Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I thank Ranking Member Takano for yielding the time and Chairman Bost, as well, for his support of this legislation. It was an honor to be able to work with subcommittee Chair Luttrell on this important issue, S. 777, the Veterans' COLA Act of 2023.

We all know we have a sacred and solemn obligation to make sure that the needs of our veterans are met. My home State of New Hampshire is home to over 100,000 veterans from all branches, with service dating from the Second World War to today. Some of those veterans returned home with service-connected disabilities and required extra care and support.

As we all continue to feel the impact of inflation and higher costs, those pressures can be particularly challenging for our veteran community.

Our veterans swear to give everything, up to and including their lives, in service to our country. They shouldn't have to worry if they can afford groceries this week or pay their electric bill the next week.

Their VA benefits should keep pace with economic trends, and their financial and overall well-being should never be left to hang in the balance.

This legislation would increase the rates of VA benefits equal to the cost-of-living increase provided for Social Security benefits for veterans with service-connected disabilities, as well as the rates of dependency and indemnity compensation for their survivors and families.

This will help ensure that veterans with service-connected disabilities and families and loved ones of veterans who have been lost can rest assured that their benefits will support them even as our economy changes.

We owe our veterans and their families a tremendous debt of gratitude, and the legislation we propose today is another way that we can all work to honor their sacrifice and work to pay down that debt that we all bear.

Mr. Speaker, I urge swift passage of this bipartisan bill so we can send it to the President's desk for his signature.

Madam Speaker, this week is National Police Week, and we recognize the bravery of our law enforcement officers and honor the lives of those tragically lost in the line of duty.

Whether they are keeping deadly drugs off our streets, combating crime in our communities, or acting as emergency responders, our local police do lifesaving work each and every day. They have been asked to do more with less, often taking on additional responsibilities without additional resources.

In my district, I recently toured the local police department which currently operates out of an attic because they lack the funds to upgrade their facilities. Other departments struggle to recruit and retain officers and upgrade aging equipment. This is unacceptable. Congress must step in to invest in our local departments.

We have to deliver sufficient funding to our local law enforcement that will ensure they can do their jobs keeping our communities safe.

I am grateful for the brave men and women of law enforcement who put on the uniform to serve and protect, and I am thankful for their family members who serve alongside them.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of Southern New Hampshire University President and CEO Dr. Paul J. LeBlanc for being named the Greater Manchester Chamber's Citizen of the Year. As a valued resident of Manchester, Paul has embodied the spirit of service through his time as President and CEO of Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU). This past year, he remained committed to ensuring the success of students and guiding the campus community through the Chamber's core values of leadership and personal integrity. The level of trust placed in Paul by the greater Manchester community is a testament to his efficacy and compassion as a leader, and I thank the wonderful staff at Southern New Hampshire University for their continued support of Paul in the past few years.

Throughout his career, Paul has been instrumental in launching crucial programs in the Greater Manchester area, including at SNHU. His work in higher education, from initiating the College for America program to creating the Center for New Americans, has shown Paul's dedication to uplifting the voices of students, workers, and immigrants alike. Similarly, his efforts have assisted in creating a rich and diverse local economy right here in Manchester. This tireless commitment has grown the total enrollment of SNHU from 2,800 to over 175,000 students, shaping the university into one of the leading non- profit education providers in the country.

I commend Dr. Paul J. LeBlanc for his efforts to lead the people of the Greater Manchester area through community outreach and educational engagement. Paul's distinguished service leaves behind an impressive legacy that will inspire future generations to carry on this critical work, and I look forward to seeing what his next chapter has in store.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Registered Nurse Krystle M. O'Shaughnessy for receiving the Secretary's Award for Excellence in Nursing. Every year since 1984, the Department of Veterans Affairs has awarded several outstanding individuals with this great honor. These individuals are directors, nursing executives, registered nurses, licensed practical or vocational nurses, and nursing assistants, all actively involved in patient care. They are nominated by their peers and go through a rigorous review process.

This year, one of the awardees is New Hampshire's very own Krystle M. O'Shaughnessy. In her role as an LPN, Krystle served as the first point of contact for Veterans participating in the Home Telehealth program. This program has become well known in the Veteran community for its patient-driven care, health education, and effective management of patient diseases. During staff shortages at the VAMC, Krystle took on the extra job of managing telehealth compliance, ensuring that all Veterans were seen on time and taken care of, including COVID patients who needed close monitoring.

I look forward to seeing all that Krystle and the Manchester VAMC accomplish in the years to come. I am confident that the Veterans of Manchester, and all of New Hampshire, will continue to benefit from Krystle's hard work. On behalf of the constituents of New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I commend Krystle for receiving this high honor, and I commend her fellow staff for making the Manchester VAMC a reliable and trusted health care partner for NH Veterans. I wish her all the best in her future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of VA Medical Center Director Kevin Forrest for receiving the Secretary's Award for Excellence in Nursing. Every year since 1984, the Department of Veterans Affairs has awarded several outstanding individuals with this great honor. These individuals are directors, nursing executives, registered nurses, licensed practical or vocational nurses, and nursing assistants, all actively involved in patient care. They are nominated by their peers and go through a rigorous review process.

This year, one of the awardees is New Hampshire's very own Kevin Forrest. Since first joining the VA in 2012, Kevin has been a tireless advocate for Veterans' health all across New England and now in Manchester, New Hampshire. His previous experience combined with his ability to build relationships at the medical center have been key elements in his leadership strategy. He has run the Manchester VAMC with confidence, providing care to over 30,000 Veterans all across New Hampshire. His guidance helped the center overcome many challenges throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, and was appreciated by Veterans, employees, and the community alike.

I look forward to seeing all that Kevin and the Manchester VAMC accomplish in the years to come. I am confident that the Veterans of Manchester, and all of New Hampshire, will continue to benefit from Kevin's leadership. On behalf of the constituents of New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I commend Kevin for receiving this high honor, and I commend his amazing staff for making the Manchester VAMC one of the best-run veteran medical centers in the country. I wish him all the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of National Vietnam War Veterans Day and the hundreds of Vietnam veterans across New Hampshire who bravely served in all branches of our Armed Forces. Fifty years ago, on March 29, 1973, the last U.S. combat troops departed Vietnam and the remaining American prisoners of war were released.

On this day, in accordance with the Vietnam War Veterans Recognition Act, we remember and honor the more than seven million U.S. Vietnam War veterans who served from November 1955 to May 1975. We solemnly commemorate their sacrifices as part of a national effort to stand with these remarkable individuals and thank them for their service and sacrifice.

We also honor the tens of thousands of Americans who were wounded in the conflict, the 1,253 missing in action heroes who have not yet been returned to American soil, and the 2,500 Americans taken as prisoners of war.

The veterans of the Vietnam War come from all walks of life, but are united by the common thread of service to their country and in defense of democracy. As a Nation, it is important for us to not just offer our thanks whenever possible but to ensure that Vietnam veterans get the care and help they need. Because sentiments and platitudes ring hollow without action to ensure that our veterans get the care, services and respect they have earned.

As President Kennedy said of those who have served in uniform: ``as we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.'' That is why, as the Representative for New Hampshire's First Congressional District and a member of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs, I remain committed to ensuring that all veterans, in New Hampshire and across the country, have access to the care and benefits their service has earned.

Our Vietnam veterans play an essential role in our communities when they return from service. They are teachers, first responders, and members of law enforcement. They volunteer for local organizations, serve in local government, and inspire the next generation of Americans to give back to their country.

On behalf of the constituents of New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I salute the bravery of all New Hampshire Vietnam veterans, and I urge my fellow Granite Staters to thank the veterans in their lives for their service and find ways to continue to pay down the debt that we all share for that sacrifice.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of Marine Corps Sergeant Major Paul Chevalier, a distinguished leader within the New Hampshire Veteran community who passed away earlier this month. A Vietnam Veteran who began his service in 1954 and proudly served his Nation in uniform until 1985, Paul's return to civilian life saw him take up the cause of championing his fellow Veterans throughout his professional career. This selfless dedication to our state's greatest heroes was emblematic of Paul's passion for our armed forces and his tireless commitment to providing those who defended our freedoms with the care and benefits they deserve.

Paul's advocacy on behalf of Veterans saw him rise to the position of Post Commander for New Hampshire, where he became a trusted partner for local and state lawmakers looking to address VA issues and prevent Veteran homelessness. His candor and experience won him many friends, including former Senator John McCain who counted him among his most ardent supporters during his 2008 Presidential run. Those who were fortunate enough to know Paul in life will continue to honor his legacy by carrying on the important work he undertook at the VFW and working to ensure our Veterans have access to the programs and benefits that will help them lead healthy, productive lives.

Paul's absence will be felt across the state, and his memory will serve as the onus to reflect not only on what we have done to serve our Veterans, but how we can best care for and empower them in the years to come. I commend Paul for his lifelong dedication to our state's heroes and extend sincere condolences to his widow Cathy, his family and loved ones. On behalf of the constituents of New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I thank Paul for his legacy of service that will live on in the next generation of Veterans to take his place.

Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. Takano for yielding and for his leadership, along with Chairman Bost, in getting this legislation to floor.

I thank Representatives McMorris Rodgers and Bergman for cosponsoring this bill, which covers an important issue, emergency care coverage for veterans under the Community Care program.

This would close a glaring gap in emergency care for veterans who are transitioning from DOD to VA care. Right now, VA's failure to cover emergency care during this transitional period can result in a crippling amount of debt for veterans who need this kind of care.

These coverage gaps are all too common for our veterans. I have heard about it from my own constituents. In my first month in office, I was contacted by a veteran in Danville, New Hampshire, who put off seeking care for a medical emergency because he was unsure that VA would cover this care.

No veteran should ever think twice about seeking care during a medical emergency or be faced with exorbitant medical bills as a result of this care, so let's eliminate this gap for veterans who are recently enrolled in VA care. This is an important step forward represented by this legislation. There is certainly more work to do, but I urge my colleagues to support this bipartisan legislation today.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of Farmington Water and Sewer on receiving third place in the Great American Water Taste Test at the National Rural Water Association's 2023 Rural Water Rally. Farmington attended in partnership with the Granite State Rural Water Association and was recognized among entries from across the nation for having the third-best tasting public water supply, thanks to their committed team at the Water and Wastewater Department. This recognition is a testament to the work of Chief Operator Chuck Tiffany and his hardworking staff composed of Steve Deinstadt, Jonathan Forbes, Jason Forbes, and John Donnelly.

Through their efforts, the Town of Farmington proudly supplies over 3,000 residents with high quality drinking water that meets or exceeds all current state and federal standards. Supplying from 250,000 to 300,000 gallons of water per day via 2 pump stations, the Farmington Water and Sewer System is uniquely qualified to handle public demands for high quality drinking water through prolonged investment in their wastewater treatment facility. The town has made considerable improvements to their facility in recent years, including a state-of- the-art Sequence Batch Reactor. This new technology allows for improved handling of all current wastewater flow while ensuring that additional flow can be handled in the years to come as the town grows.

Proactive planning and investment in public health by the Farmington Water and Sewer system will serve as a blueprint for other public water systems looking to innovate and provide their communities with safe drinking water. As the Representative for New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I commend the staff at the Farmington Water and Sewer system for their outstanding contributions to our public health and wish them the best of luck in their future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of my constituent, Hayden West, and his family. Hayden was prenatally diagnosed with congenital heart disease, which is the most prevalent birth defect in the United States, affecting one in every 100 births. In honor of Hayden and the more than 40,000 babies born each year with congenital heart disease, I would also like to take this opportunity to recognize February 7 through 14 as Congenital Heart Disease Awareness Week.

Congenital heart disease, sometimes called congenital heart defects, broadly refers to problems with the heart's structure that are present from birth. Current estimates suggest that more than 1 million children and 1.4 million adults in the United States are living with congenital heart disease. There is no known cure for congenital heart disease, as it is a lifelong disease that requires ongoing specialized care, and can impact individuals in a variety of ways, including the development of additional health conditions, such as arrhythmia, pulmonary hypertension, and heart failure. Thanks to the advancement of science and medicine, 85 percent of individuals born with congenital heart disease now live past the age of 18.

It is crucial that individuals planning a family, fetal clinicians, obstetric physicians, pediatricians, and all those in the medical field have a greater understanding of the potential for congenital heart disease in the prenatal term. Continued medical research can provide more identifiable means of the origins and symptoms of congenital heart disease. Congenital Heart Disease Awareness Week provides the opportunity for patients and families affected by congenital heart disease to share their experiences and knowledge so that the general public may be aware of how this defect affects our lives.

On behalf of my constituents in New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I want to thank the West family for bringing awareness to this condition and hope my fellow Americans will join me in recognizing Congenital Heart Disease Awareness Week.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to address the addiction crisis that continues to impact just about every community and every family across this country.

Many of us have lost neighbors, friends, and loved ones. Despite significant efforts at all levels of government, recent statistics show the problem is worsening.

My hometown of Manchester saw a 22 percent increase in opioid-related overdoses last year and a 41 percent increase in opioid-related deaths. We must do more to confront this crisis to support those who are suffering from substance use disorder and to stop the trafficking of fentanyl and its analogues.

These substances, which authorities are now finding in nearly all illicit drugs, have only made this crisis more and more deadly.

That is why last week, alongside Representatives Dan Newhouse and Tony Gonzales, I reintroduced the Save Americans from the Fentanyl Emergency Act. Our bill would permanently schedule all fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I drugs. This would ensure that law enforcement retains an important tool to get these deadly drugs off the streets and hold traffickers accountable. It will help save lives.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bipartisan legislation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of former New Hampshire State Representative Laura Pantelakos and her 44 years of service to the Granite State. Since first taking office in 1978, Laura has been a tireless advocate for change in the city of Portsmouth and across the State of New Hampshire. Her compassion and willingness to engage with her constituents earned her the support of Rockingham County in election after election, and her commitment to bipartisan solutions helped usher in several decades of prolonged economic success for the region.

During her time in the New Hampshire House of Representatives, Laura witnessed tremendous change over the past four decades. In 2008, Laura was named Dean of the New Hampshire House of Representatives in recognition of her service as the longest-tenured member of that body; a distinction she proudly held until her retirement. Her tenacity and sharp legislative insight also saw her rise to the rank of Assistant Minority Leader, where she rallied her party to major legislative victories while always looking for opportunities to reach across the aisle. During her time in the House, Laura dedicated herself to leaving a positive imprint on our state, reforming our criminal justice system, and always looking out for children and families. Laura's penchant for helping others led her to dedicate her time to a number of causes outside of the State House, including her role as Chair of the Fire Commission for the City of Portsmouth and her involvement with the Seacoast African American Cultural Center. Laura was also a central figure in the Portsmouth City Delegation, now known as the Legislative Subcommittee, where her ten years of leadership saw major gains for the city.

Laura's leadership was always guided by her deep love for her children, grandchildren, and the constituents she proudly served for close to half of her life. As Laura begins a well-deserved retirement, I look forward to seeing what her next chapter has in store and know that she will continue to inspire the next generation of leaders to carry on her legacy of service over self. On behalf of the residents of New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I thank Laura for embodying New Hampshire's highest values and wish her all the best in the years to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the Manchester Dairy Queen on Second Street for finishing 2022 as the highest earning Dairy Queen store in the country. Out of 4,353 locations, the store on Second Street stood out as the highest performing in the nation thanks to their invested leadership and equally dedicated staff. This tremendous accomplishment is a testament to the store's commitment to the city of Manchester and the decades- long connections they've forged with local business owners and lovers of cold Blizzards.

Since the 1970s, the Dion family has been a mindful steward of the franchise and has expanded its presence across Southern New Hampshire. Despite their tremendous growth, the Dions always centered their business around the fundamental values of community outreach, integrity, and service with a smile. In the face of major recessions and a once-in-a-lifetime pandemic, the Dairy Queen on Second Street has continued to adapt and evolve into the thriving business it is today. As a fellow restaurant owner, I have seen the challenges posed by COVID-19 in the industry and commend the Dion family for their can-do attitude which has seen them claim the number one spot in the nation for Dairy Queens.

I look forward to seeing all that the Second Street Dairy Queen accomplishes in the years to come, and I know that the citizens of Manchester will continue to show their unequivocal support for one of the area's most frequented stops for a quick bite and an ice-cold scoop. On behalf of the constituents of New Hampshire's First Congressional District, I commend the Dion family and their amazing staff for making the Second Street Dairy Queen the highest earning store in the nation, and I wish them all the best in their future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of Denise Roy-Palmer and her outstanding contributions over 25 years to the Wentworth Economic Development Corporation (WEDCO). Since 1996, Denise has been a tireless advocate on behalf of local businesses in the Eastern Lakes Region, where her efforts over a quarter century have turned Strafford and Carroll Counties into lively commercial hubs for locals and tourists alike. With a lifelong passion for giving back to her community, Denise embodies the value of service above self and has established WEDCO as a powerful economic driver for the region.

Since 1996, Denise has made it her mission to provide small businesses with the planning and resources necessary to succeed in an increasingly competitive marketplace. Her efforts have seen over 800 jobs created during her tenure, along with the distribution of over 113 loans totaling $7,114,501 in direct lending which leveraged an additional $35,473,001 in funding.

Despite her prolonged involvement with WEDCO, Denise will also be remembered for her steadfast commitment to a variety of local community initiatives, including the NH Alliance of Regional Development Corporations, the NH Economic Developers Association, Eastern Lakes Region Housing Coalition, the Wolfeboro & Farmington Economic Development Committees, Hugging Hospital Community Committee, and the advisory board for Makers Mill. Denise's indelible impact on these organizations will benefit Granite Staters for decades to come and ensure that New Hampshire businesses have the tools and guidance necessary to succeed in the 21st century.

I would again like to recognize Denise's 25 years of service and thank her on behalf of the constituents of New Hampshire's First Congressional District for her commitment to ensuring that our state remains competitive and business friendly. I wish her all the best in retirement and look forward to seeing what her next chapter has in store.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of the Respect for Marriage Act.

Growing up in New Hampshire as a gay person, I wasn't sure if there would be a place for me or if I would be able to have a family of my own. I was lucky to be surrounded by people who embraced me for who I am and to live at a time when hearts, minds, and laws were changing for the better.

Next year, I will marry the love of my life. It is unthinkable that if the Supreme Court heeds Justice Thomas' call that our marriage might be recognized in New Hampshire where we live but not across the country.

That is the reality that many couples fear, one that will jeopardize their ability to visit a spouse in the hospital or access all the benefits that couples do, one that would strip millions of Americans of their rights and their dignity.

That is a threat that we can't ignore. I hope my colleagues will heed the calls of their constituents and the call of history and cast a vote in favor of the Respect for Marriage Act to say that love is love and to respect people's individual freedoms in this country.