Know Before You Go

Floor Speech

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Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in opposition to President Biden's student loan bailout. As Iowans know, a loan taken out is a loan that must be repaid. Democrats and the Biden administration are continuing to push to forgive student loans, which results in those costs being transferred to other hardworking taxpayers.

This decision is irresponsible, it is unfair, and it undercuts students who work to afford tuition and parents who, for years, sacrificed and saved for the opportunity of a college education. Student loans shouldn't be viewed any differently than a mortgage or a car loan. Money taken out must be paid back by those who benefit.

Moving forward, it is crucial that we ensure our students are equipped with the guidance needed to make an informed decision, and that they understand the process to pay these loans back.

If we can help our students understand the process and the ultimate cost of Federal student loans, they will use this information in making wiser decisions. PTSD Awareness Month

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Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Awareness Month.

PTSD affects tens of thousands of Americans who are diagnosed every year. Sadly, according to the Department of Veterans Affairs, PTSD is more common among female veterans.

As a veteran, physician, and a member of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee, I know the realities of the battlefield and the importance of having adequate access and tools to mental health services that address the experiences our veterans face.

I was proud to work across the aisle with my colleagues to introduce the Veteran Care Improvement Act of 2023 that provides our veterans with increased treatment and rehabilitative services.

As Members of Congress, we have the ability to take action, and I urge all of my colleagues to support the mental health of our veterans and servicemembers through passing the Brandon Act. Recognizing Keaton Winn

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Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Keaton Winn of Ollie, Iowa, for being promoted to the San Francisco Giants' major league roster. Keaton attended Pekin High School in my district where he was a standout baseball, basketball, and football player. He then took his talents to Iowa Western Community College where he earned first team all-conference honors as a freshman pitcher.

Keaton was drafted by the Giants in 2018 and spent his next years working through their minor league system. He had a breakout season in 2022 before finally getting the call to the major leagues on June 12 of this year. He made his first appearance 1 day later, throwing four innings and becoming the first Giants pitcher to earn a save in his major league debut.

Keaton's accomplishments are a testament to his unwavering dedication, perseverance, and exceptional skills on the baseball diamond. He serves as a shining example for young athletes across Iowa who aspire to play their sport at the highest level. Every State is a Border State

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Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, President Biden's and the extreme House Democrats' open border policies have incentivized a historic surge in illegal immigration at our southern and northern borders. Every State is now a border state.

Blue sanctuary cities and States are now using elementary and secondary school facilities to provide shelter for these illegal immigrants. This deprives students of opportunities to learn, both physically and intellectually, as well as puts them physically at risk when background checks are not conducted.

This week, we will be voting on my resolution, H. Res. 461, which condemns the use of elementary and secondary school facilities to provide shelter for illegal aliens who are not admitted to the United States.

Mr. Speaker, I want to take a moment to wish my brother Richard a happy birthday. Happy birthday, Rick.

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