Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service of Chief Warrant Officer Christopher Eramo, an Army officer from Oneonta, New York, who tragically lost his life in a helicopter crash in Alaska.

Chief Eramo exemplified the bravery and selflessness that is required of our men and women in uniform. He knew the dangers that came with his service, and he dedicated his life to protecting our country and safeguarding our freedoms.

As we mourn his passing, we also recognize the sacrifices all of our servicemembers make every day. They put their lives on the line every day to protect us, and we are forever grateful for their service.

May we always honor the bravery and sacrifice of Chief Eramo and all those who have given their last full measure of devotion to a grateful Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding.

Mr. Speaker, should we do more? Of course, we should do more, but fentanyl is pouring into our country not only at our ports of entry, but across our borders. We did do more a week ago bolstering border security.

Fentanyl is taking too many American lives, and I rise today in support of the HALT Fentanyl Act. This bill will help to combat the spread of fentanyl-related substances by permanently listing it as a schedule I drug, recognizing its deadly effects, giving our communities yet one more tool in a growing and necessary toolbox.

The smallest amounts of these drugs can kill even just one person, and laced with other substances, they are taking countless lives. Accessibility and lethality of these drugs have fueled countless fatalities. Fentanyl poisoning is the number one cause of death among adults 18 to 49 years of age, more than cancer, more than heart disease, and more than car accidents.

In upstate New York, the opioid crisis is devastating our communities, and it is being fueled by fentanyl. This is the public health crisis of our lifetime. In my home State, my district in Sullivan County, New York, has the highest opioid death rate in the entire State. That is why we are also pushing for Sullivan County to be designated a Federal High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area.

The truth is, every community in America is a victim to the fentanyl crisis, every family is on the front line of this opioid crisis, and we must give law enforcement and communities every tool necessary. I am proud to support this bill. I am proud to support law enforcement and their efforts to intercede and give them the tools to keep fentanyl out of our communities and off our streets.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize May as Mental Health Awareness Month.

One in six students is experiencing childhood mental health disorders. Among adults, that number jumps to one in five.

Our Nation is facing a mental health crisis, and it requires urgent action. For too long, mental health has been a topic that people have been afraid to openly discuss.

It carries with it a stigma that has prevented people from getting the care they need. I know this firsthand. Having been raised by a single mom with undiagnosed depression, I know the challenges that many families face. While grateful for her love, I knew the struggles that she lived with.

Talking about mental health simply isn't enough. We must work hard to break down and break through barriers and encourage more people to seek the help they need.

That requires us as a nation and as communities to invest more and to help ensure anyone who needs mental health treatment can access it.

I spent much of the last 12 years as a local elected official building up the most comprehensive community-based mental health model in the country. It is now, today, the model that New York State uses, and it is critically important that we expand the reach and the ability of individuals to access community-based mental health treatment.

In upstate New York, we have incredible providers like the Mental Health Association of the Southern Tier. Unfortunately, these providers are stretched thin and face growing demand. They need our help.

That is why we must increase Federal commitment to mental health programming and incentivize mental health education to boost the pipeline of qualified practitioners.

As we recognize Mental Health Awareness Month, we must increase our commitment to addressing the mental health crisis in our communities.

This is an issue that transcends party and politics. By working together, we can build communities where everyone has the support they need to live out a full, healthy, and fulfilling life.

Honoring National Police Week

Mr. Speaker, I rise today with many of my colleagues in honor of National Police Week. I join Members across this country in recognizing the brave men and women who serve in Federal, State, county, and local law enforcement.

I especially acknowledge and recognize the men and women of law enforcement throughout upstate New York, the county, State, and local men and women who put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities.

Sadly, however, they don't get the recognition that they deserve, and appreciation, while well deserved, is simply not enough.

New York State passed cashless bail reforms that have allowed dangerous criminals to be released and remain in our communities and on our streets, reoffending, creating new victims, undermining law enforcement, and diminishing public safety.

These laws make it harder and more dangerous to be a law enforcement official or a police officer. It is no wonder our police officers are leaving the profession in record numbers.

Here in Congress, we are moving this week to pass bills to show our support and appreciation for law enforcement and to prove again that we have their backs. We defend those who defend us and vigorously oppose the defund and defame the police movement, not just because it is the right thing to do but because it will further protect our police officers and enhance community safety.

Mr. Speaker, we recognize all of those men and women who serve and sacrifice every day, and we are grateful to them and their families.

May they always come home to a family that loves them and a community that supports them.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize April 2 as Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson Education and Sharing Day.

April 2 is the Rebbe's birthday, and Rabbi Schneerson believed that education was not just about acquiring knowledge but also about developing a strong moral compass. He saw education as a tool for building a healthy and prosperous society, one that values compassion, justice, and kindness.

His vision has inspired countless individuals around the world to pursue excellence in education and to better serve their communities.

Through his tireless efforts, the Rebbe established over 5,500 educational and social institutions across the United States and in more than 100 countries. These institutions have empowered young people to reach their full potential and make a positive impact on society.

Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in celebrating Education and Sharing Day by reflecting on the Rebbe's legacy and commitment to education.

Recognizing Autism Awareness Day

Madam Speaker, today, I rise to recognize Autism Awareness Day, a day that promotes understanding and acceptance of individuals on the autism spectrum.

Autism is a complex neurological disorder that affects millions of individuals across the United States. It is also a spectrum disorder, which means each person's challenges can vary significantly.

As the father of four children, one of whom lives on the autism spectrum, this is deeply personal to me. April 2 is my daughter Abigail's birthday.

Happy birthday to her.

Before coming to Congress, I founded the ThinkDIFFERENTLY initiative in my home State to break down barriers and open opportunities for individuals with physical, intellectual, and developmental disabilities.

In Congress, we are working in a bipartisan way to expand on this effort. I started by introducing the Think Differently Database Act, which creates a comprehensive website of resources for individuals with disabilities.

This is just the beginning. We must do more to increase funding for autism research, expand access to early intervention services, and support families through education and outreach programs. These efforts will promote greater inclusivity and understanding and help every person of every ability reach their fullest potential.

Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing Autism Awareness Day and continue supporting this critical work of breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for everyone of every ability.

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

Mr. Chairman, my amendment simply requires a study to look at the impact that a ban on natural gas appliances would have on electricity prices.

In my home State of New York, Governor Kathy Hochul has proposed to implement a ban on gas-powered appliances, including gas stoves, beginning in 2025, less than just 2 years from now.

The notion that the State is going to tell New Yorkers that they can't use the most affordable option to heat their homes or cook their dinner is beyond belief. This proposal will undoubtedly increase the demand and cost for electricity, which is already incredibly expensive for my constituents in upstate New York, all spending hundreds, even thousands of dollars more for their electricity.

My amendment will shed light on the costs of Governor Hochul's proposal and what that cost will have on New Yorkers, and by extension, all Americans.

This is not a partisan issue. My Democratic colleagues should join me in seeking transparency and identifying the effects that this proposal and others like it will have on the cost of electricity.

H.R. 1, the bill in chief, delivers on our commitment to lower energy costs for the American people, and I wholeheartedly support it.

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

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

With due respect to all my colleagues, there is a State that is proposing to ban gas appliances. In fact, New York is not only planning to ban simply through new construction, but will require that transition within 2 years, even retrofitting or making changes to construction of existing homes.

In the case of New York, we know already we shoulder the highest burden, highest cost of not only taxation and electricity costs, but this will just add insult to injury. I encourage my colleagues to support my amendment.

Mr. Chairman, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from North Dakota (Mr. Armstrong).

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

Mr. Chairman, I demand a recorded vote.

Mr. Chairman, I demand a recorded vote.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Binghamton University Men's Hockey Team on winning the DII AAU College National Championship.

Binghamton University won with a commanding 6-3 victory over Fairfield University. This capped off an astonishing season in which Binghamton finished with a 23-5-1 overall record and a perfect record in the national tournament.

These young men have dedicated countless hours to their sport while balancing a rigorous academic schedule with grueling practices and games. Making this championship even more special, the team bounced back after sustaining several injuries last year.

This is a moment that this team and our community will remember for years to come.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in recognizing the Binghamton University Men's Hockey Team on this well- earned title. Congratulations to the National Champions.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Chatham, New York Panthers Varsity Basketball team for their recent attainment of 2nd place in the New York State Class C Regional Final.

After a magical run this season, they deserve to be recognized for their hard work and perseverance. This achievement is a record for Chatham, a feat that they should be very proud of.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in recognizing Chatham for this remarkable achievement.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of Howard ``Corky'' Clark who passed away on March 9th of this year. Howard was a devoted father, husband, Navy veteran, and pillar of his community.

Howard will long be remembered for many meaningful contributions he made to his community of Tivoli, New York. Along with being an incredibly accomplished chef, he served as an EMT, lifetime volunteer firefighter, member of the American Legion, and Village of Tivoli Justice.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in honoring the memory of Howard ``Corky'' Clark. While we mourn his passing, we celebrate his life and the legacy he leaves behind. May his life and memory always be a blessing.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the life and legacy of Mrs. Linda Greenblatt, a beloved social studies teacher who passed away on March 18 after decades of service to the Red Hook Central School District.

As a former student of Mrs. Greenblatt, I can attest to the profound impact she had in the classroom. She had a passion for teaching, and her lessons made students excited about history and government.

What I admire most about her is that she saw the potential in every student. She was the type of teacher who would allow students to do a project if they weren't able to take the test. This individualized approach helped students like me to realize their strengths and achieve their goals.

I thank her, as do so many, for being one of the people who got me interested in public service and helped me recognize at a very young age that every person has significant strengths and abilities.

I ask my colleagues in the House to join me in honoring the memory of Mrs. Linda Greenblatt. May her legacy continue to inspire future generations of educators and students alike.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of Linda Greenblatt who passed away on March 18 of this year. Linda was a devoted mother, wife, and pillar of her community who will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Linda will long be remembered for her contributions to both the town of Red Hook and Dutchess County, New York. She taught history and social studies at Red Hook Middle and High Schools, was an election coordinator for the Dutchess County Board of Elections, and a member of numerous community groups.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in honoring the memory of Linda Greenblatt. While we mourn her passing, we celebrate her life and the legacy she leaves behind. May her life and memory always be a blessing.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of James Crawford who passed away on February 28th of this year. James was a devoted father, husband, and man of faith who will be dearly missed by all who knew him.

James will long be remembered for many meaningful contributions he made to his community. He was founder and director of both Community Faith Partners and the Herald Examiner, a newspaper he published with his wife Nancy for 32 years.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in honoring the memory of James Crawford. While we mourn his passing, we celebrate his life and the legacy he leaves behind. May his life and memory always be a blessing.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in remembrance of Jim Langan, a longtime friend who passed away on February 15 of this year.

Jim was a friend to all who knew him, and will long be remembered for his love of life. He had a brilliant mind, a quick wit, and a powerful pen. He was a steward of that most sacred first amendment and understood the value of public service.

I will forever be grateful for our friendship, dialogue, and debate. He enriched the life of our community and lives of those who live here.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in honoring the memory of Jim Langan. While we mourn his passing, we celebrate his life and the legacy he leaves behind. May his life and memory always be a blessing.

Mr. Speaker. I rise today in remembrance of Richard H. Dedrick, a longtime friend and Tivoli neighbor who passed away on February 15 of this year.

Rich served his country honorably in the United States Air Force and was the Commander of Post 524 of the American Legion in Tivoli. His humor and wit lessened a debate and lightened the mood. Our service together in the village of Tivoli helped to make better the community and lives of those who called our corner of the world home.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in honoring the memory of Richard H. Dedrick. While we mourn his passing, we celebrate his life and the legacy he leaves behind. May his life and memory always be a blessing.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of Christopher Shawn King who passed away on February 2 of this year. Christopher was a devoted father, Air Force veteran, volunteer firefighter and friend to all who he met.

He was a man whose love and care was evident to all who knew him. While he was taken from us far too soon, his family and friends will long cherish their time with him.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in honoring the memory of Christopher Shawn King. While we mourn his passing, we celebrate his life and the legacy he leaves behind. May his life and memory always be a blessing.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the courageous and lifesaving actions of five first responders in Valatie, New York. Early on the morning of December 21, New York State Troopers Joseph Edinger and Nick Norton, Columbia County Sheriff Deputies Stephen Naegeli and Tyler Suchoski, and Valatie Fire Chief Joseph H. Loeffler entered a burning building in Valatie and rescued the three residents trapped inside along with two cats and a dog.

Despite the flames shooting out of the second floor and smoke pouring from the building, these five brave men risked their lives for those inside. For their selfless actions, the town of Valatie has recognized each of them with awards for their heroism.

Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in recognizing the valiant actions of these five brave men and those who supported them. Their quick and courageous response on the morning of December 21 is a shining example of the selfless work our first responders do every day to protect our communities.