Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to amend the rule to make in order the amendment at the desk that protects against any cuts to Medicaid and SNAP.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of Former Pennsylvania State Representative Isabella V. Fitzgerald, a beloved leader, trailblazer, and pillar of the Northwest Philadelphia community. Affectionately known as ``Izzy,'' Representative Fitzgerald departed this earthly life peacefully on December 6, 2024, leaving a legacy of service, compassion, and transformative impact.

In 2017, Representative Fitzgerald made history as the first African American woman elected to serve as State Representative for the 203rd Legislative District, a role she held with distinction for three terms. During her tenure, she championed many issues, including public safety, small business development, community revitalization, and healthcare access. Her dedication to her community is exemplified by her efforts to modernize public spaces, her creation of the Community Angel Awards to honor unsung heroes, and her revival of Super Saturday, a celebration of Northwest Philadelphia neighborhoods.

Representative Fitzgerald's legislative accomplishments included sponsoring House Bill 579, which improved insurance coverage for breast imaging and was signed into law by Governor Tom Wolf in 2020. Her advocacy for affordable housing, health care, and education reflected her deep commitment to addressing the challenges faced by families in her community. A staunch supporter of public engagement, she fostered partnerships with local law enforcement and organized events such as National Night Out to promote community safety.

Even in retirement, Representative Fitzgerald's dedication to her neighbors and community never waned. She continued to organize grassroots efforts, advocate for breast cancer awareness, and provide mentorship to countless individuals.

Beyond her professional achievements, Isabella Fitzgerald was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend.

In recognition of her incredible contributions, the intersection of Stenton Avenue and Washington Lane in Philadelphia was renamed ``Isabella Fitzgerald Way'' on December 15, 2024--a fitting tribute to a woman who dedicated her life to uplifting her community.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor The Philadelphia Tribune, the Nation's oldest continuously published newspaper serving the African American community, as it proudly celebrates its 140th anniversary.

Since its founding in 1884 by Christopher James Perry Sr., The Philadelphia Tribune has been a steadfast voice, uplifting and amplifying the stories, struggles, and triumphs of African Americans in Philadelphia and beyond. From its humble beginnings as The Weekly Tribune, a one-page publication, the newspaper has grown into an esteemed institution, documenting pivotal moments in our Nation's history and reflecting the rich tapestry of African American life and culture.

Under the visionary leadership of figures such as Eugene Washington Rhodes, who championed civil rights and community empowerment, and Robert W. Bogle, its current President and CEO, the Tribune has expanded its reach and impact. Through its publications, special editions, and community events, The Philadelphia Tribune has celebrated Black history, fostered civic engagement, and highlighted the achievements of African Americans in the Greater Philadelphia region.

Over its 140 years, the Tribune has garnered numerous accolades for its excellence in journalism and public service, including the A. Philip Randolph Messenger Award for Outstanding Journalism and the ``Russward Award'' for Best Newspaper in America. These honors underscore the Tribune's commitment to truth, equity, and advocacy.

The legacy of The Philadelphia Tribune is not just about chronicling the past; it is about empowering the present and shaping the future. As it continues to serve as a vital platform for African American voices, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating The Philadelphia Tribune on this historic milestone and in celebrating its enduring contributions to our society.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor someone who has made a huge difference for Philadelphia and southeast Pennsylvania, Pat Deon, Sr. He recently retired after 29 years serving on the board of our transit agency, SEPTA, including 25 years as chairman of the board.

While Pat and I are from different political parties, we have always worked together to get things done. We could use much more of this around here.

When Pat was appointed to the SEPTA board in 1995, the agency was in a very different shape. It had a reputation for waste and was facing a $75 million deficit. He has brought the eyes of a businessperson to SEPTA, and he was instrumental in achieving legislative successes in Harrisburg. I know that because I was a legislative leader there during most of his time as chair.

The Philadelphia region is the largest economic engine in Pennsylvania, and SEPTA is vital for making it work. Even the people who don't ride SEPTA benefit from less traffic on the roads and from the air being cleaner.

Pat has led SEPTA through several difficult periods, including the Great Recession and the great pandemic. I want to thank him for all that he has done and for the leadership that he has provided and the fact that he realized that we must do things together. We honored him in the city of Philadelphia for his work and the dedication. He is truly an asset that we will really value.

I thank Pat for all that he has done.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to discuss an underappreciated part of this bill, improvements to the low-income housing tax credit. This is urgently needed. Millions of American families struggle to pay their rent or buy a house. We must do more.

This bill is one step toward eliminating housing insecurity in America. I urge my colleagues to support it. We must make sure that no child goes without a roof over their head in this country. I will continue to work to make that a reality.

Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. Larson for hosting this Special Order hour so we can discuss the importance of this country's most effective anti-poverty program.

Social Security is an earned benefit. It is the insurance people pay for with every paycheck, and it is the bedrock of retirement security, with benefits guaranteed to nearly all seniors.

In my district in the City of Brotherly Love, Philadelphia, there are about 120,000 Social Security recipients who receive $194 million in monthly benefits. That includes many of our Nation's most vulnerable, including retirees, folks with disabilities, and children.

Social Security's guaranteed benefits keep many recipients from all demographic groups out of poverty, but these protections are especially vital to Black and Brown Americans. Without Social Security, 21.7 million more adults and children would be below the poverty line. That is why Democrats are consistently fighting to stop Republicans' attempts to dismantle this vital program.

Time and time again, Republicans have put forth plan after plan to cut Social Security benefits and raise the minimum retirement age. In the current Congress, they proposed a fiscal commission to address the national debt, which we all know is just a backdoor way to cut essential programs like Social Security and Medicare.

However, in contrast to Republicans, Democrats are offering a proposal that would protect and expand the Social Security program. That is why I am proud to support Congressman Larson's Social Security 2100 Act. This transformative legislation would permanently increase benefits by 2 percent across the board on average for all Social Security beneficiaries for the first time in 52 years. We would pay for this bill by ensuring millionaires and billionaires finally pay their fair share into Social Security.

The American public is on our side when it comes down to protecting and expanding Social Security. Poll after poll finds that the vast majority of Americans believe Social Security benefits should not be reduced in any way and support a proposal to increase benefits. That is why I remain steadfast in opposing any and all cuts to Social Security, and I will continue to work with my Democratic colleagues to protect, expand, and deliver Social Security benefits to all those who have earned them.

Again, I thank Congressman Larson for hosting this Special Order hour and thank him for his consistent leadership.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Dr. Constance E. Clayton, a remarkable woman who made an indelible impact on the Philadelphia school system and the lives of countless students as the first African American and first woman to lead the School District of Philadelphia (1982 through 1993).

During her tenure as superintendent, Dr. Clayton achieved remarkable feats. In an era where few Black women held positions of power, Dr. Clayton fearlessly took on the challenges of a school district plagued by patronage, labor strife, and division. Dr. Clayton brought a sense of stability to a system that had often been engulfed in turmoil. Prior to

her tenure, the relationship between the district and the teachers' union was toxic, with strikes occurring almost yearly. However, under Clayton's leadership, strikes became a thing of the past, as she worked tirelessly to foster a more productive relationship between the two parties.

Dr. Clayton is credited with stabilizing the district's budget and spearheading a standardized curriculum that aimed to benefit the many students who frequently moved from one school to another within the city.

Dr. Clayton was a true trailblazer, a dedicated education advocate, a humanitarian, and a mentor to many. Her career and achievements served as an inspiration, especially to women and African-American women who aspired to break barriers and make their mark in the world.

Dr. Clayton's impact extended far beyond the School District of Philadelphia. As an advocate for people of color and women in leadership, she paved the way for future generations, inspiring young girls everywhere.

Her unwavering commitment to improving the lives of students through education is a testament to her remarkable leadership style described as regal and no-nonsense. Dr. Clayton demanded excellence and did not tolerate mediocrity. There was never any doubt that her primary concern was for the well-being and future of Philadelphia's children. She was the embodiment of the School District of Philadelphia.

Dr. Clayton was the recipient of numerous awards and honors, including 19 honorary doctorate degrees. In 1992, the Constance E. Clayton Professorship in Urban Education was established at the University of Pennsylvania's Graduate School of Education, making her the first African-American woman to have a chair named for her at an ivy League institution.

Not only was Dr. Clayton a visionary in education, but she was also a patron of the arts, with affiliations to art museums throughout Philadelphia. Her passion for both education and the arts exemplified her dedication to creating a well-rounded educational experience for students.

Dr. Clayton passed away on September 18, 2023. We mourn the loss of a remarkable individual who made significant contributions to our community. Dr. Clayton's legacy will continue to inspire and guide us as we strive for equity, diversity, and excellence in education. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, friends, and all those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of JoAnne Epps who passed away unexpectedly on September 19, 2023, while serving as President of Temple University, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. JoAnne Epps was an exceptional leader who left an indelible impact on Temple University and the Philadelphia community at large.

JoAnne Epps was a true embodiment of everything that is great about Temple University. She exemplified grace, passion, humor, humility, empathy, energy, intelligence and so many of the values and ideals that Temple University holds dear.

JoAnne dedicated so much of herself to Temple, as a professor and administrator. Her journey from working in the bookstore over 40 years ago to holding the esteemed position of University President was an inspiration to all.

During her tenure as the Dean of Temple Law School, JoAnne proved to be a strong partner in our judicial education efforts. She relentlessly worked towards preparing the next generation of legal professionals, ensuring that they would become active members of the organized bar.

JoAnne is credited for so much more than her legal expertise and academic administration. Many acknowledge her passion for people, especially African American women, their relationships, and opportunities, and how she could help them advance social justice and equality. During an interview in 2014, she is quoted as saying, ``Too often it doesn't even occur to women that they can run the world.''

Her professional accomplishments are numerous and include being the first African-American woman to serve as President of Temple University. JoAnne was among those considered for the U.S. Supreme Court by President Barack Obama. She was named one of the 100 most influential Black lawyers in the country by several publications and won the 2014 Justice Sonia Sotomayor Diversity Award from the Philadelphia Bar Association.

JoAnne's legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched. Her memory will forever remain in our hearts, and her contributions will continue to inspire generations to come.

Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to welcome the Reverend Dr. J. Henry Buck, Jr., from my district as today's guest chaplain.

Reverend Buck is the senior pastor of the Grace Baptist Church, which has a rich history in Pennsylvania and the Germantown neighborhood. He has opened an early childhood development center to local parents, and he has created opportunities for many youth, and to date has sent five students to study at Howard University.

In addition, Reverend Buck started a pie company to help with employment for returning citizens. He is also a proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity.

Mr. Speaker, I thank Reverend Buck for all that he does for our community and welcome him to the people's House.

Madam Speaker, America is experiencing a gun violence epidemic, both in mass shootings and everyday gun violence.

More and more of our fellow Americans have to deal with mental health and physical injury in the aftermath of shootings. In many cases, they come out of the hospital with long-lasting disabilities.

The residents in my hometown of Philadelphia have become much too familiar with gun violence. In a poll taken 6 months ago, two-thirds of residents reported having heard gunshots in their neighborhoods.

Over Memorial Day weekend alone, 32 people were shot in Philadelphia. Seven of them died, including a 16-year-old boy. Those 32 families are changed forever.

The toll of gun violence on the victims is enormous. It is emotional, mental, and financial. It is not just borne by those who are shot but also by family and friends, as well as witnesses, first responders, and countless others.

I believe in prevention. That is why I signed the discharge petitions for the three gun safety bills. I also believe in helping those who have already been affected.

We are becoming a nation of victims and survivors. As a country, we must not forget those who are struggling in the aftermath of gun violence. That is why I, along with Senator Casey, introduced the Resources for Victims of Gun Violence Act, H.R. 3962. This bill would create a council to assess the resources that are available and determine how we can ensure victims are getting the assistance they need.

It is important for all of us to realize that this affects everyone, that we must address this question of violence and must not take it for granted. It can affect any family throughout this Nation, and it is important that we do all that we can to send a message that this is just not acceptable.

Surely, we all agree on helping victims of crimes. The time to help victims is now. We must help victims. We must send a message that this is unacceptable, no matter where we live, no matter where we are, no matter where in this Nation.

For the victims who are being affected, we must rise up and send a message that this behavior is no longer accepted. It will take us all working together to make a difference.

I share with you, Madam Speaker, that it is important during this moment, like never before, that we come together and focus. No matter what city, no matter what State, no matter where in the United States, it is unacceptable.

Mr. Speaker, this bill is not about addressing fraud. My home State of Pennsylvania is already fighting fraud with the American Rescue Plan funds that support new positions at American Job Centers.

This bill targets innocent workers who have no idea that their State made mistakes in paying their unemployment benefits.

This bill targets innocent workers whose emergency benefits kept their households afloat.

The bill targets innocent workers who went back to work as soon as they could and often for lower pay.

I urge my colleagues to let States focus on real fraud and protect innocent workers by voting against this bill.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Miraculous Medal Shrine, a Marian devotional destination and ministry of the Vincentians of the Eastern Province in the Germantown section of Philadelphia, as it has been elevated by the Vatican to Minor Basilica status. This designation is shared by only one other church in the City of Philadelphia, the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, and 91 others across the United States. The Shrine, along with the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception that houses it, are now known as The Basilica Shrine of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal.

The new designation follows a multiyear application that culminated in a decree issued by Pope Francis. The Shrine is now promoted as an exemplary site of liturgical and pastoral activity within the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. Minor Basilicas are given prominence among other churches and shrines, receive certain honorifics, and are tasked with special responsibilities.

The Basilica Shrine of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal, a ministry of the Vincentians of the Eastern Province of the United States, is a sanctuary of prayer and an inspiration of Marian devotion for Roman Catholics throughout the world. Established in 1927 on the grounds of Saint Vincent's Seminary in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the Shrine, and the Romanesque church that houses it were elevated to a Minor Basilica by the Vatican in 2023.

Visitors come to the Basilica Shrine daily for Holy Mass, solemn prayer and meditation, and pilgrimage to God and the Blessed Virgin Mary, while beholding its breathtaking artwork, sculptures, stained glass, altars and architecture. The Basilica Shrine is also home to the Perpetual Novena, a prayer of devotion to Our Lady recited in person.

It is indeed an honor to have such a prestigious decree bestowed upon one of Philadelphia's faith based institutions.

Mr. Speaker, I rise and strongly oppose this bill. It would hurt families. It would hurt seniors. It would hurt workers. We must uphold rather than undermine our country's strong economic recovery and standing.

We are here to govern. That means paying for what Congress has already approved. We cannot default on the national debt. The only way forward is to cleanly raise the debt ceiling.

I am saying to you, Mr. Speaker, we are ready. We need to raise the debt.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Jack and Jill of America, Inc. in celebration of the 85th Anniversary of the organization's founding. Jack and Jill of America is a service organization of mothers dedicated to empowering African American children and families, ensuring they have the knowledge and resources to grow into young leaders. Jack and Jill of America Inc. was founded in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania on January 24, 1938 by Marion Turner Stubbs Thomas with an idea conceived by Louise Truitt Jackson Dench to nurture and develop African American children. Joined by a trailblazing group of several other African American mothers, they overcame the challenges of racism and the Great Depression by uniting to provide their children with enriching experiences, activities, and friendships. Throughout the past 85 years, Jack and Jill of America has considerably expanded, currently consisting of 262 chapters organized in 7 regions across the United States and a membership of more than 17,000 mothers. Accordingly, Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated is regarded as the largest and most prominent African American family organization representing over 40,000 family members nationwide including mothers, fathers, and children ages 2 through 19. Commemorative events will be held in Washington, D.C. January 27, 2023, through January 29, 2023 with the theme, ``Tell Them We Are Still Rising.''

The 3rd Congressional District of Pennsylvania extends congratulations to Jack and Jill of America, Inc. for their commitment to shaping the lives of African American children for 85 years in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and throughout the United States.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong opposition to this legislation that will cut major investments in the IRS that will help American taxpayers receive the benefits they have earned. It is important.

This tax cheat act would gut IRS funding to protect Republicans' wealthy corporate investors. It is important to understand that I urge my colleagues to reject the Republican tax cheat act.

It is important because this is politics above people. The reality is this is not about people. This is really all about politics.

I thank Mr. Neal, who led this effort through the Ways and Means Committee, and colleagues who fought for the importance of investment in the IRS.

Mr. Speaker, I stand today to encourage people to say ``no.''