peoples within such regional and international commitments; (E) promoting the participation of women, Indigenous peoples, Afro-descendant communities, environmental and land defenders, and other affected and vulnerable communities in regional and international forums related to human rights, environmental protection, and climate change; and (F) hosting summits and other multilateral forums, with the participation of governments in the region and relevant civil society organizations, to share the experiences of environmental and land defenders and advance solutions to protect biodiversity and confront impunity around environmental crime; and (4) calls on the Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development, in coordination with the Secretary of State, to develop comprehensive regional and subregional action plans with input from environmental and land defenders to counter environmental crime and attacks against environmental and land defenders in Latin America and the Caribbean, including by (A) strengthening current programs in Brazil and Colombia; (B) expanding key pillars of ongoing programs to Mexico, Peru, Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador, where such initiatives are largely absent; and (C) ensuring that projects supported or funded by the United States Government in Latin America and the Caribbean take into account the protection of Indigenous peoples and environmental and land defenders.
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Expressing concern about environmental crimes and attacks on the human rights of environmental and land defenders in Latin America and the Caribbean.
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This resolution pays tribute to the members of Brigada de Asalto 2506 (Assault Brigade 2506) who participated in the Bay of Pigs operation, and it calls on the United States to support policies that promote respect for democratic principles, civil liberties, freedom, and justice in Cuba.
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Commemorating the 62nd anniversary of the Bay of Pigs operation and remembering the members of Brigada de Asalto 2506 (Assault Brigade 2506). Whereas April 17, 2023, marks the 62nd anniversary of the first day of the Bay of Pigs operation, an event held dear in the hearts of many who long for the return of freedom, democracy, and justice to Cuba; Whereas the Communist dictatorship in Cuba that resulted from the January 1, 1959, revolution in Cuba has systematically denied the Cuban people their most basic human rights and fundamental freedoms; Whereas, from 1959 until his death in 2016, dictator Fidel Castro, who promised to implement a revolution against tyranny, systematically violated the human rights of the Cuban people, curtailed freedom of the press, arbitrarily imprisoned and killed an untold number of members of the political opposition in Cuba, and confiscated the properties of citizens of Cuba and the United States; Whereas Fidel Castro's dictatorship supported terrorism by providing safe haven and logistics to terrorist groups and fugitives throughout the world; Whereas the men and women participating in the Bay of Pigs operation assumed the title of Brigada de Asalto 2506 (Assault Brigade 2506), which was named after the serial number (2506) of Carlos Rodriguez Santana, a founding member of the brigade who died during training exercises in September 1960; Whereas Assault Brigade 2506 consisted of individuals, primarily Cuban exiles in the United States, from diverse backgrounds, including doctors, nurses, engineers, architects, priests, cooks, musicians, actors, business owners, barbers, bankers, construction workers, office clerks, students, pilots, and many other individuals representing different sectors in Cuba; Whereas, on April 17, 1961, approximately 1,400 individuals selflessly volunteered to free the Cuban people from tyranny; Whereas, in the ensuing days, and in the course of a battle against the Cuban military, which was superior in manpower and firepower, more than 100 men lost their lives; Whereas the events of April 17 through April 20, 1961, ended with the capture and imprisonment of 1,204 members or more than 75 percent of Assault Brigade 2506; Whereas a large number of the 1,204 captured members of Assault Brigade 2506 were imprisoned in deplorable conditions for close to 18 months, subjected to harsh and inhumane treatment, and later sentenced without due process to 30 years of imprisonment; Whereas, in September 1961, the Cuban regime executed 5 members of Assault Brigade 2506 who had been captured during the operation; Whereas 67 members of Assault Brigade 2506 died in combat, including 4 American pilots and 10 Cuban pilots and navigators, 10 members died while trying to flee Cuba on a fishing boat that drifted in the Gulf of Mexico for almost 15 days, 10 members died while being transported to prison by their Cuban captors inside a sealed truck with limited oxygen, 9 members were executed by firing squads, and 3 members died while in prison due to lack of medical attention; Whereas one of the most heinous acts relating to the operation was ordered by then Captain Osmany Cienfuegos, who forced nearly 100 male prisoners into a closed trailer in which they were transported for 8 hours with limited oxygen; Whereas the Cuban regime is a party to the Geneva Conventions of 1949, which require the humane treatment of prisoners of war; Whereas, in March 1962, as the trial of the captured fighters approached, the President of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) appealed to Cuban dictator Fidel Castro, asking that the provisions of Article 3 of the Geneva Convention relative to the Treatment of Prisoners of War, done at Geneva August 12, 1949, be fully applied, and for permission to visit the prisoners, but all the requests went unanswered; Whereas the 1,113 members of Assault Brigade 2506 who finally returned to the United States after the operation have made significant and valuable contributions to the United States, while never forgetting their beloved homeland; Whereas, on December 29, 1962, President John Fitzgerald Kennedy was presented with the banner of Assault Brigade 2506 that had reached the shores of Cuba during the operation, and the President pledged, I can assure you that this flag will be returned to this brigade in a free Havana. Whereas, on April 24, 1986, a joint resolution ( Public Law 99279 Commemorating the twenty-fifth anniversary of the Bay of Pigs invasion to liberate Cuba from Communist tyranny. Whereas Cubas authoritarian regime continues to arbitrarily detain thousands of critics, activists, and opponents and continues to deny the people of Cuba the ability to vote in free, fair, multiparty elections with independent and opposition candidates; Whereas Cuba's authoritarian regime has actively fostered and supported anti-democratic parties and actors throughout the Western Hemisphere, including the regimes of Nicaragua and Venezuela; Whereas Cuba is designated as a state sponsor of terrorism by the Department of State; and Whereas the Cuban people continue to struggle and demand respect for democratic values, civil liberties, freedom, and justice: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) remembers all the veterans of Brigada de Asalto 2506 (Assault Brigade 2506), both living and deceased; (2) honors the courageous veterans of Assault Brigade 2506 who fought for freedom, including those who suffered torture or perished in the struggle for a democratic Cuba; (3) calls on the Government of the United States to continue to support policies that promote the respect for democratic principles, civil liberties, freedom, and justice in Cuba, in a manner consistent with the aspirations of the Cuban people; (4) recognizes that individual members of Assault Brigade 2506 later joined the United States Armed Forces and fought in the Vietnam war; (5) calls for the international community to support and express solidarity with the Cuban people in their demands for freedom against the Communist regime; and (6) recognizes that many veterans of the Bay of Pigs operation settled across the United States to become productive members of the society of the United States, including public officials and industry leaders.
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Commemorating the 62nd anniversary of the Bay of Pigs operation and remembering the members of Brigada de Asalto 2506 (Assault Brigade 2506).
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This resolution expresses condolences for the death of and honors James Thomas Broyhill, former Senator for North Carolina.
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To honor the life and death of James Thomas Broyhill, former Senator for the State of North Carolina. Whereas James T. Broyhill was born in Lenoir, North Carolina, on August 19, 1927, and attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill; Whereas James T. Broyhill served as a prominent civic leader in Lenoir, North Carolina, and served in several roles at the furniture company of his father; Whereas James T. Broyhill served in the House of Representatives from 1963 to 1986, establishing a reputation for impeccable constituent services; Whereas, during his distinguished career in the House of Representatives, James T. Broyhill was the leading force behind the creation of the Consumer Product Safety Commission; Whereas legislation introduced by James T. Broyhill designating the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail was enacted in September 1980; Whereas, on June 29, 1986, James T. Broyhill was appointed by the Governor of North Carolina, Jim Martin, to the Senate, where he served until November 4, 1986; Whereas, after his service in the Senate, James T. Broyhill served as chairman of the North Carolina Economic Development Commission, and then as the Secretary of Commerce of North Carolina before retiring from political life in 1991; and Whereas the community work of James T. Broyhill included serving as chairman and member of the Appalachian State University Board of Trustees, a member of the Board of Visitors of the Bowman Gray/Baptist Hospital Medical Center, a member of the Board of Visitors of the Babcock Graduate School of Management at Wake Forest University, and a member of the Board of Directors of the North Carolina Food Bank: Now, therefore, be it That (1) the Senate (A) has heard with profound sorrow and deep regret the announcement of the death of James T. Broyhill, former Member of the Senate; (B) respectfully requests that the Secretary of the Senate communicate these resolutions to the House of Representatives and transmit an enrolled copy thereof to the family of James T. Broyhill; and (2) when the Senate adjourns today, it stands adjourned as a further mark of respect to the memory of the late James T. Broyhill.
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To honor the life and death of James Thomas Broyhill, former Senator for the State of North Carolina.
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This resolution commemorates June 19, 2023, as Juneteenth National Independence Day to recognize and observe the end of slavery in the United States.
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Commemorating June 19, 2023, as Juneteenth National Independence Day Whereas news of the end of slavery did not reach the frontier areas of the United States, in particular the State of Texas and the other Southwestern States, until months after the conclusion of the Civil War, more than 2 years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863; Whereas, on June 19, 1865, Union soldiers, led by Major General Gordon Granger, arrived in Galveston, Texas, with news that the Civil War had ended and the enslaved were free; Whereas African Americans who had been slaves in the Southwest celebrated June 19, commonly known as Juneteenth National Independence Day Whereas African Americans from the Southwest have continued the tradition of observing Juneteenth National Independence Day for more than 150 years; Whereas Juneteenth National Independence Day began as a holiday in the State of Texas and is now a Federal holiday and celebrated by Americans from many walks of life as a special day of observance in recognition of the emancipation of all slaves in the United States; Whereas Juneteenth National Independence Day celebrations have been held to honor African-American freedom while encouraging self-development and respect for all cultures; Whereas the faith and strength of character demonstrated by former slaves and the descendants of former slaves remain an example for all people of the United States, regardless of background, religion, or race; Whereas slavery was not officially abolished until the ratification of the 13th Amendment to the Constitution of the United States in December 1865; and Whereas, over the course of its history, the United States has grown into a symbol of democracy and freedom around the world: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) commemorates June 19, 2023, as Juneteenth National Independence Day (2) recognizes the historical significance of Juneteenth National Independence Day to the United States; (3) supports the continued nationwide celebration of Juneteenth National Independence Day to provide an opportunity for the people of the United States to learn more about the past and to better understand the experiences that have shaped the United States; and (4) recognizes that the observance of the end of slavery is part of the history and heritage of the United States.
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Commemorating June 19, 2023, as Juneteenth National Independence Day in recognition of June 19, 1865, the date on which news of the end of slavery reached the slaves in the Southwestern States.
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This resolution expresses support for the goals and principles of Transgender Day of Remembrance by recognizing the epidemic of violence toward transgender people and memorializing the lives lost this year.
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Supporting the goals and principles of Transgender Day of Remembrance by recognizing the epidemic of violence toward transgender people and memorializing the lives lost this year. Whereas Transgender Day of Remembrance was created following the 1998 killing of Rita Hester, a transgender woman of color, whose murder has yet to be solved; Whereas the following year, on November 20, 1999, Gwendolyn Ann Smith created the first Transgender Day of Remembrance in honor of Rita Hester and other transgender people whose lives were lost due to violence; Whereas Transgender Day of Remembrance 2023 honors the memory of the lives of transgender people tragically lost in acts of violence between October 1, 2022, and September 30, 2023; Whereas the United States is currently experiencing an epidemic of violence against transgender people of the United States; Whereas at least 33 transgender or gender nonconforming people were violently killed in the United States in 2023, a number many believe to be much higher due to the prevalence of underreporting or misreporting violence against this community; Whereas the lives of Tiffany Banks, Kelly Loving, Daniel Aston, Diamond Jackson-McDonald, Destiny Howard, MarQuis MJ Star Tom-Tom Whereas, following the introduction of the Transgender Day of Remembrance Resolution of 2022, the lives of Morgan Moore, Kylie Monali, and London Starr were reported to have been lost to acts of violence between October 1, 2021, and September 30, 2022; Whereas at least 285 transgender or gender nonconforming people have been murdered worldwide in 2023, according to the Transgender Day of Remembrance memorial page from Trans Lives Matter; Whereas violence against transgender people of the United States disproportionately impacts transgender women of color; Whereas Black transgender women are the most targeted group to experience violence in the United States; Whereas the COVID19 global health pandemic has had a disproportionate impact on transgender people of the United States; Whereas transgender people of the United States face barriers to health care, such as lack of health insurance, stigma and discrimination, and higher rates of unemployment; Whereas transgender people disproportionately suffer from higher rates of homelessness, with reports suggesting as many as 1/3 1/2 Whereas almost half of all transgender people in the United States will attempt suicide at least once, and over 1 in 20 will attempt suicide each year, a rate that is almost 10 times higher than the rest of the United States population; Whereas asylum seekers and refugees who are transgender experience disproportionate rates of violence, including sexual violence, as they seek safety; Whereas transgender immigrants have died in detention centers in the United States due to medical neglect, injury, and abuse at the hands of staff; Whereas transgender people who are housed in institutional settings such as jails and prisons are subject to high levels of violence and discrimination; Whereas transgender students are significantly more likely to experience bullying and harassment at school due to their gender identity; Whereas understanding and addressing the challenges faced by transgender people of the United States is hampered by a severe lack of data; Whereas Congress and the executive branch must act to protect and preserve the lives of all people of the United States, including those that are transgender, through inclusive legislation and policies that treat everyone with dignity and respect; Whereas the continued introduction of anti-transgender legislation has fueled violence against transgender people of the United States; Whereas the pressure some State legislatures have pushed on State and local authorities to treat gender-affirming health care as child abuse has led to a spike in bullying and assault in schools, worsening mental health among transgender youth and adults, and parents who are afraid their children will be deprived of medical care or be removed from their homes; Whereas the transgender community has shown great resilience in the face of adversity in all aspects of their lives, including housing, education, employment, and health care; and Whereas the transgender community has demonstrated tremendous leadership since the courageous actions of many community members, including Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera, at the Stonewall uprising of 1969: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) supports the goals and principles of Transgender Day of Remembrance by recognizing the epidemic of violence toward transgender people and memorializing the lives lost this year; (2) recognizes that the alarming trends of increased violence against transgender people of the United States, particularly transgender women of color, are unacceptable, and that finding solutions to these issues must be a pressing priority for the United States Government; (3) supports efforts to study, respond to, and prevent violence against transgender people; (4) affirms the principle that every person is endowed with basic human rights and that the commitment of the United States to this principle must encompass every single individual; (5) recognizes the bravery and resilience of the transgender community as it fights for equal dignity and respect; and (6) recognizes the multitude of contributions and cultural impact the transgender community has had on the society of the United States.
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Supporting the goals and principles of Transgender Day of Remembrance by recognizing the epidemic of violence toward transgender people and memorializing the lives lost this year.
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This resolution authorizes quarterly blood donation drives at the Senate.
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Authorizing the Sergeant at Arms and Doorkeeper of the Senate to conduct quarterly blood donation drives. 1. Quarterly Senate blood donation drives (a) Authorization (1) In general During calendar year 2023, the Sergeant at Arms and Doorkeeper of the Senate, in conjunction with a partnering blood donation organization, is authorized to conduct a blood donation drive once every quarter in room G50 of the Everett McKinley Dirksen Senate Office Building. (2) Date selection The Sergeant at Arms and Doorkeeper of the Senate shall, in consultation with the Committee on Rules and Administration of the Senate (A) identify the dates for quarterly blood donation drives conducted under paragraph (1); and (B) select the partnering blood donation organization for each such drive. (b) Implementation Physical preparations for the conduct of, and the implementation of, each blood donation drive authorized under subsection (a) shall be carried out in accordance with such conditions as the Sergeant at Arms and Doorkeeper of the Senate, in consultation with the Committee on Rules and Administration of the Senate, may prescribe.
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Authorizing the Sergeant at Arms and Doorkeeper of the Senate to conduct quarterly blood donation drives.
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This resolution expresses support for National Adoption Month and National Adoption Day and encourages people to consider adoption.
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Expressing support for the goals of National Adoption Day and National Adoption Month by promoting national awareness of adoption and the children awaiting families, celebrating children and families involved in adoption, and encouraging the people of the United States to secure safety, permanency, and well-being for all children. Whereas there are millions of unparented children in the world, including 391,000 children in the foster care system in the United States, approximately 114,000 of whom are waiting for families to adopt them; Whereas the average length of time a child spends in foster care waiting to be adopted is 33.7 months; Whereas, for many unparented children, the wait for a loving family, in which the children are nurtured, comforted, and protected, seems endless; Whereas, in 2021, 14,380 children were at risk of aging out of foster care by reaching adulthood without being placed in a permanent home; Whereas, every day, loving and nurturing families are strengthened and expanded when committed and dedicated individuals make an important difference in the life of a child through adoption; Whereas, while nearly a quarter of individuals in the United States have considered adoption, a majority of individuals in the United States have misperceptions about the process of adopting children from foster care and the children who are eligible for adoption; Whereas family reunification, kinship care, and domestic and intercountry adoption promote greater permanency and stability for children; Whereas the Childrens Bureau, an office of the Administration for Children and Families within the Department of Health and Human Services, supports programs, research, and monitoring to help eliminate barriers to adoption and find permanent families for children; Whereas National Adoption Day is a collective national effort to find permanent, loving families for children in the foster care system; Whereas, since the first National Adoption Day in 2000, more than 75,000 children have joined permanent families on National Adoption Day; Whereas the President traditionally issues an annual proclamation to declare the month of November as National Adoption Month, and the President has proclaimed November 2023 as National Adoption Month; and Whereas the Saturday before Thanksgiving has been recognized as National Adoption Day since at least 2000, and in 2023, the Saturday before Thanksgiving is November 18: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) supports the goals and ideals of National Adoption Day and National Adoption Month; (2) recognizes that every child should have a permanent and loving family; and (3) encourages the people of the United States to consider adoption during the month of November and throughout the year.
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Expressing support for the goals of National Adoption Day and National Adoption Month by promoting national awareness of adoption and the children awaiting families, celebrating children and families involved in adoption, and encouraging the people of the United States to secure safety, permanency, and well-being for all children.
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This resolution designates February 16, 2023, as International Black Aviation Professionals Day. It also encourages the observation of the day through recognition and celebration of the contributions of Black aviation professionals.
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Designating February 16, 2023, as International Black Aviation Professionals Day Whereas, since the birth of aviation, Black Americans have made and continue to make significant contributions to flight, space exploration, and the aviation industry as a whole, despite significant adversity; Whereas aviation trailblazers like Emory C. Malick, the first licensed Black pilot, James H. Banning, the first Black pilot to fly across the United States, and Bessie Queen Whereas William J. Powell, Jr., was a visionary who established the Bessie Coleman Flying Club, sponsored the first all-Black American airshow, wrote the book entitled Black Wings Unemployment, the Negro and Aviation Whereas Cornelius Coffey, a skilled auto mechanic who dreamed of flying, and Willa Brown, the first Black woman to earn both a pilot license and a commercial license and the first Black woman to become an officer in the Illinois Civil Air Patrol, organized a group of Black air enthusiasts, established training classes and a school of aeronautics, and helped promote the 1939 flight of Chauncey Spencer and Dale White from Chicago to Washington, DC, to campaign for an end to racial segregation in aviation; Whereas the Tuskegee Army Airfield, after which the Tuskegee Airmen were named, became a vital center for Black American servicemembers to train as mechanics, control tower operators, and pilots of military aircrafts, launching the careers of many notable Black aviators, including General Benjamin O. Davis, Jr., Amelia Jones, Linkwood Williams, Lieutenant Colonel Lee A. Archer, Major Charles Hall, Brigadier General Charles McGee, and many others; Whereas the Red Tails Tuskegee Airmen Whereas, in 1958, Ruth Carol Taylor became the first Black regional flight attendant in the United States; Whereas, in 1956, Patricia Banks-Edmiston filed, and, in 1960, ultimately won a discrimination case against Capital Airlines, paving the way for her to become the first Black commercial flight attendant in the United States; Whereas these historic firsts opened the skies for Black flight attendants, including Joan Dorsey, Diane Hunter, Patricia Grace Murphy, Undra Mays, Sheila Nutt, and Margaret Grant; Whereas Oscar Wayman Holmes was the first Black air traffic controller and served as the first Black aircraft pilot and Black commissioned officer in the United States Navy, and, in 1971, Eleanor Williams became the first Black woman air traffic controller; Whereas Black scientists have played an integral role in the United States, reaching the stars through the brilliance and fortitude of historically overlooked and unappreciated figures, including Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughn, and Mary Jackson, whose contributions in astrophysics allowed the United States to send individuals into space; Whereas Black Americans finally soared amongst the stars when Guion Guy Whereas the research of Black Americans like physician Vance H. Marchbanks and psychophysiologist Patricia Cowings made it safer for astronauts to travel to space; Whereas Black American inventors helped revolutionize air and space travel, including Charles W. Chappelle designing a long-distance airplane, Gladys West contributing to the development of the Global Positioning System (GPS), George Robert Carruthers creating technology that allowed for photography in space, and Lonnie Johnson creating the power source for the Galileo mission to Jupiter for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration; Whereas, on February 12, 2009, on a flight from Atlanta to Nashville, Captain Rachelle Jones Kerr, First Officer Stephanie Grant, and flight attendants Robin Rogers and Diana Galloway, made history as the first all-female, all-Black American flight crew; Whereas Casey Grant, an author, an aviator, and a pioneer in her own right as 1 of the earliest Black flight attendants, has made it her mission to honor the legacy and contributions of Black pioneers in aviation through her books, entitled Stars in the Sky Stars and Beyond Whereas organizations, including the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals, the Black Aviation Airline Pioneers, the Sisters of the Skies, the Bessie Coleman Aviation All-Stars, the Black Flight Attendants of America, Inc., and more continue to preserve the legacy of Black Americans in aviation; Whereas Black Americans have long served in every aspect of aviation, from skycaps, who greet travelers arriving at the airport, and ticketing agents, who ensure the itineraries of travelers are in order, to ground crew, mechanics, and many others, who make the aviation industry safe and reliable; Whereas the Federal Aviation Administration provides opportunities to eligible students from historically underrepresented backgrounds in the fields of aviation and aeronautics, and science, technology, engineering, and math (referred to in this preamble as STEM Whereas public and private sector efforts to recruit, retain, and promote talented Black Americans through increased emphasis on intentional diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, programs, and commitments, as well as investments in programs that expose underrepresented groups to careers in aviation, will ultimately help diversify the workforce for decades to come: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) designates February 16, 2023, as International Black Aviation Professionals Day (2) encourages the observation of International Black Aviation Professionals Day (3) requests that the President issue a proclamation calling upon the people of the United States (A) to recognize the stories and contributions of Black American aviation professionals who broke barriers, innovated, and took aviation to greater heights; (B) to provide an enhanced curriculum in schools, libraries, and other places of learning to educate all individuals of the United States with respect to the contributions of Black aviation pioneers; and (C) to support greater opportunities for Black Americans in all areas of aviation.
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Designating February 16, 2023, as International Black Aviation Professionals Day.
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This resolution designates National Osteopathic Medicine Week.
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Designating the week of April 17 through April 23, 2023, as National Osteopathic Medicine Week Whereas there are more than 141,500 osteopathic physicians and 36,500 osteopathic medical students in the United States; Whereas osteopathic physicians and medical students train at high-caliber schools of osteopathic medicine across the United States, including in rural communities; Whereas osteopathic physicians have made significant contributions to the healthcare system of the United States since the founding of osteopathic medicine in 1892; Whereas osteopathic medicine emphasizes a whole-person, patient-centric approach to healthcare, and osteopathic physicians play an important role in the healthcare system of the United States; Whereas osteopathic physicians have been critical in the fight against the COVID19 pandemic and have worked on the front lines treating patients; Whereas osteopathic physicians train and practice in all medical specialties and practice settings; Whereas osteopathic physicians and medical students in the United States are dedicated to improving the health of their communities through efforts to increase education and awareness and by delivering high-quality health services; and Whereas osteopathic physicians practice in every State: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) designates the week of April 17 through April 23, 2023, as National Osteopathic Medicine Week (2) recognizes the contributions of osteopathic physicians to the healthcare system of the United States; and (3) celebrates the role that colleges of osteopathic medicine play in training the next generation of physicians.
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Designating the week of April 17 through April 23, 2023, as National Osteopathic Medicine Week.
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This resolution congratulates the Kansas City Chiefs for their victory in Super Bowl LVII.
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Congratulating the Kansas City Chiefs on their victory in Super Bowl LVII. Whereas, on Sunday, February 12, 2023, the Kansas City Chiefs (in this preamble referred to as the Chiefs NFL Whereas this was the third Super Bowl victory in the franchise history of the Chiefs and the second Super Bowl victory for the Chiefs in 4 years; Whereas the Chiefs displayed great resiliency to overcome a 10-point halftime deficit to win; Whereas head coach Andy Reid earned his second Super Bowl victory, becoming only the 14th head coach to accomplish this feat; Whereas quarterback Patrick Mahomes completed 21 of 27 passes and threw for 182 yards with 3 touchdowns and 0 interceptions and carried the ball 6 times for 44 yards and was named Most Valuable Player of Super Bowl LVII; Whereas Patrick Mahomes became the first player named NFL Most Valuable Player and Super Bowl Most Valuable Player in the same season since 1999; Whereas during Super Bowl LVII (1) Isiah Pacheco carried the ball 15 times for 76 yards and scored 1 touchdown; (2) Travis Kelce had 6 receptions for 81 yards and scored 1 touchdown; (3) Kadarius Toney made a touchdown reception to take the lead in the fourth quarter, as well as a Super Bowl record-long 65-yard punt return during the fourth quarter; (4) Skyy Moore had a critical touchdown reception to extend the lead by the Chiefs during the fourth quarter; (5) Nick Bolton led all players with 9 tackles and had a fumble recovery and defensive touchdown; (6) JuJu Smith-Schuster had 7 receptions for 53 yards; and (7) Harrison Butker made the game-winning field goal from 27 yards with 8 seconds left in the game; Whereas the Chiefs also won (1) the American Football Conference Championship by defeating the Cincinnati Bengals 23 to 20 on January 29, 2023; and, (2) the American Football Conference Divisional playoff game by defeating the Jacksonville Jaguars 27 to 20 on January 22, 2023; Whereas the entire Chiefs roster contributed to the victory in Super Bowl LVII, including Nick Allegretti, Blake Bell, Nick Bolton, Orlando Brown, Shane Buechele, Michael Burton, Deon Bush, Harrison Butker, Leo Chenal, Frank Clark, Jack Cochrane, Bryan Cook, Mike Danna, Carlos Dunlap, Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Jody Fortson, Willie Gay, Noah Gray, Darius Harris, Chad Henne, Malik Herring, Creed Humphrey, Nazeeh Johnson, Chris Jones, Ronald Jones, Joshua Kaindoh, George Karlaftis, Travis Kelce, Darian Kinnard, Patrick Mahomes, Trent McDuffie, Jerick McKinnon, Skyy Moore, Lucas Niang, Derrick Nnadi, Isiah Pacheco, Justin Reid, Khalen Saunders, Trey Smith, JuJu Smith-Schuster, LJarius Sneed, Juan Thornhill, Joe Thuney, Kadarius Toney, Tommy Townsend, Marquez Valdes-Scantling, Prince Tega Wanogho, Jaylen Watson, Justin Watson, Brandon Williams, Joshua Williams, James Winchester, and Andrew Wylie; Whereas the Chiefs victory in Super Bowl LVII instills an extraordinary sense of pride for all of Chiefs Kingdom in the States of Missouri and Kansas and across the Midwest; Whereas people all over the world are asking, How bout those Chiefs? Whereas Lamar Hunt founded the Chiefs more than 6 decades ago and helped shape the NFL, including by coining the phrase Super Bowl Whereas the Hunt family deserves great credit for its unwavering commitment to, and leadership and support of, Chiefs Kingdom: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) congratulates the Kansas City Chiefs and their entire staff and fans of the Kansas City Chiefs for their victory in Super Bowl LVII; and (2) respectfully requests that the Secretary of the Senate transmit an enrolled copy of this resolution to (A) the chairman and chief executive officer of the Kansas City Chiefs, Clark Hunt; (B) the president of the Kansas City Chiefs, Mark Donovan, and the general manager of the Kansas City Chiefs, Brett Veach; and (C) the head coach of the Kansas City Chiefs, Andy Reid.
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Congratulating the Kansas City Chiefs on their victory in Super Bowl LVII.
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This resolution designates the week of February 11, 2023, as National Entrepreneurship Week to recognize and celebrate the contributions of entrepreneurs to the U.S. economy and to communities across the country.
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Designating the week of February 11 through February 18, 2023, as National Entrepreneurship Week Whereas National Entrepreneurship Week is a congressionally chartered event taking place annually during the third week of February for the purpose of democratizing and promoting entrepreneurship across the United States through education, connection, and collaboration; Whereas the United States is the most entrepreneurial country in the world and the entrepreneurial spirit woven into the national consciousness is central to the identity of the United States; Whereas that entrepreneurial spirit and the countless new businesses it has spawned have built the most innovative and productive economy in the history of the world; Whereas the United States is a nation of entrepreneurs, with new and small businesses comprising 99 percent of all businesses in the United States and employing nearly half of all workers in the United States; Whereas, given the importance of entrepreneurship to innovation, productivity gains, job creation, and expanding opportunity, a thriving entrepreneurial spirit is critical to economic growth in the United States; Whereas National Entrepreneurship Week celebrates the initiative, drive, creativity, and commitment embodied in the entrepreneurial spirit of the United States; Whereas National Entrepreneurship Week inspires students and the next generation of entrepreneurs by encouraging educators in grade schools, colleges, and universities across the United States to integrate entrepreneurship education into the classroom; and Whereas research has demonstrated that students who participate in entrepreneurship education programs have better attendance records, perform better in core subjects, and have lower drop-out rates than students who do not participate in such programs: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) designates the week of February 11 through February 18, 2023, as National Entrepreneurship Week (2) celebrates the importance of entrepreneurs and startups to the economy of the United States; (3) recognizes the contributions entrepreneurs make to expand opportunity, provide more inclusive prosperity, and increase the well-being of every community across the United States; (4) affirms the importance and urgency of enacting policies that promote, nurture, and support entrepreneurs and startups; and (5) encourages Federal, State, and local governments, schools, nonprofit organizations, and other civic organizations to observe National Entrepreneurship Week annually with special events and activities (A) to recognize the contributions of entrepreneurs in the United States; (B) to teach the importance of entrepreneurship to a strong and inclusive economy; and (C) to take steps to encourage, support, and celebrate future entrepreneurs.
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Designating the week of February 11 through February 18, 2023, as National Entrepreneurship Week to recognize the importance and contributions of entrepreneurs and startups to the economic prosperity of the United States and the well-being of every community across the United States.
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This resolution authorizes the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship to make specified expenditures and employ personnel for the 118th Congress.
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Authorizing expenditures by the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship. 1. General authority In carrying out its powers, duties, and functions under the Standing Rules of the Senate, in accordance with its jurisdiction under rule XXV of the Standing Rules of the Senate, including holding hearings, reporting such hearings, and making investigations as authorized by paragraphs 1 and 8 of rule XXVI of the Standing Rules of the Senate, the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship (in this resolution referred to as the committee (1) make expenditures from the contingent fund of the Senate; (2) employ personnel; and (3) with the prior consent of the Government department or agency concerned and the Committee on Rules and Administration, use on a reimbursable or nonreimbursable basis the services of personnel of any such department or agency. 2. Expenses (a) Expenses for period ending September 30, 2023 The expenses of the committee for the period March 1, 2023, through September 30, 2023, under this resolution shall not exceed $2,518,098, of which amount (1) not to exceed $50,000 may be expended for the procurement of the services of individual consultants, or organizations thereof (as authorized by section 202(i) of the Legislative Reorganization Act of 1946 ( 2 U.S.C. 4301(i) (2) not to exceed $10,000 may be expended for the training of the professional staff of the committee (under procedures specified by section 202(j) of that Act). (b) Expenses for fiscal year 2024 period The expenses of the committee for the period October 1, 2023, through September 30, 2024, under this resolution shall not exceed $4,316,738, of which amount (1) not to exceed $50,000 may be expended for the procurement of the services of individual consultants, or organizations thereof (as authorized by section 202(i) of the Legislative Reorganization Act of 1946 ( 2 U.S.C. 4301(i) (2) not to exceed $10,000 may be expended for the training of the professional staff of the committee (under procedures specified by section 202(j) of that Act). (c) Expenses for period ending February 28, 2025 The expenses of the committee for the period October 1, 2024, through February 28, 2025, under this resolution shall not exceed $1,798,642, of which amount (1) not to exceed $50,000 may be expended for the procurement of the services of individual consultants, or organizations thereof (as authorized by section 202(i) of the Legislative Reorganization Act of 1946 ( 2 U.S.C. 4301(i) (2) not to exceed $10,000 may be expended for the training of the professional staff of the committee (under procedures specified by section 202(j) of that Act). 3. Expenses and agency contributions (a) Expenses of the committee (1) In general Except as provided in paragraph (2), expenses of the committee under this resolution shall be paid from the contingent fund of the Senate upon vouchers approved by the chairman of the committee. (2) Vouchers not required Vouchers shall not be required for (A) the disbursement of salaries of employees paid at an annual rate; (B) the payment of telecommunications provided by the Office of the Sergeant at Arms and Doorkeeper; (C) the payment of stationery supplies purchased through the Keeper of the Stationery; (D) payments to the Postmaster of the Senate; (E) the payment of metered charges on copying equipment provided by the Office of the Sergeant at Arms and Doorkeeper; (F) the payment of Senate Recording and Photographic Services; or (G) the payment of franked and mass mail costs by the Sergeant at Arms and Doorkeeper. (b) Agency contributions There are authorized to be paid from the appropriations account for Expenses of Inquiries and Investigations (1) for the period March 1, 2023, through September 30, 2023; (2) for the period October 1, 2023, through September 30, 2024; and (3) for the period October 1, 2024, through February 28, 2025.
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Authorizing expenditures by the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship.
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This resolution designates December 16, 2023, as National Wreaths Across America Day and honors the Wreaths Across America project, patriotic escort units, the U.S. trucking industry, and the volunteers and donors involved in this tradition. Additionally, the resolution recognizes the service and sacrifices of veterans, members of the Armed Forces, and their families.
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Designating December 16, 2023, as National Wreaths Across America Day. Whereas 32 years before the date of adoption, the Wreaths Across America project began with an annual tradition that occurs in December of donating, transporting, and placing 5,000 Maine balsam fir veterans remembrance wreaths on the graves of the fallen heroes buried at Arlington National Cemetery; Whereas, in the past 32 years, more than 17,100,000 wreaths have been sent to various locations, including national cemeteries and veterans memorials in every State and overseas; Whereas the mission of the Wreaths Across America project, to Remember, Honor, and Teach (1) Arlington National Cemetery; (2) veterans' cemeteries; and (3) other memorial locations; Whereas the Wreaths Across America project carries out a week-long veterans' parade between Maine and Virginia, stopping along the way to spread a message about the importance of (1) remembering the fallen heroes of the United States; (2) honoring those who serve; and (3) teaching the next generation of children about the service and sacrifices made by our veterans and their families to preserve freedoms enjoyed by all in the United States; Whereas, in 2022, approximately 2,700,000 veterans remembrance wreaths were delivered to over 3,700 locations across the United States; Whereas, in December 2023, the tradition of escorting tractor-trailers filled with donated wreaths from Harrington, Maine, to Arlington National Cemetery, will be continued by (1) the Patriot Guard Riders; and (2) other patriotic escort units, including (A) motorcycle units; (B) law enforcement units; and (C) first responder units; Whereas hundreds of thousands of individuals volunteer each December to help lay veterans wreaths; Whereas the trucking industry in the United States will continue to support the Wreaths Across America project by providing drivers, equipment, and related services to assist in the transportation of wreaths across the United States to more than 4,000 locations; Whereas the Senate designated December 17, 2022, as Wreaths Across America Day; and Whereas, on December 16, 2023, the Wreaths Across America project will continue the proud legacy of bringing veterans' wreaths to Arlington National Cemetery: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) designates December 16, 2023, as National Wreaths Across America Day (2) honors (A) the Wreaths Across America project; (B) patriotic escort units, including (i) motorcycle units; (ii) law enforcement units; and (iii) first responder units; (C) the trucking industry in the United States; and (D) the millions of volunteers and donors involved in this worthy tradition; and (3) recognizes (A) the service of veterans and members of the Armed Forces; and (B) the sacrifices that veterans, their family members, and members of the Armed Forces have made, and continue to make, for this great Nation.
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Designating December 16, 2023, as National Wreaths Across America Day.
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This resolution expresses support for designating September 2023 as PCOS Awareness Month. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is caused by a hormone imbalance. Symptoms can include infertility, weight gain, excess hair growth, and acne.
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Recognizing the seriousness of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and expressing support for the designation of September 2023 as PCOS Awareness Month Whereas polycystic ovary syndrome (referred to in this preamble as PCOS Whereas there is no universal definition of PCOS, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that between 6 and 12 percent of women in the United States are affected by the condition; Whereas, according to a 2023 study, the annual burden of PCOS in the United States is estimated to be in excess of $15,000,000,000, and this estimate does not include (1) the cost of all comorbidities in post-menopause or adolescence; or (2) indirect and intangible costs related to the disorder; Whereas PCOS can affect girls at the onset of puberty and throughout the remainder of their lives; Whereas the symptoms of PCOS include infertility, irregular or absent menstrual periods, acne, weight gain, thinning of scalp hair, excessive facial and body hair growth, numerous small ovarian cysts, pelvic pain, and mental health problems; Whereas women with PCOS have higher rates of mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and eating disorders, and are at greater risk for suicide; Whereas adolescents with PCOS often are not diagnosed, and many have metabolic dysfunction and insulin resistance, which can lead to type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obstructive sleep apnea, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, heart disease, and endometrial cancer at a young adult age; Whereas an estimated 50 percent of women with PCOS are undiagnosed and many remain undiagnosed until they experience fertility difficulties or develop type 2 diabetes or other cardiometabolic disorders; Whereas PCOS is one of the most common causes of female infertility; Whereas PCOS in pregnancy is associated with increased risk of gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, pregnancy-induced hypertension, preterm delivery, cesarean delivery, miscarriage, and fetal and infant death; Whereas women with PCOS are at increased risk of developing high blood pressure, high cholesterol, stroke, and heart disease (the leading cause of death among women); Whereas women with PCOS have a more than 50 percent chance of developing type 2 diabetes or prediabetes before the age of 40; Whereas PCOS may be associated with increased risk for breast cancer and ovarian cancer, and the risk of developing endometrial cancer is 4 times higher than for women who do not have PCOS; Whereas research has found an association between depression and PCOS; Whereas research has indicated PCOS shares a genetic architecture with metabolic traits, as evidenced by genetic correlations between PCOS and obesity, fasting insulin, type 2 diabetes, lipid levels, and coronary artery disease; Whereas PCOS negatively alters metabolic function independent of, but exacerbated by, an increased body mass index (commonly referred to as BMI Whereas the cause of PCOS is unknown, but researchers have found strong links to a genetic predisposition and significant insulin resistance, which affects up to 70 percent of women with PCOS; and Whereas there is no known cure for PCOS: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) recognizes polycystic ovary syndrome (referred to in this resolution as PCOS (2) expresses support for the designation of September 2023 as PCOS Awareness Month (3) supports the goals and ideals of PCOS Awareness Month, which are (A) to increase awareness of, and education about, PCOS and its connection to comorbidities, such as type 2 diabetes, endometrial cancer, cardiovascular disease, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and mental health disorders, among the general public, women, girls, and health care professionals; (B) to improve diagnosis and treatment of PCOS; (C) to disseminate information on diagnosis, treatment, and management of PCOS, including prevention of comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes, endometrial cancer, cardiovascular disease, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and eating disorders; and (D) to improve quality of life and outcomes for women and girls with PCOS; (4) recognizes the need for further research, improved treatment and care options, and a cure for PCOS; (5) acknowledges the struggles affecting all women and girls who have PCOS in the United States; (6) urges medical researchers and health care professionals to advance their understanding of PCOS to improve research, diagnosis, and treatment of PCOS for women and girls; and (7) encourages States, territories, and localities to support the goals and ideals of PCOS Awareness Month.
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Recognizing the seriousness of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and expressing support for the designation of September 2023 as PCOS Awareness Month.
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This resolution makes the President pro tempore's appointment of Morgan J. Frankel as Senate Legal Counsel effective January 3, 2023, for a term of service to expire at the end of the 119th Congress.
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To make effective appointment of Senate Legal Counsel. That the appointment of Morgan J. Frankel of the District of Columbia to be Senate Legal Counsel, made by the President pro tempore this day, is effective as of January 3, 2023, and the term of service of the appointee shall expire at the end of the One Hundred Nineteenth Congress.
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To make effective appointment of Senate Legal Counsel.
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This resolution expresses concern over the environmental, economic, and humanitarian threats to the Mekong River and its communities. The resolution also declares it is U.S. policy to promote the economic and environmental well-being of people throughout the Mekong River Basin (Burma (Myanmar), Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam) through federal aid and support.
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Recognizing the vital importance of the Mekong River to Southeast Asia and the role of the Mekong-United States Partnership in supporting the prosperity of the region. Whereas the Mekong River supports the livelihoods of approximately 60,000,000 people, making it the most important river in Southeast Asia and one of the most important rivers in the world; Whereas the Mekong-United States Partnership, comprising the United States, Burma, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam, and the predecessor of that partnership, the Lower Mekong Initiative, have contributed greatly to the economic, social, and human resources development of the countries in the Mekong River Basin and the protection of the Mekong River; Whereas the United States has longstanding diplomatic relations with the countries in the Mekong River Basin, including a nearly 200-year-old relationship with treaty ally Thailand; Whereas the development of the countries in the Mekong River Basin is critical for the unity, economic strength, and institutional development of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, a strategic partner of the United States; Whereas the Mekong River is increasingly imperiled by the threats from worsening and extreme changes in the environment, coupled with the construction of upstream dams that have altered the natural flow of the river and vital ecological processes supported by natural flow; Whereas, since 2019, the flow of water in the Mekong River during the wet season has been abnormally low; Whereas the Nuozhadu and Xiaowan Dams in China account for more than 50 percent of the water storage of all dams in the Mekong River Basin and can restrict up to 10 percent of the total wet season flow of the Mekong River, exacerbating drought conditions downstream; Whereas the Mekong River Commission is an integral partner in ensuring the long-term health of the Mekong River; Whereas the Ayeyawady-Chao Phraya-Mekong Economic Cooperation Strategy can be a leader in supporting river development and protection; Whereas the Mekong Dam Monitor, funded partly by the Mekong-United States Partnership, has provided essential data and information about the impacts of hydropower dams along the Mekong River to the people and governments of the Mekong River Basin to allow them to prepare for irregular water flows and mitigate the economic and environmental impacts of those flows; Whereas the Mekong River has become a hub for criminal elements to traffic in drugs, people, and wildlife, undermining the rule of law in the countries in the Mekong River Basin and impacting the world through the proliferation of illegal drugs and fauna that can cause spillover of zoonotic diseases; Whereas the international community has committed to support the development of countries along the Mekong River through internationally recognized development goals; Whereas the Friends of the Mekong, which includes the countries in the Mekong River Basin, the United States, Australia, the European Union, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, the Asian Development Bank, the Mekong River Commission Secretariat, and the World Bank, is committed to supporting the shared principles that have underpinned peace and prosperity across the Indo-Pacific for decades; Whereas close coordination and collaboration with civil society groups throughout the Mekong River Basin is essential to the protection of the Mekong River; Whereas, among the countries in the Mekong River Basin, there has been a negative trend toward the detention and detainment of civil society actors and journalists and an increase in violations of human rights; Whereas the February 1, 2021, military coup in Burma was illegal and unjustified and has resulted in more than 2,000 deaths, more than 1,000,000 people displaced, and tens of thousands of people in detention, and continued violence threatens the stability of the entire region, especially those countries along the borders of Burma; and Whereas diaspora communities from countries in the Mekong River Basin are a vital part of the United States and help build thriving people-to-people ties between those countries and the United States that lead to strong commercial, civil society, and cultural ties: Now, therefore, be it Whereas the Mekong River supports the livelihoods of approximately 60,000,000 people, making it the most important river in Southeast Asia and one of the most important rivers in the world; Whereas the Mekong-United States Partnership, comprising the United States, Burma, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam, and the predecessor of that partnership, the Lower Mekong Initiative, have contributed greatly to the economic, social, and human resources development of the countries in the Mekong River Basin and the protection of the Mekong River; Whereas the United States has longstanding diplomatic relations with the countries in the Mekong River Basin, including a nearly 200-year-old relationship with treaty ally Thailand; Whereas the development of the countries in the Mekong River Basin is critical for the unity, economic strength, and institutional development of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, a strategic partner of the United States; Whereas the Mekong River continues to be affected by environmental changes, coupled with the construction of upstream dams that have altered the natural flow of the river and vital ecological processes supported by natural flow; Whereas, since 2019, the flow of water in the Mekong River during the wet season has been abnormally low; Whereas the Nuozhadu and Xiaowan Dams in China account for more than 50 percent of the water storage of all dams in the Mekong River Basin and can restrict up to 10 percent of the total wet season flow of the Mekong River, exacerbating drought conditions downstream; Whereas the Mekong River Commission is an integral partner in ensuring the long-term health of the Mekong River; Whereas the Ayeyawady-Chao Phraya-Mekong Economic Cooperation Strategy can be a leader in supporting river development and protection; Whereas the Mekong Dam Monitor, funded partly by the Mekong-United States Partnership, has provided essential data and information about the impacts of hydropower dams along the Mekong River to the people and governments of the Mekong River Basin to allow them to prepare for irregular water flows and mitigate the economic and environmental impacts of those flows; Whereas the Mekong River has become a hub for criminal elements to traffic in drugs, people, and wildlife, undermining the rule of law in the countries in the Mekong River Basin and impacting the world through the proliferation of illegal drugs and fauna that can cause spillover of zoonotic diseases; Whereas the international community has committed to support the development of countries along the Mekong River through internationally recognized development goals; Whereas the Friends of the Mekong, which includes the countries in the Mekong River Basin, the United States, Australia, the European Union, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, the Asian Development Bank, the Mekong River Commission Secretariat, and the World Bank, is committed to supporting the shared principles that have underpinned peace and prosperity across the Indo-Pacific for decades; Whereas close coordination and collaboration with civil society groups throughout the Mekong River Basin is essential to the protection of the Mekong River; Whereas, among the countries in the Mekong River Basin, there has been a negative trend toward the detention and detainment of civil society actors and journalists and an increase in violations of human rights; Whereas the February 1, 2021, military coup in Burma was illegal and unjustified and has resulted in more than 2,000 deaths, more than 1,000,000 people displaced, and tens of thousands of people in detention, and continued violence threatens the stability of the entire region, especially those countries along the borders of Burma; and Whereas diaspora communities from countries in the Mekong River Basin are a vital part of the United States and help build thriving people-to-people ties between those countries and the United States that lead to strong commercial, civil society, and cultural ties: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) expresses sincere concern over the environmental, economic, and humanitarian threats to the Mekong River and the communities of the Mekong River and continued support to counter those threats; and (2) declares it is the policy of the United States Government to (A) through the Mekong-United States Partnership and the Friends of the Mekong, promote the economic and environmental well-being of the people of Mainland Southeast Asia in the 5 countries through which the Mekong River flows, namely, Burma, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam; (B) support a whole-of-government approach in providing and coordinating Federal aid and assistance throughout the Mekong River Basin under the Mekong-United States Partnership, including programmatic support provided by the Department of State, the United States Agency for International Development, and other Federal agencies; (C) contribute to the development of quality infrastructure, the development of national electricity markets, cross-border energy trade, the facilitation of cross-border transport, clean energy acceleration and deployment, the development of micro, small, and medium enterprises, agriculture, transportation, the facilitation of trade and investment, strengthened subregional production linkages and supply chains, digital infrastructure, and the digital economy in the Mekong River Basin; (D) promote engagement and buy-in of the United States private sector to support inclusive economic growth, resilience, global health, education, and long-term development in the region; (E) leverage the expertise of the United States, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Australia, and other partners in high-quality infrastructure to support the economic development needs of the countries in the Mekong River Basin; (F) support the development of quality infrastructure, including through projects financed by the United States International Development Finance Corporation, as appropriate, in the countries in the Mekong River Basin; (G) encourage all members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations to view the environmental, humanitarian, and economic threats to the Mekong River as a danger to the entire region; (H) promote effective water use policies, natural resources management, and environmental conservation and protection, including (i) through support for a technically sound, well-coordinated, and consensus-based approach to managing the shared resources of the Mekong River Basin; (ii) through support for environmental conservation, protection, and resilience in the Mekong subregion; and (iii) by enhancing the capacity of countries in the Mekong River Basin in the sustainable conservation and management of natural resources, including fishery resources, for sustainable food security; (I) continue the important work that provides vital data and monitoring to the people and Governments of the Mekong River; (J) support the development of the capacity of the region to respond to a variety of threats, including countering transnational crime such as trafficking of drugs, wildlife, timber, and persons, and criminal activity associated with illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, and to improve health security, including emergency preparedness and response for pandemics and epidemics, cybersecurity, and disaster response and preparedness and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief; (K) promote the development of human capital through education, medical and public health partnerships, vocational training, youth empowerment, womens economic empowerment, gender equality, university cooperation, and educational and professional exchanges; (L) work together with countries in the Mekong River Basin to combat pollution, over fishing, natural resource degradation, and the effects that changes in the global climate systems are having on the Mekong River, and the communities that depend on the river, and to support the abilities of such communities to adapt and build resilience capacities of those countries; (M) encourage all countries in the Mekong River Basin to provide timely early warning for natural and unnatural operations of the river; (N) support freedom of expression in the countries in the Mekong River Basin through promoting independent journalism and the freedom to access information; (O) continue to call for the cessation of violence in Burma and support the return of Burma to a path of inclusive democracy, so that it can fully contribute to regional development; (P) prioritize the strengthening of people-to-people ties through United States exchange programs such as the Fulbright Program, the Peace Corps, the International Visitors Leadership Program, and the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative Program, including the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative Academy at Fulbright University Vietnam; and (Q) recognize that strong democratic institutions, the promotion and protection of fundamental freedoms, independent civil society, and free and fair elections are central to implementing the shared vision of a Mekong River region, and an Indo-Pacific region, that is free, open, secure, and prosperous. That the Senate (1) expresses sincere concern over the environmental, economic, and humanitarian threats to the Mekong River and the communities of the Mekong River and continued support to counter those threats; and (2) declares it is the policy of the United States Government (A) to, through the Mekong-United States Partnership and the Friends of the Mekong, promote the economic and environmental well-being of the people of Mainland Southeast Asia in the 5 countries through which the Mekong River flows, namely, Burma, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam; (B) to support providing and coordinating Federal aid and assistance throughout the Mekong River Basin under the Mekong-United States Partnership, including programmatic support provided by the Department of State, the United States Agency for International Development, and other Federal agencies; (C) to contribute to the development of quality infrastructure, national electricity markets, cross-border energy trade, cross-border transport, greater energy access, the development of micro, small, and medium enterprises, agriculture, transportation, the facilitation of trade and investment, strengthened subregional production linkages and supply chains, digital infrastructure, and the digital economy in the Mekong River Basin; (D) to promote engagement and buy-in of the United States private sector to support inclusive economic growth, resilience, global health, education, and long-term development in the region; (E) to leverage the expertise of the United States, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Australia, and other partners in high-quality infrastructure to support the economic development needs of the countries in the Mekong River Basin; (F) to support the development of quality infrastructure, including through projects financed by the United States International Development Finance Corporation, as appropriate, in the countries in the Mekong River Basin; (G) to encourage all members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations to view the environmental, humanitarian, and economic threats to the Mekong River as a danger to the entire region; (H) to promote effective water use policies, natural resources management, and environmental conservation and protection, including (i) through support for a technically sound, well-coordinated, and consensus-based approach to managing the shared resources of the Mekong River Basin; (ii) through support for environmental conservation, protection, and resilience in the Mekong subregion; and (iii) by enhancing the capacity of countries in the Mekong River Basin on conservation and management of natural resources, including fishery resources, for long-term food security; (I) to continue the important work that provides vital data and monitoring to the people and Governments of the Mekong River; (J) to support the development of the capacity of the region to respond to a variety of threats, including countering transnational crime such as trafficking of drugs, wildlife, timber, and persons, and criminal activity associated with illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, and to improve health security, including emergency preparedness and response for pandemics and epidemics, cybersecurity, and disaster response and preparedness and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief; (K) to promote the development of human capital through education, medical and public health partnerships, vocational training, youth empowerment, womens economic empowerment, gender equality, university cooperation, and educational and professional exchanges; (L) to work together with countries in the Mekong River Basin to combat pollution, over fishing, natural resource degradation, and the effects that environmental changes are having on the Mekong River, and the communities that depend on the river, and to support the abilities of such communities to adapt and build resilience capacities of those countries; (M) to encourage all countries in the Mekong River Basin to provide timely early warning for natural and unnatural operations of the river; (N) to support freedom of expression in the countries in the Mekong River Basin through promoting independent journalism and the freedom to access information; (O) to continue to call for the cessation of violence in Burma and support the return of Burma to a path of inclusive democracy, so that it can fully contribute to regional development; (P) to prioritize the strengthening of people-to-people ties through United States exchange programs such as the Fulbright Program, the Peace Corps, the International Visitors Leadership Program, and the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative Program, including the Young Southeast Asian Leaders Initiative Academy at Fulbright University Vietnam; and (Q) to recognize that strong democratic institutions, the promotion and protection of fundamental freedoms, independent civil society, and free and fair elections are central to implementing the shared vision of a Mekong River region, and an Indo-Pacific region, that is free, open, secure, and prosperous. June 13, 2023 Reported with an amendment and an amendment to the preamble
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Recognizing the vital importance of the Mekong River to Southeast Asia and the role of the Mekong-United States Partnership in supporting the prosperity of the region.
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This resolution reiterates its strongest condemnation of the 1992 attack on the Israeli Embassy in Argentina and the 1994 attack on the Argentine Israelite Mutual Association (AMIA) Jewish Community Center in Buenos Aires. The resolution also honors the victims of the 1992 bombing of the Israeli Embassy in Argentina and the 1994 AMIA bombing, and expresses its sympathy to the relatives of the victims, who are still waiting for justice. Finally, the resolution underscores the concern of the United States regarding the continuing, decades-long delay in resolving the 1992 and 1994 terrorist attacks in Argentina, and urges the President of the United States to offer technical assistance to the Argentinian government to support the ongoing investigations.
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Remembering the 31st anniversary of the bombing of the Embassy of Israel in Buenos Aires on March 17, 1992, and the 29th anniversary of the bombing of the Argentine-Israeli Mutual Association building in Buenos Aires on July 18, 1994, and recommitting to efforts to uphold justice for the victims of the attacks. Whereas, on March 17, 1992, a truck laden with explosives struck and detonated at the Embassy of Israel in Buenos Aires, Argentina, killing 29 people and wounding more than 200 others; Whereas Argentina is home to the largest Jewish community in Latin America and the sixth largest in the world, outside Israel; Whereas, in 1999, the Supreme Court of Argentina, after conducting an investigation, found that the Lebanese terrorist organization Hezbollah was responsible for the bombing, which claimed the lives of Israeli diplomats, their relatives, and numerous Argentine citizens and children; Whereas 2 years after the bombing of the Embassy of Israel in Argentina, on July 18, 1994, a car bomb detonated at the Argentine Israelite Mutual Association (AMIA) Jewish Community Center building in Buenos Aires, killing 85 people and wounding more than 300 others, rendering it the deadliest terrorist attack in Argentinas history; Whereas, for 25 years, the investigation into the AMIA bombing has been stymied by international inaction, political interference, investigative misconduct, and allegations of cover-ups, including the removal of the Federal judge in charge of the case in 2005 for serious Whereas, in October 2006, Argentine prosecutors Alberto Nisman and Marcelo Martn Burgos formally accused the Government of Iran of directing Hezbollah to carry out the AMIA bombing; Whereas the Argentine prosecutors charged Iranian nationals as suspects in the AMIA bombing, including (1) Ali Fallahijan, Irans former intelligence minister; (2) Mohsen Rabbani, Irans former cultural attach in Buenos Aires; (3) Ahmad Reza Asghari, a former Iranian diplomat posted to Argentina; (4) Ahmad Vahidi, Irans former defense minister; (5) Ali Akbar Velayati, Irans former foreign minister; (6) Mohsen Rezaee, former chief commander of the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps; (7) Ali Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, former President of Iran; and (8) Hadi Soleimanpour, former Iranian ambassador to Argentina; Whereas, in November 2007, the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) published Red Notices on 5 of the Iranian nationals and Hezbollah operative Ibrahim Hussein Berro; Whereas those with INTERPOL Red Notices have repeatedly traveled internationally with impunity on more than 20 occasions since 2007; Whereas, in May 2013, Argentine prosecutor Alberto Nisman published a 500-page report accusing the Government of Iran of establishing terrorist networks throughout Latin America; Whereas, in January 2015, Mr. Nisman released the results of an investigation alleging that then-President Fernandez de Kirchner and then-Foreign Minister Timerman conspired to cover up Iranian involvement in the 1994 AMIA bombing and that they had agreed to negotiate immunity for Iranian suspects and secure the removal of the INTERPOL Red Notices; Whereas Mr. Nisman was scheduled to present his findings to a commission of the Argentine National Congress on January 19, 2015, but on January 18, 2015, was found dead as the result of a gunshot wound to his head in his apartment in Buenos Aires; Whereas, to date, no one has been brought to justice for the 1992 bombing of the Israeli Embassy in Argentina, the 1994 bombing of the AMIA Jewish Community Center in Buenos Aires, or the death of Argentine prosecutor Alberto Nisman; and Whereas the Third Federal Criminal and Correctional Court of Buenos Aires requested (1) on October 18, 2022, that Qatar detain Mohsen Rezaee; and (2) on June 15, 2023, that Argentinian authorities and INTERPOL work together to apprehend Lebanese nationals Hussein Mounir Mouzannar, Ali Hussein Abdallah, Farouk Abdul Hay Omairi, and Abdallah Salman for the role of these individuals in the 1994 bombing of the AMIA Jewish Community Center: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) reiterates its strongest condemnation of the 1992 attack on the Israeli Embassy in Argentina and the 1994 attack on the Argentine Israelite Mutual Association (AMIA) Jewish Community Center in Buenos Aires; (2) honors the victims of the 1992 bombing of the Israeli Embassy in Argentina and the 1994 AMIA bombing and expresses its sympathy to the relatives of the victims who are still waiting for justice; (3) underscores the concern of the United States regarding the continuing, decades-long delay in resolving the 1992 and 1994 terrorist attacks in Argentina and urges the President of the United States to offer technical assistance to the Government of Argentina to support the ongoing investigations; (4) urges the Government of Argentina and the international community to continue efforts to bring the perpetrators of the March 17, 1992, and July 18, 1994, terrorist attacks to justice, including by (A) enforcing the Red Notices issued by the International Criminal Police Organization; and (B) extending such Red Notices prior to expiration; (5) calls upon the Government of Argentina to conclude the investigation into the murder of Alberto Nisman so the responsible individuals are brought to justice; (6) commends the Government of Argentina for designating Hezbollah as a terrorist organization and urges other United States allies and partners in Latin America and the Caribbean to do the same; and (7) commends the Government of Argentina for adopting the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance working definition of antisemitism and encourages other partners and allies to do the same.
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Remembering the 31st anniversary of the bombing of the Embassy of Israel in Buenos Aires on March 17, 1992, and the 29th anniversary of the bombing of the Argentine-Israeli Mutual Association building in Buenos Aires on July 18, 1994, and recommitting to efforts to uphold justice for the victims of the attacks.
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This resolution states that the Senate supports the people of Burma (Myanmar) in their ambition for democracy, sustainable peace, genuine ethnic and religious reconciliation, and internationally recognized human rights for all. It also calls on the Burmese military regime to release all political prisoners detained in the February 1, 2021, military coup, remove restrictions on travel and communications, and return the elected civilian government to power.
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Condemning the coup that took place on February 1, 2021, in Burma and the Burmese militarys detention of civilian leaders, calling for an immediate and unconditional release of all those detained, promoting accountability and justice for those killed by the Burmese military, and calling for those elected to serve in parliament to resume their duties without impediment, and for other purposes. Whereas, on February 1, 2021, the Burmese military and its aligned Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) conducted a coup against the civilian government hours before Parliament was to convene in a new session, resulting in the military junta illegally detaining State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi, President Win Myint, and members of Parliament, as well as pro-democracy activists from the 88 Generation and other civil society leaders; Whereas, since February 1, 2021, the Burmese military has detained more than 13,000 people for exercising their rights of freedom of speech and assembly and killed more than 2,800 civilians, including children; Whereas the Burmese military put the democratically elected civilian leadership of Burma, including President Win Myint and State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi, through sham trials for fabricated crimes and sentenced them to lengthy prison terms in order to remove them from political competition; Whereas Aung San Suu Kyi was sentenced to 33 years in prison for multiple spurious charges; Whereas the Burmese military has become the worlds second largest detainer of journalists, with over 100 journalists imprisoned since the coup; Whereas the Burmese militarys actions have driven hundreds of thousands from their homes and driven thousands to flee across Burmas borders into Thailand, India, and Bangladesh; Whereas fighting between the Burmese military and several ethnic armed groups continues, with government forces committing increasingly violent abuses against ethnic Karen, Kayah, Kachin, Chin, Rakhine, Shan, and Rohingya minority populations; Whereas the Burmese military restricted freedom of movement, telecommunications, and the media, limiting access to information to and from Burma during the COVID19 pandemic, which exacerbated the political crisis initiated by the February 1, 2021 coup; Whereas senior generals of the Burmese military have been sanctioned by the United States Government for serious human rights abuses and for their role in the coup and are subject to ongoing investigations into their conduct by the International Criminal Court and the International Court of Justice; Whereas, on January 28, 2021, the Union Election Commission rejected allegations by the Burmese military that fraud played a significant role in determining the outcome of the November 2020 elections; Whereas Burmas November 2020 elections resulted in the National League for Democracy party securing enough seats in Parliament to form the next government; Whereas Burmese military general Min Aung Hlaing has announced his intentions for Burmese parliamentary elections to be held by August 1, 2023; Whereas, without full participation from relevant political forces in the country, including civil society groups and opposition parties, and without a robust presence of credible international observers, the results of any parliamentary election run by the military regime will not gain widespread acceptance, domestically or internationally; Whereas, in July 2022, the Burmese military executed four male activists accused of aiding insurgents to fight Burmas army following secret trials; Whereas, in response to the Civil Disobedience Movements opposition protests, the Burmese military has used live fire, water cannons, and rubber bullets against peace protestors; Whereas, in December 2021, violent reprisals against peaceful protests resulted in the torture and subsequent deaths of over 40 civilians in Sagaing; Whereas the Burmese military has a long history of committing atrocities against the people of Burma, including the targeting of specific ethnic groups; Whereas, as of October 2022, over 943,000 stateless Rohingya refugees reside in Ukhiya and Teknaf Upazilas, Bangladesh, the vast majority of whom live in 34 extremely congested camps; Whereas, on March 21, 2022, the United States Secretary of State formally determined that members of the Burmese military committed genocide and crimes against humanity against Rohingya in 2016 and 2017; Whereas the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and ASEAN member states continue to play an important role in addressing the crisis in Burma, including through the provision of humanitarian assistance in Burma and by preventing junta leadership from participating in ASEAN meetings, absent progress on the 5 Point Consensus; Whereas United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Situation of Human Rights in Myanmar Thomas H. Andrews and Special Envoy of the Secretary-General on Myanmar Noeleen Heyzer continue to provide ongoing reporting and analysis of the dire and deteriorating situation for the men, women, and children of Burma, inside the country and as refugees, including through presentations to the United Nations Human Rights Council and the United Nations General Assembly, and through reports that document the illegitimacy of the Burmese junta and urge member states to engage in coordinated sanctions and weapon embargos against the junta; Whereas the Independent Investigative Mechanism for Myanmar continues to collect, consolidate, preserve, and analyze evidence of serious international crimes and violations of international law committed in Myanmar since 2011, and helps to facilitate and expedite fair and independent criminal proceedings; and Whereas, in December 2022, the United Nations Security Council adopted Resolution 2669 on Burma, the first resolution on Burma since the country was admitted as a member state in 1948, calling for the immediate end to all forms of violence and urging restraint and the release of all prisoners: Now, therefore, be it Whereas, on February 1, 2021, Burmas military regime and its aligned Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) conducted a coup against the civilian government of Burma hours before Parliament was to convene in a new session, resulting in the military junta illegally detaining State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi, President Win Myint, and members of Parliament, as well as pro-democracy activists from the 88 Generation and other civil society leaders; Whereas, since February 1, 2021, Burmas military regime has detained more than 13,000 people for exercising their rights of freedom of speech and assembly and killed more than 2,800 civilians, including children; Whereas Burmas military regime put the democratically elected civilian leadership of Burma, including President Win Myint and State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi, through sham trials for fabricated crimes and sentenced them to lengthy prison terms in order to remove them from political competition; Whereas, in March 2023, Burmas military regime-controlled Union Election Commission abolished 40 political parties on legally spurious grounds, including the National League for Democracy; Whereas Burmas military regime has become one of the worlds largest detainer of journalists, with over 100 journalists imprisoned since the coup; Whereas the actions of Burmas military regime have driven hundreds of thousands from their homes and driven thousands to flee across Burmas borders into Thailand, India, and Bangladesh; Whereas fighting between Burmas military regime and several ethnic armed groups continues, with government forces committing increasingly violent abuses against ethnic Karen, Kayah, Kachin, Chin, Rakhine, Shan, and Rohingya minority populations; Whereas senior generals of Burmas military regime have been sanctioned by the United States Government for serious human rights abuses and for their role in the coup; Whereas cases of Burmas military regime and individual members of the security forces responsible for atrocities are being investigated and adjudicated in ongoing judicial processes, including at the International Criminal Court and the International Court of Justice; Whereas, in December 2021, violent reprisals against peaceful protests resulted in the torture and subsequent deaths of over 40 civilians in Sagaing; Whereas Burmas military regime has a long history of committing atrocities against people across Burma, including the targeting of specific ethnic groups; Whereas, on March 21, 2022, the United States Secretary of State announced his determination that members of Burmas military regime committed genocide and crimes against humanity against Rohingya; and Whereas the governments of the Peoples Republic of China and the Russian Federation have taken advantage of the coup to extend their own security interests and commercial priorities, neither of which are in the interest of the people of Burma, the United States, or the military and economic interests of the United States in the Indo-Pacific: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) supports the people of Burma in their quest for democracy, sustainable peace, and genuine ethnic and religious reconciliation, and the realization of internationally recognized human rights for all, including for ethnic and religious groups whose human rights have been violated repeatedly and who have been disenfranchised historically; (2) calls on the Burmese military to (A) immediately and unconditionally release all political prisoners detained as a result of the coup on February 1, 2021; (B) immediately restore all forms of communication, including access to the internet without surveillance; (C) immediately end the use of violence and allow for a legal process for accountability and justice for those unlawfully detained, injured, and killed by the Burmese military; (D) remove all impediments to free travel that have been imposed as a result of the coup; (E) return to power all members of the civilian government elected in the November 8, 2020, elections and allow them to fulfill their mandate without impediment; (F) allow for freedom of expression, including the right to protest, peaceful assembly, press freedom, and freedom of movement; and (G) allow unfettered reporting from local, national, and international media; (3) calls on social media companies to suspend the accounts of the Union Solidarity and Development Party and the Burmese military that have used their platforms to spread disinformation, fear, and threats of violence; (4) supports the use of all diplomatic, economic, and development tools to ensure that vulnerable groups, including ethnic and religious groups, as well as all children, youth, and teachers in educational settings are safe, and schools and universities are not targeted for attacks or use by the Burmese military; (5) expresses grave concern for the safety and security of the more than 1,000,000 internally displaced persons (referred to in this resolution as IDPs (6) expresses grave concern for the 17,600,000 people of Burma who are in need of humanitarian aid, including the 1,500,000 IDPs in Burma, of which some 165,000 remain in the southeast, adding to those already displaced in Rakhine, Chin, Shan, and Kachin states; (7) appreciates the generosity of Burmas neighboring countries, including Thailand, India, and Bangladesh, and encourages them to meaningfully assist refugees who have fled and continue to flee the Burmese military, including through the delivery of cross-border humanitarian assistance and with recognition of the protracted nature of the conflict; and (8) calls on the President, the Secretary of State, and the Secretary of Defense to fully implement section 7008 of the Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2021 (division K of Public Law 116260 Public Law 117263 (A) impose targeted restrictions aimed at the Burmese military, military-owned or controlled enterprises, and those responsible for the February 1, 2021, coup; (B) work with the international community, including at the United Nations Security Council, with United States allies in the region, and with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, to condemn the coup, delegitimize the junta and any military-run elections announced by the junta, and take steps to ensure that international economic engagement in Burma does not contribute to human rights abuses or benefit individuals connected to the coup; (C) support conditionality on diplomatic, economic, and security relations with Burma, including using the voice and vote of the United States at multilateral development institutions, until all those detained in the February 1, 2021, coup are released and there has been a full restoration of the civilian-controlled parliament reflecting the November 8, 2020, election results; (D) utilize the United States Governments position on the United Nations Security Council to bring about greater international cooperation in the pursuit of justice and accountability in Burma; (E) empower and provide assistance to the National Unity Government of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, the National Unity Consultative Council, the Civil Disobedience Movement in Myanmar, and other entities promoting democracy in Burma through nonviolent efforts, including channeling aid through local civil society organizations along the Thai and Indian borders that are not controlled by the junta, while simultaneously denying legitimacy and resources to the junta; (F) promote national reconciliation among the diverse ethnic and religious groups in Burma; (G) counter support to the junta by the Peoples Republic of China and the Russian Federation and other supporters of the military regime; and (H) secure the restoration of democracy, the establishment of an inclusive and representative civilian government and a reformed military reflecting the diversity of Burma and under civilian control, and the enactment of constitutional, political, and economic reform in Burma. That the Senate (1) supports the people of Burma in their quest for democracy, sustainable peace, and genuine ethnic and religious reconciliation, including for members of ethnic and religious groups whose human rights have been violated repeatedly and who have been disenfranchised historically; (2) calls on Burmas military regime to (A) immediately and unconditionally release all political prisoners detained as a result of the coup on February 1, 2021; (B) immediately restore all forms of communication, including access to the internet without surveillance; (C) immediately end the use of violence and allow for a legal process for accountability and justice for those unlawfully detained, injured, and killed by Burmas military regime; (D) remove all impediments to free travel that have been imposed as a result of the coup; (E) return to power all members of the civilian government elected in the November 8, 2020 elections and allow them to fulfill their mandate without impediment; (F) allow for the exercise of freedoms of expression, including with respect to press freedoms and the freedom of peaceful assembly, and freedom of movement; and (G) allow unfettered reporting from local, national, and international media; (3) calls on social media companies to take action with respect to the accounts of the Union Solidarity and Development Party and Burmas military regime that have used their platforms to spread disinformation, fear, and threats of violence; (4) supports the use of all diplomatic, economic, and development tools to ensure that vulnerable groups, including ethnic and religious groups, as well as all children, youth, and teachers in educational settings are safe, and schools and universities are not targeted for attacks or use by the military regime; (5) expresses grave concern for the safety and security of the more than 1,000,000 internally displaced persons (referred to in this resolution as IDPs (6) expresses grave concern for the 17,600,000 people of Burma who are in need of humanitarian aid, including the 1,500,000 IDPs in Burma, of which some 165,000 remain in the southeast, adding to those already displaced in Rakhine, Chin, Shan, and Kachin states; (7) appreciates the generosity of Burmas neighboring countries, including Thailand, India, and Bangladesh, and encourages them to meaningfully assist refugees who have fled and continue to flee Burma's military regime, including through the delivery of cross-border humanitarian assistance and with recognition of the protracted nature of the conflict; (8) encourages the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and ASEAN member states to take a more active role asserting the unacceptable nature of the juntas coup and continued oppression of the people of Burma, including, if necessary, reconsidering their commercial relations with the junta and state-owned or -controlled enterprises in Burma, especially where commercial and business arrangements serve as obstacles to action by ASEAN member states; and (9) calls on the President, the Secretary of State, and the Secretary of Defense to fully implement the BURMA Act of 2022 (subtitle E of title LV of division E of Public Law 117263 (A) impose targeted restrictions aimed at the military regime, military-owned or -controlled enterprises, and those responsible for the February 1, 2021 coup; (B) prioritize in bilateral and multilateral diplomacy, including at the United Nations, with United States allies in the region, and with ASEAN, the condemnation of the coup and its international enablers and delegitimization of the junta and any military-run elections announced by the junta; (C) take steps to ensure that international economic engagement in Burma does not contribute to human rights abuses or benefit individuals connected to the coup; (D) support conditionality on diplomatic, economic, and security relations with Burma, including using the voice and vote of the United States at multilateral development institutions, until all those wrongfully detained in the February 1, 2021 coup are released and there has been a full restoration of the civilian-controlled parliament; (E) use the voice and vote of the United States on the United Nations Security Council and in other multilateral and bilateral fora to bring about greater international cooperation and support for the pursuit of justice and accountability in Burma; (F) empower and provide assistance to the National Unity Government of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, the National Unity Consultative Council, the Civil Disobedience Movement in Myanmar, and other entities promoting democracy in Burma, including the provision of non-lethal assistance, including to Ethnic Armed Organizations and People's Defense Forces, consistent with the BURMA Act (subtitle E of title LV of division E of Public Law 117263 (G) promote national reconciliation among the diverse ethnic and religious groups in Burma; (H) counter moral and material support to the junta by the Peoples Republic of China and the Russian Federation and other supporters of the military regime, including through the voice and vote of the United States at the United Nations Security Council and other multilateral fora; and (I) secure the restoration of democracy, the establishment of an inclusive and representative civilian government and a reformed military reflecting the diversity of Burma and under civilian control, and the enactment of constitutional, political, and economic reform in Burma. Amend the title so as to read: A resolution condemning the coup that took place on February 1, 2021, in Burma and the military regime's detention of civilian leaders, calling for an immediate and unconditional release of all those detained, promoting accountability and justice for those killed by the military regime, and calling for those elected to serve in parliament to resume their duties without impediment, and for other purposes. July 25, 2023 Reported with an amendment, and an amendment to the preamble, and an amendment to the title
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Condemning the coup that took place on February 1, 2021, in Burma and the Burmese militarys detention of civilian leaders, calling for an immediate and unconditional release of all those detained, promoting accountability and justice for those killed by the Burmese military, and calling for those elected to serve in parliament to resume their duties without impediment, and for other purposes.
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This resolution designates November 8, 2023, as National First-Generation College Celebration Day.
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Designating November 8, 2023, as National First-Generation College Celebration Day Whereas a first-generation college student Whereas November 8 honors the anniversary of the signing of the Higher Education Act of 1965 ( 20 U.S.C. 1001 et seq. Whereas the Higher Education Act of 1965 was focused on increasing postsecondary education access and success for students, particularly low-income and first-generation college students; Whereas the Higher Education Act of 1965 helped usher in programs necessary for low-income, first-generation college students to access, remain in, and complete postsecondary education, including the Federal TRIO programs under chapter 1 of subpart 2 of part A of title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 ( 20 U.S.C. 1070a11 et seq. 20 U.S.C. 1070a Whereas the Federal TRIO programs are the primary national effort supporting underrepresented students in postsecondary education and are designed to identify individuals from low-income backgrounds that would be first-generation college students and prepare them for postsecondary education, provide them support services, and motivate and prepare them for doctoral programs; Whereas the Federal Pell Grant program under section 401 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 ( 20 U.S.C. 1070a Whereas first-generation college students may face additional academic, financial, and social challenges that their peers do not face in pursuing higher education; Whereas 56 percent of all current college students currently pursuing degrees are first-generation college students; Whereas the Council for Opportunity in Education and the Center for First-generation Student Success jointly launched the inaugural First-Generation College Celebration in 2017; and Whereas the First-Generation College Celebration has continued to grow, and institutions of higher education, corporations, nonprofit organizations, and elementary and secondary schools now celebrate November 8 as First-Generation College Celebration Day That the Senate (1) designates November 8, 2023, as National First-Generation College Celebration Day (2) urges all people of the United States to (A) celebrate National First-Generation College Celebration Day (B) recognize the important role that first-generation college students play in helping to develop the future workforce; and (C) celebrate the Higher Education Act of 1965 ( 20 U.S.C. 1001 et seq.
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Designating November 8, 2023, as National First-Generation College Celebration Day.
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This resolution designates the week beginning on September 11, 2023, as National Hispanic-Serving Institutions Week.
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Designating the week beginning on September 11, 2023, as National Hispanic-Serving Institutions Week Whereas Hispanic-Serving Institutions are degree-granting institutions that have a full-time equivalent undergraduate enrollment of at least 25 percent Hispanic students; Whereas Hispanic-Serving Institutions play an important role in educating many low-income and underserved students and creating opportunities and increasing access to higher education for such students; Whereas, in the 2021-2022 academic year, 572 Hispanic-Serving Institutions operated in the United States, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, enrolling more than 5,000,000 students; Whereas Hispanic-Serving Institutions are engines of economic mobility and a major contributor to the economic prosperity of the United States; Whereas, Hispanic-Serving Institutions represent 19 percent of all institutions of higher education, yet serve 30.5 percent of all undergraduate students and 65.6 percent of all Hispanic undergraduate students; Whereas Hispanic-Serving Institutions are located in 28 States, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico; Whereas the number of Emerging Hispanic-Serving Institutions, defined as institutions that do not yet meet the threshold of 25 percent Hispanic full-time equivalent enrollment but serve a Hispanic student population of between 15 and 24.9 percent, stands at 400 institutions operating in 43 States and the District of Columbia; Whereas Hispanic-Serving Institutions are actively involved in empowering and improving the communities in which the institutions are located; Whereas Hispanic-Serving Institutions are leading efforts to increase Hispanic participation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (commonly known as STEM Whereas 7 of the top 10 institutions of higher education ranked by the Social Mobility Index were Hispanic-Serving Institutions; Whereas celebrating the vast contributions of Hispanic-Serving Institutions strengthens the culture of the United States; and Whereas the achievements and goals of Hispanic-Serving Institutions deserve national recognition: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) recognizes the achievements and goals of Hispanic-Serving Institutions across the United States, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico; (2) designates the week beginning on September 11, 2023, as National Hispanic-Serving Institutions Week (3) calls on the people of the United States and interested groups to observe the week with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs to demonstrate support for Hispanic-Serving Institutions in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month.
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Designating the week beginning on September 11, 2023, as National Hispanic-Serving Institutions Week.
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This resolution expresses that the Senate condemns the unjust detention and indicting of Russian opposition leader Vladimir Vladimirovich Kara-Murza; urges the U.S. government and other allied governments to work to secure the immediate release of Vladimir Vladimirovich Kara-Murza, Alexei Navalny, and other Russian citizens imprisoned for opposing the regime of Vladimir Putin and the war against Ukraine; and calls on the President to increase support provided by the U.S. government for those advocating for democracy and independent media in Russia.
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Calling for the immediate release of Russian opposition leader Vladimir Kara-Murza, who was unjustly detained on April 11, 2022. Whereas Vladimir Vladimirovich Kara-Murza (referred to in this preamble as Mr. Kara-Murza Whereas, in retaliation for his advocacy, two attempts have been made on Mr. Kara-Murzas life, as (1) on May 26, 2015, Mr. Kara-Murza fell ill with symptoms indicative of poisoning and was hospitalized; and (2) on February 2, 2017, he fell ill with similar symptoms and was placed in a medically induced coma; Whereas independent investigations conducted by Bellingcat, the Insider, and Der Spiegel found that the same unit of the Federal Security Service of the Russian Federation responsible for poisoning Mr. Kara-Murza was responsible for poisoning Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny and activists Timur Kuashev, Ruslan Magomedragimov, and Nikita Isayev; Whereas, on February 24, 2022, Vladimir Putin launched another unprovoked, unjustified, and illegal invasion into Ukraine in contravention of the obligations freely undertaken by the Russian Federation to respect the territorial integrity of Ukraine under the Budapest Memorandum of 1994, the Minsk protocols of 2014 and 2015, and international law; Whereas, on March 5, 2022, Vladimir Putin signed a law criminalizing the distribution of truthful statements about the invasion of Ukraine by the Russian Federation and mandating up to 15 years in prison for such offenses; Whereas, since February 24, 2022, Mr. Kara-Murza has used his voice and platform to join more than 15,000 citizens of the Russian Federation in peacefully protesting the war against Ukraine and millions more who silently oppose the war; Whereas, on April 11, 2022, five police officers arrested Mr. Kara-Murza in front of his home and denied his right to an attorney, and the next day Mr. Kara-Murza was sentenced to 15 days in prison for disobeying a police order; Whereas, on April 22, 2022, the Investigative Committee of the Russian Federation charged Mr. Kara-Murza with violations under the law signed on March 5, 2022, for his fact-based statements condemning the invasion of Ukraine by the Russian Federation; Whereas Mr. Kara-Murza was then placed into pretrial detention and ordered to be held until at least June 12, 2022; Whereas, if convicted of those charges, Mr. Kara-Murza faces detention in a penitentiary system that human rights nongovernmental organizations have criticized for widespread torture, ill-treatment, and suspicious deaths of prisoners; Whereas, on May 26, 2022, the United States Senate unanimously agreed to Senate Resolution 632 (117th Congress) calling for the immediate release of Mr. Kara-Murza, Alexei Navalny, and other citizens of the Russian Federation imprisoned for opposing the regime of Vladimir Putin and the war against Ukraine; Whereas, on July 27, 2022, the Investigative Committee of the Russian Federation charged Mr. Kara-Murza for his alleged engagements with Free Russia Foundation and Open Russia, both of which are nongovernmental organizations targeted by the law of the Russian Federation on undesirable organizations; Whereas, on October 6, 2022, the Investigative Committee of the Russian Federation charged Mr. Kara-Murza with high treason on the grounds that he cooperated with a North Atlantic Treaty Organization member nation, which was corroborated by the public speeches he delivered in the United States, Portugal, and Finland; Whereas, on March 3, 2023, in response to bipartisan requests from Congress, the United States Government imposed sanctions under the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act ( 22 U.S.C. 10101 et seq. Whereas Mr. Kara-Murzas attorney reported that his clients health deteriorated to the point that he was unfit to attend his hearing on March 16, 2023, as Mr. Kara-Murza was being treated for polyneuropathy, a condition that he sustained from poison attacks on May 26, 2015, and February 2, 2017: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) condemns the unjust detention and indicting of Russian opposition leader Vladimir Vladimirovich Kara-Murza, who has courageously stood up to oppression in the Russian Federation; (2) expresses solidarity with Vladimir Vladimirovich Kara-Murza, his family, and all individuals in the Russian Federation imprisoned for exercising their fundamental freedoms of speech, assembly, and belief; (3) urges the United States Government and other allied governments to work to secure the immediate release of Vladimir Vladimirovich Kara-Murza, Alexei Navalny, and other citizens of the Russian Federation imprisoned for opposing the regime of Vladimir Putin and the war against Ukraine; and (4) calls on the President to increase support provided by the United States Government for those advocating for democracy and independent media in the Russian Federation, which Vladimir Vladimirovich Kara-Murza has worked to advance.
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Calling for the immediate release of Russian opposition leader Vladimir Kara-Murza, who was unjustly detained on April 11, 2022.
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This resolution honors the 75th anniversary of the founding of modern Israel. It reaffirms the partnership between Israel and the United States and the U.S. commitment to the security of Israel. The resolution also supports peace between Israelis and Palestinians, the Abraham Accords, the Negev Forum, and all ongoing efforts to formalize and strengthen relations between Israel and its Arab neighbors.
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Celebrating the 75th anniversary of the founding of the State of Israel, and for other purposes. Whereas May 14, 2023, marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of the State of Israel; Whereas May 11, 2023, marks the 74th anniversary of Israels membership in the United Nations; Whereas, on September 21, 1922, President Warren G. Harding signed House Joint Resolution 322, after unanimous support from the House of Representatives and the Senate, endorsing the Balfour Declaration establishing a national home for the Jewish people; Whereas, on May 14, 1948, the people of Israel proclaimed the establishment of the sovereign and independent State of Israel; Whereas, on May 14, 1948, President Harry S. Truman, on behalf of the United States, was the first foreign leader to recognize the Jewish government of the State of Israel; Whereas the establishment of the State of Israel realized the right of the Jewish people to self-determination and is an outgrowth of the existence of the historic and ancestral kingdom of Israel established in the land of Israel 3,000 years ago with Jerusalem as its capital; Whereas the establishment of the modern State of Israel as a homeland for the Jews followed the slaughter of more than 6,000,000 Jews during the Holocaust; Whereas the Declaration of the Establishment of the State of Israel, proclaimed on May 14, 1948, states, in part, THE STATE OF ISRAEL will be open for Jewish immigration and for the Ingathering of the Exiles; it will foster the development of the country for the benefit of all its inhabitants; it will be based on freedom, justice and peace as envisaged by the prophets of Israel; it will ensure complete equality of social and political rights to all its inhabitants irrespective of religion, race or sex; it will guarantee freedom of religion, conscience, language, education and culture; it will safeguard the Holy Places of all religions; and it will be faithful to the principles of the Charter of the United Nations. Whereas, to preserve these values and the institutions of Israeli democracy, Israel has enacted and amended the Basic Laws of Israel, which provide the foundation of Israels democratic system; Whereas Israel is home to a vibrant Arab community, comprising an estimated 20 percent of Israels population and possessing equal rights under Israeli law; Whereas the people of Israel have established a pluralistic democratic political system, including freedom of speech, a free press, free, fair, and open elections, the rule of law, and other democratic principles and practices; Whereas Israel (1) offers invaluable contributions to the international community, including humanitarian aid, entrepreneurship, cybersecurity, military weaponry, counterterrorism, airport security, agriculture, water management, arid-zone farming, medical advances, natural gas, and other technologies; and (2) will promote a positive vision for emerging technologies that is anchored by democratic values; Whereas robust bilateral ties with Israel (1) contribute to the security interests of the United States; (2) produce security, economic, and cultural benefits in the region; (3) increase regional integration and stability; and (4) build confidence with respect to peace negotiations; Whereas Israel (1) maintains diplomatic relations with 166 of the 193 member states of the United Nations; and (2) retains 80 resident embassies, 21 consulates general, and 7 special missions globally; Whereas Israel maintains free trade agreements with the United States, members of the European Union, members of the European Free Trade Association, Canada, Mexico, Ukraine, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, and other nation states; Whereas, in 1987, the United States Government designated Israel as a major non-NATO ally; Whereas, in 2014, the United States Government designated Israel as a major strategic partner; Whereas, on March 26, 1979, the Arab Republic of Egypt signed a peace treaty with Israel, becoming the first Arab country to establish full, normalized, diplomatic relations with the State of Israel; Whereas, on October 26, 1994, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan signed a peace treaty with Israel, becoming the second Arab country to normalize ties with Israel; Whereas security coordination between the State of Israel and the Palestinian National Authority promotes stability and is critical to deescalating tensions; Whereas the United States has actively supported and played a significant role in the efforts to bring about Israeli-Palestinian peace, consistent with the long-standing United States commitment to a sustainable, viable, two-state solution negotiated directly between the parties, resulting in an end to the conflict and two states for two peoples based on mutual recognition, dignity, and peaceful neighborly relations; Whereas, on September 15, 2020, the United States, the State of Israel, the United Arab Emirates, and the Kingdom of Bahrain signed the Abraham Accords, consisting of agreements to establish full relations between Israel and the United Arab Emirates and between Israel and the Kingdom of Bahrain; Whereas the landmark Abraham Accords were quickly followed by agreements to normalize relations between Israel and Sudan on October 23, 2020, and between Israel and Morocco on December 10, 2020; Whereas Congress underscored in the Israel Relations Normalization Act of 2022 (division Z of Public Law 117103 have the potential to fundamentally transform the security, diplomatic, and economic environment in the Middle East and North Africa and advance vital United States national security interests Whereas the United States continues to build upon the foundations and success of the Abraham Accords by urging further normalization with Israel and by deepening regional integration and cooperation, including between Israel and Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, Morocco, and the United Arab Emirates, most recently, through holding the Negev Summit on March 27 and 28, 2022, in Sde Boker, Israel, and the establishment of the Negev Forum on June 27, 2022, in Manama, Bahrain; Whereas, on June 27, 2022, the Negev Forum Steering Committee announced the establishment of (1) 6 working groups that foster the integration of clean energy, food and water security, education and coexistence, health, regional security, and tourism; and (2) initiatives that strengthen the Palestinian economy and improve the quality of life of Palestinians Whereas the joint security cooperation between the United States and Israel in many fields, including intelligence sharing, air defense technology, joint comprehensive military exercises, and cybersecurity, has proven invaluable in strengthening the national security of the United States and Israel; Whereas Israel faces growing threats to its security, including (1) Irans advancing nuclear program and support for global terrorism; (2) terrorist threats from Hamas, Palestinian Islamic Jihad, and Hizballah; and (3) other terrorist threats; Whereas the United States and Israel have signed three 10-year bilateral security cooperation and assistance memoranda of understanding in which the United States committed to provide Israel with security assistance valued at (1) $26,700,000,000 during the 10-year period ending on September 30, 2008; (2) $30,000,000,000 during the 10-year period ending on September 30, 2018; and (3) $38,000,000,000 during the 10-year period ending on September 30, 2028; Whereas Congress has appropriated amounts in accordance with such memoranda of understanding, reflecting the two countries shared priorities in the region and the strength of United States support for maintaining Israels qualitative military edge; Whereas Congress passed the Nita M. Lowey Middle East Partnership for Peace Act of 2020 (title VIII of division K of Public Law 116260 Whereas antisemitism continues to rise globally, reaching an alarming all-time high during 2021 with 2,717 incidents in the United States and an estimated 1,090,000,000 people worldwide harboring antisemitic attitudes, making self-determination and a safe haven for the Jewish people even more necessary; Whereas Israel has absorbed millions of Jews from countries throughout the world and fully integrated them into Israeli society; Whereas the United States and Israel have maintained a special relationship for 75 years based on mutually shared democratic values, common strategic interests, and moral bonds of friendship and mutual respect between their countries and people; Whereas Israels involvement as an active member of the community of nations benefits Israel, the United States, and all governments that share common values and promote democratic stability throughout the world; and Whereas the United States will continue to advocate for equitable treatment of Israel in international fora in the face of antisemitic bias: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) recognizes the historic significance of, and joins the Israeli people in their celebration of, the 75th anniversary of the founding of the State of Israel; (2) reaffirms (A) the longstanding and indelible partnership between the United States and Israel; (B) the unshakeable commitment of the United States to the security of the State of Israel; and (C) the right of Israel to exist in peace, prosperity, and security alongside its neighbors; (3) reiterates its support for a comprehensive and lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians, in which both enjoy peace, security, and prosperity; (4) encourages the diplomatic recognition of the State of Israel and robust engagement with Israel from all governments around the world; (5) reiterates its support for the Abraham Accords, the Negev Forum, and all other ongoing efforts to formalize and strengthen relations between Israel and its Arab neighbors in pursuit of a more integrated and peaceful region; (6) reaffirms its continuing support for Israel as a Jewish and democratic state that is committed (A) to defending the security, freedom and equality of all its inhabitants, regardless of religion, race, or sex; and (B) to guaranteeing freedom of religion, conscience, language, education, and culture; (7) reaffirms that the United States will continue to fight against antisemitism globally and against the efforts to delegitimize Israel in international fora; (8) commends the people of Israel for their remarkable achievements in building a pluralistic democratic society in the Middle East; and (9) extends the warmest congratulations and best wishes to the State of Israel and her people for a peaceful, prosperous, and successful future.
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Celebrating the 75th anniversary of the founding of the State of Israel, and for other purposes.
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This resolution expresses concern about the practice of book banning in the United States.
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Expressing concern about the spreading problem of book banning and the proliferation of threats to freedom of expression in the United States. Whereas the overwhelming majority of voters in the United States oppose book bans; Whereas an overwhelming majority of voters in the United States support educators teaching about the civil rights movement, the history and experiences of Native Americans, enslaved Africans, immigrants facing discrimination, and the ongoing effects of racism; Whereas, in 1969, the Supreme Court of the United States held in Tinker v. Des Moines Independent Community School District, 393 U.S. 503 (1969), that students do not shed their constitutional rights to freedom of speech or expression at the schoolhouse gate Whereas, in 1982, a plurality of the Supreme Court of the United States wrote in Board of Education, Island Trees Union Free School District No. 26 v. Pico, 457 U.S. 853 (1982), that schools may not remove library books based on narrowly partisan or political grounds official suppression of ideas Whereas the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States protects freedom of speech and the freedom to read and write; Whereas Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights states that everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression; this right includes freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers Whereas PEN America has identified nearly 3,400 instances of individual books banned, affecting 1,557 unique titles from July 2022 through June 2023 alone, representing a 33-percent increase in bans compared to the prior year of July 2021 through June 2022; Whereas of the 2,532 bans in the 20212022 school year, 96 percent of them were enacted without following the best practice guidelines for book challenges outlined by the American Library Association, the National Coalition Against Censorship, and the National Council of Teachers of English; Whereas the unimpeded sharing of ideas and the freedom to read are essential to a strong democracy; Whereas books do not require readers to agree with topics, themes, or viewpoints but instead allow readers to explore and engage with differing perspectives to form and inform their own views; Whereas suppressing the freedom to read and denying access to literature, history, and knowledge are repressive and antidemocratic tactics used by authoritarian regimes against their people; Whereas book bans violate the rights of students, families, residents, and citizens based on the political, ideological, and cultural preferences of the specific individuals imposing the bans; Whereas book bans have multifaceted, harmful consequences on (1) students, who have a right to access a diverse range of stories and perspectives, especially students from historically marginalized backgrounds whose communities are often targeted by thought control measures; (2) educators and librarians, who are operating in some States in an increasingly punitive and surveillance-oriented environment and experience a chilling effect in their work; (3) authors whose works are targeted and suppressed; (4) parents who want their children to attend public schools that remain open to curiosity, discovery, and the freedom to read; and (5) community members who want free access to a range of uncensored information and knowledge from their public libraries; Whereas classic and award-winning literature and books that have been part of school curricula for decades have been challenged, removed from libraries pending review, or outright banned from schools, including (1) Brave New World (2) The Handmaids Tale (3) Anne Franks Diary: The Graphic Adaptation (4) Their Eyes Were Watching God (5) To Kill a Mockingbird Whereas books, particularly those written by and about outsiders, newcomers, and individuals from marginalized backgrounds, are facing a heightened risk of being banned; Whereas, according to PEN America, 36 percent of instances of books banned or otherwise restricted in the United States from July 2021 to June 2023 have LGBTQ+ characters or themes that recognize the equal humanity and dignity of all individuals despite differences, including (1) And Tango Makes Three (2) This Book Is Gay Whereas 37 percent of instances of books, both fiction and nonfiction, that have been banned or otherwise restricted in the United States from July 2021 to June 2023 are books about race, racism, or feature characters of color, including (1) The Story of Ruby Bridges (2) Letter from Birmingham Jail (3) Thank You, Jackie Robinson (4) Malala: A Hero For All (5) Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story (6) Hair Love (7) Good Trouble: Lessons From the Civil Rights Playbook (8) We Are All Born Free: The Universal Declaration of Human Rights in Pictures Whereas the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund has reported a dramatic surge in challenges at libraries and schools to the inclusion of graphic novels that depict the diversity of civic life in the United States and the painful and complex history of the human experience, including (1) New Kid (2) Drama (3) American Born Chinese (4) Maus Whereas books addressing death, grief, mental illness, and suicide are targeted alongside nonfiction books that discuss feelings and emotions written for teenage and young adult audiences that frequently confront these topics; Whereas, during congressional hearings on April 7, 2022, May 19, 2022, and September 12, 2023, students, parents, teachers, librarians, and school administrators testified to the chilling and fear-spreading effects that book bans have on education and the school environment; and Whereas, according to PEN America, from July 2022 to June 2023, States across the country limited access to certain books for limited or indefinite periods of time, including (1) Florida, where at least 1,406 books in total have been banned or restricted in 33 school districts; (2) Texas, where at least 625 books in total have been banned or restricted in 12 school districts; (3) Missouri, where at least 333 books in total have been banned or restricted in 14 school districts; (4) Utah, where at least 281 books in total have been banned or restricted in 10 school districts; (5) Pennsylvania, where at least with 186 books in total have been banned or restricted in 7 school districts; (6) South Carolina, where at least with 127 books in total have been banned or restricted in 6 school districts; (7) Virginia, where at least 75 books in total have been banned or restricted in 6 school districts; (8) North Carolina, where at least with 58 books in total have been banned or restricted in 6 school districts; (9) Wisconsin, where at least with 43 books in total have been banned or restricted in 5 school districts; (10) Michigan, where at least with 39 books in total have been banned or restricted in 12 school districts; (11) North Dakota, where at least with 27 books in total have been banned or restricted in 1 school district; (12) Tennessee, where at least 11 books in total have been banned or restricted in 5 school districts; and (13) New York, where at least 6 books in total have been banned or restricted in 3 school districts: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) expresses concern about the spreading problem of book banning and the proliferating threats to freedom of expression in the United States; (2) reaffirms the commitment of the United States to supporting the freedom of expression of writers that is protected under the First Amendment to the Constitution and the freedom of all individuals in the United States to read books without government censorship; (3) calls on local governments and school districts to follow best practice guidelines when addressing challenges to books; and (4) calls on local governments and school districts to protect the rights of students to learn and the ability of educators and librarians to teach, including by providing students with the opportunity to read a wide array of books reflecting the full breadth and diversity of viewpoints and perspectives.
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Expressing concern about the spreading problem of book banning and the proliferation of threats to freedom of expression in the United States.
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This resolution expresses support for the designation of May 15, 2023, as National Senior Fraud Awareness Day and encourages the development of policies that help prevent scams targeting older adults.
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Supporting the designation of May 15, 2023, as National Senior Fraud Awareness Day Whereas millions of individuals age 65 or older (referred to in this preamble as seniors Whereas other types of fraud perpetrated against seniors include Medicare impersonation fraud, health care fraud, health insurance fraud, counterfeit prescription drug fraud, funeral and cemetery fraud, anti-aging Whereas the Government Accountability Office has estimated that seniors lose a staggering $2,900,000,000 each year to an ever-growing array of financial exploitation schemes and scams; Whereas, since 2013, the Fraud Hotline of the Special Committee on Aging of the Senate has received more than 10,000 complaints reporting possible scams from individuals in all 50 States, the District of Columbia, and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico; Whereas the ease with which criminals contact seniors through the internet and telephone increases as more creative schemes emerge and scammers employ new technologies, such as artificial intelligence and spoofing Whereas, according to the Consumer Sentinel Network Data Book 2022 released by the Federal Trade Commission, individuals age 60 or older reported losing around $1,600,000,000 to fraud in 2022, with a median loss for victims age 80 or older of $1,674, more than 3 times the median amount lost by those victims between the ages of 50 and 59; Whereas senior fraud is underreported by victims due to shame, stigma, and lack of information about where to report fraud; and Whereas May 15, 2023, is an appropriate day to establish as National Senior Fraud Awareness Day That the Senate (1) supports the designation of May 15, 2023, as National Senior Fraud Awareness Day (2) recognizes National Senior Fraud Awareness Day as an opportunity to raise awareness about the barrage of scams that individuals age 65 or older (referred to in this resolution as seniors (3) recognizes that law enforcement agencies, consumer protection groups, area agencies on aging, and financial institutions all play vital roles in (A) preventing the proliferation of scams targeting seniors in the United States; and (B) educating seniors about those scams; (4) encourages (A) the implementation of policies to prevent scams targeting seniors; and (B) the improvement of efforts to protect seniors from those scams; and (5) honors the commitment and dedication of the individuals and organizations that work tirelessly to fight against scams targeting seniors.
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Supporting the designation of May 15, 2023, as National Senior Fraud Awareness Day to raise awareness about the increasing number of fraudulent scams targeted at seniors in the United States, to encourage the implementation of policies to prevent those scams from happening, and to improve protections from those scams for seniors.
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This resolution designates June 6, 2023, as National Naloxone Awareness Day. Naloxone is a medication that temporarily reverses opioid overdoses.
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Designating June 6, 2023, as National Naloxone Awareness Day. Whereas the opioid epidemic continues to devastate communities across the United States, leading to a significant loss of life and widespread societal impact; Whereas, as of December 2022, opioid overdoses during the previous 12 months claimed a reported 79,770 lives in the United States; Whereas fatal overdoses are often witnessed by a bystander; Whereas, in 2022 alone, the Drug Enforcement Administration seized more than 379,000,000 doses of potentially deadly fentanyl, enough to kill every individual in the United States; Whereas, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, fentanyl-related poisonings are currently the leading cause of death for individuals in the United States between 18 and 49 years of age; Whereas naloxone is a safe and effective medication that can reverse opioid overdoses and save lives when administered promptly by rapidly reversing the effects of opioids; Whereas naloxone plays a vital role in preventing long-term brain damage and reducing the risk of fatality associated with opioid overdoses; Whereas the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has declared naloxone to be a key tool in preventing opioid overdose deaths; Whereas it is imperative to educate individuals, families, healthcare professionals, and first responders about (1) the benefits of naloxone, including the potential naloxone has to reduce opioid-related fatalities; and (2) how to administer naloxone; Whereas it is imperative to identify current or potential barriers, including cost, for individuals, organizations, and Federal, State, and local governments to obtain and distribute naloxone; Whereas increasing access to naloxone can ensure that individuals struggling with opioid use disorder have a chance at recovery and a future free from the grip of substance use disorder; Whereas the Food and Drug Administration took action to authorize the over-the-counter sale of 4 milligram doses of naloxone; and Whereas recognizing National Naloxone Awareness Day will contribute to the ongoing efforts to educate the public, reduce stigma associated with substance use disorder, and promote access to lifesaving naloxone: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) designates June 6, 2023, as National Naloxone Awareness Day; (2) recognizes the life-saving benefits of naloxone in reversing opioid overdoses and preventing unnecessary deaths; (3) acknowledges that increased access to naloxone empowers individuals, families, healthcare professionals, and first responders to intervene in emergency situations and provide immediate assistance to those experiencing an opioid overdose; (4) recognizes that National Naloxone Awareness Day serves as an opportunity to educate members of the public about the importance of recognizing the signs of opioid overdose and equipping themselves with naloxone to save lives; (5) encourages Federal, State, and local governments, as well as private and nonprofit organizations, to collaborate and allocate resources toward increasing naloxone access, education, and distribution efforts; and (6) calls upon Federal agencies, including the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Office of National Drug Control Policy, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and all other Federal agencies engaged in the National Drug Control Strategy of the President to continue supporting public awareness, harm reduction, and overdose and poisoning prevention.
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Designating June 6, 2023, as National Naloxone Awareness Day.
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This resolution encourages (1) the people of the United States to join in a national effort to salute AmeriCorps members, alumni, and Americorps Seniors volunteers and to raise awareness about the importance of national and community service; and (2) all individuals to consider opportunities to serve in AmeriCorps and Americorps Seniors.
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Recognizing the contributions of AmeriCorps members and alumni and AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers to the lives of the people of the United States. Whereas, since their inceptions, each of the AmeriCorps and AmeriCorps Seniors national service programs have proven to be a highly effective way (1) to bring people of all backgrounds throughout the United States together in common cause to meet the most pressing challenges of communities in the United States; and (2) to promote the ethics of service and volunteerism; Whereas, each year, more than 200,000 individuals serve in AmeriCorps and AmeriCorps Seniors at nearly 40,000 locations across the United States to give back in an impactful way to communities, States, Tribal nations, and the United States; Whereas AmeriCorps and AmeriCorps Seniors funds have been invested in nonprofit, community, educational, and faith-based groups, and those funds leverage hundreds of millions of dollars in outside funding and in-kind support each year; Whereas AmeriCorps members and AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers have provided millions of hours of service nationwide, helping (1) to improve the lives of the most vulnerable people of the United States; (2) to protect the environment and restore public lands; (3) to contribute to public safety; (4) to respond to natural disasters; (5) to address food insecurity and public health; (6) to strengthen the educational system of the United States; and (7) to expand economic opportunity; Whereas AmeriCorps members and AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers recruit and manage millions of community volunteers, demonstrating the value of AmeriCorps as a powerful force for encouraging people to become involved in volunteering and community service; Whereas, for more than 5 decades, AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers in the RSVP, Foster Grandparent, and Senior Companion programs have played an important role in strengthening communities by sharing their experience, knowledge, and accomplishments with the individuals they serve; Whereas, since 1994, more than 1,250,000 AmeriCorps members have taken the AmeriCorps pledge to get things done for America Whereas AmeriCorps members nationwide, in return for the service of those members, have earned more than $4,400,000,000 to use to further their own educational advancement at colleges and universities across the United States and to pay back student loans; Whereas AmeriCorps is a proven pathway to employment, providing members with valuable career skills, experience, and contacts to prepare them for the 21st century workforce and support economic competitiveness in the United States; Whereas, in 2009, Congress passed the bipartisan Serve America Act ( Public Law 11113 Whereas national service programs have engaged millions of people in the United States in results-driven service in the most vulnerable communities of the United States, providing hope and help to individuals with economic and social needs; Whereas national service and volunteerism demonstrate the best of the spirit of the United States, with people solving problems by working together to find community solutions; and Whereas AmeriCorps Week, observed in 2023 from March 12 through March 18, is an appropriate time for the people of the United States (1) to salute current and former AmeriCorps members and AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers for their positive impact on generations of Americans; (2) to thank the grantees, State service commissions, and community partners of AmeriCorps and AmeriCorps Seniors for making the programs possible; and (3) to encourage more people in the United States to become involved in service and volunteering: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) encourages the people of the United States to join in a national effort (A) to salute AmeriCorps members and alumni and AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers; and (B) to raise awareness about the importance of national and community service; (2) acknowledges the significant accomplishments of the members, volunteers, alumni, and community partners of AmeriCorps and AmeriCorps Seniors; (3) recognizes the important contributions made by AmeriCorps members and alumni and AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers to the lives of the people of the United States; and (4) encourages individuals of all ages to consider opportunities to serve in AmeriCorps and AmeriCorps Seniors.
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Recognizing the contributions of AmeriCorps members and alumni and AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers to the lives of the people of the United States.
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This resolution supports the designation of May 7, 2023 through May 13, 2023, as Public Service Recognition Week and commends public servants for their contributions.
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Expressing the sense of the Senate that public servants should be commended for their dedication and continued service to the United States during Public Service Recognition Week. Whereas the week of May 7 through May 13, 2023, has been designated as Public Service Recognition Week to honor employees of the Federal Government and State and local governments and members of the uniformed services; Whereas Public Service Recognition Week provides an opportunity to recognize and promote the important contributions of public servants and to honor the diverse men and women who meet the needs of the United States through work at all levels of government and as members of the uniformed services; Whereas millions of individuals serve the public in government service and as members of the uniformed services in every State, county, and city across the United States and in hundreds of cities abroad; Whereas public servants provide crucial customer service in their local communities to millions of individuals throughout the United States; Whereas public service is a noble calling involving a variety of challenging and rewarding professions; Whereas the ability of the Federal Government and State and local governments to be responsive, innovative, and effective depends on the outstanding performance of dedicated public servants; Whereas the United States continues to reaffirm the critical importance of public service employees in responding to public health and economic challenges; Whereas the United States is a great and prosperous country, and public service employees contribute significantly to that greatness and prosperity; Whereas the United States benefits daily from the knowledge and skills of the highly trained individuals who work in public service; Whereas public servants (1) defend the freedom of the people of the United States and advance the interests of the United States and the ideals of democracy around the world; (2) provide vital strategic support functions to the Armed Forces and serve in the National Guard and Reserves; (3) fight crime and fires; (4) ensure equal access to secure, efficient, and affordable mail service; (5) deliver benefits under the Social Security Act ( 42 U.S.C. 301 et seq. 42 U.S.C. 1395 et seq. (6) fight disease and promote better health; (7) protect the environment and the parks of the United States; (8) enforce laws guaranteeing equal employment opportunity and healthy working conditions; (9) defend and secure critical infrastructure; (10) help the people of the United States recover from natural disasters, pandemics, and terrorist attacks; (11) teach and work in schools and libraries; (12) develop new technologies and explore Earth, the moon, and space to improve knowledge on how the world changes; (13) improve and secure transportation systems; (14) promote economic stability and growth; and (15) assist veterans of the Armed Forces; Whereas members of the uniformed services and civilian employees at all levels of government (1) make significant contributions to the general welfare of the United States; and (2) are on the front lines in the fight to defeat terrorism and maintain homeland security; Whereas public servants work in a professional manner to build relationships with other countries and cultures in order to better represent the interests and promote the ideals of the United States; Whereas public servants alert Congress and the public to government waste, fraud, and abuse, and to dangers to public health; Whereas the individuals serving in the uniformed services, as well as the skilled trade and craft employees of the Federal Government who provide support to their efforts (1) are committed to doing their jobs regardless of the circumstances; and (2) contribute greatly to the security of the United States and the world; Whereas public servants have bravely fought in armed conflicts in the defense of the United States and its ideals and deserve the care and benefits they have earned through their honorable service; Whereas public servants (1) have much to offer, as demonstrated by their expertise and innovative ideas; and (2) serve as examples by passing on institutional knowledge to train the next generation of public servants; Whereas legislative branch employees, including members of the United States Capitol Police and officers of the Senate and the House of Representatives, ensure the smooth functioning of Congress and the safety and security of Members of Congress, their staffs, and visitors to the Capitol complex; Whereas legislative branch employees working for Members of Congress, congressional committees, and legislative branch agencies work tirelessly to serve constituents and support Congress in fulfilling its constitutional obligations; Whereas public servants have decisively and resolutely responded to conflicts around the globe, including the evolving crisis in Ukraine, through creative diplomatic approaches; and Whereas the week of May 7 through May 13, 2023, marks the 39th anniversary of Public Service Recognition Week: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) supports the designation of the week of May 7 through May 13, 2023, as Public Service Recognition Week (2) commends public servants during Public Service Recognition Week for their outstanding contributions to this great country throughout the year; (3) salutes government employees and members of the uniformed services for their unyielding dedication to, and enthusiasm for, public service; (4) honors government employees and members of the uniformed services who have given their lives in service to their communities and their country; (5) calls upon a new generation to consider a career in public service as an honorable profession; (6) encourages efforts to promote public service careers at every level of government; and (7) expresses gratitude to the Federal workers who have selflessly answered the call to serve their country.
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Expressing the sense of the Senate that public servants should be commended for their dedication and continued service to the United States during Public Service Recognition Week.
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This resolution designates May 2023 as ALS Awareness Month. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.
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Designating May 2023 as ALS Awareness Month Whereas amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (referred to in this preamble as ALS Whereas the life expectancy for an individual with ALS is between 2 and 5 years after the date on which the individual receives an ALS diagnosis; Whereas ALS occurs throughout the world with no racial, ethnic, gender, or socioeconomic boundaries; Whereas ALS may affect any individual in any location; Whereas the cause of ALS is unknown in up to 90 percent of cases; Whereas approximately 10 percent of ALS cases have a strong known genetic driver; Whereas, on average, the period between the date on which an individual first experiences symptoms of ALS and the date on which the individual is diagnosed with ALS is more than 1 year; Whereas the onset of ALS often involves muscle weakness or stiffness, and the progression of ALS results in the further weakening, wasting, and paralysis of (1) the muscles of the limbs and trunk; and (2) the muscles that control vital functions, such as speech, swallowing, and breathing; Whereas ALS can strike individuals of any age, but it predominantly strikes adults; Whereas it is estimated that tens of thousands of individuals in the United States have ALS at any given time; Whereas, based on studies of the population of the United States, more than 5,000 individuals in the United States are diagnosed with ALS each year, and 15 individuals in the United States are diagnosed with ALS each day; Whereas every 90 minutes someone dies from ALS in the United States; Whereas the majority of individuals with ALS die of respiratory failure; Whereas, in the United States, military veterans are more likely to be diagnosed with ALS than individuals with no history of military service; Whereas, as of the date of introduction of this resolution, there is no cure for ALS; Whereas the spouses, children, and family members of individuals living with ALS provide support to those individuals with love, day-to-day care, and more; and Whereas an individual with ALS, and the caregivers of such an individual, can be required to bear significant costs for medical care, equipment, and home care services for the individual as the disease progresses: Now, therefore, be it That the Senate (1) designates May 2023 as ALS Awareness Month (2) affirms the dedication of the Senate to (A) ensuring individuals with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (referred to in this resolving clause as ALS (B) identifying risk factors and causes of ALS to prevent new cases; (C) empowering individuals with ALS to engage with the world in the way they want; (D) reducing the physical, emotional, and financial burdens of living with ALS; and (E) ensuring all individuals with ALS and their caregivers receive high quality services and supports that benefit them; and (3) commends the dedication of the family members, friends, organizations, volunteers, researchers, and caregivers across the United States who are working to improve the quality and length of life of ALS patients and the development of treatments and cures that reach patients as soon as possible.
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Designating May 2023 as ALS Awareness Month.
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