Jerry Moran
Senator for Kansas · Republican · United States
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Senate] [Pages S4116-S4117] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] AUTHORITY FOR COMMITTEES TO MEET Mr. MORAN. Mr.”
“I welcome Leader Thune's intention to bring this legislation to a vote soon, to send it to the President's desk for his signature, and to its becoming law. Similarly, I call on our European allies to find new supplies of liquefied natural gas more quickly ahead of next year's deadline to phase out Russian purchases.”
“I welcome Leader Thune's intention to bring this legislation to a vote soon, to send it to the President's desk for his signature, and to its becoming law. Similarly, I call on our European allies to find new supplies of liquefied natural gas more quickly ahead of next year's deadline to phase out Russian purchases.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Senate] [Pages S4116-S4117] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] AUTHORITY FOR COMMITTEES TO MEET Mr. MORAN. Mr.”
“The ingenuity and courage of the Ukrainian forces have reduced Russian progress to incremental gains and in some places have achieved reverses, but they still suffer a manpower shortage and, most alarmingly, lack critical air defense interceptors.”
“COMMITTEE ON HEALTH, EDUCATION, LABOR, AND PENSIONS The Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions is authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 10 a.m., to conduct a hearing on nominations.”
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“SELECT COMMITTEE ON INTELLIGENCE The Select Committee on Intelligence is authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 9:30 a.m., to conduct an open nomination hearing. SUBCOMMITTEE ON PERSONNEL The Subcommittee on Personnel of the Committee on Armed Services is authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 2:30 p.m., to conduct a hearing. SUBCOMMITTEE ON PUBLIC LANDS, FORESTS, AND MINING The Subcommittee on Public Lands, Forests, and Mining of the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources is authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 2:30 p.m., to conduct a hearing. [[Page S4117]] ____________________”
“COMMITTEE ON HEALTH, EDUCATION, LABOR, AND PENSIONS The Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions is authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 10 a.m., to conduct a hearing on nominations. COMMITTEE ON HOMELAND SECURITY AND GOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS The Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs is authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 10 a.m., to conduct a hearing. COMMITTEE ON THE JUDICIARY The Committee on the Judiciary is authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 9 a.m., to conduct a hearing on a nomination. SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON AGING The Special Committee on Aging is authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 3:30 p.m., to conduct a hearing.”
“COMMITTEE ON ENERGY AND NATURAL RESOURCES The Committee on Energy and Natural Resources is authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 4:30 p.m. to conduct a classified briefing. COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENT AND PUBLIC WORKS The Committee on Environment and Public Works is authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 10 a.m., to conduct a business meeting. COMMITTEE ON HEALTH, EDUCATION, LABOR, AND PENSIONS The Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions is authorized to meet in executive session during the session of the Senate on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 9:45 a.m.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Senate] [Pages S4116-S4117] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] AUTHORITY FOR COMMITTEES TO MEET Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, I have 11 requests for committees to meet during today's session of the Senate. They have the approval of the Majority and Minority Leaders. Pursuant to rule XXVI, paragraph 5(a), of the Standing Rules of the Senate, the following committees are authorized to meet during today's session of the Senate: COMMITTEE ON BANKING, HOUSING, AND URBAN AFFAIRS The Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs is authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 10 a.m., to conduct a hearing.”
“Senate to the citizens of Burdett--past, present, and future--I congratulate the community of Burdett on its 150th anniversary and express my gratitude for the way in which its residents have honored and preserved the memory of one of our most notable Kansans and how kind they have always been to me. I yield the floor. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Senator from Hawaii.”
“As Burdett celebrates its 150th anniversary--and I say congratulations to them--it is a history that is embodied by the story of Clyde Tombaugh, someone with determination, hard work, and curiosity, whose discoveries helped to shape how future generations understand our universe. For decades, this tight-knit community of Burdett has preserved his legacy and made certain the world remembers his contributions to science, research, and discovery. I hope everyone passing through southwestern Kansas will take the time to visit Burdett to learn the history and the legacy of this little town on the plains of Kansas. On behalf of the U.S.”
“On February 18, 1930, at the age of just 24, Clyde discovered the existence of Pluto, the only major planet discovered here in the United States. Following this achievement, Clyde earned his bachelor's and master's degrees in astronomy from the University of Kansas, and he went on to make many more contributions to advancing the fields of scientific research and space exploration. In 2015, NASA honored him by carrying a portion of his ashes aboard the New Horizons spacecraft on its mission to Pluto. The heart-shaped region of Pluto's surface was officially named Tombaugh Regio in his honor, paying tribute to his accomplishments and cementing the legacy of a Kansas farm kid in one of the most remote parts of our solar system.”
“This summer, as local residents commemorate Burdett's history, they will also pay tribute to one of their own: Clyde Tombaugh, whose significant contributions advanced the fields of scientific discovery and space exploration. It is impossible to visit Burdett without seeing the pride the community has in his accomplishments. Born February 4, 1906, Clyde was raised on a farm just outside Burdett, and he quickly developed a love of astronomy and learning. As a teenager, he taught himself how to build his own telescopes out of spare parts that he found around the family farm. Later, his commitment to research and exploration would lead him to make a remarkable discovery that made history and helped to unlock a new understanding of our solar system.”
“Burdett is a small community of fewer than 250 residents, and it is particularly meaningful to me as a place that I have represented since I was first elected to public office as a State senator. The community is special to me because, on election night of that State senate race, Browns Grove Township was the very first township to report its voting totals, and the tally showed that I just might win my uphill race for the Kansas State Senate. Some of my best remembrances are the Monday community potluck lunches and the annual Tri-County picnic in the city park. I have knocked on every door in Burdett and talked with members of the community about their hopes, their concerns, and how we can preserve our special way of life for another generation of Kansans.”
“Our continued involvement and leadership are critical to deterring Putin should he believe that he can take action against NATO and succeed either by taking territory or by fracturing the alliance. Last month's G7 statement is unequivocally clear in recognizing the threat Putin poses to European security. Through continued American leadership, Putin will fail in his goals to conquer Ukraine and split the West, and not just Europe but the entire world will be safer because of it. 150th Anniversary of Burdett, Kansas Mr. President, this summer, from July 17 to 19--not too far away-- residents of Burdett, KS, will come together to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the town's founding.”
“He will not succeed, but his failure in Ukraine may make him more dangerous elsewhere. In the fall of 2022, as Russia's war effort faltered, Russian officials repeatedly threatened to use tactical nuclear weapons in Ukraine. Given Russian drone activity in NATO territory recently, our European allies who border Russia have legitimate fears that Putin could escalate the war to include them. President Trump is absolutely right to expect our allies to assume responsibility for their own security. Today and for the next several years to come, however, the undeniable fact is that American forces have capabilities which cannot be replicated by the rest of NATO.”
“I welcome Leader Thune's intention to bring this legislation to a vote soon, to send it to the President's desk for his signature, and to its becoming law. Similarly, I call on our European allies to find new supplies of liquefied natural gas more quickly ahead of next year's deadline to phase out Russian purchases. The EU's imports of Russian LNG increased--they increased--in the month of May, reportedly providing Moscow with over $1 billion in revenue. It is imperative for European countries to treat the war in Ukraine with the urgency it deserves and choke off Russia's revenue streams. Despite over 1 million casualties and a badly damaged national economy, Vladimir Putin's objectives have not changed. From the outset of the full invasion he ordered in February of 2022, he has sought to subjugate Kyiv's sovereign authority to Moscow.”
“This statement coincides with the expiration of the most recent Treasury waiver on Russian oil sanctions, which was announced by President Trump last October. Those sanctions were having a significant impact by depriving Moscow of revenue. Secretary Bessent has not issued another waiver, nor should he. The White House has taken an important step in endorsing longstanding legislation introduced by the late Senator Lindsey Graham. I have cosponsored this legislation, which would punish countries that continue to buy Russian oil with crippling tariffs. This is a clear, clear message to friends and foes alike: You can do business with Russia or you can do business with the United States, but you can't do both.”
“To the extent practicable, these weapons and Patriot interceptors should be expedited for Kyiv's use. Given the backlogs in our own defense industrial base and that of the Europeans', investing in and supporting Ukraine's domestic war production is not something to be considered but something to be done. I am encouraged by President Trump's announcement at last week's NATO Summit of his intention to issue licenses for Ukraine to build Patriot interceptors domestically. While details remain to be worked out and while there are obstacles to overcome to make this announcement a reality, it signals to Vladimir Putin that his war is on borrowed time. The same holds true in pressuring Russia's economy through oil and gas sanctions. The G7 said: We will strengthen our sanctions, including those on the oil and gas sectors.”
“The ingenuity and courage of the Ukrainian forces have reduced Russian progress to incremental gains and in some places have achieved reverses, but they still suffer a manpower shortage and, most alarmingly, lack critical air defense interceptors. The G7 members agreed to ``increase the delivery of air defence capacities, additional systems and interceptors, and long-range capabilities.'' In recognizing the capabilities of Ukraine's defense industrial base, the statement says the countries are ``ready to consider extending to Ukraine the benefit of licenses to allow for an increase in [Ukrainian production of its military equipment].'' Words, however, must be backed by action, and the United States and our allies must act quickly. For more than a year, I have advocated for Ukraine to [[Page S4098]] receive access to cruise missiles.”
“Last month, leaders of the G7 countries issued a joint statement declaring their ``unwavering support for Ukraine in defending its freedom, sovereignty, and [its] territorial integrity.'' This was a welcomed statement from the world's major industrialized democracies as Ukraine endures withering attacks from Russia, coupled with the renewed commitment to both Ukraine and article 5 at this month's NATO Summit. These words, backed by President Trump, come at a pivotal moment in Ukraine's defense against Russia. While Ukrainian forces are making headlines--taking the battle to Russian territory, attacking Russian energy and defense infrastructure at increased rates, and placing Russian-held Crimea under pressure--the situation in the Donbas remains precarious.”
“Mr. President, sadness entered the Senate over the weekend, and as we reflect upon the life of our colleague, our friend, our fellow citizen, our patriot toward the United States of America-- and a friend, really, of the world--Senator Lindsey Graham, we honor his commitment to promoting liberty and fighting tyranny throughout the world. Yesterday, I joined a bipartisan group of Senators by reintroducing legislation that he championed--the Sanctioning Russia Act. This legislation would meaningfully alter the course of Russia's unjust war in Ukraine, and it serves as a fitting tribute to the cause Senator Graham championed throughout his life and service in the U.S. Senate.”
“SELECT COMMITTEE ON INTELLIGENCE The Select Committee on Intelligence is authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 9:30 a.m., to conduct an open nomination hearing. SUBCOMMITTEE ON PERSONNEL The Subcommittee on Personnel of the Committee on Armed Services is authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 2:30 p.m., to conduct a hearing. SUBCOMMITTEE ON PUBLIC LANDS, FORESTS, AND MINING The Subcommittee on Public Lands, Forests, and Mining of the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources is authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 2:30 p.m., to conduct a hearing. [[Page S4117]] ____________________”
“COMMITTEE ON HEALTH, EDUCATION, LABOR, AND PENSIONS The Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions is authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 10 a.m., to conduct a hearing on nominations. COMMITTEE ON HOMELAND SECURITY AND GOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS The Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs is authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 10 a.m., to conduct a hearing. COMMITTEE ON THE JUDICIARY The Committee on the Judiciary is authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 9 a.m., to conduct a hearing on a nomination. SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON AGING The Special Committee on Aging is authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 3:30 p.m., to conduct a hearing.”
“COMMITTEE ON ENERGY AND NATURAL RESOURCES The Committee on Energy and Natural Resources is authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 4:30 p.m. to conduct a classified briefing. COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENT AND PUBLIC WORKS The Committee on Environment and Public Works is authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 10 a.m., to conduct a business meeting. COMMITTEE ON HEALTH, EDUCATION, LABOR, AND PENSIONS The Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions is authorized to meet in executive session during the session of the Senate on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 9:45 a.m.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Senate] [Pages S4116-S4117] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] AUTHORITY FOR COMMITTEES TO MEET Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, I have 11 requests for committees to meet during today's session of the Senate. They have the approval of the Majority and Minority Leaders. Pursuant to rule XXVI, paragraph 5(a), of the Standing Rules of the Senate, the following committees are authorized to meet during today's session of the Senate: COMMITTEE ON BANKING, HOUSING, AND URBAN AFFAIRS The Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs is authorized to meet during the session of the Senate on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 10 a.m., to conduct a hearing.”
“Senate to the citizens of Burdett--past, present, and future--I congratulate the community of Burdett on its 150th anniversary and express my gratitude for the way in which its residents have honored and preserved the memory of one of our most notable Kansans and how kind they have always been to me. I yield the floor. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Senator from Hawaii.”
“As Burdett celebrates its 150th anniversary--and I say congratulations to them--it is a history that is embodied by the story of Clyde Tombaugh, someone with determination, hard work, and curiosity, whose discoveries helped to shape how future generations understand our universe. For decades, this tight-knit community of Burdett has preserved his legacy and made certain the world remembers his contributions to science, research, and discovery. I hope everyone passing through southwestern Kansas will take the time to visit Burdett to learn the history and the legacy of this little town on the plains of Kansas. On behalf of the U.S.”
“On February 18, 1930, at the age of just 24, Clyde discovered the existence of Pluto, the only major planet discovered here in the United States. Following this achievement, Clyde earned his bachelor's and master's degrees in astronomy from the University of Kansas, and he went on to make many more contributions to advancing the fields of scientific research and space exploration. In 2015, NASA honored him by carrying a portion of his ashes aboard the New Horizons spacecraft on its mission to Pluto. The heart-shaped region of Pluto's surface was officially named Tombaugh Regio in his honor, paying tribute to his accomplishments and cementing the legacy of a Kansas farm kid in one of the most remote parts of our solar system.”
“This summer, as local residents commemorate Burdett's history, they will also pay tribute to one of their own: Clyde Tombaugh, whose significant contributions advanced the fields of scientific discovery and space exploration. It is impossible to visit Burdett without seeing the pride the community has in his accomplishments. Born February 4, 1906, Clyde was raised on a farm just outside Burdett, and he quickly developed a love of astronomy and learning. As a teenager, he taught himself how to build his own telescopes out of spare parts that he found around the family farm. Later, his commitment to research and exploration would lead him to make a remarkable discovery that made history and helped to unlock a new understanding of our solar system.”
“Burdett is a small community of fewer than 250 residents, and it is particularly meaningful to me as a place that I have represented since I was first elected to public office as a State senator. The community is special to me because, on election night of that State senate race, Browns Grove Township was the very first township to report its voting totals, and the tally showed that I just might win my uphill race for the Kansas State Senate. Some of my best remembrances are the Monday community potluck lunches and the annual Tri-County picnic in the city park. I have knocked on every door in Burdett and talked with members of the community about their hopes, their concerns, and how we can preserve our special way of life for another generation of Kansans.”
“Our continued involvement and leadership are critical to deterring Putin should he believe that he can take action against NATO and succeed either by taking territory or by fracturing the alliance. Last month's G7 statement is unequivocally clear in recognizing the threat Putin poses to European security. Through continued American leadership, Putin will fail in his goals to conquer Ukraine and split the West, and not just Europe but the entire world will be safer because of it. 150th Anniversary of Burdett, Kansas Mr. President, this summer, from July 17 to 19--not too far away-- residents of Burdett, KS, will come together to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the town's founding.”
“He will not succeed, but his failure in Ukraine may make him more dangerous elsewhere. In the fall of 2022, as Russia's war effort faltered, Russian officials repeatedly threatened to use tactical nuclear weapons in Ukraine. Given Russian drone activity in NATO territory recently, our European allies who border Russia have legitimate fears that Putin could escalate the war to include them. President Trump is absolutely right to expect our allies to assume responsibility for their own security. Today and for the next several years to come, however, the undeniable fact is that American forces have capabilities which cannot be replicated by the rest of NATO.”
“I welcome Leader Thune's intention to bring this legislation to a vote soon, to send it to the President's desk for his signature, and to its becoming law. Similarly, I call on our European allies to find new supplies of liquefied natural gas more quickly ahead of next year's deadline to phase out Russian purchases. The EU's imports of Russian LNG increased--they increased--in the month of May, reportedly providing Moscow with over $1 billion in revenue. It is imperative for European countries to treat the war in Ukraine with the urgency it deserves and choke off Russia's revenue streams. Despite over 1 million casualties and a badly damaged national economy, Vladimir Putin's objectives have not changed. From the outset of the full invasion he ordered in February of 2022, he has sought to subjugate Kyiv's sovereign authority to Moscow.”
“This statement coincides with the expiration of the most recent Treasury waiver on Russian oil sanctions, which was announced by President Trump last October. Those sanctions were having a significant impact by depriving Moscow of revenue. Secretary Bessent has not issued another waiver, nor should he. The White House has taken an important step in endorsing longstanding legislation introduced by the late Senator Lindsey Graham. I have cosponsored this legislation, which would punish countries that continue to buy Russian oil with crippling tariffs. This is a clear, clear message to friends and foes alike: You can do business with Russia or you can do business with the United States, but you can't do both.”
“Given the backlogs in our own defense industrial base and that of the Europeans', investing in and supporting Ukraine's domestic war production is not something to be considered but something to be done. I am encouraged by President Trump's announcement at last week's NATO Summit of his intention to issue licenses for Ukraine to build Patriot interceptors domestically. While details remain to be worked out and while there are obstacles to overcome to make this announcement a reality, it signals to Vladimir Putin that his war is on borrowed time. The same holds true in pressuring Russia's economy through oil and gas sanctions. The G7 said: We will strengthen our sanctions, including those on the oil and gas sectors.”
“The G7 members agreed to ``increase the delivery of air defence capacities, additional systems and interceptors, and long-range capabilities.'' In recognizing the capabilities of Ukraine's defense industrial base, the statement says the countries are ``ready to consider extending to Ukraine the benefit of licenses to allow for an increase in [Ukrainian production of its military equipment].'' Words, however, must be backed by action, and the United States and our allies must act quickly. For more than a year, I have advocated for Ukraine to [[Page S4098]] receive access to cruise missiles. To the extent practicable, these weapons and Patriot interceptors should be expedited for Kyiv's use.”
“While Ukrainian forces are making headlines--taking the battle to Russian territory, attacking Russian energy and defense infrastructure at increased rates, and placing Russian-held Crimea under pressure--the situation in the Donbas remains precarious. The ingenuity and courage of the Ukrainian forces have reduced Russian progress to incremental gains and in some places have achieved reverses, but they still suffer a manpower shortage and, most alarmingly, lack critical air defense interceptors.”
“This legislation would meaningfully alter the course of Russia's unjust war in Ukraine, and it serves as a fitting tribute to the cause Senator Graham championed throughout his life and service in the U.S. Senate. Last month, leaders of the G7 countries issued a joint statement declaring their ``unwavering support for Ukraine in defending its freedom, sovereignty, and [its] territorial integrity.'' This was a welcomed statement from the world's major industrialized democracies as Ukraine endures withering attacks from Russia, coupled with the renewed commitment to both Ukraine and article 5 at this month's NATO Summit. These words, backed by President Trump, come at a pivotal moment in Ukraine's defense against Russia.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 115 (Wednesday, July 15, 2026)] [Senate] [Pages S4097-S4098] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] Sanctioning Russia Act of 2025 Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, sadness entered the Senate over the weekend, and as we reflect upon the life of our colleague, our friend, our fellow citizen, our patriot toward the United States of America-- and a friend, really, of the world--Senator Lindsey Graham, we honor his commitment to promoting liberty and fighting tyranny throughout the world. Yesterday, I joined a bipartisan group of Senators by reintroducing legislation that he championed--the Sanctioning Russia Act.”
“As we celebrate National Donate Life Month, I would like to thank those who are registered as organ donors or have made the sacrifice to be a living donor. Your generosity is an inspiration. I look forward to continuing the work to create a future in which waiting for a transplant is no longer a crisis and where everyone has the chance to live a full and healthy life. ____________________”
“National Donate Life Month is a time to raise awareness about organ donation, which is an act of kindness and compassion, offering life and hope to those in need. Throughout my time in Congress, I have worked to reduce these barriers and make certain Kansans have greater access to the organ donation process, most recently in facilitating the passage of the Securing the U.S. Organ Procurement Transplantation Network Act. This month, we honor organ donors and their families, but there is more to do. I look forward to working with my colleagues to continue to highlight the barriers to receiving these lifesaving procedures and support fair policies to make certain all Americans have the opportunity of a second chance through organ donation.”
“Sam Allen, a native Kansan and currently an intern in my Washington, DC, office, was a recipient of an organ transplant. Sam's story as a beneficiary of this lifesaving procedure is one of many stories about how the generosity of organ donors can transform lives. The need for this critical healthcare is ever-growing. Another person is added to the transplant waiting list every 10 minutes. Unfortunately, the need for organs is much greater than the supply. The waiting list grows daily, and many people face barriers to accessing organ donation. Sadly, 20 people die each day in the U.S. waiting for an organ transplant. These are not just numbers; they are fathers, mothers, children, and friends whose lives tragically ended too soon.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025)] [Senate] [Page S2710] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] MORNING BUSINESS ______ DONATE LIFE MONTH Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, today, I want to recognize National Donate Life Month. Throughout the month of April, our Nation observes National Donate Life Month to highlight the lifesaving impact organ donations continue to have in Kansas and around the world. Each year, more than 100,000 potential recipients wait for news that they will be receiving an organ transplant and thousands more are waiting for tissue or cornea transplants.”
“As we celebrate National Donate Life Month, I would like to thank those who are registered as organ donors or have made the sacrifice to be a living donor. Your generosity is an inspiration. I look forward to continuing the work to create a future in which waiting for a transplant is no longer a crisis and where everyone has the chance to live a full and healthy life. ____________________”
“National Donate Life Month is a time to raise awareness about organ donation, which is an act of kindness and compassion, offering life and hope to those in need. Throughout my time in Congress, I have worked to reduce these barriers and make certain Kansans have greater access to the organ donation process, most recently in facilitating the passage of the Securing the U.S. Organ Procurement Transplantation Network Act. This month, we honor organ donors and their families, but there is more to do. I look forward to working with my colleagues to continue to highlight the barriers to receiving these lifesaving procedures and support fair policies to make certain all Americans have the opportunity of a second chance through organ donation.”
“Sam Allen, a native Kansan and currently an intern in my Washington, DC, office, was a recipient of an organ transplant. Sam's story as a beneficiary of this lifesaving procedure is one of many stories about how the generosity of organ donors can transform lives. The need for this critical healthcare is ever-growing. Another person is added to the transplant waiting list every 10 minutes. Unfortunately, the need for organs is much greater than the supply. The waiting list grows daily, and many people face barriers to accessing organ donation. Sadly, 20 people die each day in the U.S. waiting for an organ transplant. These are not just numbers; they are fathers, mothers, children, and friends whose lives tragically ended too soon.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 171 Issue 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025) [Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 72 (Wednesday, April 30, 2025)] [Senate] [Page S2710] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] MORNING BUSINESS ______ DONATE LIFE MONTH Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, today, I want to recognize National Donate Life Month. Throughout the month of April, our Nation observes National Donate Life Month to highlight the lifesaving impact organ donations continue to have in Kansas and around the world. Each year, more than 100,000 potential recipients wait for news that they will be receiving an organ transplant and thousands more are waiting for tissue or cornea transplants.”
“I would now say, as if in legislative session and notwithstanding rule XXII, I ask unanimous consent the Senate proceed to the consideration of my resolution, which is at the desk. I further ask unanimous consent that the resolution be agreed to, that the preamble be agreed to, and that the motions to reconsider be considered made and laid upon the table with no intervening action or debate. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there objection? The Senator from Connecticut.”
“The Secretary should faithfully follow the MISSION Act in allowing for care in the community. The Secretary should conduct a comprehensive review of policies governing official time to ensure that taxpayer dollars are utilized efficiently and that the primary mission of the Department of supporting veterans is fully prioritized and that the Department's leadership and management should have the ability to act swiftly to ensure we remove employees who have engaged in misconduct or whose actions and performances fall short in providing high-quality care and benefits. The Secretary should enhance the efficiency, accountability, and cost management in the acquisition programs in the Department. We need to make changes at the Department of Veterans Affairs, and this resolution would indicate our support for doing so.”
“I would also remind my colleagues that in the last administration, late in the budget request by the Biden administration, there was a request for the reduction of 10,000 employees at the Department of Veterans Affairs. The goal that we would say in our sense of the Senate is that the Secretary of Veterans Affairs should make [[Page S2491]] certain that staffing levels at the Department of Veterans Affairs meet veteran demand to efficiently deliver timely, high-quality healthcare benefits; that the Secretary, in close coordination with Congress, with veteran service organizations, and other such stakeholders as the Secretary would deem necessary, needs to consult with them in reshaping the workforce of the Department; and that we should further enhance our efforts to reduce veteran suicide and improve veterans' mental care.”
“Madam President, I intend to ask for a unanimous consent agreement in regard to this issue of our care and the well-being of our veterans. I would indicate that, to my knowledge, the Department of Veterans Affairs has 1,500 fewer employees today than it did at the beginning of the year. While there is conversation and talk and, in fact, a stated goal about the sizing of the Department, those steps, either because they are not yet ready at the Department of Veterans Affairs to take those steps, the evaluations and understanding of what is necessary for the right-sizing of the workforce, haven't been completed or courts have put in place a stay against any reductions in the workforce. Today, we are 1,550 fewer employees at the Department than we were at the beginning of the year.”
“So we are actively engaged in trying to make certain and hopefully making progress in making certain that more veterans receive better care at every opportunity. But the VA still needs a serious and thorough evaluation, and a component of that is workforce. My goal is to make certain that the Department of Veterans Affairs evaluates how many people it needs to meet its mission and then adjusts accordingly, whether that is more or less, but to right-size the VA to make certain that those veterans who are in need of care, who deserve their benefits, are well cared for and receive the care and compassion they deserve. So I am going to offer a resolution myself, and in order to get to that point, I need to object to the Senator from Connecticut's resolution--his unanimous consent request. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Objection is heard.”
“We have provided the tools to the Department, new opportunities for veterans to be better served and served in more ways--combating suicide; making sure that mental health services are more readily available; providing services through telemedicine; and most recently--well, almost most recently--the PACT Act, which provided new and additional benefits, both healthcare and financial, to those who served in Southeast Asia and served in Iraq and Afghanistan in regard to toxic exposure; and even more recently than that, care for and support for caregivers, those who serve their loved ones, family members who help veterans throughout the day in their circumstances--the Elizabeth Dole Act.”
“Yet we know the system is still far from being able to accomplish that goal. In fact, the Department of Veterans Affairs--so many times, we have reports from the inspector general, who outlined dramatic changes that need to be made and outlined instances in which the Department of Veterans Affairs has failed in significant ways in meeting the needs of those who served our Nation. We have about 150-, 200,000 veterans in Kansas. They are a significant component of the nature of our State. They are respected and admired by their fellow Kansans. It is important for us to make sure that the Department of Veterans Affairs is living up to its commitment. It is our job as Senators and it is our job as members of the Committee on Veterans' Affairs to do those things. The Senator from Connecticut is right.”