Floor Statements

Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each

week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to honor Gronen of Dubuque County, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.

Founded in 1999 by John and Mary Gronen, Gronen began as a small, family-owned construction company focused on masonry work and historic rehabilitation projects in Dubuque's Washington Neighborhood. As Dubuque natives, John and Mary shared a vision of restoring neglected properties, strengthening neighborhoods, and preserving the city's historic character. What started with a small construction crew and commitment to community-driven revitalization has grown into successful redevelopment and property development firms. Over the past 25 years, Gronen has expanded beyond historic rehabilitation into commercial and residential development, property management, development consulting, and real estate services. Today, the company operates through Gronen Restoration, Gronen Properties, Gronen Development, and DBQ Property Group, employing 70 individuals and serving clients throughout Iowa and the broader Midwest.

For years, Gronen has continued transforming underutilized properties into productive community assets. The company has contributed to numerous redevelopment efforts across Dubuque, including work associated with the Field of Dreams project and the award-winning Steeple Square redevelopment. Through these and other projects, Gronen has helped create housing opportunities and spurred economic growth while preserving Iowa's rich architectural heritage.

Beyond its business operations, Gronen remains deeply engaged in the Dubuque community. The company supports and partners with organizations, including the Dubuque Chamber of Commerce, Greater Dubuque Development, Dubuque Forward, Heritage Works, Smart Growth Development, and the HEART housing program. Through these efforts, Gronen continues to invest in the long-term success of the communities it serves. Gronen's commitment to excellence has earned national and industry recognition, including the Tony Goldman Award, the J. Timothy Anderson Award, and recognition from the International Federation for the Roofing Trade. These honors reflect the company's leadership in historic preservation, community revitalization, and innovative redevelopment.

I am pleased to recognize John and Mary Gronen, along with the entire Gronen team, for their dedication to Dubuque and Iowa. I look forward to their continued success and wish them the very best in the years ahead.

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that notwithstanding rule XXII, the postcloture time with respect to the Holding nomination be expired and the Senate vote on confirmation of the nomination at a time to be determined by the majority leader in consultation with the Democratic leader no earlier than tomorrow; further, if the nomination is confirmed, the motion to reconsider be considered made and laid upon the table and the President be immediately notified of the Senate's action.

Mr. President, finally, I ask that the Senate proceed to legislative session and be in a period of morning business with Senators permitted to speak therein for up to 10 minutes each.

Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to honor Leah Jean Boutique of Wright County, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.

Founded in 2018 by Brittany Leah Howieson and Donna Jean Ahrends, Leah Jean Boutique was established to provide families in Clarion with a welcoming, locally owned storefront offering curated children's items. Attached to their salon, the boutique was created not only to meet the needs of local families, but also to help sustain and strengthen small-town Main Street commerce in north Iowa. Brittany and Donna, who first met when Donna taught Brittany in beauty school years earlier, later expanded their shared entrepreneurial vision into the boutique now recognized throughout the region for its personal customer service and carefully selected products.

For nearly a decade, Leah Jean Boutique has provided high-quality apparel, toys, pet products, and gifts that help customers celebrate both everyday moments and special milestones. As a woman-owned small business, Leah Jean Boutique has built its identity around a ``for moms, by moms'' philosophy rooted in firsthand experience and trust. Brittany and Donna personally select and test the products offered in the store, helping Iowa families navigate an increasingly overwhelming retail environment filled with countless online options and inconsistent reviews. Their emphasis on quality, reliability, and personalized attention has helped establish Leah Jean Boutique as a trusted destination for folks throughout Wright County and the surrounding communities.

Beyond its retail offerings, Leah Jean Boutique reflects the strong community-minded spirit that defines Iowa small businesses. Brittany and Donna remain actively involved in local organizations and community initiatives. This includes leadership roles within their Philanthropic Educational Organization, P.E.O., Chapter, participation on the Committee for Golden Apples for Teachers program, Brittany's service as president of the Clarion Development Alliance, and organizing family- oriented community events that support downtown Clarion and surrounding communities. Their continued investment in local engagement demonstrates a commitment not only to entrepreneurship but also to strengthening economic vitality and preserving the sense of community that keeps Iowa's small towns thriving.

I am pleased to recognize Brittany and Donna at Leah Jean Boutique for their dedication to Clarion and Wright County. I look forward to their continued success and wish them the very best in the years ahead.

Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small

Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to honor Fairfield Dental Clinic of Jefferson County, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.

Established as a trusted provider of dental care in southeast Iowa in the mid-1980s, Fairfield Dental Clinic has built a strong reputation through professionalism, quality care, and a deep commitment to the Fairfield community. Dr. Pat Jones, an Iowa native, is a graduate of the University of Iowa College of Dentistry. In 2015, he became co- owner of the practice after buying half of the business from Dr. Van Tasell. Dr. Matt Holt graduated from Creighton University School of Dentistry and has served the Fairfield community as a dentist since 2013. In 2022, he joined Fairfield Dental Clinic as co-owner after acquiring the other half of the business from Dr. Gleason. Together, Dr. Jones and Dr. Holt have continued to grow the practice while maintaining a patient-centered approach rooted in quality care and community connection.

Today, Fairfield Dental Clinic employs seven staff members who work together to serve patients throughout Jefferson County and the surrounding region, seeing approximately 80 patients per day. The practice focuses on cosmetic and preventative dentistry as well as oral surgery. Remaining at the same location throughout its history, the clinic has invested in renovations, updated technology, and focused on building improvements to better serve patients and strengthen the practice for generations to come. Through these efforts, the business has remained a dependable and respected part of the local healthcare community.

Beyond their work in dentistry, the leadership and staff of Fairfield Dental Clinic remain deeply involved in community service and civic engagement across Jefferson County. Their involvement includes participation in organizations such as Main Street Iowa, the Jefferson County Foundation, the Rotary Club, and youth sports programs. Additionally, both doctors are members of the American Dental Association, the Iowa Dental Association, and the Southeast Iowa District Dental Society. Their willingness to support local initiatives and community organizations reflects the strong sense of service that defines many Iowa small businesses. Their appreciation for both their team and the Fairfield community reflects the lasting relationships and trust that remain central to small business success in Iowa.

I am pleased to recognize Dr. Pat Jones and Dr. Matt Holt, along with the entire team at Fairfield Dental Clinic, for their dedication to Fairfield and Jefferson County. I look forward to their continued success and wish them the very best in the years ahead.

Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to honor Toploft Clothing of Carroll County, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.

Founded in 2014 by Stephanie Hackfort, Toploft Clothing began as an online women's clothing boutique built on Stephanie's passion for fashion and her desire to create a flexible business model balancing entrepreneurship with family life. What started as a small online retail operation has grown into a thriving business serving customers throughout Iowa and beyond.

Toploft opened its first physical location in 2015 before moving to the current downtown Carroll location in 2019. After the COVID-19 pandemic, the business pivoted from boutique apparel to custom clothing, branded merchandise, and webstore services tailored to serve businesses, schools, sports teams, and community organizations. Today, the company works with more than 300 organizations nationwide and ships to customers in 48 States.

Toploft Clothing has established itself as a trusted provider of custom apparel and branded merchandise solutions while maintaining the personalized customer service and entrepreneurial spirit that helped launch the business over a decade ago. Their specialty ``always open'' services help organizations strengthen their branding and community presence through customized products and merchandise solutions. Supported by a dedicated team of six employees and the occasional family member that jumps in when an extra hand is needed, Toploft contributes to local economic activity while upholding the innovation and flexibility required to remain competitive in an evolving retail marketplace.

Beyond its business operations, Toploft Clothing is actively engaged in the local community. All the folks on the management team are current or former members of the Carroll Chamber of Commerce. Stephanie currently serves as the chamber retail committee leader, her husband Matt is the chamber agriculture representative, and the business' chief operating officer is chamber president. Through participation in chamber initiatives, community events, and merchandise collaborations, Toploft demonstrates an ongoing commitment to promoting local businesses and fostering community pride.

Additionally, the business is committed to supporting charitable endeavors. In 2025, the team helped raise $28,000 for nonprofit organizations, medical needs, local sports activities, and school events. In recognition of its growth and impact, Toploft Clothing was honored with the 2025 Carroll Chamber of Commerce New Business Award.

I am pleased to recognize Stephanie and Matt Hackfort, along with the entire team at Toploft Clothing, for their dedication to Carroll County and customers across the United States. I look forward to their continued success and wish them the very best in the years ahead.

Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to honor Mapleton Hometown Variety of Monona County, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.

After being honorably discharged from the Air National Guard, Jerry Koenigs returned to his hometown of Mapleton. In 1987, he acquired what was then a Ben Franklin Store from his aunt and uncle after working there for over 10 years. Just a few years later, Jerry married his wife Carol, and the couple took on the business together. In the early 2000s, the store was renamed to Mapleton Hometown Variety. The shop was established to serve the everyday needs of the Mapleton community through a welcoming, locally owned retail experience. Over the years, it has become a trusted destination for residents seeking a wide variety of products, including fabric, toys, gifts, home decor, craft supplies, greeting cards, and floral arrangements. Hometown Variety has earned a strong reputation for quality products, personalized customer service, and a shopping experience rooted in the values of small-town Iowa.

For nearly four decades, Hometown Variety has consistently provided customers with both everyday essentials and thoughtful items for special occasions. After Jerry passed away in 2020, Carol continued his legacy by cultivating a loyal customer base and welcoming atmosphere that keeps families returning year after year. Supported by a dedicated team of under 10 employees, the business reflects the reliability and strong workplace culture often found in Iowa's most enduring small businesses.

Beyond its retail offerings, Mapleton Hometown Variety reflects the strong entrepreneurial spirit that defines Iowa small businesses. Throughout its decades of operation, the business has supported community growth and local engagement through involvement in organizations such as the Mapleton Community Club, Rotary Club, and Maple Valley Development. The business was also recognized for their continued service and support at a local 4-H event.

Carol remains actively engaged in the community through donations to local events, schools, churches, and charitable causes, demonstrating a longstanding commitment to supporting families and neighbors in Mapleton. Her appreciation for the loyal customers and strong local support that have sustained Hometown Variety reflects the enduring connection between Iowa small businesses and the communities they serve.

I am pleased to recognize Carol Koenigs, along with the entire team at Mapleton Hometown Variety, for their dedication to Mapleton and Monona County. I look forward to their continued success and wish them the very best in the years ahead.

Mr. President, folks, we all know energy security is national security. Right now, what is left of the brutal Iranian regime is holding the world hostage and targeting the flow of oil through the Strait of Hormuz. That is unacceptable.

Instead of Americans paying more at the expense of Iranian terrorists, we should be using every tool at our disposal to ensure price stability--especially at the gas pump. That is why I have been a longtime champion of unleashing domestic energy, including higher blends of homegrown ethanol, and giving retailers the choice of offering a lower cost, American-made fuel solution.

Last night, the House, through the leadership of the entire Iowa delegation, passed commonsense legislation to unleash year-round E15, which will lower prices at the gas station and at the same time provide new markets for Iowa farmers.

Folks, I have heard it over and over again: This is a mandate.

This is not a mandate. E15 simply gives consumers yet another, more affordable choice at the pump. It is about choice. Again, it is not a mandate; it is just another choice at the pump.

We have seen it work. Thanks to President Trump's approval of summertime sales of E15, this Memorial Day weekend, Americans are estimated to save $110 million just by using E15. That is real savings. And with the House's inclusion of my provision to cut redtape, we can completely avoid costly fuel infrastructure upgrades and unlock E15 at every gas station or truckstop across the country.

Congress should be using all the tools at our disposal to give every family the chance to take part in those savings, deliver certainty and stability for consumers, and drive down prices for Americans from coast to coast.

It is no surprise President Trump has long supported this ``America First'' policy that improves affordability and keeps our energy supply secure. Even dating back to 2016, President Trump championed the option for consumers to have access to E15, and earlier this year, in Iowa, he called for Congress to pass E15 legislation and deliver it to his desk so he could sign it without delay.

Mr. President, we are on it.

The House got it done last night, and now it is the Senate's turn.

Let me emphasize for all who are listening that our large oil companies, those truly small oil refineries, our fuel retailers, our ag associations, and the biofuel groups have all created and support this E15 agreement. That is from large oil companies all the way to the farmers--they support the deal that was passed in the House. And I want to thank everyone that has come forward to support the House legislation.

There are a few folks out there that don't agree with this deal. These are the so-called midsize refineries. Those midsize refiners are the ones that are gaming the system and are falsely describing what the E15 deal will do.

Again, large oil companies and those small oil companies--they agree with our biofuel producers and support the E15 legislation.

The midsize refiners that are trying to kill this year-round E15--and I will tell you, there are only six midsize refiners. Six. Those six midsize fuel refiners that are trying to kill this bill made more--just six of these refiners made more in 2026 so far, and will continue this trend, than the 3.32 million family farms have made in 2026. Six. Six refiners are making more than the 3.32 million American family farms. Those are the six refiners--just six--that are trying to kill this bill in the U.S. Senate.

So, again, I want to say thank you so much to those large oil companies, the truly small oil refiners, our fuel retailers, our ag associations, and our biofuel groups, and mostly to our American farmers. I want to say thank you so much for coming together to create sensible legislation on E15 year-round that will help every American consumer that is fueling at the pump have another choice--not a mandate but a choice.

And I will tell you what--because I use ethanol back home in Iowa, when I am fueling my vehicle--that when I pull up to the pump, the choice I make is the cheaper alternative that supports our American farmers, and that is E15. And I am proud to support it.

I am encouraging all of our Members here in the U.S. Senate to support this really commonsense legislation that has come forward from the House. Support our hard-working Americans. There should be absolutely no more delay.

I yield the floor.

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the previously scheduled rollcall vote begin immediately.

Mr. President, I ask consent that the reading of the numbers be waived.

Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to honor Green Real Estate & Auction Co. of Sac County, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.

In 1872, Col. Festus J. Green emigrated from Somersetshire, England. At just 14 years old, he started building a career in farming, masonry, and auctioneering. In 1894, Col. F.J. Green & Son was officially founded and laid the groundwork for what would eventually become known as Green Real Estate & Auction Co. This five-generation family business is rooted in hard work, entrepreneurship, and a commitment to serving rural Iowa communities.

Over the past 132 years, Green Real Estate & Auction Co. has grown alongside Iowa's agricultural economy while maintaining its family- centered values and exceptional customer service. Today, under the leadership of Jim Green, a fifth-generation auctioneer and real estate broker, the business continues to provide auctioneering, both farmland and residential real estate services, and farm consignment to clients across western Iowa. The company has become a trusted resource for families, farmers, and businesses navigating property sales, estate transitions, and agricultural transactions. With a team of under a dozen employees, the business supports local jobs while contributing to the vibrancy of Sac City and the broader Sac County community.

In addition to its longstanding success, Green Real Estate & Auction Co. reflects the strong, civic-minded spirit that defines Iowa small businesses. The Green family supports local initiatives, including participation in county fair activities that remain central to the region's agricultural traditions. Beyond Sac County, Green Real Estate has active membership in the National Auctioneers Association, Iowa Auctioneers Association, and the United Counties Board of Realtors, demonstrating their continued involvement in the industry. This commitment to local and national engagement demonstrates Green Real Estate's dedication to entrepreneurship and economic growth in Sac County.

The Greens' business also remains active with local charitable efforts. The business supports Pheasants Forever, local schools, and health-related community benefits. Green Real Estate has also held auctions benefiting the local 4-H program and other charitable causes throughout Sac County. Even as the business has expanded across generations, the Green family remains committed to preserving the personal service, trust, and community relationships that have defined the company for more than a century.

I am pleased to recognize Jim Green, along with the entire team at Green Real Estate & Auction Co., for their dedication to Sac City and Sac County. I look forward to their continued success and wish them the very best in the years ahead.

Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to honor Interpower Corporation of Mahaska County, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.

In 1975, Bob Wersen founded Panel Components Corporation in Berkley, CA, that specialized in supplying power systems. During a recession in the electronics industry, Bob strategically shifted the business to a mid-size customer base and relocated to Oskaloosa, IA, in 1993. Over the next 10 years, the business steadily grew and opened additional offices in Ames, Lamoni, and the United Kingdom. In 2004, Bob renamed Panel Components Corporation to Interpower Corporation. Today, more than 50 years later, Interpower Corporation remains dedicated to simplifying how customers design, build, and maintain products across global markets. The company strives to meet all power sourcing needs, supplying country specific plugs to hospital-grade products. Their mission is to be the premier supplier of power system components for worldwide markets.

Bob Wersen continues to serve as president, overseeing 50 employees who

have gained a reputation of consistently meeting customer needs, regardless of how complicated a request may be. They take extra care in testing each product, seeing it as part of their responsibility to prioritize safety. As a businessowner, Bob has been involved with several professional organizations. He previously served as chair for the Iowa Association of Business and Industry, ABI. The business is also a member of the Mahaska Chamber and Development Group. Bob takes immense pride in manufacturing in America because of the dedication to his staff and his community. He has been recognized for his commitment to fostering Iowa's business environment and has been presented with the ABI Advocacy in Action Award and Legends in Iowa Manufacturing Award.

Outside of serving their clients, Interpower Corporation lends a helping hand in the Oskaloosa community. They host blood drives and provide students with internships through partnerships with Oskaloosa High School and William Penn University. They also participate in charities throughout the county showing their dedication to their community.

It is my honor to recognize Bob Wersen and the entire Interpower Corporation team for their outstanding contributions and presence in their community. I look forward to their continued success and wish them the very best in the years to come.

Mr. President, COVID-19 fraudsters stole at least $200 billion, but time is now running out to hold every single one accountable. Starting this week, crooks who defrauded pandemic relief programs are getting away.

Both Republicans and Democrats should be working around the clock to send a clear message to fraudsters past, present, and future: There are real consequences to stealing from taxpayers.

But Democrats have wanted to press ``snooze'' on passing my SBA Fraud Enforcement Extension Act. This is the third day fraudsters who stole millions in COVID relief funds have been able to escape justice.

You heard me right, folks. Swindlers who took advantage of SBA COVID relief programs are already escaping justice. Every day that passes, another gets away. The clock is ticking, and the countdown is on.

My bill simply gives investigators and prosecutors flexibility to do their jobs by extending the statutes of limitation for defrauding the Shuttered Venue Operators Grant Program and the Restaurant Revitalization Fund by 5 years.

Congress has already passed an extension of the statutes of limitation for SBA's other COVID relief programs with bipartisan support. This body came together against fraud, and we need to again.

Pandemic program fraud investigations have already uncovered $57 billion in fraud and issued 1,200 indictments. The SBA is currently conducting a manual review of over $3 billion in Restaurant Revitalization Fund awards, but in this program alone, more than $9.5 billion of awards still require review.

We can't allow swindlers, scammers, and con artists to run out the clock, because for fraudsters, time flies when you are having fun.

Look no further than rapper Chris Brown, who exploited the SVOG Program to pay for his lavish $80,000 birthday party and paid himself $5.1 million in the process, and multilocation franchise CoreLife Eatery, which ignored location limits to feast on $7.8 million in taxpayer funds.

Make no mistake, when it comes to fraud and abuse, this is just the tip of the iceberg. Thorough investigations take time, and investigators must be able to continue conducting this vital work on behalf of the American taxpayers. That is why I am urging my colleagues to support the SBA Fraud Enforcement Extension Act so fraudsters know the days of getting away with their scams are numbered. But if Congress continues to press ``snooze,'' taxpayers are the ones who lose billions.

With that, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate proceed to the immediate consideration of the following bills en bloc: Calendar No. 134, S. 1199, and Calendar No. 135, S. 2232.

I ask that the committee-reported substitute amendment to S. 1199 be withdrawn; that the Ernst substitute amendment at the desk be considered; that the Markey amendment to the Ernst substitute be considered and agreed to; that the Ernst substitute, as amended, be agreed to; further, that the committee-reported substitute to S. 2232 be agreed to; finally, that the bills, as amended, be considered read a third time and passed en bloc and that the motions to reconsider be considered made and laid upon the table, all en bloc.

Mr. President, I also would like to thank Ranking Member Markey for his great collaboration on these bills. It is another example of truly bipartisan work and collaboration to get these bills done, to get them off the floor of the Senate and on their way.

So I really appreciate the consideration that you have given, Ranking Member.

This is a major win for taxpayers who had their hard-earned money stolen by fraudsters. Now the investigators have been given the time they need to track down the thieves who stole taxpayer dollars and to build strong, prosecutable cases.

Today's action also sends a clear message to fraudsters: You will be held accountable. You will not get away with your crimes.

This is critical to ensure that this blatant fraud is stopped in its tracks.

I look forward to working with the SBA, the IG, and the Department of Justice to track down every single crook who defrauded our taxpayers.

Again, I thank the ranking member for the collaboration.

I yield the floor.

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate now proceed to the en bloc consideration of the following resolutions, which are at the desk: S. Res. 701, S. Res. 702, S. Res. 703, S. Res. 704, and S. Res. 705.

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the resolutions be agreed to, the preambles be agreed to, and that the motions to reconsider be considered made and laid upon the table, all en bloc.

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate proceed to the immediate consideration of Calendar No. 331, S. 2975.

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the committee- reported substitute amendment be considered and agreed to; that the bill, as amended, be considered read a third time and passed; and that the motion to reconsider be considered made and laid upon the table.