Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend the courageous first responders in Gorham, New York, who battled the devastating warehouse fire that put the entire community at risk. These men and women, many of them volunteers, stepped forward without hesitation, placing themselves in danger so that others could be safe.

Some came from neighboring towns to lend support, demonstrating that in New York's 24th district, we are united by a deep sense of duty and sacrifice.

Our volunteer fire departments are a powerful reminder that service is not confined to one community or one moment. Time and again, these men and women show us what it means to rush toward danger when others turn away. Their actions during this fire reflect the very best of who we are.

To every firefighter, first responder, and volunteer who sustained these efforts by bringing food and water, I extend my heartfelt thanks and appreciation. This Congress honors their courage and devotion.

Madam Chair, I have an amendment at the desk.

Madam Chair, I rise today to offer and withdraw my amendment No. 287 to provide $71 million for nonrecurring engineering expenses associated with designing the new LC-130J as part of LC-130 recapitalization project.

LC-130s are polar ski planes that possess the unique capability of being able to land on snow instead of solely on a paved runway. The LC- 130 is the only plane in the world with this capability and provides the United States with a key competitive edge in the Arctic and Antarctic domains.

The LC-130 fleet is wholly operated by the 109th Airlift Wing of the New York Air National Guard at Stratton Air National Guard Base in Scotia, New York.

Beyond its national security importance in supporting our Arctic strategy, the LC-130 fleet is also critical in supporting our Nation's scientific research efforts.

Each year, the current LC-130 fleet assists in critical missions in both Greenland and Antarctica pursuant to President Ronald Reagan's Presidential memorandum 6646.

However, our current LC-130H fleet is aging quickly, with some planes over 50 years old. Despite the great work of the 109th Airlift Wing in maintaining these planes, we must quickly recapitalize these planes to ensure the U.S. does not lose the critical capabilities provided by the LC-130 fleet.

Before I conclude, I want to thank Bob Epp and Dennis Feeney from the New York National Guard's legislative team, General Steven Slosek from the 109th Airlift Wing, General Michael Bank, the New York Air National Guard Commander; and General Ray Shields, the New York Adjutant General, for their tireless efforts in advocating alongside me for the LC-130 recapitalization.

Last year, with the help of these individuals and Chairman Calvert, we were able to secure $29 million in the FY25 CR spend plan for the Department of Defense for these nonrecurring engineering expenses.

Rest assured, I will continue fighting to secure the additional funding in the final FY26 Defense bill.

Before I withdraw this amendment, I ask Chairman Calvert to commit to working with me on the continued LC-130 recapitalization project as you have so graciously in the past.

Madam Chair, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from California (Mr. Calvert).

Madam Chair, that is a mission of our President, of course.

Madam Chair, I yield back the balance of my time, and I withdraw my amendment.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Colonel John Peyton Swain of the Civil Air Patrol, the U.S. Air Force Auxiliary. He is an inspiration in the world of public service, whose legacy spans more than 60 years of volunteerism and defense of our Nation's airspace, development of youth, and civic readiness.

As Civil Air Patrol's first director of government relations, Colonel Swain reestablished its presence in Washington after a 50-year absence. His legislative strategy more than doubled its Federal funding, built trusted bipartisan relationships on the Hill, and led the successful effort to award Civil Air Patrol the Congressional Gold Medal in honor of its World War II service.

Colonel Swain's lifelong commitment from cadet to congressional liaison made Civil Air Patrol stronger, more visible, and better equipped to serve the Nation.

I have been proud to work with Colonel Swain to fight for Civil Air Patrol funding throughout my time in Congress and thank him for his service.

I am also thankful that my son, Trey, who now serves as a major in the United States Marine Corps, was inspired to answer the call to serve after his experience as a cadet in the Civil Air Patrol.

I extend my deepest gratitude to Colonel Swain for his service and congratulate him on his retirement. Without his strategic vision and leadership, Civil Air Patrol would not be the venerable organization that it is today.

Honoring Late U.S. Air Force Veteran Rick N. Parsons

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the late United States Air Force veteran Rick N. Parsons for his remarkable service to our country.

Rick grew up in Lyndonville, New York, a small town in Orleans County. After graduating from Lyndonville High School in 1962, he proceeded to enroll in the United States Air Force Academy.

After graduating from the Academy and marrying his high school sweetheart, Nancy, he went on to serve 26 years in the United States Air Force.

During his tenure, Rick would become the commander of the 32nd Tactical Fighter Squadron Wolfhounds, later the 33rd Tactical Fighter Wing. However, his most notable accomplishment came on February 7, 1991, when he downed an SU-7/17, becoming the only wing commander to record an aerial victory during Operation Desert Storm.

His life of service included two tours in Vietnam, one tour in Saudi Arabia, and he logged over 5,000 hours of flight time. Rick earned the rank of colonel in the United States Air Force.

Rick went on to lead another successful career as a financial adviser in Monument, Colorado. He often enjoyed spending time with his fellow 1966 Academy graduates and cheering on his grandchildren, whether they were performing in a play or competing in sports.

Sadly, in 2021, Rick passed away with his wife, Nancy, by his side. On the Fourth of July, the town of Lyndonville recognized Rick at its annual Independence Day parade, expressing gratitude for its native son for his legacy of service, valor, and leadership.

It is an honor and wholly appropriate to recognize Rick's exceptional service and devotion to our great Nation.

Recognizing New York State Senator Tarky Lombardi, Jr.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life and legacy of my dear friend Senator Tarky Lombardi, Jr., who passed away on November 24, 2024.

Tarky Lombardi leaves behind five children; eight grandchildren; and his wife, Marianne, whom he happily was married to for over 66 years; as well as a profound legacy in service to the State of New York and our country.

His wonderful grandson, Mark Fogelson, also served as an intern in my office.

After earning a law degree from Syracuse University and serving in the United States Army, Tarky returned to New York, dedicating his life to public service, including 27 years in the New York State Senate, where he represented the 49th District.

Senator Lombardi earned a national reputation for his accomplishments in the health field, including spearheading the Nursing Home Without Walls Program, a first-of-its-kind program that was so transformative that it was replicated in so many other States.

Lombardi was also devoted to his alma mater, Syracuse University, and was pivotal in working with the Governor of New York to facilitate the construction of the Carrier Dome. Tarky was so tenacious. Without his advocacy, the dome would never have been built.

Tarky was a one-of-a-kind member of the Greatest Generation. He loved our State and our country. He was a unifying force in the State legislature, always bringing together members of both sides of the aisle for dinners in the legacy of Reagan and O'Neill in that wonderful tradition.

I congratulate Tarky's family and so many who have done so much to help our region, upstate New York, and Syracuse University, and all of the wonderful legacies of everyone who lives in the region and everyone from the State of New York.

Tarky was a dear friend, and he is so missed by many of us, including me. We love his family, and we are grateful to him.

Birthday Wishes To Trey Tenney

Mr. Speaker, I wish a happy birthday to my son, Trey, today, and congratulate him for being a major in the Marine Corps.

Mr. Speaker, had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 134.

Mr. Speaker, in honor of Police Week, I would like to remember two police officers who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.

I rise today in solemn recognition of Deputy Cailee Campbell of the Oswego County Sheriff's Office.

Deputy Campbell began her career in law enforcement with the Onondaga County Sheriff's Office as a corrections officer before attending the Syracuse Police Academy. In April 2023, she joined the Oswego County Sheriff's Office as a patrol deputy.

Tragically, while en route to a call on the morning of September 25, 2024, Deputy Campbell's life was cut short when her patrol vehicle was T-boned in an intersection. Following the crash, she was transported to Oswego Hospital where she was tragically pronounced deceased. She was just 33 years old.

Deputy Campbell leaves behind a loving father, brother, and extended family, as well as her boyfriend, a close-knit group of friends, colleagues, and two beloved cats.

She will be remembered for her love of hiking, personal fitness, traveling to new places and having new experiences, and spending time at the range. Her memory lives on through all those who knew her and whose lives she impacted.

On behalf of the people of New York's 24th Congressional District, it is my honor to share a little bit about Deputy Campbell's life and legacy, and express my appreciation, and the appreciation of my constituents, for her service to her community, and condolences to all who loved and cared for Deputy Campbell.

Honoring Sergeant Thomas A. Sanfratello During National Police Week

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in solemn recognition of Sergeant Thomas A. Sanfratello of the Genesee County Sheriff's Office.

Sergeant Sanfratello faithfully served his beloved community as a police officer for 32 years, was twice recognized as Officer of the Year, and was heavily involved with the New York State Sheriffs' Association, Stop-DWI program, and Shop With a Cop programs. He was also a town board member and former volunteer firefighter.

Tragically, in the early morning hours of March 10, 2024, Sergeant Sanfratello was killed after being attacked while responding to a call.

Sergeant Sanfratello truly embodied what it means to be a public servant, having made the ultimate sacrifice in the name of protecting others. He leaves behind a close-knit family, including a wife and three children, as well as countless friends and colleagues.

Sergeant Sanfratello will be remembered for his love of family and spending quality time with his children, his passion for his community, as well as his love of sports, Motorama, and his collection of LEGOs and Hot Wheels. His memory lives on through all those who knew him and whose lives have been changed for the better because of his sacrifice and his service.

On behalf of the people of New York's 24th Congressional District, it is my honor to have shared a little bit about Sergeant Sanfratello's life and his legacy and express my deep appreciation and the appreciation of my constituents for his services to his community. I send my condolences to his friends and family.

Mr. Speaker, had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 119.

Stated against:

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize that April is Autism Awareness Month.

Autism spectrum disorder is a developmental disability that generally appears before the age of 3, impacting social interaction, communication skills, and cognitive function.

Today, 1 in 36 children in the United States are diagnosed with autism, and approximately 5.4 million Americans are living with autism spectrum disorder. By raising awareness, we can support individuals and families affected by autism and help them lead fulfilling lives.

I will take a moment to recognize my longtime dear friend Vincent McLaughlin, a dedicated advocate and true inspiration. Vincent has shown unwavering commitment to his community through his decade-long service on the Ulster County Planning Board representing the Village of Saugerties, his 16 years of service as a volunteer firefighter, and his continuous work to raise awareness and support for those living with autism.

In 2023, he was appointed to the New York State Council on Developmental Disabilities because of his advocacy and dedication, which embody the spirit of community involvement and empowerment. Vincent's selfless efforts make a difference every day, and I am grateful for his dedication and support.

As we observe Autism Awareness Month, let us commit to supporting all Americans with autism, ensuring they receive the necessary resources, opportunities, and respect they deserve. As my friend Vincent has proven, autism should never be a barrier to success or happiness.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize April as ``National Autism Awareness Month''.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that generally appears before the age of 3, impacting social interaction, communication skills, and cognitive function. Today, 1 in 36 children in the United States are diagnosed with autism, and approximately 5.4 million Americans are living with autism spectrum disorder.

Autism prevalence has increased significantly over the past two decades, underscoring the need to expand research and provide adequate resources for individuals on the spectrum. By raising awareness, we can better support individuals and families affected by autism, helping them lead fulfilling lives.

Our schools and early childcare programs must be equipped with the knowledge, resources, and training to assist those living with autism. Early diagnosis and intervention are critical, as they can significantly improve communication, social skills, and quality of life for individuals with autism.

I would also like to take a moment to recognize my friend, Vincent McLaughlin, a dedicated advocate and a true inspiration. Vincent has shown unwavering commitment to his community through his decade-long service on the Ulster County Planning Board representing the Village of Saugerties, his 16 years of service as a volunteer firefighter, and his continuous work to raise awareness and support for those living with autism. In 2023, he was appointed to the New York State Council on Developmental Disabilities because of his advocacy and dedication, which embody the spirit of community involvement and empowerment.

Vincent's selfless efforts make a difference every day, and I am grateful for his dedication and friendship.

As we observe Autism Awareness Month, let us commit to supporting all Americans living with autism, ensuring they receive the necessary resources, opportunities, and respect they deserve. Autism should never be a barrier to success or happiness.

Mr. Speaker, I thank my great colleague from New York, Mr. Tonko. I really appreciate this honor.

Mr. Speaker, you have heard so many wonderful things about our outgoing chairwoman, Cathy McMorris Rodgers, or, as we like to call her, CMR. That is who she was when I first came into Congress.

As you know, she served 20 years. She served honorably. She is an incredible mother. She has championed so many great policies.

I would just like to say I call Cathy McMorris Rodgers a friend. I have to say this from my heart. I have never met another person on Earth who represents the godly qualities so important to serving in public office. She is honest, she has integrity, she has compassion, and she has charity. Those things are very rare, and she is going to be so missed with those qualities.

She is also a true friend. True friends are hard to come by in Washington, D.C. She is one of those people who stands with you honestly and confidentially throughout the difficult times, throughout your good times.

I am so grateful to Cathy McMorris Rodgers for everything she has done for me as a leader, everything she has done for our Nation, and the State of Washington.

Another really important part of Cathy McMorris Rodgers that I am really going to miss is her son, Cole, who has been a dear friend of mine here when he comes to visit us in Washington. Cole has become a great friend and a wonderful inspiration for me. I know he inspires so many of us here in Congress and especially Cathy and her family.

When Cole was here last, I was a little agitated about a couple of things. I got a little anxious. Cole said: Chill out.

I think that is what Cathy will do when she retires next year. She is going to chill out for a little while. She will never stop serving our country, her State, our Nation, our world, her family, and our God.

We are so grateful to you and for having you here. It has been a complete blessing to know you.

There is never a better friend that I have ever met than Cathy McMorris Rodgers, our beloved CMR.

I wish you and your family the best. You really are one in a billion, one in several billion on Earth. We thank you so much. Congratulations and thank you so much for your really honorable, wonderful service to our community.

Mr. Speaker, New York has a long and distinguished history of supporting our servicemembers and veterans, from the battlefields of the Revolutionary War to those serving today at Fort Drum and Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station. It is our duty to honor these courageous individuals in New York-24.

We especially remember the members of our armed services who have been

wounded in combat and awarded the Purple Heart, a symbol of the highest form of service and sacrifice to our country. The Purple Heart Memorial in Niagara County and the Purple Heart Municipalities along the United States Purple Heart Trail help ensure that their bravery is recognized and preserved for generations.

Today, I rise to advance these efforts by officially proclaiming New York's 24th Congressional District as a Purple Heart Congressional District. This designation will place New York-24 on the New York State Purple Heart Trail, preserving the legacy of Purple Heart recipients for generations. It is a tribute to the exceptional men and women who have sacrificed for our Nation and a reminder to never forget the true cost of freedom.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of my bill, H.R. 9495, the Stop-Terror Financing and Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act, which has been the subject of political hysteria since the election of President Trump on November 5.

I want to be clear to my Democratic colleagues, most of whom supported Congressman Kustoff's legislation last April, about what this bill actually does.

The bill does two things: It allows the IRS to waive penalties for late taxes on Americans held hostage abroad. While the IRS can waive penalties on the back end when the taxpayer returns home, this would allow them to do it on the front end to ensure that returning hostages and their families, who have endured unimaginable hardship, don't have the burden of having to deal with it upon return.

It directs the IRS to revoke the tax-exempt status of a nonprofit found to be providing financial support to a terrorist organization. Right now, an entity must be deemed a terrorist organization itself to lose its tax-exempt status. This bill says that if a nonprofit provides material support to a designated terrorist group, they will also lose that status. This bill and parts of this bill have received strong bipartisan support on multiple occasions from this Congress.

H.R. 9495 passed unanimously out of Ways and Means in September by a vote of 38-0, including and with the support of Ranking Member Richard Neal, along with Mr. Doggett.

The portion of this bill to terminate the tax-exempt status of nonprofit organizations supporting terrorist groups, H.R. 6408, led by my fabulous colleague Representative Kustoff, also passed unanimously out of Ways and Means last year as a standalone bill by a vote of 41-0, and the House passed it overwhelmingly by a vote of 382-11. That is resounding, in my book.

Legislation preventing the IRS from imposing fines and tax penalties on Americans held hostage upon their return was approved by unanimous consent in the Senate. It is shameful that Democrats who supported this commonsense position are now opposing it and citing the election of President Trump as the reason and also manufacturing concerns about the targeting of nonprofits' tax-exempt status for unrelated purposes.

I want to clarify, Treasury can only revoke tax-exempt status under this legislation if the nonprofit in question is providing material support to terrorist groups designated under longstanding statutory standards. There are no changes to those standards or the executive branch's ability to make those designations. There is even an opportunity to cure included in this bill where the organization can make reasonable efforts to recoup funds given to the terrorist organization--imagine that--given to a terrorist organization and certify in writing to Treasury that they will not provide any further support to said organization and they will not lose their nonprofit status.

Organizations abusing tax-exempt status to funnel money to terrorist organizations has been a pervasive issue, which was exposed by Chairman Smith's ongoing investigation into various nonprofit groups' ties to foreign terrorist organizations.

This is a crucial time for Congress to act and to make it clear that we stand for our fellow citizens who have endured unthinkable circumstances abroad, like my constituent, Ryan Corbett of Dansville, New York. He is husband to Anna, and he and his wife are the parents of three children, Ketsia, Miriam, and Caleb. Today marks the 834th day since he has been wrongfully detained by the Taliban in a 9-by-9-foot cell. It is a tragic situation.

In closing, I urge my colleagues, especially my Democratic colleagues, not to put their hatred of President Trump and I daresay Trump derangement syndrome--by the way, there is no vaccine and no cure that we know of right now for that, which is obvious from what we are seeing on the other side--and let's not put the needs of terrorist adversaries ahead of helping American hostages and their families and stopping the flow of cash to terrorists that are actively working to harm the United States, by supporting H.R. 9495.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to grab some common sense and allow this bill to pass and put some relief finally in the hands of the people who greatly need it, those in harm's way.

Madam Speaker, had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 465.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of Stop Terror-Financing and Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act, H.R. 9495.

The intent of this bill is simple, no American who has suffered the injustice of wrongful detention or hostage taking by our adversaries should return home to face penalties and interest from their own government.

Under current tax law, individuals who have been held against their will can be subject to late tax payment penalties and interest after returning home from captivity. Not only does this defy common sense, it defies compassion. This is an obvious flaw, and it only worsens the trauma of individuals and families who have already faced extraordinary challenges.

In addition to righting this egregious wrong, the bill revokes the tax-exempt status for organizations found to be supporting these terrorist groups; by the way, an initiative that passed unanimously in the House Ways and Means Committee.

Contrary to what some of my colleagues across the aisle believe, the American people do not want hard-earned tax dollars to be funneled to terrorist organizations. Numerous House Ways and Means Committee investigations have uncovered evidence that groups like Samidoun, for example, are actively laundering funds through nonprofit organizations to terrorist organizations.

This comes at an important time as last month marked 1 year since Hamas' brutal attack on Israel, with many hostages currently being wrongfully detained at the hands of designated terrorist groups like Hamas.

The Stop Terror-Financing and Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act would ensure that American hostages, wrongful detainees, and their families are not further burdened with tax penalties and interest for circumstances beyond their control.

While I am thankful that we are taking a pivotal step today to correct this injustice, we must continue to fight to secure the release of Americans being illegally held abroad like my constituent, Ryan Corbett, a wonderful husband and father from Dansville, New York, who remains wrongfully detained by the Taliban.

Ryan Corbett has been wrongfully detained by the Taliban for 825 days, being held in a 9- by 9-foot basement cell without regular access to a bathroom, sunlight, or medical care. Ryan's health is deteriorating quickly, and the situation is dire.

I urge President Biden and Secretary Blinken to do everything in their power to bring Ryan home and reunite him with his amazing wife, Anna, and their three beautiful children, Ketsia, Miriam, and Caleb.

Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman Jason Smith, Speaker Mike Johnson, and Leader Steve Scalise for bringing this important bill to the floor. I also note that this bill passed unanimously out of the House Committee on Ways and Means, including with the support of Ranking Member Richie Neal.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to support the Stop Terror-Financing and Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act to send a clear message that we stand by our fellow citizens who have endured unthinkable consequences abroad.

Mr. Speaker, had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 443.

Stated against:

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of my bill, H.R. 5179, the Anti-BDS Labeling Act.

The Anti-BDS Labeling Act would codify the Trump administration's 2020 U.S. Customs and Border Protection rule titled: ``Country of Origin Marking of Products from the West Bank and Gaza.''

In 1997, the Palestinian Authority requested that the U.S. require all goods made in Judea and Samaria, and Gaza to be labeled as ``Made in West Bank/Gaza.'' This not only recognized Judea and Samaria, and Gaza as one territorial unit, which is inaccurate, but also failed to recognize that areas of Judea and Samaria are governed by Israel and the Palestinian Authority.

The Trump administration's rule required goods made in Area C of Judea and Samaria, which is fully controlled by Israel under the Oslo Accords, to be labeled as ``Made in Israel.'' Under this rule, goods made in Palestinian Authority-controlled Areas A and B of Judea and Samaria to be labeled as ``Made in West Bank.'' This rule appropriately recognizes the different governing authorities of various areas of Judea and Samaria, as well as ensuring that Gaza and Judea and Samaria are recognized as two different political areas.

The Anti-BDS Labeling Act would codify the Trump-era rule and prohibit Federal funds to be used by the White House or executive branch to alter the rule that is already in place.

For years, the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions movement has sought to cripple the Israeli economy and impoverish individuals living in Israeli-controlled areas of Judea and Samaria, and Israel at large.

The BDS movement has long targeted goods made in Israeli-controlled areas of Judea and Samaria, sometimes referred to by anti-Israel advocates as the ``occupied West Bank.'' I would like to remind individuals who use this ridiculous term that the Oslo Accords, as

signed by Yitzhak Rabin and Yasser Arafat, divided Judea and Samaria into three areas, with Israel administering security control over 82 percent of Judea and Samaria, and civil control of 60 percent of Judea and Samaria.

This bill ensures that there is no distinction in labeling between goods made in Israel and Israeli-controlled areas of Judea and Samaria. During this difficult time, Congress must stand with Israel and support our greatest ally in the region, the lone beacon of freedom and democracy.

I am grateful to Chairman Smith and all my Ways and Means Republican colleagues who are supporting this critical legislation, especially when it passed through the House Ways and Means Committee. We must stand with our greatest ally in the Middle East, Israel, and demand accuracy in the labeling of goods imported to the United States, as required by law.

This legislation sends a very clear signal that we will not tolerate arbitrary differentiations in the labeling of goods from different parts of Israel. Whether a good is made in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Efrat, the Golan Heights, or Gush Etzion, it should be labeled as ``Made in Israel.''

This is not about political posturing as the ranking member in opposition says. This is about making sure that American citizens know that when they are purchasing a product in Israeli-controlled Judea and Samaria that they are purchasing a product that is made in Israel. There is nothing discriminatory about that. It is about preventing the erasing of the existence of Israel in this region of Israel.

Mr. Speaker, I encourage all my colleagues to support this legislation. It is not political posturing. It is something to protect Israeli products, Israeli individuals who are producing these products and also to protect American citizens who would be purchasing this product and who get to make a decision about what they would choose to buy, whether it was made in Israel or not. They make that choice. That is something that all Americans are entitled to under this labeling act.

Mr. Speaker, I encourage all my colleagues to support this legislation.