Floor Statements

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 this Special Order.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an exceptional public servant, a trusted leader and a dear friend to myself and everyone around him, Alachua County Fire Chief Harold Theus.

Chief Theus was recently named Florida's Career Fire Chief of the Year, an honor that truly reflects his lifetime commitment to service, leadership, and his community.

For many years now, Chief Theus and I have worked side by side on issues that matter deeply to our Alachua County community. Whether it is public safety, emergency preparedness, disaster response, or ensuring that our first responders have the tools, training, and support they need to do their jobs safely and effectively, Harold is there. Through hurricanes, wildfires, medical emergencies, and moments of unimaginable loss, Chief Theus has been a steady and trusted presence, quite literally the definition of a phone call away.

Under his leadership, Alachua County Fire Rescue has set a standard for excellence, emphasizing readiness, innovation, and above all, care for the very people who wear the uniform every single day. Chief Theus understands that a strong department is built by investing in people, by mentoring young firefighters, prioritizing safety, and fostering a culture where every team member knows that they matter.

That kind of leadership doesn't happen by accident. It comes from lived experience, from showing up day after day, and from the understanding of the weight of responsibility that comes with the badge.

I also want to speak personally for a moment. As the wife of a first responder, I know the quiet sacrifices that families, particularly fire families, make, the missed holidays, the overtime shifts, the late- night calls, the constant awareness that danger is just always part of the job. Leaders like Chief Theus don't just protect communities, they look out for our fire families too. Chief Theus understands that behind every firefighter there is a family praying for his safe return.

Mr. Speaker, Florida's Career Fire Chief of the Year is simply not an award for operational excellence. It is a recognition of character. It honors someone who embodies integrity, resilience, and service above self. With Florida being the third most populous State in the Union, that is one heck of an achievement.

For the people of Alachua County, Chief Theus is more than just the fire chief. He is a leader in a time of crisis, a team builder, and man who has earned the trust of the community that he serves.

For me, he is a friend, someone whose counsel I value, whose commitment I admire, and whose example reminds us all of what public service is meant to be.

Today, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Fire Chief Harold Theus on a well-earned recognition and thank him for his service.

On behalf of the families that he protects, the firefighters that he leads, and the community that is safer because of his service, I thank Chief Theus. May his example continue to inspire the next generation of first responders.

Honoring Life and Legacy of Mary Sue Rich

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of a remarkable public servant, trailblazer, and beloved member of our Ocala community, former Ocala councilmember Mary Sue Rich.

At the end of last year, at the age of 85, Mary Sue Rich passed away. Ms. Mary left behind a legacy that helped shape the city of Ocala for generations. She was a woman of courage and conviction, and her life reminds us that progress is often driven not by loud moments but by steady, faithful service over time.

In 1995, Mary Sue Rich made history when she became Ocala's first Black councilmember. At a time when representation mattered deeply and change did not come easily, she stepped forward with grace and determination. She was ready to serve her community, but more importantly, she opened doors.

Mary Sue Rich remained on the Ocala City Council until 2019, becoming the longest serving councilmember in the city's history. Her longevity was not just a matter of years but a testament to the trust that her community placed in her and the respect that she had earned through her leadership.

Ms. Mary was a mentor, a role model, and a living example of what it means to lead with integrity. She believed that progress comes when we bring people together, not when we divide them. Her leadership style was always rooted in listening, collaboration, and, of course, with a deep love for the city that she called home.

Her impact is not measured in titles alone, but it is reflected in the strengthened institutions that she helped guide, the voices that she elevated, and the countless residents whose lives were improved because she cared enough to serve.

I remember meeting her for the first time many years ago. I was a young, freshly elected Congresswoman, and she was just so gracious and kind. I recall thinking to myself how remarkable she was, someone whose tiny shoulders--she is not that tall--had been so small, but she carried so much. She was a force, a tiny titan, if you will.

That meeting that we had was actually a groundbreaking for a building that today bears her name. The dirt that we dug that day still sits on my desk.

As we extend our sincere condolences to her family, her friends, and the entire Ocala community, we mourn her passing, but we choose to use this as a moment to celebrate a life well lived and a legacy that will endure long after this moment.

Mr. Speaker, Mary Sue Rich's story reminds us why public service matters, and I ask my colleagues to join me in remembering and honoring the extraordinary life of Ms. Mary Sue Rich.

Remembering Life and Service of James Bennett

Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to remember the life and service of James Bennett, a devoted public servant from Baker County, Florida, whose life was tragically cut short. His sudden loss is a painful reminder for how fragile life can be and how deeply one's individual service can touch the lives of so many.

James Bennett was first elected as a Baker County commissioner in 2014, and he approached that responsibility with seriousness, humility, and an unwavering commitment to the people that he served.

He understood that local government is where public service is most personal. It is where decisions affect families, neighborhoods, and livelihoods very directly.

As a commissioner, he worked diligently to represent the interests of Baker County, always striving to do what he believed was right for his neighbors.

In addition to his service in Baker County, James was also the chief operating officer for JAXPORT. In that role he played a key part in supporting one of Florida's most vital economic assets. The port of Jacksonville is not only a driver of commerce and trade but a source of countless jobs, thousands of jobs, and the support system for families all across northeast Florida.

James understood the importance of that mission and brought his skills and leadership to bear in service of our State's economic future, and he always did it with a smile.

In fact, I will never forget on my last trip to JAXPORT, James put on a good smile, one that he probably would have busted into laughter if he could have, as I drove one of the cranes in a dress. For those that know about those cranes in our Nation's ports, they are very tall, and they tend to have some interesting components. He was a great sport showing me all of the latest things that they were doing at JAXPORT.

Beyond titles and positions, James will be remembered most for his character. He was somebody who believed deeply in public service, and he respected his fellow elected officials. More importantly, he listened to his constituents, the people who had elected him. He was always working to try to find a solution or an opportunity that would make Baker County stronger.

His passing is felt deeply by his family, his friends, his colleagues, and, of course, Baker County. They have lost a leader, a neighbor, a friend, someone who cared deeply about a place that we call home.

To his loved ones, I extend my deepest condolences and prayers for them during this very difficult time. No words will ever do justice for their pain and loss, but I hope they find comfort in knowing that James' life and his service truly mattered, and that his contributions will not be forgotten.

Mr. Speaker, today we pause to remember James Bennett not only for how he died but for how he lived: dedicated to service and dedicated to his community. His legacy is reflected in the work that he did and the people he served. May we honor his memory by continuing to serve with the same integrity, humility, and dedication that James demonstrated throughout his life and his career.

Honoring Life and Legacy of Floyd ``Sonny'' Tillman

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the life and legacy of Floyd Tillman, or as most of us know him, ``Sonny.''

Sonny Tillman, a Gainesville native, a visionary entrepreneur, and a man who knew his barbecue was a deeply beloved member of our Florida community whose impact will be felt for generations to come. You can't drive through south Georgia or north Florida without driving past Sonny's BBQ.

In 1968, Sonny Tillman opened a small family-owned barbecue restaurant on Waldo Road in Gainesville, Florida. In fact, it is still there today. What began as a humble neighborhood gathering place where you have picnic benches became something that was greater than just a menu. It became something where people gathered and talked about values. It was a place where people would share not just a good meal but a great meal.

Sonny believed in good food made the right way. He believed in hard work, and he believed in treating customers like family. Those simple but powerful principles became the foundation of what we now know as Sonny's BBQ.

Just 9 years later, that single Gainesville restaurant grew into not just a small franchise but a big franchise, and today, Sonny's BBQ is now recognized nationwide for its signature barbecue, southern hospitality, and commitment to quality. Yet despite the company's growth and success, Sonny never lost sight of what mattered most: community, family, kindness, and connection.

Sonny's story is a powerful reminder of the American Dream that with determination, integrity, grit, and heart, one person can create something lasting that brings people together. Those who knew him remember him not just for his vision but for his warmth, his generosity, his ability to make people feel welcomed and valued. It became more than a business. He created a place where families gathered, where momentous occasions took place, friendships were formed, and memories were made.

On behalf of Florida's Third Congressional District, I want to extend my deepest condolences to Sonny's family, to his friends, and all those that were touched by his life. We are so grateful for his contributions, more proud than you can imagine to call him one of our own, and committed to remembering the example that he said.

May we honor Sonny's memory by carrying forward the values that he lived by: hard work, generosity, grit, and love for community and some good barbecue.

Recognizing the Life and Legacy of Bill Quinlan, Meteorologist

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the life and legacy of former TV20 Chief Meteorologist Bill Quinlan.

Bill joined the TV20 family in 1996 and dedicated 27 years of service to the north central Florida community. For many families in our region, Bill was more than just a weatherman. He was a familiar face that became part of people's childhoods, like my own husband's. He grew up watching Bill every single day.

Quite literally, generations of viewers have grown up watching Bill. They trusted his forecast before school and planned weekends around his predictions.

Beyond the forecast, Bill was a trusted voice and steady presence during moments of uncertainty. In a region and neighborhood like ours, which is often impacted by severe storms, hurricanes, and extreme weather, meteorologists play a vital role in protecting lives and property. They are educators, scientists, and public servants who help communities prepare, respond, and recover.

Bill was unique because he not only embraced that responsibility with great care, knowing that his work was making a real difference for families across north central Florida, but he was committed to accuracy, warm professionalism, and friendly public service and mentorship.

Bill helped our neighborhoods stay informed for nearly three decades. When storms threatened, Bill's steady demeanor and calm smile brought reassurance and clarity to countless households.

Bill also understood that mentorship was important. He took pride in explaining complex weather systems in ways that were accessible and engaging, inspiring curiosity and understanding among viewers of all ages. Many young people who watched him on TV grew up knowing that Bill was a trusted teacher and role model, and some went on to pursue that interest in science and meteorology because of him. I know today my husband has a weather app on his phone because of Bill.

We honor Bill today not only for his remarkable career but for his compassion and dedication to the people around him. He took great pride in educating viewers, and he inspired many young people. His legacy will continue across our community for years to come, leaving a lasting impact on his colleagues, viewers, the TV20 family, and friends alike.

Honoring the Life and Service of Congressman Doug LaMalfa

Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to honor the life and service of

Doug LaMalfa. He was not just a Member of Congress, but, more importantly, he was a farmer, a husband, a father, and my friend. He was a man whose character was shaped long before he ever set foot in Washington.

Doug LaMalfa was about as salt of the earth as you can get. For him, farming was not just something he talked about in speeches. It wasn't a paycheck. It was something that he lived. For the last few days, I have been looking back on our text exchanges and have watched and rewatched the videos that he sent me from the tractor while he was harvesting rice and being a bit of a goofball.

That was what was unique about Doug. He understood the dignity of hard work because he did it himself. Long days, unpredictable seasons, and quiet responsibility of caring for land and providing for others formed the foundation of who he was. That background grounded him. It gave him patience, perspective, and a deep respect for the people who keep this country fed and moving forward.

The same principles he embodied as a farmer and steward of the land were in the same sense of stewardship that guided him here in public service. He approached leadership the way a farmer approaches the land: thoughtfully, practically, and with an eye toward the future. He believed that you leave things better than you found them, Mr. Speaker, not just for today, but for the next generation.

I truly believe that what set Doug apart was his kindness. Every time I saw him, I was greeted with a loud and booming--if you knew Doug, Mr. Speaker, then you know it was going to be a booming voice: ``Hey, Kat Cammack.'' He also made a point to say my name right, and he put an emphasis on the ``mack'' because he was always flustered and frustrated when he would hear other people say it and couldn't say my name right.

When he wasn't doing that, he was asking me about how Big Daddy Garlits was doing, the drag racing titan who calls my district home, or how sweet baby Auggie, my newborn daughter, was doing. He was always teeing up some goofy story or taking a funny selfie, and it was those same goofy and wholesome selfies that have dotted the photo album on my phone for the last 5 years.

Mr. Speaker, those who knew him best will tell you that his compassion was quiet but genuine. He listened more than he spoke, and he treated people with respect, regardless of who they were or where they came from. Whether he was meeting with a constituent, helping a neighbor, or working alongside our colleagues, Doug never forgot that public service was about people, not politics.

When the news broke about his passing, a constituent of his wrote a note to me, sharing a story of how she had just lost her husband and was in shock. She had ordered a flag to be flown over the Capitol in honor of the birthday of a friend who had been with her through the loss of her husband, but due to a mixup, her flag had never arrived. She said she had ``given up on it.''

Fast forward to a Sunday morning. She answered a knock at her door. She was in her PJs and a hoodie, and she found Doug LaMalfa standing there, flag in hand. He explained it had been returned to his office due to a mixup in the mail, but he knew that she would want it. She was so impressed that not only did he get her the flag, but that he delivered it personally and on a weekend.

What Congressman does that?

While it seems like the exception today, things like that were more of a rule for Doug. His kindness wasn't performative. It showed up in small moments like taking the time to return a phone call or show up on a Sunday to deliver a flag, checking in on families during hard times and seasons, or just standing up for communities that often feel unseen or unheard.

Doug LaMalfa carried the values of rural America into the Halls of Congress: faith, hard work, generosity, and resilience. He never lost sight of who he was or where he came from, and because of that, he never lost sight of whom he served.

Today, Mr. Speaker, and hopefully every day, we remember a farmer who answered the call to serve his country, a public servant who led with integrity, and a man whose legacy will live on in the lives he touched. May we honor him by carrying forward those same values of caring deeply, working hard, and treating one another with the kindness that he so naturally gave, because Doug would want it that way.

Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Captain Steve Petty, a United States Army veteran, who was inducted into the Florida Veterans Hall of Fame on November 5, 2025, for his outstanding service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the health and dignity of his fellow veterans.

Captain Petty has dedicated his post-service life to ensuring that those who served our Nation receive the care, respect, and honors they have earned. As Director of the Veterans Resource Center in Ocala, Florida, he has led groundbreaking efforts to provide free Galleri blood testing for veterans exposed to carcinogens such as Agent Orange and burn pits--conditions that have claimed far too many lives long after the battles ended. Through his leadership, veterans who served ``boots on the ground'' in the Vietnam War, Gulf War, and the Global War on Terrorism can now access this $950 cancer screening at no cost, right in their own community. This lifesaving initiative--made possible through partnerships with the Marion County Hospital District and the Marion County Community Development Block Grant--stands as a model of community collaboration, compassion, and unwavering commitment to those who have borne the battle.

Beyond his work in advancing preventive care, Captain Petty has also been instrumental in ensuring that every Marion County veteran interred at the Bushnell National Cemetery receives full military honors--a solemn and sacred recognition of their service to our Nation. Captain Petty's dedication exemplifies the very best of the veteran community: leadership through service, compassion through action, and a steadfast refusal to leave any brother or sister behind. His induction into the Florida Veterans Hall of Fame is not only well-deserved--it stands as a testament to what one individual can accomplish when driven by love of country and devotion to those who have borne the battle.

On behalf of Florida's 3rd Congressional District, I offer my deepest congratulations to Captain Steve Petty, his wife Joan, and all those at the Veterans Resource Center who continue to serve those who served us.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Captain Floyd Blair of Marion County, Florida, who celebrated his 105th birthday on November 15, 2025.

Captain Blair's life is a complete representation of the American spirit--characterized by courage, service, and an enduring commitment to his country. He was born in a 1920, a defining moment in history when the world faced the threat of tyranny and oppression. Answering his Nation's call to service, Captain Blair served honorably in the United States Army Air Forces during the Second World War, where he demonstrated the incredible valor that were the hallmarks of America's Greatest Generation.

Throughout his service, Captain Blair embodied the values of duty, honor, and sacrifice. As a fighter pilot in combat operations across Europe, he placed himself in harm's way to defend the cause of liberty and ensure a future of peace for generations to come. His courage and leadership remain an inspiration to all who cherish freedom and understand the profound cost at which it is preserved.

Following his military service, Captain Blair continued to exemplify these same values in civilian life. For decades, he has been a devoted member of the Marion County community, respected for his humility, integrity, and steadfast patriotism. Even in his later years, Captain Blair has continued to inspire others through his quiet strength and lifelong commitment to his fellow veterans.

This year, as family, friends, and community members join together to celebrate this remarkable milestone, we pause to reflect on the profound legacy of a man who has given so much to his Nation. Captain Blair's story reminds us of the resilience and selflessness that define America's veterans and the importance of honoring those who have safeguarded our freedom.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of Florida's 3rd Congressional District, I extend my deepest gratitude and warmest congratulations to Captain Floyd Blair on his 105th birthday. May his life continue to be blessed with health, joy, and the enduring appreciation of a grateful Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the life and legacy of Alfred Thomas Lewerenz of Rainbow Springs, Florida, who passed away on September 16, 2025, at the age of 89.

Mr. Lewerenz lived a life marked by service, leadership, and deep devotion to his family and community. In 1952, he enlisted in the Florida Army National Guard, beginning a distinguished 33-year military career that saw him rise from Private to Lieutenant Colonel. As Battalion Commander of the 53rd Infantry Brigade in Coral Gables, he was instrumental in maintaining communication lines and coordinating operations during natural disasters and civil security efforts. His integrity and dedication left a lasting impression on all who served alongside him.

Mr. Lewerenz's commitment to excellence extended well beyond his military service. A graduate of Lindsey Hopkins Vocational School, the U.S. Army Signal School, and the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College, he combined technical skill with a lifelong love of learning. His passion for electronics led to a successful career in broadcasting, where he worked with WTVJ in Miami, co-founded Omni Video, and later served as Engineering Manager at Telemundo. He also shared his expertise as a Technical Advisor for the Broward County School Board, mentoring the next generation of media professionals.

Outside of his professional achievements, Mr. Lewerenz was known for his generosity, energy, and love of life. A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, he found joy in hosting family gatherings, camping trips, and community events. After retiring to Rainbow Springs, he cherished time spent golfing, playing pool, and attending Meadowbrook Church with his beloved wife Marilyn.

Mr. Lewerenz is survived by his wife of 56 years, Marilyn; his children Lorraine Berg, Stephanie Hanks, Jennifer Brant, and Stephen Lewerenz; nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. He will be remembered as a patriot, mentor, and friend whose legacy of service, faith, and love continues to inspire those who knew him.

Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recognize Alfred Thomas Lewerenz for his lifetime of service to Florida and to our Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman Guthrie for yielding.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the Unlocking Our Domestic LNG Potential Act.

In 2024, America exported nearly 12 billion cubic feet of LNG every single day. That is enough LNG to power almost 48 million homes in a single day.

What we are now faced with is making President Trump's vision of American energy dominance real.

LNG has a huge part to play in this vision, but we are fighting with one hand tied behind our back.

American oil and gas producers are restrained by bureaucratic red tape and the lingering rules and regulations of the Biden administration.

The Unlocking Our Domestic LNG Potential Act stands as a pivotal piece of legislation poised to bolster United States energy security, foster economic growth, and promote environmental sustainability. At its very core, the bill aims to streamline the regulatory process surrounding the exportation of LNG, thereby unleashing the full potential of America's abundant natural resources.

Now in north central Florida, not many people know this, but we are home to one of the largest bunkering LNG hubs in North America. This is critical to our domestic economy, as well as our national security.

The reason why this bill is so important is, first and foremost, it addresses the Biden administration's extreme LNG permit ban. By facilitating the exportation of LNG, we reduce our reliance on foreign energy sources, mitigating the geopolitical risks, and enhance our national security in the process.

By expanding LNG export capabilities, it means that this is job creation. It stimulates investment in our energy infrastructure and fosters innovation across the related industries.

Increased LNG exports translate into expanded markets, bolstering domestic production, and will do more in the next 50 years than we can imagine.

As I mentioned, the State of Florida is a dominant player in this role. We need to make sure that we are doing everything we can to make sure that the unelected bureaucrats are not hindering growth.

Mr. Speaker, I encourage all my colleagues to support this legislation.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for his steadfast support, and I also thank the ranking member for his support.

I rise today in support of H.R. 1664, the Deploying American Blockchains Act of 2025, bipartisan legislation that I am proud to lead alongside my colleague Representative Darren Soto.

This bill is about far more than emerging technology. It is about securing America's future, economically, strategically, and technologically, in an increasingly digital world.

Blockchain technology is not a passing trend. It is a foundational innovation that is reshaping how we think about security, identity, data integrity, and commerce. From supply chains and finance to healthcare and identity management, blockchain is transforming the way our systems function.

Mr. Speaker, we are at a crossroads. While American entrepreneurs and technologists are ready to lead, they are operating in an environment filled with uncertainty. Too many innovators in this space face unclear rules, inconsistent Federal policies, and outdated frameworks that push investment and opportunities overseas. Meanwhile, nations like China are investing heavily in blockchain infrastructure and making it clear that their intent is to control the digital rails of the future.

We cannot afford to fall behind. American values of freedom, transparency, and accountability must guide the development of the next generation of digital infrastructure. That is what this bill ensures.

The Deploying American Blockchains Act takes a strategic, thoughtful approach by directing the Commerce Department to lead the Federal Government's blockchain effort. The Department will advise the President, establish a Blockchain Deployment Program, and ensure that the United States remains competitive in the development and application of this critical technology.

Importantly, this bill affirms that blockchain is not just a buzzword. It is the backbone of next-generation innovations in areas like supply chain security, smart contracts, digital identity, and fraud prevention. These applications aren't just theoretical. They are being deployed right now across sectors of the entire American economy. If we fail to lead, others will step in to define the rules of the road.

This bill sends a powerful message to our allies and adversaries alike: America intends to lead. We will lead. We will build, not just consume. We intend to shape the global standards for digital trust and transparency, and we will not allow authoritarian regimes to do so in our absence.

This bill is about leadership. It is about economic opportunity, and it is about protecting our American interests and ensuring that our technological edge continues to serve the people, our values, and our future.

I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to join me in supporting this commonsense legislation. Together, we can keep America at the forefront of innovation and ensure that our digital future is one defined by liberty, accountability, and American leadership.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for his leadership.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 1520, the Charlotte Woodward Organ Transplant Discrimination Prevention Act.

This legislation is deeply personal for many families across the United States who have experienced unimaginable pain and loss simply because their loved ones had a disability.

One of those families is from my district in Ocala, Florida, Bobbi and Josh Sarmiento. Their infant son, baby Zion, was born with Down syndrome and in need of a heart transplant. At just 6 months old, Zion was denied that chance.

The doctors told the parents, Bobbi and Josh, that baby Zion's life wasn't worth the heart, that it couldn't ``be wasted'' on a child with a disability.

That is not just wrong, but it is inhumane. It should never ever happen again.

This bill that we are considering here today is named after Charlotte Woodward, a remarkable woman with Down syndrome who received a lifesaving heart transplant over a decade ago.

Charlotte's story is a living, breathing testament to the truth that we must affirm here today: Every life, regardless of disability, has value and potential.

I am so pleased to announce that Charlotte is with us here today in the gallery. I recognize you, Charlotte, and thank you for all that you do.

Mr. Speaker, H.R. 1520 ensures that individuals with disabilities are not discriminated against in organ transplant eligibility. It gives families a mechanism for timely intervention, time that oftentimes families just don't have, through the Department of Health and Human Services, when medical decisions are clouded by bias rather than compassion and science.

I am proud to work once again with my colleague and friend Congresswoman Debbie Dingell in advancing this bipartisan effort. This bill passed overwhelmingly in the last Congress,

and I am confident that this body will do what is right once again.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bill and fight for life.

Mr. Chair, I thank Chairman Guthrie for his leadership on this bill and on this issue.

I have a hard time listening to opposition to this bill. Our colleagues on the other side of the aisle for the last 4 years have continuously voted against the HALT Fentanyl Act and have stood in opposition to any effort to curb the opioid crisis in this country, which up until recently was killing 100,000 people every single year.

That is why, today, I rise to urge passage of the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Reauthorization Act of 2025 because this ongoing addiction crisis, fueled in large part by fentanyl, is still killing Americans.

This legislation builds on the hard work that Republicans started back in 2018 under President Trump. Guess what? That work has made a difference.

Instead of studying something over and over, this bill, along with other legislation, has directed resources to the ground where it is intended.

Overdose deaths have dropped by nearly 30,000 last year. That is not just a number. That is moms, dads, sons, and daughters who are still with us today as a result of Congress stepping up.

This reauthorization keeps the momentum going, and it makes sure that first responders--first responders like my husband, Matt, who is a paramedic and a SWAT medic/firefighter--have the resources that they need to save lives in the field.

It doesn't stop there. This bill supports a full range of evidence- based treatment options, from emergency overdose reversal to long-term recovery tools, like medication-assisted treatment, counseling, and peer support.

The SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Reauthorization Act of 2025 has the backing of more than 160 different organizations dedicated to substance abuse disorder treatment and recovery, and it expands care for pregnant and postpartum women, strengthens prescription drug monitoring, and helps individuals in recovery reenter the workforce and rebuild their lives.

That is what real solutions look like, not another study. Stop playing politics with people's lives, please. We need to support prevention, treatment, and recovery at every single level.

Mr. Chair, I thank Chairman Guthrie again for leading on this issue, and I urge every single one of my colleagues to support this bill. Let's get it done.

Mr. Speaker, today we recognize and cerebrate the legacy of a group of individuals whose passion for the game of baseball helped lay the foundation for college athletics at Santa Fe College in Gainesville, Florida.

In the 1970-71 academic year, at what was then known as Santa Fe Junior College (SFJC), a group of players formed a baseball club--one of the earliest steps, along with other club sports, that would eventually lead to the college becoming a recognized National Junior College Athletics Association (NJCAA) member in 1973. They were known as the ``Gainesville Nine.''

The baseball club, which predates the Northwest Campus, the largest of Santa Fe's seven locations across Alachua and Bradford counties, played other club and college teams from across the North Florida region. The bonds formed among the players showed that athletic participation and physical activity not only enrich the campus experience, but also foster a sense of perseverance and belonging that support a college-going culture.

Santa Fe College's Athletic programs have since grown in stature both regionally and nationally. The Northwest Campus gymnasium was built in the late 1970s and the baseball and softball fields were added in the early 1980s. Over the college's illustrious history, multiple NJCAA sports were offered including track, cross country, tennis, and slow pitch softball. Currently, the college offers five sanctioned intercollegiate teams in volleyball, men's and women's basketball, softball, and baseball.

Today, we honor the legacy of the 1970-71 SFJC club baseball team, the ``Gainesville Nine'' and celebrate their place in the rich history of Santa Fe College and its athletic programs.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of Florida's Third Congressional District, we wish Ms. Elsa Lewis a very happy 100th birthday.

Elizabeth Marie Kretzschmar better known as ``Elsa,'' is the youngest of three children born to German immigrant, Fritz Kretzschmar and Austrian immigrant, Josie Wittescheck Kretzschmar on June 6, 1925 in San Gabriel, California.

During World War II, she met and married a Navy sailor by the name of Wesley Inman Lewis and moved to Gainesville, Florida while he attended the University of Florida. Upon graduation, they moved to Thomasville, GA and resided on Miilpond Plantation where Inman was the forestry supervisor for the many acres of the plantation. During their residency in Thomasville, Elsa was a homemaker and gave birth to three children, a girl and two boys. In the 1960s the family moved back to Inman's hometown, Alachua, Florida, to open a fertilizer plant and farm one of the largest tobacco farms in the area. Elsa had been a bookkeeper before her children arrived and became the bookkeeper for the fertilizer plant they owned and operated in Alachua.

She has spent her remaining years here in Alachua after retiring from bookkeeping when the fertilizer plant was sold. All three of her children and their families live close by as well as seven grandchildren and great grandchildren. She is fondly known to her great grandchildren and great, great grandchildren as ``GiGi.''

Even though she is approaching 100 years loved, she is still dependent and lives on her own with children and grandchildren keeping her busy.

Congratulations to Ms. Elsa on 100 amazing years.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 2025 men's basketball NCAA national champions, the Florida Gators.

On Monday night, the Gators defeated the University of Houston in the national championship game to become the three-time national champions, winning the first title since the 2006-2007 season.

Led by Coach Todd Golden, the Gators were one of four tournament one- seeds, advancing through the rounds of 64 and 32 before dancing their way through the Sweet 16, Elite Eight, and Final Four.

After winning the title this week, the Gators ended the season with a 36-4 record making Gainesville, a/k/a Titletown, incredibly proud.

Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Coach Golden, the entire team, and, of course, the Gator nation. These guys are absolutely incredible.

As always, it is so great and sweet to be a Florida Gator.

Go Gators.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for yielding me time.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of the resolution as a woman and as the chairwoman of the Republican Women's Caucus, not only for election integrity but clearly literacy because Democrats have not read the resolution. That much is clear.

This resolution is very simple. It ensures that only American citizens can vote in our Federal elections. This isn't hard. Eighty- seven percent of Americans agree that only Americans should vote in our elections.

Mr. Speaker, it makes me wonder why my friends on the other side of the aisle are always and consistently looking for ways to ensure that illegals can vote in our elections. It is almost as though they have an ulterior motive.

You have to show an ID to board a plane, to buy alcohol, to cash a check. You have to show an ID to buy cold medicine for God's sakes. Why should people not have to verify their citizenship to register to vote? I say to register because my friend over here keeps pointing out that women in every single congressional district will have to provide proof of their name change in order to vote.

I ask my colleagues across the aisle to read the bill, page 14. If you are registering to vote, there is a process by which the States establish. If you are already registered to vote, you are fine. Read the bill. Stop insulting women.

I am sick and tired and I know women across this country are sick and tired of being talked down to and being insulted repeatedly with the fear-mongering tactics of the left. It is disingenuous for them to stand there and to continue to say that women will not be eligible to vote.

This is about protecting one of our most sacred rights that we have as Americans, and I am so proud to stand here as a woman, as a married woman, and, again, as the chair of the Republican Women's Caucus in safeguarding and ensuring the integrity of our elections.

The Speaker pro tempore. The time of the gentlewoman has expired.

The point is, is that Americans around this country are sick and tired of the fear-mongering tactics that they have been subjected to by the left for decades. We need to ensure the integrity of our elections. It has been demanded by the American people, and we are making good on that promise today.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support the SAVE Act.

Mr. Speaker, I thank my friend and colleague, Representative De La Cruz, for yielding time.

Mr. Speaker, it is such an honor to be here today as we recognize the incredible contributions of women throughout American history.

Many of us grew up reading about the courageous women who shaped our Nation, women like Abigail Adams, Harriet Tubman, and Clara Barton. Their stories weren't just words in a textbook. They were testaments to the power of perseverance, patriotism, and principle.

History is not just simply about the past. It is about what we pass on to the next generation. That is why the Smithsonian American Women's History Museum is such an important project. It ensures that these stories are not only preserved and honored but shared with all Americans. Our daughters and granddaughters should be able to walk into this museum and see firsthand how women have helped shape this Nation, not as passive observers but as leaders, innovators, and changemakers.

This museum tells the stories of the women who built businesses, defended our freedoms, and served their communities, all through the lens of hard work, personal responsibility, and faith in the American Dream.

This commitment to empowering women isn't just about history. It is about the present and the future. That is why I am so proud to be here this evening to celebrate the recent launch of the Republican Women's Caucus, a group that I am so proud to chair, which is dedicated to amplifying the voices of strong, principled women serving today in Congress. Conservative women are making history every day, championing policies that promote freedom, opportunity, and the values that have made this Nation great.

Women's History Month is a time to reflect on our progress and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that every American, regardless of their background, has the chance to achieve their full potential. That is the legacy that we honor, and it is the one future that we are building together.

May we always celebrate the remarkable women who have made our country stronger, and I am so grateful for the leadership of my fellow colleagues.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of Florida's Third Congressional District, we thank Mr. Jeffrey Askew for his storied career in Marion County.

A native of Auburn, Alabama, Jeffrey joined the U.S. Navy in July 1977 after completing his high school studies. He completed his basic training in San Diego, California and his first duty station was Naval Air Station Pensacola where he worked as a plane captain for A-4s and T-2s. While there he qualified for the A-4 back seat rider before transferring in 1980 to the USS Coral Sea CV-43 which was stationed in Alameda, California. While on the Coral Sea he visited the Philippines, Thailand, Korea, Hong Kong, Singapore, and a host of other countries. He says his most rewarding job on the ship was the Primary Fly Control Tower Supervisor.

Jeffrey participated in the Iran Hostage rescue where he was awarded the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal. He also participated in Operation Desert Shield and the Liberation and Defense of Kuwait, earning 12 medals in his 22-year tenure, including four Navy Achievement Medals and two Navy Commendation Medals. His duty stations include USS O'Bannon (DD-987), USS Lexington (CVT-16), USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN-69), and various Shore Commands.

His final duty station was Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Detachment Astor, located in the Ocala National Forest. He served as an operations officer where he conducted training with 50 air squadrons in various air to land operations. Retiring in 1999 as a Navy Chief, Mr. Askew went on to serve as Marion County's Veterans Services Director and the Administrator of the Ocala/Marion Veterans Memorial Park. He and his staff were awarded the ``Service Office of the Year'' in 2009 and 2012, making Marion County the only county to have received the award twice from the Department of Florida and the VFW.

I congratulate him on an incredible career and thank him for his service. We wish him the best as he moves on from Marion County and continues to make a tremendous difference in the lives of our heroes.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of Florida's Third Congressional District, we thank Mark Kaplan, the University of Florida's Vice President of Government and Community Relations and wish him the best in what comes next.

Kaplan, a Gator Grad, has served the University in this role since 2018. Calling it his dream job, Kaplan has built countless relationships and developed strong ties for the university at the local, state, and federal levels. The university community has benefited from his wisdom, collaborative spirit, calm, steady approach to his work, and ability to get things done.

Telling Florida Politics, Kaplan said, ``We talk about UF being among the most comprehensive universities in the country, with one of the few places in the country that has a vet school and a pharmacy school and a medical school and a law school. And one of the things that comes from all of that is it adds to the scope of things that you're paying attention to and issues that you get to work on.''

Kaplan worked as Governor Jeb Bush's chief of staff, special counsel for the Speaker of Florida's House of Representatives, and a judicial clerk to a member of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit. He also worked as the executive director for the Florida Housing Finance Corp. and as global head of public affairs at Mosaic Company.

We wish Mark and his wife Sherry a wonderful next chapter. I thank him for his service and Go Gators.