Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to say it has been my greatest honor serving Maryland's Sixth District.

Over the past 6 years, I have met and listened to thousands of Marylanders and worked across the aisle to pass legislation that has improved and will continue to improve the lives of all Americans.

I didn't do it alone. I am forever grateful to my wife, June, and my four children, Michelle, Julia, Natalie, and Rob. During my time here, I have become a grandfather to two grandchildren, with a third on the way. Nothing reminds me more of how important our future is as when you see it through the eyes of children and grandchildren.

Many of you know that I chose to run for Congress because I lost my 24-year-old nephew to a fentanyl overdose in 2016. In 2021, I cofounded the Bipartisan Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Task Force with Annie Kuster to bring Democrats and Republicans together to fight the mental health and opioid epidemic, and we did.

Together, we passed dozens of bipartisan bills, delivered billions of dollars to communities to fight this crisis on the front lines, and united hundreds of our colleagues annually during National Recovery Month for Congress Goes Purple.

This past year, our State and country saw the first decline in overdose deaths. I would like to think that the work of our task force had a small part in that.

Throughout my time in Congress, I have stood by my mission to lead with compassion, civility, and competence and put people over politics. I was proud to deliver $53 million in community project funding, Federal funding going directly to where it is needed most in my district. By working as a team, we were able to make life-changing impacts in our communities.

In the last 6 years, I also led 30 bills that were signed into law, bills on issues that we can't afford to ignore--mental health, addiction, and criminal justice reform.

Suffice it to say, our work is not done. I leave Congress knowing that countless lives have been and will be changed as a result of what we have accomplished. I have served during a time in which Congress, like our Nation, has grown increasingly divided, and many Americans fear for their future.

We must all remember that what unites us is greater than what divides us. Despite our differences, I developed productive, meaningful relationships with many of my colleagues across the aisle. The sheer number of chili cheese dogs I have eaten in the Republican Cloakroom to get bipartisan support is one I will take to my grave.

Through it all, I remain certain that the path forward for progress lies in common ground. I thank my Republican friends for their partnership, for putting country over party to work together. I urge all of my colleagues to look to their counterparts on the other side of the Chamber and commit to fighting together, not against each other, to empower America to reach its full potential. If that is not why we are here, we don't deserve to be.

I am thankful for the privilege of representing my constituents, and I wish for all to have a safe holiday season.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the service of Pastor Timothy McLaurin.

As I stand on the floor of the U.S. House, I realize that our Nation faces a troubling path ahead, but we all must recognize a higher purpose: to leave a better world for our children and our grandchildren.

We must all realize our role as public servants: to serve those in need, those suffering from addiction and mental health issues, and our systemically racist criminal justice system.

A son of Baltimore, Pastor McLaurin answered the call to serve his community over two decades ago. He has empowered his congregants with the lessons of God, the compassion of Jesus, and the guidance of profound faith.

Pastor McLaurin and his wonderful wife, Kimberly, and their three beautiful daughters have stood as pillars of the community through easy days and tough times.

Mr. Speaker, I thank him and his family for being here with me today and for sharing his wisdom.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to urge a ``yes'' vote on my bill, the Restoring Benefits to Defrauded Veterans Act.

Today, we must remember that the courageous men and women who have dedicated their lives to defend our country and our freedoms still need us. My bill addresses this longstanding issue affecting millions of veterans: fraud.

Just last year, the Federal Trade Commission estimated $477 million was stolen from veterans, military personnel, and their spouses. This is a $63 million, or 15 percent, increase from the year before.

Under current law, if a veteran passes away before their case is resolved, their family cannot be reimbursed for lost dollars. That is unacceptable.

My bill, the Restoring Benefits to Defrauded Veterans Act, would help the veterans and their families reclaim these defrauded dollars and get them access to the money that they earned. Specifically, the legislation requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to reissue the misused benefits to a beneficiary's estate in cases where the beneficiary passed before the reissuance.

We must ensure that veterans and their families are able to recapture any lost benefits they were scammed out of. It is just the right thing to do.

Mr. Speaker, I strongly urge a ``yes'' vote.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect and admiration that I recognize and congratulate my constituent, Joyce Hunter, on her retirement from one of the largest multiemployer pension funds in the United States, the Central Pension Fund of the International Union of Operating Engineers and Participating Employers (``Central Pension Fund'').

Joyce's lifelong dedication to the Central Pension Fund, which has spanned over four decades, and its mission to provide secure retirement benefits to operating engineers and

their families, has been unwavering. During her tenure, Joyce has successfully worked in various capacities in nearly every department of the Fund and has a well-earned reputation both inside and outside of the organization for her institutional knowledge and her unwavering work ethic. Indeed, most developments at the Central Pension Fund--both big and small--have likely involved Joyce's input and advice.

As Director of Human Resources and Administration, Joyce has effectively served as the face of the organization for the Fund's employees, having spearheaded the Fund's recruitment and hiring efforts, while also playing an integral role in strategic planning. In addition, by all accounts, Joyce has always gone above and beyond her technical job duties and has prioritized the professional development and personal well-being of her colleagues by creating and fostering a positive and enjoyable work culture. In that regard, Joyce is notorious for hosting and facilitating costume-themed events and ice cream socials, and for placing personal notes and small gifts on her colleagues' desks in the pre-dawn hours before work.

In summary, Joyce's well-deserved retirement marks the end of an illustrious career, and while the Central Pension Fund will undoubtedly miss her deep institutional knowledge, dedication, and guidance, I am confident that the Fund will continue to thrive for decades to come as a result of her efforts.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues join me in recognizing the lifetime of selfless service and tireless dedication of Joyce Hunter. Her commitment to the Central Pension Fund serves as an inspiration to us all, and we extend our best wishes upon her retirement in the years to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Dr. Norvell ``Van'' Coots, who tragically passed away last month.

Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Dr. Coots answered the call to serve his country through our military. After 36 years of service, he retired from the Army as a brigadier general in 2016.

Dr. Coots wasn't one to retire so easily. He continued to dedicate his life to improving healthcare outcomes for so many at home. In Maryland, Dr. Coots took the reins as president and CEO of Holy Cross Health.

Over the years, Dr. Coots and I worked together to ensure our health centers had what they needed to address the COVID-19 pandemic and tackle the addiction and mental health epidemics that are overwhelming our communities.

Without a doubt, our Nation is better off because of Dr. Coots' selfless service.

He was a dear friend to many, a loving husband to his wife, Claudia, and a dedicated father to Maximilian and Catalina.

May his memory be a blessing.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise before you to honor the remarkable tenure of Montgomery County Department of Police Chief, Marcus Jones and celebrate his well-earned retirement. For nearly four decades, Chief Jones has dedicated his career to enhancing public safety and fostering positive relationships within our community.

Appointed as Chief in November of 2019, Chief Jones has demonstrated unwavering commitment and leadership. He began his career with the Department in September of 1985, working his way up the ranks, including serving as the Assistant Chief of the Investigative Services Bureau, Commander of the 3rd District, Director of Major Crimes, and Drug Enforcement Commander.

Chief Jones has been instrumental in implementing innovative policing strategies and ensuring the safety and security of Montgomery County residents. His efforts have been recognized by his induction into the Montgomery County Human Rights Hall of Fame in 2020. As a member of the Major Cities Chiefs Association, the Maryland Chiefs Association, the Police Executive Research Forum (PERF), and the International Association Chiefs of Police (IACP), Chief Jones' decades-long effort to improve the lives of his officers and the Marylanders they have sworn to protect is appreciated by countless members of his community.

It is a privilege to acknowledge Chief Marcus Jones' service and dedication as he embarks on his next chapter. His legacy will inspire future leaders and continue to benefit the Montgomery County community for years to come.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor and celebrate the remarkable tenure of Hood College President, Andrea E. Chapdelaine. For nine years, Dr. Chapdelaine has dedicated her career to the advancement of higher education, enriching the lives of students and bolstering local communities throughout her career.

Under her leadership, Hood College experienced growth in both undergraduate and graduate enrollment and improvement in student retention. Dr. Chapdelaine spearheaded the completion of the strategic plan, ``Moving Together Beyond Boundaries,'' which introduced new academic programs, expanded strategic partnerships, and enhanced employee compensation.

She oversaw nearly $100 million in campus investments, including major renovations and new construction, led the successful ``Forging the Future'' campaign, and raised nearly $75 million for scholarships, experiential learning, and the Hood Fund. Her tenure also saw the receipt of a historic $54 million gift from The Hodson Trust, marking the largest donation in Hood College's history.

It is a privilege to acknowledge Dr. Andrea E. Chapdelaine's service and support for higher education. Her legacy will undoubtedly inspire future leaders and continue to benefit Hood College students and the broader community for years to come.

Mr. Speaker, on May 1, 2024, I was unable to cast my vote. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 172.

As a supporter of all faith-based communities, I became a cosponsor of this bill and was pleased to see it pass the House.

Mr. Speaker, on March 20, 2024, I was ill and unable to cast my votes. Had I been present, I would have voted Nay on Roll Call No 89 and No. 90; Yea on Roll Call No. 91 and No. 92; Nay on Roll Call No. 93; Yea on Roll Call No. 94; and Nay on Roll Call No. 95. As a strong proponent of clean energy and the environment, I oppose H.R. 6009, the Restoring American Energy Dominance Act, and H.R. 1121, the Protecting American Energy Production Act.

Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to honor the remarkable tenure of Allegany College of Maryland President, Dr. Cynthia

Bambara and celebrate her well-earned retirement. For over four decades, Dr. Bambara has dedicated her career to the advancement of higher education, enriching the lives of students and bolstering local communities through her unwavering dedication.

Her leadership as the first woman to serve as President of Allegany College of Maryland has proved transformative. Under her stewardship for the past thirteen years, the Allegany College of Maryland has flourished, expanding its academic programs, strengthening community partnerships, and enhancing student support services. Through collaboration with faculty, staff, and administrators, she led the college to achieve numerous milestones, making ACM a place of opportunity for all. The legacy she leaves behind is a testament to her leadership and the collective achievements of the college community.

It is a privilege to acknowledge Dr. Cynthia Bambara's service and dedication as she embarks on her next chapter. Her legacy will undoubtedly inspire future leaders and continue to benefit ACM students and the state of Maryland for years to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today and urge a ``yes'' vote on my bill, the C&O Canal National Historical Park Commission Extension Act.

Running from D.C. to Cumberland, Maryland, the park's 20,000 acres of land are home to history. George Washington himself spearheaded the efforts to navigate these waters and drive industry in our then-newly formed Republic. For nearly 100 years, the canal transported lumber, crops, and coal, crucial commerce for the many communities depending on it for their livelihoods.

Now a national park, the C&O Canal is home to thousands of native species, over 100 of which are listed as rare and threatened or endangered by the State of Maryland, all of which must be fiercely protected.

For more than 40 years, the advisory commission has served as a link between the surrounding communities and the National Park Service to manage and restore the park. The commission has a proven track record of ensuring the growth and maintenance of the land, as well as protection of the plants and animals living within it.

Every 10 years, Congress must reauthorize this commission for it to continue the vital work, which brings us here today. I am proud to lead this effort with my dear friend, Senator Ben Cardin, to ensure Americans can enjoy, explore, and protect our park for generations to come.

I am honored to represent so many Marylanders who get to appreciate the beauty and rich history of the C&O Canal every day.

By reauthorizing the commission, we are showing that Congress values the investments in our Nation's natural resources.

I thank all Members from the C&O Canal region who support this legislation: Representatives Beyer, Connolly, Holmes Norton, Mooney, Raskin, and Wexton. I thank Natural Resources Committee Chair Westerman for moving this bill through committee with unanimous support and Chairwoman Dingell for her support.

Mr. Speaker, I urge a ``yes'' vote.

Mr. Speaker, on January 11-12, 2024, I was unable to cast my vote. Had I been present, I would have voted ``NAY'' on Roll Call No. 7, ``YEA'' on Roll Call No. 9 and ``NAY'' on Roll Call No. 10.

I strongly oppose H.R. 788, the Stop Settlement Slush Funds Act, which would undermine our ability to hold corporations accountable for unlawful conduct. I also strongly oppose H.J. Res. 98, the joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the National Labor Relations Board relating to a ``Standard for Determining Joint Employer Status.'' As a constant proponent of collective bargaining rights, I would never vote to undermine workers and I will continue to support their rights and employer accountability. Last, I support H.R. 839, legislation to increase transparency of China's exchange rate policies.

Mr. Speaker, on September 14, 2023, I was unable to cast my vote. Had I been present, I would have voted ``NAY'' on Roll Call No. 391.

I strongly oppose H.R. 1435, the Preserving Choice in Vehicle Purchases Act. This bill modifies the waiver process under the Clean Air Act. In doing so it would limit vehicle choices for consumers, hinder climate progress, and put public health at risk.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise in opposition to S.J. Res. 38 and urge my colleagues to do the same.

For months, my colleagues across the aisle have strongly opposed efforts to support clean energy jobs, fight climate change, and deliver investments in our future.

The proposed legislation is no different. This resolution undermines efforts to expand our Nation's electric grid by weakening Buy America requirements and reverting back to outdated manufacturing guidelines of 1983--40 years ago.

This will allow taxpayer dollars--including $7.5 billion for the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act--to be spent in competitor nations like China instead of right here in the U.S. by American workers.

This legislation will harm American manufacturing jobs and communities and worsen our country's reliance on foreign supply chains.

Currently, 44 manufacturing facilities in the U.S. are dedicated to making EV charger components, amounting to a combined investment of $313 million and approximately 6,000 manufacturing jobs. We must let American innovation and technology protect good-paying jobs.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to call for the release of Abraham Munder, who was taken hostage by Hamas during their brutal attack on October 7.

Mr. Munder is a 78-year-old father and grandfather. Who does that? He has been in captivity for 54 days and counting.

Abraham and his wife, Ruti, lived and raised their family in Kibbutz Nir Oz for nearly 60 years. They built a home. They built a life. It is all gone. Nir Oz was one of the hardest hit by Hamas on October 7, almost a quarter of their population was murdered or kidnapped.

The Munder family has endured unspeakable hardship and tragedy in these weeks. That day, Abraham and Ruti's daughter, Keren, was visiting her parents with her son, Ohad. They were all taken hostage by Hamas. Ohad spent his ninth birthday as a hostage in Gaza.

A few weeks ago, I had the solemn honor of meeting with the hostages' family members in my Capitol office, including Keren's cousin Meirav and her son, Itay.

All they wanted was for the hostages to be brought home, for the world to not forget about their loved ones. Many of us here in Congress took these meetings, and we all pledged we would do all we could to bring them home.

For the last 54 days, Abraham has been held separately and was feared dead by his family. For the last 54 days, he hasn't known that his son was murdered in the attacks. For the last 54 days, he hasn't known that his wife and his daughter and grandson survived and were taken hostage.

As a grandfather and a parent myself, I can't begin to imagine the nightmare. By the grace of God, Ruti, Keren, and Ohad were returned to Israel on November 24 as part of the negotiated cease-fire and hostage exchange.

Today, we call for Abraham to be brought home. Let him grieve and heal with his family. We continue to call for Hamas to release all the hostages. We must bring them all home.