On the recordSeptember 7, 2016
In closing, let me say that, if children around the world cannot get a basic education, it will obviously be that much harder for them to get ahead later on in life, to contribute to their economies and communities, to help build stability and prosperity, and to deprive violent extremists of potential recruits. I think that is an important point. At a time that we are fighting extremism, children who are uneducated are much more vulnerable to be swayed by the allure of violent extremists. That is why we have made expanding access to education a part of our foreign policy. With this legislation, we are building on existing efforts and making sure administrations--this one and ones to come-- will focus on this priority for many, many years to come. So, again, I want to thank Chairman Royce for always working with me hand in hand on important measures like this in a bipartisan fashion. I want to thank Congresswoman Lowey for her hard work. She has been championing this for many, many years. I support this bill enthusiastically and urge all Members to do the same. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
