Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Associated Builders & Contractors Florida East Coast and the Associated Builders & Contractors Institute (ABCI), which are both based in my District and provide not only my constituents but all of South Florida, the Treasure Coast, and some of the Space Coast with construction workforce. This week is National Apprenticeship Week, and recently, I had the opportunity to visit ABC Florida East Coast and ABCI to see first-hand the apprenticeship education program provided to my constituents in seven high-demand fields in construction.

ABCI is Florida's single largest apprenticeship provider out of hundreds of apprenticeship programs. More than 800 students are enrolled at ABCI, benefiting from state laws that keep education tuition-free and guarantee progressive wages. ABCI provides robust job placement services, helping students secure employment before completion and during their education journeys.

ABCI programs are accredited by the National Center for Construction Education and Research, ensuring apprentices graduate with credentials recognized nationwide. Today in South Florida, there is much growth in population and commercial construction; the industry-driven curriculum is critical and is designed in collaboration with top industry leaders, so therefore, ABCI's programs meet the ever-evolving needs of the construction sector, producing highly skilled, growth-ready graduates.

As we commemorate National Apprenticeship Week, I'd like to once again recognize the Associated Builders & Contractors and ABCI for the positive impact apprentices have on the South Florida and American economies. ABCI's role in preparing the next generation of skilled workers is a testament to that success.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate Jackie Railey of Coconut Creek, Florida, for her many years of dedicated service to the Wynmoor community and the broader Coconut Creek area. Jackie's commitment to public service has greatly enriched the lives of her neighbors, and her continued leadership has strengthened the entire community.

In addition to her longstanding contributions to Wynmoor, Jackie Railey has served as a Coconut Creek City Commissioner, where her dedication to the public good has made a profound difference in the lives of our residents. Throughout her tenure on the City Commission, Jackie has been an advocate for responsible governance, fostering transparency and responsiveness to the needs of the people. Her role as a commissioner has been marked by her focus on community engagement, environmental sustainability, and maintaining Coconut Creek's high quality of life.

Jackie is the President of the Wynmoor Community Council, President and Council Representative for Martinique III Village Condominium Association, and Special Events Vice President of the Wynmoor Golf Association. Jackie's service to Wynmoor spans many years, during which she has taken on a wide range of roles, from advocating for improved amenities and recreational spaces to leading social programs that bring residents together. Her initiatives have fostered a sense of unity within the community and have enriched the lives of all who call Wynmoor home. As a City Commissioner and a devoted community volunteer, Jackie has shown exceptional leadership, integrity, and commitment to her consituents. Her legacy of service is an inspiration to all who work alongside her.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Jackie Railey's invaluable contributions to the community. Her years of service as a City Commissioner and community leader have left an indelible mark, and we are deeply grateful for her unwavering dedication. I thank Jackie Railey for her exceptional commitment to our community and look forward to the lasting impact of her work.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Coral Springs Commissioner Joy Carter, retiring after a decade of dedicated service to our community. Commissioner Carter's tenure has been marked by her unwavering commitment, passion for public service, and dedication to the wellbeing of the residents of Coral Springs.

Commissioner Carter was first elected to the Coral Springs Commission in 2014, and over the to past 10 years, she has been a steadfast advocate for her constituents. Her commitment to the community has been evident in her efforts to enhance public safety, support economic development, and maintain the high quality of life that Coral Springs residents cherish. She has played a pivotal role in numerous initiatives that have strengthened the city and enriched the lives of those who call it home.

Throughout her tenure, Commissioner Carter demonstrated a unique ability to listen to the concerns of the residents, always putting the needs of the community first. Her approachability and genuine care for her constituents have made her a beloved figure in Coral Springs. Commissioner Carter has been a champion for community engagement, ensuring that all voices are heard and that the needs of residents are addressed in every decision made by the commission. Commissioner Carter has nearly 40 years of community service and volunteer support for many organizations across the city and Broward County. This year, the Florida League of Cities recently recognized her with the Home Rule Hero Award for her advocacy during the 2024 legislative session.

Commissioner Carter's leadership extended to her involvement in numerous projects focused on sustainability, infrastructure improvements, and public health. Her contributions to the local economy through supporting small businesses and economic initiatives left a lasting impact. Furthermore, her dedication to preserving the city's parks and recreational facilities has provided invaluable benefits to families and young people across Coral Springs.

As we celebrate Commissioner Carter's retirement from the Coral Springs Commission, we celebrate her achievements and the integrity and compassion she brought to her role Her legacy will continue to inspire future leaders in Coral Springs and beyond. Her presence on the Coral Springs Commission will be greatly missed, but her impact will be felt for years to come.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating Commissioner Joy Carter's well-deserved retirement and expressing our deepest gratitude for her many years of remarkable service. We wish Commissioner Carter and her family all the best in the years ahead.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize the distinguished careers and retirements of two exceptional public servants from Parkland, Florida: Commissioner Bob Mayersohn and Commissioner Ken Cutler. Together, they have dedicated years of service to improving the lives of Parkland's residents and have left an indelible mark on the community.

Commissioner Bob Mayersohn was elected to the Parkland City Commission in 2016. Before being elected to office, he served as the Parkland Education Advisory Board Chair and a Planning and Zoning Advisory Board member. He also served as the President and has continued to be a board member since the inception in 2002 of the beloved Parkland Buddy Sports program. Bob played an instrumental role in the start of this successful program that continued to focus on children and young adults with special needs and volunteer opportunities for teens in the city. In addition to a list of his involvement in community services, he was the President of the Broward League of Cities, working with 31 cities and municipalities throughout the county to resolve problems affecting day-to-day municipal operations, including county, state, and federal legislation. Commissioner Mayersohn's vision and compassion will be felt in Parkland for generations, and his retirement marks the conclusion of a career defined by integrity and service.

Commissioner Ken Cutler was elected to the Parkland Commission in 2016. Years prior, he began his activism by joining the Parkland Friends of the Library and encouraged the Commission to build a new library in the city. His devotion to the Library Building Committee was instrumental in moving to the new library building and expanding through the ``Pave the Way to Reading'' program, which led to the beautiful library we have today. Ken also led diverse community partnership programs with the Parkland Historical Society, which later brought the history of Parkland to light. His research discovered more about ``Holmberg'' of Parkland's Holmberg Road and recovered artifacts taken from Parkland's Margate Blount Archaeological Site, which brought the city's history back to the community. He distinguishably served Parkland, consistently demonstrating a commitment to transparency, fairness, and civic engagement. Commissioner Cutler's leadership will be greatly missed, but his legacy of thoughtful governance will always endure.

Together, Commissioners Mayersohn and Cutler have been dedicated leaders committed to enhancing the quality of life in Parkland through their tireless work on public safety, education, and community well- being. Their leadership was especially critical in the wake of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School tragedy, where they worked diligently to support the community and advocate for more robust safety measures and mental health awareness. Both Commissioners have dedicated countless hours to making Parkland a safer and more vibrant community. Their retirements mark the end of two illustrious careers in public service, and their contributions will continue to inspire future generations of civic leaders.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Commissioners Bob Mayersohn and Ken Cutler on their well-deserved retirements and expressing our deepest gratitude for their many years of exemplary service. We wish them and their families all the best in the years ahead.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 202nd Anniversary of Brazilian Independence.

On September 7, 2024, Brazil celebrated the 202nd anniversary of its independence, marking over two centuries since it declared freedom from Portuguese rule in 1822. This day highlights Brazil's rich cultural heritage, storied history, and enduring pursuit of sovereignty and liberty. As a regional leader in South America, Brazil continues to be an ally and economic partner, demonstrating leadership in promoting democratic values throughout the region.

Brazilian immigrants, with their vibrant spirit, warmth, and countless contributions, are not just a part of our cultural landscape but the architects of a more diverse and enriched American society. Their rich music, dance, and cuisine traditions, combined with their entrepreneurial drive, have significantly shaped our Nation, fostering greater understanding, unity, and community connections.

Mr. Speaker, please join me in extending warm wishes for a joyous Brazilian Independence Day filled with pride and celebration. May this occasion inspire continued collaboration and success between our nations.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ms. Carol B. Dover, the 2024 inductee into the Florida Tourism Hall of Fame. Since 2001, this honor has been awarded annually to figures whose vision has positively and significantly impacted the development of Florida's tourism industry.

Since 1995, Ms. Dover has served as President and Chief Executive Officer of the more than 10,000-member Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association (FRLA). In 1989, Ms. Dover was appointed Deputy Chief of Staff within the Executive Office of the Governor. She was also the first woman to serve as Chief of the Bureau of Fire Prevention in the Florida State Fire Marshall's Office. In her capacity with the FRLA, Ms. Dover has Worked to expand and fund the Florida Horse Park, a key addition to Florida's rapidly growing equestrian industry.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Ms. Dover worked tirelessly to ensure governmental support for and the continual operation of Florida's tourism industry. She was a key advocate in relocating the FRLA Headquarters to Tallahassee, strengthening the relationship between Florida restaurants and policymakers. Furthermore, as a cancer survivor, Ms. Dover has served as an advocate for research and awareness.

Mr. Speaker, I invite you to join me in honoring Ms. Carol B. Dover as she is inducted into the Florida Tourism Hall of Fame.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to reflect and honor Mr. Stanley Graham Tate, a champion of real estate, business, and education in Florida, who sadly passed away at the age of 96 on July 26, 2024.

Mr. Tate was not just a real estate mogul, but a visionary whose successful ventures transformed the real estate landscape, particularly in Miami Beach. His entrepreneurial spirit continues to inspire us all. In addition to his real estate career, Mr. Tate's business acumen was instrumental during a crucial period when the government needed his skills. As the Southeast Regional Director of The Resolution Trust Corporation, a federal agency established to address the Savings and Loans financial crisis, Mr. Tate's invaluable contributions helped the United States overcome these financial challenges.

One of Mr. Tate's greatest legacies is the creation of the Stanley G. Tate Florida Prepaid College Program. This program, founded in 1987, has been a beacon of hope for countless students in Florida, providing them with the opportunity to pursue higher education. Mr. Tate's foresight and dedication to educational equality have been invaluable to the community, and his legacy lives on in the lives of the students who have benefited from his college savings plan.

Mr. Speaker, please join me in commemorating Mr. Stanley Graham Tate's life and legacy. His achievements will undoubtedly be cherished by the numerous lives he has impacted, and he will be dearly missed.

Mr. Speaker, had I been present, I would have voted: YEA on Roll Call No. 346 (Dem Motion to Table on H. Res. 1344--Merrick Garland Contempt), and YEA on Roll Call No. 347 (Dem Motion to Refer to the Rules Committee on H. Res. 1344--Merrick Garland Contempt).

Mr. Speaker, had I been present, I would have voted NAY on Roll Call No. 348 (Huizenga: amendment No. 1); NAY on Roll Call No. 349 (Self: amendment No. 3); NAY on Roll Call No. 350 (Jackson (TX): amendment No. 4); YEA on Roll Call No. 351 (MTR to H.R. 8772--Leg Branch Appropriations); NAY on Roll Call No. 352 (Final Passage to H.R. 8772--Leg Branch Appropriations); NAY on Roll Call No. 353 (Adoption of H. Res. 1344--Merrick Garland Contempt); NAY on Roll Call No. 354 (On passage of H.J. Res. 165); and YEA on Roll Call No. 355 (On Passage of H.J. Res. 109, the objections of the President to the contrary notwithstanding).

Mr. Speaker, unfortunately, I had to miss votes on July 8, 2024.

Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 336, and YEA on Roll Call No. 337.

Mr. Speaker, unfortunately, I had to miss votes on July 9, 2024. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY on Roll Call No. 338; NAY on Roll Call No. 339; YEA on Roll Call No. 340; NAY on Roll Call No. 341; YEA on Roll Call No. 342; and NAY on Roll Call No. 343.

Mr. Chair, I have an amendment at the desk.

Mr. Chair, I rise today to speak in support of my amendment to the State-Foreign Operations appropriations bill for fiscal year 2025 limiting the use of unverified statistics from the Gaza Ministry of Health. I reserve the balance of my time.

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

Mr. Chair, my amendment does not deny the tragedy that is going on in Gaza due to Hamas' horrific attack on Israel on October 7, but at the end of the day, the Gaza Ministry of Health is the Hamas Ministry of Health.

The idea that the United States Government would rely on a terrorist organization for statistics, for data that is being utilized, there are better ways to do this. We could work with our international partners and the U.N.

By the way, the U.N., which was relying on Hamas, the Gaza Ministry of Health, if you will, lowered their numbers just a couple weeks ago by a significant amount, thousands, in fact. I believe that the United States should stop relying on a terrorist organization for information.

Remember, it is Hamas' goal to sell propaganda to the American people, to sell propaganda to the world, and the idea that we would participate in it because there are no other credible sources--Hamas is not a credible source. Since when is Hamas credible?

Mr. Chair, I thank my colleagues, Representatives Wilson of South Carolina, Lawler, Gottheimer, and Miller of West Virginia, for supporting my amendment.

As I have said, this amendment will prohibit the State Department from using unverified statistics provided by Hamas-run Gaza Ministry of Health. I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on this bipartisan amendment, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ms. Melanie Morales, the recipient of the 2024 Goldwater Scholarship.

The Barry Goldwater Scholarship Foundation annually awards sophomores and juniors in college who have demonstrated an elevated skillset in mathematics, engineering, and science. It is awarded to students to encourage and contribute to their professional endeavors, aiming to bolster the capabilities and quality of U.S. professionals in these fields. Previous scholarship recipients have pursued careers where they have contributed to improving our Nation's well-being.

Mr. Speaker, please join me in recognizing Ms. Melanie Morales for her academic dedication to mathematics, science, and engineering.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Christian Pena, the recipient of the 2024 Goldwater Scholarship.

The Barry Goldwater Scholarship Foundation annually awards sophomores and juniors in college who have demonstrated an elevated skillset in mathematics, engineering, and science. It is awarded to students to encourage and contribute to their professional endeavors, aiming to bolster the capabilities and quality of U.S. professionals in these fields. Previous scholarship recipients have pursued careers where they have contributed to improving our Nation's well-being.

Mr Speaker, please join me in recognizing Mr. Christian Pena for his academic dedication to mathematics, science, and engineering.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to underscore the significance of the 2024 Honorees of the Broward House Senior Hall of Fame, an esteemed recognition administered by the Area Agency on Aging of Broward County.

The Area Agency on Aging Broward County, a pivotal organization in our community, provides essential services to the county's senior residents. It is part of a state network of 11 different Area Agencies of Aging in Florida, each with unique service and planning areas.

The Broward Senior Hall of Fame comprises seniors 60 and older who have performed outstanding volunteer work in Broward County for five or more years. This year's honorees include Odessa Striggles Bennett, Elizabeth Robinson Massey, Lori Green, Betty Miller, Carolyn Hardy, John Raite, Dr. Jorge Lopez, Joy Rodenberg, Rosena Lott, and Paul Sallarulo.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of Florida's 23rd Congressional District, please join me in celebrating these individuals on this momentous occasion.