[Congressional Record Volume 160, Number 117 (Thursday, July 24, 2014)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E1221] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] PERSONAL EXPLANATION ______ HON. NIKI TSONGAS of massachusetts in the house of representatives Thursday, July 24, 2014 Ms. TSONGAS. Mr. Speaker, I was unable to cast a vote on rollcall votes 433, 434, 435, and 436 on July 22, 2014. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yes'' on all four votes. I would have voted in favor of H.R. 4450, the Travel Promotion, Enhancement, and Modernization Act of 2014, because the legislation ensures our continued ability to promote the United States as an international travel destination. I would have voted in favor of H.R. 4411, the Hezbollah International Financing Prevention Act of 2014, because it reinforces the United States' position against terrorist organizations. Imposing these sanctions will deter financial institutions and other entities from facilitating financial transactions with Hezbollah. I would have voted in favor of H.R. 1022, the Securing Energy Critical Elements and American Jobs Act of 2014, because I support permanently authorizing the Department of Energy's Critical Minerals Institute so that the United States can ensure a reliable supply of elements required for a broad range of advanced technologies and better promote research and development in the public and private sectors. I would have voted in favor of the Democratic Motion to Instruct Conferees on H.R. 3230, because I agree with the Senate's broad-based approach to addressing issues in the Department of Veterans Affairs. At this crucial junction, the Department requires both considerable oversight and support from Congress so that changes are put in place to ensure veterans are receiving the care they have earned and deserve. ____________________