Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding commitment of Ridgway, Pennsylvania, volunteer fireman Philip Regulski.

Mr. Regulski has tirelessly served the Ridgway Fire Department for over 65 years.

Starting in March of 1959, Mr. Regulski has served as the department treasurer, sat on the Ridgway Fire Department Board of Directors, was the representative of the Tri-County Firemen's Association, and enjoyed volunteering at the department's Tuesday-night bingo.

As a former volunteer firefighter, I understand how important Mr. Regulski's service to the community has been and how much of an impact he has had on so many people's lives.

Mr. Speaker, once again, I thank and congratulate Mr. Regulski on his 65 years of service to the community of Ridgway and the 15th Congressional District of Pennsylvania. I am proud to represent such incredible leaders and public servants like Mr. Regulski. I wish him all the best in his retirement.

Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (S. 759) to authorize the National Detector Dog Training Center, and for other purposes.

Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on S. 759.

Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to be here to support this bill that we are now debating regarding the National Detector Dog Training Center.

This training center serves as an important line of defense in safeguarding America's agricultural and natural resources from harmful pests and diseases. The center in Georgia trains dogs and their handlers to detect prohibited agricultural items like fruits, vegetables, and meats.

These dogs and their handlers then serve at many of our border entry points to prevent such prohibited items from coming into our country and spreading dangerous pests and animal diseases that would have just devastating impacts on our domestic production, actually impacting our ability to feed ourselves, resulting in food insecurity, which affects national security.

While this bill simply codifies the training center that has been in existence since 1984, I am glad to see the center receive the recognition and prioritization it deserves.

I am happy to support this legislation that has been supported by Mr. Sanford Bishop. I also appreciate Representative Ferguson's leadership on this bill in bringing it to the floor. I thank him for his service to Georgia's Third Congressional District.

Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Ferguson).

Mr. Speaker, once again, I am just very appreciative to all of the Members who provided the leadership on this piece of legislation. I think when folks hear the name of this bill, they wonder why Congress is dealing with this.

I mean, I kind of like the name actually, Beagle Brigade Act of 2023, but it is not a laughing matter. It is a serious matter. I appreciate the thought that it has and the due diligence that has been put into this bill and the construct of it in terms of really meeting the needs of our Nation.

I mean, it is worth repeating, the bill would officially authorize the existing National Detector Dog Training Center located in Newnan, Georgia. The center trains detector dogs, mostly beagles--not all beagles, but mostly beagles--and their U.S. Customs and Border Protection handlers to detect prohibited agriculture items like fruits and vegetables and meats that could carry foreign plant and animal pest and disease into the United States.

Once that happens, how rapidly those could spread can obviously seriously

impact commodities within the United States and our agriculture industry, and quite frankly, the health and safety of our citizens.

Dogs and their handlers inspect international passenger baggage, mailed packages, and vehicles entering the U.S. The dogs are selected from animal shelters, rescue groups, and private owners. Those that do not complete the training, as well as retirement-aged, trained dogs are offered for private adoptions. The dogs are well cared for from beginning to end.

The bill would also require the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, or APHIS, to prepare a report to Congress no later than 1 year after the date of enactment, including a description of current and emerging pest and disease threats, the role of the center in protecting against those threats, and any recommendations for strengthening that role and the overall center.

As you can see, Mr. Speaker, it is a well-thought-out, comprehensive bill that is, I think, of strategic importance to our Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, once again, I thank those who put this bill forward. I think this example of this piece of legislation illustrates why it is commonly said that a dog is a man's best friend. It really fills an incredible niche here.

Mr. Speaker, I urge a ``yes'' vote on this bill, and I yield back balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the dedicated service of several of my colleagues. Throughout my time in Congress, I have had the opportunity to work with many great minds on both sides of the aisle.

A life dedicated to public service isn't necessarily easy, but it is essential to ensuring the continued prosperity of our great Nation.

When I first entered Congress, I became friends with classmate Representative Bill Posey, a gentleman from the great State of Florida. His leadership on issues like economic growth, space exploration, and government transparency has a lasting impact. As a steadfast advocate for fiscal responsibility, he has worked tirelessly to ensure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely and that the voices of everyday Americans are heard loud and clear.

We are incredibly grateful for his efforts to champion our space program and support the innovators who keep America at the forefront of exploration and discovery. His work has been instrumental in strengthening our leadership in space exploration, a source of pride for all Floridians and Americans alike.

As important is the fact that, from day one, Bill's wife, Katie, and my wife, Penny, became best friends. We wish them both all the best as they start their next chapter in sunny Florida, a chapter I am sure will include a few visits by the Thompsons.

During my first term in Congress, I had the pleasure of getting to know another classmate, Blaine Luetkemeyer of Missouri. His work on financial reform and advocacy for small businesses has been particularly impactful. He has championed the entrepreneurs and hardworking Americans who drive our economy forward, ensuring that they have the resources and opportunities to thrive.

Whether it was standing up for Main Street or leading efforts to cut necessary red tape, Representative Luetkemeyer has always been a champion of commonsense legislation in Washington.

Best wishes to Blaine, his wife, Jackie, and all those grandchildren.

In addition to my previously mentioned colleagues, I have gotten to know Representative McMorris Rodgers of Washington. Her leadership is undeniable.

Representative McMorris Rodgers has served as both vice chair and chair of the House Republican Conference and was the first woman to chair the House Energy and Commerce Committee.

Her commitment to energy independence, innovation, and economic growth has paved the way for a stronger and more secure future. Her dedication to improving access to healthcare, particularly for those living in rural areas, has made a real difference in the lives of countless families.

I also have to say that Cathy has been a prayer warrior in Washington, D.C., both in Bible studies and, quite frankly, even just circling the Capitol in prayer.

As the 118th Congress comes to a close, I reflect on my colleagues' dedication, hard work, and the positive changes that they have helped bring about.

Madam Speaker, I thank Representatives Posey, Luetkemeyer, and McMorris Rodgers for their years of public service and commitment to improving our country.

They all will be missed.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding achievement of Penn State University football player, lifelong Pennsylvanian, and starting center, Nick Dawkins.

Nick recently won the Allstate Wuerffel Trophy, college football's premier award for community service.

Every year, this trophy is given to one player across the country who combines exemplary community service with leadership achievements on and off the field.

Throughout his time at Penn State, Nick took great pride in founding the Dawkins Family Foundation. His foundation has hosted back-to-school supply drives, organized Christmas present donations, and continues to support and provide for children and families throughout the Pennsylvania community.

On the field, Dawkins was named team captain and continues to have an outstanding season, helping the Nittany Lions secure a home football game in the college football playoffs. He is a vocal leader who picks up and supports those around him, both teammates and coaches.

Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Nick on this outstanding achievement and wish him and the rest of the Penn State Nittany Lions good luck this weekend as they host their first college football game in Beaver Stadium.

We are.

Madam Speaker, I am honored to stand here today to express my gratitude to Chairman Burgess for his years of dedicated service to our country.

Dr. Burgess has maintained an unwavering commitment to public service, and his steadfast leadership has been a guiding light for many.

As both a skilled legislator and a respected physician, he has worked tirelessly to improve healthcare access and affordability. Blending his expertise with compassion, he has shaped policies that make a real difference in people's lives.

During the debate on the Affordable Care Act, Congressman Burgess brought critical insights from his time before Congress.

Given both of our backgrounds in health care prior to coming to Congress, I can tell you firsthand that his efforts to prioritize patient-centered care and strengthen our medical systems will leave a lasting legacy for future generations.

Chairman Burgess has set a high standard for public service--one rooted in integrity, hard work, and a deep belief in the values that make our Nation strong.

Madam Speaker, I would like to thank and congratulate Chairman Burgess for his 22-year career of dedicated public service.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize

the 233rd anniversary of the ratification of the Bill of Rights.

Yesterday, we celebrated Bill of Rights Day, a day that highlights a cornerstone for our democracy.

Bill of Rights Day was established in 1941, when President Franklin Delano Roosevelt issued a proclamation referring to the document as: ``The great American charter of personal liberty and human dignity.''

Each year, on December 15, this day is used as an opportunity to reflect on the rights enshrined in our Constitution's first 10 amendments. Classrooms across the Nation use this day as an educational opportunity to further stress the importance of these rights to our Nation's young people.

The Bill of Rights was born out of a fierce debate between the Federalists and the anti-Federalists during the founding of our Republic. The Constitution itself laid the foundation for governance, but it was the Bill of Rights that ensured that government would always serve the people.

The Bill of Rights includes some of our Nation's most precious rights, including: freedom of speech, press, religion, assembly, petition, equal protection under the law, and limitations on the role of the Federal Government, just to name a few.

The Bill of Rights also reminds us of something deeper. Our unity as a Nation stems from our diversity of thought, belief, and expression. We may not always agree, but these rights ensure that every voice can be heard, every faith can be practiced, and every dream can be pursued.

This year marked the 233rd anniversary since the ratification of the Bill of Rights. Now, many years later, these rights are just as important as they were when our Founding Fathers penned them.

Let us honor the wisdom of our Founders and the sacrifices of countless Americans who have fought to uphold these freedoms.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the Nittany Leathernecks' contribution to Christmas throughout the Commonwealth.

The Nittany Leathernecks Detachment of the Marine Corps League is a community service organization composed of active, retired, and former marines.

Since 1947, the mission of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program has been to collect new, unwrapped toys during October, November, and December each year and to distribute them as Christmas gifts to less-fortunate children in the community.

The Nittany Leathernecks Detachment coordinates Toys for Tots for Centre County. The detachment works with the Centre County Adult Services office, which coordinates with seven Centre County food pantries to identify needy children and distribute toys.

The Nittany Leathernecks campaign annually provides a Christmas gift experience to over 9,000 children.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the selfless marines for their service to our country and their dedication to uplifting our communities. I wish them a merry Christmas.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the National Guard's 388th birthday.

Since its founding on December 13, 1636, in the Massachusetts Bay Colony, the National Guard has exemplified the spirit of citizen- soldiers, ordinary men and women answering the extraordinary call to serve their country and their communities.

For nearly four centuries, the National Guard has been there in times of war and peace, disaster and recovery, and every moment in between.

The National Guard is a symbol of America's best, a team of teachers, doctors, engineers, and everyday citizens, all soldiers, who are willing to sacrifice their lives to protect ours.

Mr. Speaker, today, we honor the men and women who have worn the uniform of the National Guard, past and present. We salute their courage, their sacrifice, and their unwavering commitment to duty. We reaffirm our gratitude for their families, who stand beside them at every challenge and sacrifice.

Let us commit to supporting these brave individuals as they continue to protect and serve, ensuring that the National Guard remains a shining example of what it means to be a citizen and a patriot.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 30th anniversary of the Pennsylvania State University crew team.

This past Saturday, the team celebrated 30 years of commitment to the sport of rowing, the Penn State community, and continued excellence in the classroom.

Chartered in December 1994 by Coaches Colin Upson and Mike Dugan, the Penn State crew team began with 28 members and a concerning absence of rowing equipment.

Due to its lack of equipment and support, the team mainly trained on land, completing dry-land practices with the hope of a serious program guiding their efforts and passion.

The program's first full year, starting in the fall of 1995, consisted of fundraising efforts to purchase equipment. From selling concessions at home football games and cleaning Beaver Stadium, an eight-person used wooden boat was purchased.

In April of 1996, the team attended their first competition in Indianapolis where they joined the remainder of the Big Ten rowing teams at their conference championship.

Throughout the following seasons, from 1996 to 1998, the team's membership increased to over 100 male and female members. Most of this group consisted of novice rowers with little experience in a boat or on the water.

Expanded membership meant increased fundraising demands to keep up with the equipment needs. The large team numbers enabled the program to move into a bigger concession stand at Beaver Stadium, selling more clothing and food at all seven home games that season.

Thanks to the team's tireless fundraising efforts, their boat was finally paid off. By 1999, the club's annual budget was nearly $35,000, with $30,000 coming directly from team members' service to the community and fundraising efforts.

Over the following years, the program has swept podiums at national competitions and continues to excel both on the water and in the classroom.

In the fall of 2006, the men's four-man boat's 4th place finish at Head Of The Charles and women's four-man boat's 2nd place finish highlighted a successful season in addition to a strong recruiting class for both the varsity and the novice teams.

Thirty years later, the team is still committed to its original mission, following in the steps of its founders, Colin Upson and Mike Dugan.

Today, the complete fleet of boats now rests on trailers behind Beaver Stadium, near the humble beginnings of service upon which this program was built.

On any given day, you can find current team members waking up at 5:15 to complete dry-land workouts like their founders did years ago.

Thanks to the tireless efforts of its original members, the Pennsylvania State University crew team successfully maintains male and female competitive programs for novices, lightweights, and heavyweights.

The team remains committed to creating boats capable of competing at the highest possible levels and strives to actively promote the sport of rowing within the Penn State and Pennsylvania communities.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize such an incredible program filled with so many passionate students and coaches. I congratulate them on 30 years and wish them the best of luck in their spring season as they continue representing the Pennsylvania State University, Penn State.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the Bellefonte Area High School's Concert Choir milestone event, performing ahead of the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall.

On Monday, December 16, 32 students from Bellefonte Area High School will take the stage as the opening act for the Rockettes' Radio City Christmas Spectacular in New York City.

The Bellefonte Area High School Concert Choir was selected to participate in Radio City's ``Sounds of Christmas Experience,'' a program that allows groups to apply to perform as openers for the Christmas Spectacular.

For their 5-minute holiday-themed a cappella performance, BAHS will perform two pieces: ``Noel Nouvelet,'' a setting of a French carol, and a vocal jazz setting of ``It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year.''

Mr. Speaker, the Rockettes' Radio City Christmas Spectacular is a cherished tradition that brings the spirit of Christmas to life for audiences from around the world.

Congratulations to the Bellefonte Area High School Concert Choir for their dedication, hard work, and their contributions to the iconic Christmas Spectacular.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize our Nation's hardworking and dedicated farmers, ranchers, and other producers.

In 1978, radio broadcaster Paul Harvey addressed the Future Farmers of America at their annual convention and delivered a powerful message that highlighted the importance of our Nation's farmers.

He said:

And on the 8th day, God looked down on his planned paradise

and said: I need a caretaker.

So God made a farmer.

God said: I need somebody willing to get up before dawn, milk

cows, work all day in the fields, milk cows again, eat

supper, then go to town and stay past midnight at a

meeting of the school board.

So God made a farmer.

God said: I need somebody with arms strong enough to rustle a

calf and yet gentle enough to deliver his own

grandchild; somebody to call hogs, tame cantankerous

machinery, come home hungry, have to wait lunch until

his wife is done feeding visiting ladies, then tell the

ladies to be sure and come back real soon and mean it.

So God made a farmer.

God said: I need somebody willing to sit up all night with a

newborn colt and watch it die, then dry his eyes and

say: Maybe next year. I need somebody who can shape an

ax handle from a persimmon sprout, shoe a horse with a

hunk of car tire, who can make a harness out of

haywire, feed sacks, and shoe scraps; who, planting

time and

harvest season, will finish his 40-hour week by Tuesday

noon and then painin' from tractor back, put in another

72 hours.

So God made a farmer.

God had to have somebody willing to ride the ruts at double

speed to get the hay in ahead of the rain clouds and

yet stop in midfield and race to help when he sees the

first smoke from a neighbor's place.

So God made a farmer.

God said: I need somebody strong enough to clear trees and

heave bales, yet gentle enough to tame lambs and wean

pigs and tend the pink-combed pullets, who will stop

his mower for an hour to splint the broken leg of a

meadow lark.

It had to be somebody who would plow deep and straight and

not cut corners; somebody to seed, weed, feed, breed,

and rake and disc and plow and plant, and tie the

fleece and strain the milk and replenish the self-

feeders and finish the hard week's work with a 5-mile

drive to church; somebody who would bale a family

together with the soft, strong bonds of sharing, who

would laugh, and then sigh, and then reply, with

smiling eyes, when his son says that he wants to spend

his life ``doing what dad does.''

So God made a farmer.

Mr. Speaker, as chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture, it is my honor to advocate for their interests and ensure that they have certainty and stability for generations to come.

Even though Paul Harvey wrote these remarks about our Nation's farmers, it encompasses so much more than that. Our farmers, ranchers, foresters, and producers are essential in providing food, fiber, and fuel to our Nation and the world.

Mr. Speaker, food security is national security. As we head into the holiday season, I recognize and thank our Nation's producers for their contributions to our everyday lives.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate Computer Science Education Week.

Computer Science Education Week is a chance for students of all ages to learn about the importance and benefits of computer science and the endless professional opportunities that abound with a skills-based education.

In today's world, technology influences every sector: healthcare, agriculture, transportation, entertainment, and beyond.

Yet, many students are growing up without exposure to the foundational skills that power this innovation. Only about one-half of schools in the United States offer any kind of computer science coursework. That is a gap we cannot afford to ignore.

As co-chair of the bipartisan Career and Technical Education Caucus, I have been proud to work across the aisle to invest in cutting-edge CTE programming that, in many cases, now incorporates computer science courses.

Our Nation desperately needs skilled workers, and career and technical education is a win-win. It can offer rewarding professional futures for learners of all ages while closing the Nation's skill gap.

Mr. Speaker, as we celebrate Computer Science Education Week, we recognize the importance of equipping our young people with the skills they need to navigate and contribute to an increasingly digital world.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a very special tradition taking place this Saturday, December 14, 2024.

Every year, on the third Saturday of December, thousands of volunteers set out in a coordinated wreath-laying ceremony across the country and around the world. This ceremony is known as National Wreaths Across America Day.

In 1992, Morrill Worcester from Harrington, Maine, noticed he had an abundance of holiday wreaths and decided to take the opportunity to honor our country's fallen soldiers. After contacting his Senator, arrangements were made for the wreaths to be placed at Arlington in an older section of the cemetery.

This tradition would quietly continue until 2005 when a photo of the tombstones decorated with wreaths and covered with snow went viral. From there, this quiet annual tribute to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice transformed into a mission to remember, honor, and teach.

Since the viral photo, Wreaths Across America continues to grow. This Saturday, volunteers will lay wreaths at more than 2,500 locations in the United States, abroad, and at sea. This simple gesture is a way for all of us to express our appreciation during the holiday season.

Wreaths Across America is built on three guiding principles: remember, honor, and teach. Each of these principles carries profound meaning, reminding us of our responsibility to those who have given everything in defense of our freedoms.

First, we remember our fallen heroes.

Every name engraved on a headstone represents a life, a story of courage, dedication, and love for our great Nation. By laying a wreath at their final resting place, we say their name aloud, ensuring that they are never forgotten. It is a simple, yet powerful, act reminding us that freedom is not free. It is paid for by the men and women who answer the call of duty.

Second, we honor those who wear or have worn the uniform. Honoring our veterans is not limited to one day or one ceremony. It is a commitment we carry out throughout the year. We honor the courage of those who stood watch over our Nation, often in the face of incredible challenges. We also honor their families, who shared in their sacrifices and carried the weight of their absences.

Finally, we teach the next generation.

Wreaths Across America encourages us to pass these lessons on to the next generation. When we bring young people to participate, whether it is laying wreaths or hearing stories of service, we ensure that the values of duty, courage, and sacrifice are instilled in future leaders. These moments of connection are how we keep the memory of our veterans alive and ensure their contributions are not lost to time.

This past Saturday, what has become known as the country's longest veterans' parade, Wreaths Across America's annual Escort to Arlington, kicked off. The official route will travel down the East Coast stopping at schools, memorials, and other locations along the way to spread and to remember the fallen, honor those who serve, and teach the next generation the value of freedom.

Stops with public events will be held in Maine, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Washington, D.C., before arriving at Arlington National Cemetery on the morning of Saturday, December 14, National Wreaths Across America Day.

This pilgrimage to Arlington National Cemetery represents the very best of our Nation. More than 250,000 wreaths will be hauled by tractor-trailers to their destination.

Mr. Speaker, our veterans remind us that our freedom is not guaranteed, but it is paid for by our dedicated servicemembers. This small gesture is one of the many ways we can thank them for their service.

I also recognize the organizers, volunteers, and participants who make Wreaths Across America possible. Their dedication ensures that hundreds of thousands of veterans are remembered with dignity and respect.

Mr. Speaker, if you are interested in volunteering, please visit wreathsacrossamerica.org.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Penn Highlands DuBois for earning a Pathway to Excellence designation.

Penn Highlands DuBois has delivered expert health and wellness care to the central Pennsylvania region for nearly 125 years.

Recently, Penn Highlands DuBois received a Pathway to Excellence designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center. This prestigious status is a recognition held by fewer than 250 organizations nationwide and less than 25 in Pennsylvania.

The Pathway to Excellence designation is awarded to healthcare systems that create a healthy working environment where nurses feel empowered and valued.

To qualify for the designation, a hospital must demonstrate its commitment to the ANCC's six pathway standards. These standards include: shared decisionmaking, leadership, safety, quality, well- being, and professional development.

The healthcare industry, particularly in rural communities, has been affected by workforce shortages. When organizations like Penn Highlands DuBois strive to foster a better working environment, staff retention improves, and the whole community benefits.

Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Penn Highlands DuBois on the Pathways to Excellence designation and recognize its commitment to improving workplace satisfaction.

Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman Graves, Subcommittee Chairman Rouzer, and all the Members involved in crafting this bipartisan, bicameral agreement.

Mr. Speaker, this Water Resources Development Act stands to be successful and effective in addressing some of the critical infrastructure issues we face in central and western Pennsylvania.

For example, I am proud to have secured language stabilizing lock and dam operations along the Allegheny River. This watershed is critical to our Nation's domestic manufacturing, supporting barge traffic of raw materials, including steel, aggregates, and coal.

The navigation and ecosystem restoration project authorized by this legislation will help ensure the long-term viability of this economic corridor.

The Allegheny River has sorely needed dredging for several years to support both commercial and recreational traffic.

I am proud to have championed language in this legislation strengthening a provision from the previous WRDA to allow the Allegheny and other inland waterways to compete on a level playing field for a multiyear dredging demonstration program.

These dredging activities, in conjunction with the navigation and restoration analysis, present significant opportunities for growth and the continued success of the Allegheny.

I am also pleased to see language in this bill prioritizing levee recertification and restoration projects in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.

This levee system, first built and completed in 1955, is undergoing a recertification and accreditation process with FEMA and the Army Corps.

Unfortunately, many of the necessary studies and groundwork required to be completed by the Army Corps has been delayed, threatening completion of these critical projects. Language in this legislation ensures that these projects will be prioritized for completion.

Finally, Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to see the Economic Development Reauthorization Act included within this legislation. The local development districts representing the communities throughout Pennsylvania's 15th Congressional District do incredible work to build, strengthen, and revitalize our local economies in these rural areas.

This reauthorization incorporates several necessary updates, including reducing financial barriers for rural, small, and resource- challenged communities and allowing the EDA to invest in high-speed broadband, workforce development, and critical infrastructure gaps.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to support this bipartisan legislation before us today, and I encourage my colleagues to do the same.