Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, today I introduce the ``Manufacturing Partnership Improvement Act'' with Congressman Mark Pocan (D-Wl-02), co-chair of the Congressional Labor Caucus.

Our new bill would guarantee representation for labor unions, including those skilled trades with federally registered apprenticeship programs, on the National Advisory Board for the U.S. Department of Commerce's Manufacturing Extension Partnership Program. This public- private partnership has centers in all 50 states and Puerto Rico to support small and medium-sized manufacturers grow their businesses and train, hire, and retain a skilled workforce. Skilled union workers across the country are ready for these manufacturing jobs.

Under current law, the National Advisory Board's ten members must include one community college representative, five small business manufacturers, and two staff from the 51 Manufacturing Extension Partnership Centers nationwide. Our bill would reserve one of the two currently open seats for an industrial union representative on the National Advisory Board.

Our bill would also improve coordination between the national network of federally funded Manufacturing Extension Partnership Centers with the local offices of the Small Business Administration to help small manufacturers obtain federal financing and the International Trade Administration's U.S. Export Assistance Centers to better support small and medium-sized American manufacturers looking to export. Lastly, our bill supports the ongoing work of the Biden-Harris Administration's White House Task Force on Worker Organizing and Empowerment, which recommended in February 2022 that unions be represented on all federal advisory committees like the Advisory Board for the Commerce Department's Manufacturing Extension Partnership Program.

Mr. Speaker, Congress must bring good-paying, advanced manufacturing jobs back to the United States and rebuild the middle class by training the next generation of skilled American workers to compete in the 21st century. I urge all members of the House to join us in cosponsoring the ``Manufacturing Partnership Improvement Act.''

Mr. Speaker, I introduced the ``Public Inspectors for Safe Infrastructure Act'' (H.R. 3785) with U.S. Representatives Julia Brownley (D-CA) and Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX). Our bill builds upon the ``Safety, Efficiency, and Accountability in Transportation Projects Through Public Inspection Act of 2019,'' introduced by former Congressman Jose E. Serrano (D-NY).

The ``Public Inspectors for Safe Infrastructure Act'' would require construction inspections for federally funded highways to be conducted by public employees. Our bill would allow State or local transportation departments lacking sufficient inspectors to contract privately employed inspectors temporarily. Our bill ensures public safety by requiring that all federally funded bridges, tunnels, and roadways are inspected objectively and thoroughly under the highest safety standards. This work can and should be done by skilled, qualified inspectors employed by state and local departments of transportation.

From the delays in building the carpool bridge connecting the San Diego (405) and Costa Mesa (55) freeways to the series of issues that delayed the Bay Bridge, there are numerous examples where outsourcing inspection work to private contractors has undermined public safety, delayed projects, and contributed to cost overruns. Our bill seeks to avoid these potential conflicts of interest, while also mandating public disclosure of any private inspection contracts used by state and local transportation departments when public inspectors are unavailable.

Mr. Speaker, I encourage all Members to join us in cosponsoring the ``Public Inspectors for Safe Infrastructure Act.'' As a senior Democratic member of the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, I filed this bill as amendments to the House's 2015, 2020, and 2021 Highway Bills.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and commend the Vallejo Philippine Cultural Committee, upon the occasion of Pista Sa Nayon, the anniversary of the Philippines' proclamation of independence and a time to celebrate the rich culture and contributions of our Filipino-American community.

Each year, the hard work and dedication of the Vallejo Philippine Cultural Committee, a program of the Filipino Community of Solano County, makes the Pista Sa Nayon Festival possible. This meaningful celebration unites Solano County in appreciation of our Filipino- American community and is an opportunity to recognize the importance of their role throughout California's history.

Our Congressional District is fortunate to include the City of Vallejo, the most diverse city in our country. The Vallejo community alone is home to over 30,000 Filipino-Americans. From community leaders to healthcare professionals to educators, and beyond. the Filipino- American community is as remarkable and impactful as it is diverse. Today, and every day, we celebrate our Filipino-American neighbors and the vital role they play in enriching our community.

On behalf of the constituents of California's Eighth Congressional District, I would like to honor the Vallejo Philippine Cultural Committee as they celebrate Pista Sa Nayon and reassert my continued support and pride for our Filipino-American neighbors.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate President Thomas Cropper upon his retirement as President of the California State University Maritime Academy. Throughout President Cropper's illustrious career, his innovation and leadership provided critical support to both his community and our country.

President Cropper demonstrated his persevering and industrious spirit from a young age. He graduated from Iowa State University with a bachelor's degree in engineering operations, before receiving his commission from the Naval Reserve Officer Training Corps program in 1981. For over 30 years, President Cropper bravely served our country in the United States Navy. His critical leadership as the commanding officer of an F/A-18 squadron and as commander of the air wing aboard USS Nimitz was instrumental in strengthening our country's position in the international community and protecting Americans at home and abroad.

Following his selfless service in the Navy, President Cropper continued his commitment to supporting America's maritime priorities, as the 14th president of California State University Maritime Academy. For over a decade, President Cropper worked tirelessly to shepherd the Academy through a period of change and renewal. He spearheaded efforts to integrate the Academy with the broader maritime industry, the California State University System, and the communities of Solano County and Vallejo. His crucial contributions not only ushered the Academy into a new era of prosperity, but also undoubtedly improved the quality of life for its students.

President Cropper's genuine passion for service is characterized not only by his career in the Navy and at the Academy, but also by his proud involvement in multiple community organizations, including the San Francisco Marine Exchange, Vallejo Education Business Alliance, and Leadership Vallejo. Most recently, President Cropper was awarded the New Dawn Vallejo Agent of Change award and the Chamber of Commerce Spirit of Solano award for his crucial contributions to the Solano community.

While his presence at California State University Maritime Academy will surely be missed, President Cropper's years of service have undeniably enhanced the Solano County community and will continue to improve the lives of Californians for many years to come. I would like to express my sincere gratitude for President Cropper's dedication and commitment to service and wish him the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in appreciation of Miss Alyssa Dinh for her service to the people of California's Eighth Congressional District as a member of my staff. A native of California, Miss Dinh joined my office in October 2022, having served previously in the offices of Congressman Hoyer and Congressman Lowenthal. Her critical experience and knowledge made her a natural choice as Scheduler and Legislative Aide in my office.

The Scheduler is widely considered to be one of the most demanding positions in any Congressional office. From ensuring that I made votes on the House floor, joined Committee proceedings, or attended meetings with constituents and dignitaries. Miss Dinh's work each day ensured that I was able to carry out my duties as a Member of Congress.

In addition to serving as my Scheduler, Miss Dinh also served as my Legislative Aide, handling a critical legislative portfolio covering agriculture, animal welfare, and women's rights issues. In that role, she proved adept at ensuring my work in Congress comprehensively addressed the priorities and concerns of California communities. Miss Dinh quickly grew into the role and became an integral member of my DC, staff. Quite simply, her excellent work was essential in allowing me to effectively represent the constituents of California's Eighth Congressional District.

Miss Dinh has joined the Office of Congressman Hoyer, as an Executive Assistant. I and all the members of Team Garamendi wish her all the best in her new position. During her tenure on my staff, Miss Dinh approached her work with an attention to detail and the flexibility to solve challenges as they arise without complaint. These same qualities will serve her well in her future endeavors.

While we will miss her, we all look forward to what Miss Dinh will do next. She will remain a deeply valued member of Team Garamendi, always.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in appreciation of Miss Elle Ekman for her service to the people of California's Eighth Congressional District as a member of my staff. Miss Ekman joined my office in December 2021, having previously served our country in the U.S. Marine Corps. Her critical firsthand experience and knowledge of the needs of our servicemembers made her a natural choice as Military Legislative Assistant in my office.

The role of the Military Legislative Assistant is critical to my work serving on the U.S. House of Representatives Armed Services Committee. From developing innovative legislation to identifying the most pressing concerns facing our military, Miss Ekman's work each day ensured that I was able to effectively represent the brave men and women who put their lives on the line for our country.

As Military Legislative Assistant, Miss Ekman was instrumental in ensuring the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 addressed the critical issues facing our servicemembers, military families, and military installations. In this essential legislation, Miss Ekman helped advance over forty legislative priorities to enhance our military's readiness and resiliency. Miss Ekman was an integral member of my D.C. staff, and her excellent work will have a lasting impact on servicemembers across America.

Miss Ekman has joined the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology, as a Senior Research Analyst. I and all the members of Team Garamendi wish her all the best in her new position. During her tenure on my staff, Miss Ekman approached her work with an upbeat outlook, a demonstrated ability to think outside the box, and a passion for innovation. These same qualities will serve her well in her future endeavors.

While we will miss her, we all look forward to what Miss Ekman will do next. She will remain a deeply valued member of Team Garamendi, always.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in appreciation of Mr. Jacob Jernigan for his service to the people of California's Eighth Congressional District as a member of my staff. A native of California, Mr. Jernigan joined my office in 2018, playing a critical role in my office for over four years. Throughout his tenure, Mr. Jernigan demonstrated a sincere commitment to the people of California, serving as Outreach Manager and ultimately using his vast experience and knowledge to become a Legislative Assistant in my office.

By listening to community members, writing legislation, and advocating for constituents, Legislative Assistants are fundamental to ensuring the priorities and concerns of Americans are comprehensively addressed. Mr.

Jernigan handled a critical legislative portfolio that included education, labor rights, and housing and his dedicated work each day was essential in meeting the most pressing needs of California communities.

From helping secure critical funding for our communities to spearheading my office's efforts to revitalize America's workforce. Mr. Jernigan's endeavors undeniably improved the lives of Californians and helped provide them with the resources necessary to thrive. Mr. Jernigan's commitment to his responsibilities as Legislative Assistant was essential in allowing me to effectively represent the constituents of California's Eighth Congressional District.

Mr. Jernigan has joined the Office of Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur, as the Military Legislative Assistant. I and all the members of Team Garamendi wish him all the best in his new position. During his tenure on my staff, Mr. Jernigan approached his work with dedication, thoughtfulness, and a genuine desire to serve American communities. These same qualities will serve him well in his future endeavors.

While we will miss him, we all look forward to what Mr. Jernigan will do next. He will remain a deeply valued member of Team Garamendi, always.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and lasting contributions of Mrs. Nancy Orpilla, longtime Solano County educator and Vallejo resident. Passing away at 56, Mrs. Orpilla leaves behind an indelible legacy of love, leadership, and service to her community and family.

Born in 1966, in San Luis Obispo, California, Mrs. Orpilla grew up appreciating the natural beauty of California and exploring the outdoors with her parents and two sisters. From a young age, Mrs. Orpilla demonstrated a hardworking and tenacious spirit, graduating with a bachelor's degree in business from California Polytechnic University in 1989. She then began an illustrious career as a Certified Public Accountant and her diligent work brought her around the world, allowing her to explore Los Angeles, Saipan, Hawaii, and San Francisco.

Following her extensive career as an accountant, Mrs. Orpilla's love for her children inspired her to earn her teaching credential and begin serving the youth of her community. For 10 years, Mrs. Orpilla taught 1st grade at Federal Terrace Elementary School in Vallejo. During her tenure as a teacher, she never failed to prioritize the youth of Solano County and ensure all students in her community had the resources necessary to achieve their full potential. Mrs. Orpilla demonstrated a steadfast dedication to the children of her community and was critical in providing a comprehensive early education to hundreds of students.

Mrs. Orpilla appreciated the beauty in every aspect of her life. She was an avid explorer of the outdoors, never forgoing an opportunity to enjoy California's natural environment. From hiking outdoors with her husband to embarking on cross-country camping adventures with her children, Mrs. Orpilla recognized the importance of our country's natural lands.

Mrs. Orpilla will be remembered not only for her years of service to Solano County, but also for her genuine spirit of kindness and compassion. Her willingness to lend an ear and a helping hand to anyone in need earned her the widespread respect and gratitude of her community. Mrs. Orpilla impacted the lives of countless students and educators in her community and her steadfast leadership, constant smile, and patient mentorship undeniably enhanced the lives of her fellow Solano County residents.

Mrs. Orpilla's enduring spirit will live on in her loving husband and 2 children. I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to Mrs. Orpilla's loved ones. I know that they, along with the people of Solano County, join me in celebrating her life and legacy.

Mr. Speaker, today I reintroduce the ``Respect for Grieving Military

Families Act,'' with U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX). I thank U.S. Representatives Mike Turner (R-OH), Mark Amodei (R-NV), Marilyn Strickland (D-WA), and Don Bacon (R-NE) and U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) for their support as the original cosponsors in the House and Senate.

My friend, the late Congressman Walter B. Jones, Jr. (R-NC), sponsored this legislation by another title, the ``Military Retiree Survivor Comfort Act,'' every Congress since 2002 until his death in February 2019. I am honored to reintroduce this bicameral, bipartisan legislation to protect military families from completely avoidable bank overdrafts following a veteran's death.

The ``Respect for Grieving Military Families Act'' would allow the spouse or other designated beneficiary to retain the full retirement benefit paid out in the final month coinciding with the veteran's death. Under current Department of Defense policy, that final month's retirement benefit may be clawed back on a prorated basis if the family fails to immediately notify the Defense Finance and Accounting Services (DFAS) of their veteran's death.

Military families with joint bank accounts, into which retirement payments are deposited electronically, are often unaware that DFAS can withdraw payments without the accountholder's consent. This results in joint bank accounts being drained of funds, often subjecting veterans' families to overdraft fees and avoidable financial hardship during an already emotionally challenging time following a veteran's death.

The ``Respect for Grieving Military Families Act'' would finally end this needless and callous DFAS practice for any retirement benefit received in the month a veteran was alive for at least 24 hours. Military families grieving the loss of their loved one should not be penalized for an accounting oversight by the Department of Defense.

As Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Readiness, I continue to make the ``Respect for Grieving Military Families Act'' a priority for the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). I look forward to working with Senator Cornyn, who assumed sponsorship of the bill this Congress from former U.S. Senator Rob Portman (R-OH).

Mr. Speaker, I urge all Members of the House to join Representatives Mike Turner (R-OH), Mark Amodei (R-NV), Marilyn Strickland (D-WA), Don Bacon (R-NE) and me in cosponsoring this commonsense bill to provide military families the respect and dignity they deserve while following the loss of a loved one. Our Nation owes them that.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and commend the California Rangeland Trust, upon celebrating its 25th anniversary serving the land, people, and wildlife of California. This outstanding achievement is a testament to the critical work the California Rangeland Trust has accomplished to preserve rangeland, support hardworking ranchers, and protect our environment for future generations.

Originally founded in 1998, by a group of innovative ranchers from the California Cattlemen's Association, the California Rangeland Trust is dedicated to conserving working ranches and protecting the wide range of natural resources inherent to rangeland. The Trust has helped permanently protect 371,504 acres of privately-owned rangeland, working with California ranching families to preserve our state's wildlife habitat, local food supplies, and air and water quality.

The California Rangeland Trust has a rich history of working alongside state, regional, and national leaders to prioritize environmental conservation. In 2004, the Trust played a vital role in establishing the Partnership of Rangeland Trusts, an association of agricultural-focused land conservation organizations. The Trust was also a founding member of the California Rangeland Conservation Coalition, a partnership of over 100 leaders in the agricultural community, committed to preserving California's working landscapes.

Since its founding, the California Rangeland Trust has been a trailblazer in environmental stewardship and has consistently advocated for family ranchers. Rangeland is critical to California's ecosystem and the California Rangeland Trust is a consistent leader in protecting rangeland and the diverse natural life and resources it sustains.

On behalf of the constituents of California's Eighth Congressional District, I would like to congratulate the California Rangeland Trust upon its 25th anniversary and extend my sincere gratitude for its generations of service and environmental stewardship to the California community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and commend the East Bay Municipal Utility District, upon celebrating its 100th anniversary serving the East Bay community. This outstanding achievement is a testament to the critical work the District has accomplished to ensure the health and prosperity of the East Bay environment and community.

Originally founded in 1923, under the State of California Municipal Utility District Act, the East Bay Municipal Utility District has provided access to water for generations of Californians. Today, the company continues its commitment to preserving the environment and faithfully serving the people of Alameda and Contra Costa Counties.

The East Bay Municipal Utility District plays a vital role in building, operating, and maintaining the infrastructure that protects and strengthens California's water supply. Through the East Bay Municipal Utility District's critical leadership in developing the Freeport Regional Water Project, it is helping meet the daily water needs of both Sacramento and the East Bay.

Since its founding, the East Bay Municipal Utility District has worked tirelessly as a trailblazer in environmental stewardship, consistently leading efforts to promote environmental sustainability. The East Bay Municipal Utility District was the first wastewater agency in North America to produce more renewable energy than it uses, by capturing methane gas from the water treatment process. This groundbreaking development served as a national model of renewable energy, inspiring other public and private agencies across the country.

On behalf of the constituents of California's Eighth Congressional District, I would like to congratulate the East Bay Municipal Utility District upon its 100th anniversary and extend my sincere gratitude for its generations of service to the East Bay community.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and commend Technical Sergeant Dennis Gonzalez-Furman of the 437th Air Mobility Wing for earning the Distinguished Flying Cross for his service, dedication, and sacrifice during Operation Allies Refuge. He exemplifies the best of America, and his tireless efforts guarantee the safety of all those who call America home.

Last year, Technical Sergeant Dennis Gonzalez-Furman joined the servicemembers of the 349th Air Mobility Wing in meeting a challenge of colossal scale, when they helped execute the drawdown of forces from Afghanistan. Technical Sergeant Dennis Gonzalez-Furman and the 349th Air Mobility Wing played a critical role in the largest noncombatant evacuation operation in history, Operation Allies Refuge, ultimately saving over 124,000 lives. They directly supported the evacuation of nearly 13,000 Afghans while simultaneously managing the security and operations at Hamid Karzai International Airport. I have listened to countless stories from this group of brave men and women that exemplify the character, leadership, and bravery that is cultivated in the United States Air Force.

Service records only scratch the surface of the courageous actions performed during Operation Allies Refuge. These valiant servicemembers, like Technical Sergeant Dennis Gonzalez-Furman, put their hearts and lives on the line to save so many and epitomize the values of courage and patriotism.

On behalf of a grateful country and all the constituents of California's Eighth Congressional District, I would like to congratulate Technical Sergeant Dennis Gonzalez-Furman of the 437th Air Mobility Wing for receiving the Distinguished Flying Cross and extend my sincere gratitude for his sacrifice and contributions to the defense of this great country.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and commend Senior Airman Michael Geller of the 3rd Wing for earning the Distinguished Flying Cross for his service, dedication, and sacrifice during Operation Allies Refuge. He exemplifies the best of America, and his tireless efforts guarantee the safety of all those who call America home.

Last year, Senior Airman Michael Geller joined the servicemembers of the 349th Air Mobility Wing in meeting a challenge of colossal scale, when they helped execute the drawdown of forces from Afghanistan. Senior Airman Michael Geller and the 349th Air Mobility Wing played a critical role in the largest noncombatant evacuation operation in history, Operation Allies Refuge, ultimately saving over 124,000 lives. They directly supported the evacuation of nearly 13,000 Afghans while simultaneously managing the security and operations at Hamid Karzai International Airport. I have listened to countless stories from this group of brave men and women that exemplify the character, leadership, and bravery that is cultivated in the United States Air Force.

Service records only scratch the surface of the courageous actions performed during Operation Allies Refuge. These valiant servicemembers, like Senior Airman Michael Geller, put their hearts and lives on the line to save so many and epitomize the values of courage and patriotism.

On behalf of a grateful country and all the constituents of California's Eighth Congressional District, I would like to congratulate Senior Airman Michael Geller of the 3rd Wing for receiving the Distinguished Flying Cross and extend my sincere gratitude for his sacrifice and contributions to the defense of this great country.

Mr. Speaker, today I reintroduce legislation that would standardize and streamline military base access for designated support personnel across the Nation. I thank my colleague Congressman Donald Norcross (D-NJ01) for being the bill's original cosponsor.

Our outstanding service members require and deserve a great amount of backing. Every day, civilians access bases to provide services, transport goods, or conduct training. Unfortunately. from state to state--or even facility to facility--there are different standards of bureaucracy that these support workers must deal with.

The Base Access Privileges Improvement Act will create an overarching set of access standards for people with constant, legitimate need to access military installations. For truckers who already carry national identification credentials, they will be able to streamline delivery of household goods to military members on base. For union workers who are training or repairing systems, it will make the time spent getting on base more efficient and effective.

As Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Readiness, I'm critically aware that the military requires support from the Nation. Military installations are secure for a good reason: our service members maintain a constant state of preparedness. However, for those civilians who are already appropriately vetted and cleared, we must ease the burdens currently in place for their access to do the job we've asked and the military needs.

Military bases can maintain the highest level of scrutiny for those seeking access, while still equalizing the requirements across the nation. Adding access permissions for those already thoroughly screened will help make our military a more lethal force. The legislation I reintroduce today would ensure just that.

Mr. Speaker, today I introduce the ``Ocean Shipping Competition Enforcement Act,'' which would allow the Federal Maritime Commission to block any agreements among ocean carriers and marine terminal operators determined to be unreasonably anticompetitive without having to first obtain a federal court order.

Current federal law requires the Commission, which is an independent federal regulatory agency, to review proposed agreements to ensure they are not unreasonably anticompetitive. However, the Commission cannot block anticompetitive agreements without first obtaining a federal court order concurring with the Commission's internal determination that the proposed agreement would unduly reduce ocean shipping service to ports or substantially increase shipping rates. If the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia fails to act in time, then the agreement takes effect automatically, allowing ocean liners and marine terminals to collude openly. To the best of my knowledge, no other independent federal regulatory agency is required to obtain court orders to enforce similar regulations.

The ocean shipping industry was the last transportation sector deregulated by Congress in 1984 and again with the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 1998 (Public Law 105-258). Before the Shipping Act of 1984 (Public Law 98-237), the Commission could block anticompetitive agreements among ocean carriers and marine terminal operators without a federal court order. In December 2022, Federal Maritime Commissioners Max Vekich and Carl W. Bentzel requested that the U.S. House

Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, on which I serve, make this critical change in federal law.

The ocean shipping industry is now dominated by nine foreign-flagged ocean liners that collude openly under three carrier alliances, handling some 80 percent of cargo globally. Last June, President Biden signed my bicameral, bipartisan Ocean Shipping Reform Act (Public Law 117-146) updating our nation's laws for the ocean cargo market for the first time in nearly a quarter century. Congress must now finish the job by restoring the Federal Maritime Commission's ability to ensure competitive ocean shipping markets by blocking illegal agreements to collude. We must ensure that the Commission can do its job and fully enforce the law.

Mr. Speaker, I have been working over the past two years to reform the ocean shipping industry to better protect American businesses and consumers from price gouging by foreign-flagged ocean liners. I urge all Members of the House to join me in cosponsoring the ``Ocean Shipping Competition Enforcement Act.'' As the top Democrat on the House Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation from 2013 to 2018, I plan to make this new bill a top priority in my ongoing work to help fix the global supply chain crunch.