[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 187 (Tuesday, December 17, 2024)]
[House]
[Pages H7234-H7235]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF FORMER CONGRESSMAN JIM LEACH

  The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Thompson of Pennsylvania). The Chair 
recognizes the gentlewoman from Iowa (Mrs. Miller-Meeks) for 5 minutes.
  Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and 
service of former Congressman Jim Leach, who recently passed away.
  Jim Leach represented southeast Iowa in the U.S. House of 
Representatives from 1977 to 2013, the district I now represent, 
leaving an indelible mark on our State and Nation.
  As chairman of the House Financial Services Committee, he played a 
key role in shaping financial regulations that promoted stability and 
competition.
  Known for his integrity and civility, Jim worked across the aisle to 
build bridges and promote bipartisan solutions. He was also a 
principled leader, notably voting against the Iraq war, reflecting his 
commitment to thoughtful, measured foreign policy.
  Jim's legacy of public service, grounded in his deep love for Iowa 
and his country, continues to inspire. Our thoughts and prayers are 
with his family and all who had the privilege of working alongside him.


       Recognizing Pleasant Valley Spartan Girls' Volleyball Team

  Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 
Pleasant Valley Spartan girls' volleyball team for their 2024 State 
volleyball championship. This valiant effort, spurred on by Coach Amber 
Hall and team captain Isabelle Kremer, led to the Spartans winning 
their second State title in 4 years. They finished the season with an 
astonishing 35-2 record.
  This culture of excellence established in Pleasant Valley will serve 
as a springboard for these young women, compelling them to strive for 
that same excellence in their professional lives. The leadership imbued 
in them will shine through in all aspects of life.
  The Pleasant Valley all-in mentality, which pushes students and 
teachers to give 100 percent effort in athletics and academics, was 
established in 2016 and has been a cornerstone of accomplishment ever 
since. The goal of this rallying cry is to instill a growth mindset 
that encourages everyone to learn together and push each other to 
always give their best.
  Congratulations to the Pleasant Valley girls' volleyball team, which 
made us all proud.


             Holding Pharmacy Benefit Managers Accountable

  Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of 
President Trump's call to hold pharmacy benefit managers accountable 
for their role in driving up prescription drug prices.
  Currently, six PBMs control over 90 percent of the U.S. prescription 
drug market, and they are destroying independent pharmacies, especially 
in rural areas like Iowa. In fact, 25 independent pharmacies have 
closed in Iowa this year alone.
  The first legislation I passed on PBM reform and transparency was as 
a State senator in 2019.
  PBMs use tactics like spread pricing, where they charge insurers more 
than they reimburse pharmacies, and they pocket the difference. As a 
result, PBM profits have increased over 300 percent, while prescription 
drug prices have surged nearly 40 percent, far outpacing inflation.
  That is why I introduced the DRUG Act, bipartisan legislation that 
bans spread pricing, patient steering, and other harmful PBM practices.
  It is time for transparency and fairness in our healthcare system. 
Let's get started on President Trump's agenda and pass PBM reform now.


                   Merry Christmas to People of Iowa

  Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, as Christmas approaches, I want to 
take a moment to wish the people of Iowa a very merry Christmas. This 
is a time of year to reflect on the blessings we have received, to show 
gratitude for our loved ones, and to embrace the spirit of giving.
  For me, Christmas is especially meaningful because it is a time to 
slow down and spend quality time with my family and friends and to 
deliver my well-known cinnamon rolls. In our busy lives, these moments 
together are precious, and I am so grateful for the opportunity to 
share them with those I love most.
  Iowa is a place where community and family are at the heart of 
everything we do. As we celebrate this season, I encourage everyone to 
share these connections and spread kindness to those around you.
  To my fellow Iowans, may your homes be filled with love, joy, and 
peace this Christmas. I am truly grateful for each of you. Merry 
Christmas and happy new year.


                      Warm Wishes During Hanukkah

  Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, as Hanukkah begins, I want to wish 
the Jewish community in Iowa and across the country a happy and 
meaningful holiday.

[[Page H7235]]

  Hanukkah is a time to celebrate light, tradition, and the strength of 
family and faith.
  This season, as families gather to light the menorah and share their 
meals, I hope they find moments of peace, joy, and reflection. Hanukkah 
reminds us that even in challenging times, we can always find hope and 
light.
  To all those who are celebrating, I send my warmest wishes for a 
wonderful Hanukkah filled with love and happiness. May your homes be 
filled with warmth, and may this season bring you closer to those you 
cherish most.
  Happy Hanukkah.

                              {time}  1015


        Congratulating Iowa Lieutenant Governor Chris Cournoyer

  Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I wish to recognize my good friend, 
who I served with in the State senate, Senator Chris Cournoyer, for 
being named the Lieutenant Governor under Governor Reynolds. Once 
again, Iowa is trailblazing with this Lieutenant Governor selection.
  Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Senator Cournoyer.

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