Statements on Introduced Bills and Joint Resolutions

Floor Speech

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Mr. McCONNELL. Mr. President, now, on an entirely different matter, colleagues in Congress and my fellow Kentuckians were heartbroken last June when our dear friend, Carol Leavell Barr, suddenly and unexpectedly passed away.

She left behind two beautiful young daughters and an adoring husband in Congressman Andy Barr. She was only 39 years old. Since then, we have learned her fatal heart attack was likely the result of an underlying condition called mitral valve prolapse.

Carol was diagnosed at a young age. Like millions of Americans with heart valve defects, she lived for many years with no apparent symptoms. Tragically, it only took an instant for her condition to turn deadly. Approximately 25,000 Americans each year lose their lives from this heart valve disease. Her passing deprived the Barr family of an extraordinary wife and mother. We all lost a warm and uplifting friend.

One of the most troubling aspects of this syndrome is just how much we still don't know. So Congressman Barr is taking action. He introduced the Cardiovascular Advances in Research and Opportunities Legacy Act, the CAROL Act. It would encourage new research into valvular heart disease, help us better understand the risks, and bring together top experts to identify potential treatments.

With this legislation, we can help prevent more families from enduring this tragedy. More than 120 House colleagues have already cosponsored the CAROL Act. It has also earned the support of major health advocacy groups.

So today, I am proud to introduce the CAROL Act here in the Senate. I am grateful to partner with Senator Sinema, one of Congressman Barr's friends from their days serving together in the House. This important legislation is a fitting tribute to a wonderful Kentuckian. It embodies Carol's lifetime of service to others, and I look forward to its passage.

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