Floor Statements

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

Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 9340, the Ratepayer Protection Act.

New York families and businesses face some of the highest electricity costs in the country. In February, the average residential electricity price in New York reached about 70 percent higher than the national average, and it is up 58 percent in the last 6 years.

At the same time, data centers seeking to connect to New York's electric grid are reportedly requesting more than 9,000 megawatts of additional electricity. Years of failed energy policies out of Albany, including shutting down nuclear, banning natural gas, blocking pipelines, and other crazy ideas, have already driven up costs for New Yorkers. We cannot afford to make the problem worse.

As we work to bring new investments and jobs to New York and, indeed, America, we need to make sure that the costs of growth do not fall on the families and small businesses already struggling to pay their utility bills. That is why I support the Ratepayer Protection Act.

This legislation simply establishes a basic principle of fairness. It is about making sure that the companies driving new demand for electricity are responsible for the costs associated with that demand.

We are already seeing communities and policymakers grappling with how to manage the rapid growth of large-scale data centers and the demands that they place on our energy infrastructure. This is something that the Federal Government needs to work together on to create regulations and protect the people because we need a better approach.

We need one that respects the role of local communities while ensuring that companies driving new demand are responsible for the costs that they create. We need a policy that looks ahead, builds the infrastructure we need, and protects ratepayers at the same time.

I will continue working to ensure that New Yorkers have access to reliable and affordable energy while making sure that large energy users pay their fair share.

Madam Speaker, I urge all of my colleagues to support this legislation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Howard Pierson, a beloved lifelong resident of Nyack, who passed away peacefully at the end of July at the age of 91.

For decades, Howard was a cherished member of our community, dedicating his life to his faith, family, and inspiring those around him. A graduate of Tappan Zee High School, he earned 13 varsity letters in four sports before playing baseball at Manhattan College and signing with the Philadelphia Phillies.

After serving in the United States Army, Howard returned home and spent more than three decades educating and mentoring young people in Rockland County.

At Rockland Community College, he taught, coached, and served as athletic director for 15 years. His golf teams won 21 conference championships, and in 1980, Howard became the first African American to win the Metropolitan Golf Association's Amateur Championship.

My thoughts and prayers are with his wife, Dorothea; his family; and all who knew and loved him.

Mr. Speaker, may he rest in peace.

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

Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 9340, the Ratepayer Protection Act.

New York families and businesses face some of the highest electricity costs in the country. In February, the average residential electricity price in New York reached about 70 percent higher than the national average, and it is up 58 percent in the last 6 years.

At the same time, data centers seeking to connect to New York's electric grid are reportedly requesting more than 9,000 megawatts of additional electricity. Years of failed energy policies out of Albany, including shutting down nuclear, banning natural gas, blocking pipelines, and other crazy ideas, have already driven up costs for New Yorkers. We cannot afford to make the problem worse.

As we work to bring new investments and jobs to New York and, indeed, America, we need to make sure that the costs of growth do not fall on the families and small businesses already struggling to pay their utility bills. That is why I support the Ratepayer Protection Act.

This legislation simply establishes a basic principle of fairness. It is about making sure that the companies driving new demand for electricity are responsible for the costs associated with that demand.

We are already seeing communities and policymakers grappling with how to manage the rapid growth of large-scale data centers and the demands that they place on our energy infrastructure. This is something that the Federal Government needs to work together on to create regulations and protect the people because we need a better approach.

We need one that respects the role of local communities while ensuring that companies driving new demand are responsible for the costs that they create. We need a policy that looks ahead, builds the infrastructure we need, and protects ratepayers at the same time.

I will continue working to ensure that New Yorkers have access to reliable and affordable energy while making sure that large energy users pay their fair share.

Madam Speaker, I urge all of my colleagues to support this legislation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of John P. O'Malley, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and respected law enforcement investigator, who passed away peacefully on July 16 at age 73.

Born and raised in the Bronx, John spent more than 20 years with the New York City Police Department, becoming one of the Bronx's most respected homicide detectives. Known for his integrity, professionalism, and investigative skill, he was widely regarded as a detective's detective.

After retiring from the NYPD, John continued his commitment to justice as an investigator with the United States Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York, earning the respect of prosecutors, agents, and investigators alike.

But above all, John was a devoted family man. He and his wife, Annie, built their life in Pearl River, where they raised their children.

My thoughts and prayers are with Annie; his sons; and especially his beloved grandchildren, who were his pride and joy.

John will be remembered for his honor, humility, humor, and unwavering dedication to his country, community, friends, and family. May he rest in peace.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 9436, the Northeast Lobsterman Protection Act.

I want to thank Chairman Westerman for working with me to bring this bill to the floor, as well as my colleague from Maine who has fought tirelessly on behalf of his constituents, Jared Golden.

In Maine alone, the lobster industry generates approximately $2 billion in economic activity each year and supports more than 17,500 jobs. Local industries like this one are a lifeline for families and communities that have been in business for generations. In New York, the fishing industry generates more than $2 billion in economic activity and supports over 10,000 jobs.

For decades, the Northeast lobster and commercial fishing industries have faced growing regulatory pressure as Federal efforts to protect the endangered North Atlantic right whale have unintentionally impacted fisheries. In 2022, this important industry faced the prospect of even more regulations that would have had devastating consequences on fishermen's livelihoods and their local communities that depend on them.

Congress responded by temporarily pausing the regulations and providing funding to improve North Atlantic whale research. That research is already producing better data, but more work remains.

My bill would simply extend the current regulatory pause through 2035, giving the scientific community more than enough additional time to develop durable science-driven solutions that protect the North Atlantic right whale while ensuring American fishermen can continue to do their jobs.

The Northeast lobster fishery is an important part of our coastal economy, supporting not only fishermen but also the processors, restaurants, and local businesses.

Fishermen have spent years adapting to changing conservation requirements and implementing measures to reduce the risk of whale entanglements. They deserve regulatory stability and certainty rather than constantly shifting requirements that threaten their ability to operate and plan for the future.

This legislation is about giving American fishermen the certainty they need to keep their businesses operating while also giving scientists and the industry the time to create innovative solutions to protect both the North Atlantic right whale and the future of Northeast fisheries.

We all have industries back home that shape our communities. I am not from Maine, but I know the importance of local economies and the individual people who work hard for their families. I will always fight for small businesses and for the New Yorkers back home who show up every day to keep them going.

This is a perfect example of bipartisanship and the willingness to work together for our constituents, for our communities, and to support commonsense legislation that protects the very people we were sent here to represent.

I will also say that I refuse to be intimidated by the activists and organizations, like the NRDC, which is threatening to spend millions of dollars in political spending right now--

--attacking me for standing up and working to protect jobs and support commonsense, bipartisan legislation.

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

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 7008, the Stop Insider Trading Act, to end stock trading by Members of Congress, because trust in our democracy cannot be a luxury item. It must be the everyday expectation of every American.

For too long, the public has watched the headlines that read like a civic lesson gone wrong: elected officials buying and selling stocks in industries they regulate, profiting from information the public will never see. That is not merely unseemly, it is corrosive. It eats away at confidence in this institution, and confidence once lost is not easily rebuilt.

Banning congressional stock trading is a simple proposition. If someone serves the public, they serve only the public. They don't get to play the market with one hand while writing the rules with the other. They don't get to benefit from the power the people have loaned them.

This reform is about fairness--for the teacher saving for retirement, the nurse investing in her future, the small business owner trying to build something that lasts. They play by the rules. They deserve a Congress that does the same.

Mr. Speaker, this is our chance to say clearly: Public service is a public trust. Let us honor it.

The fact is this bill bans stock trading. And, yes, it requires photo ID, something 80 percent of Americans agree with. People just saw what came out yesterday by one of our former colleagues, the Governor of New Jersey, Mikie Sherrill, announcing that 6,600 non-U.S. citizens were added to the voter rolls in New Jersey and nearly 400 of them voted in the election. Voter ID ensures the sanctity of our elections and ensures confidence by the American people in our elections.

Mr. Speaker, it is imperative that we pass this legislation, and the American

people should watch how every single Member votes on this bill.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor an extraordinary veteran, public servant, and advocate, Ismael ``Izzy'' Quintana, and to congratulate him on his well-earned retirement.

After serving our Nation as a major in the United States Army Reserve, Izzy never stopped answering the call to serve. As the veteran outreach coordinator for BRIDGES PFC Joseph P. Dwyer Veteran Peer Support Program (Vet to Vet), he has dedicated himself to helping veterans in crisis, connecting them with critical resources and ensuring they never face their struggles alone.

Drawing on his military and law enforcement experience, Izzy has trained police recruits to respond to veterans in crisis while helping veterans find housing, navigate difficult circumstances, and access support.

His volunteer work with The American Legion, his church's food pantry, and other local organizations embodies what it truly means to put service above self.

This year Izzy received the New York State Suicide Prevention Center Pair-Up Award. I am proud to recognize him as one of New York's 17th District Veterans of the Year.

Mr. Speaker, his selfless service is an example to us all. I thank Izzy for his extraordinary service to our veterans, community, and country. I wish my friend the very best in his retirement.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the extraordinary legacy and life of Lauren Shields, who recently passed away at just 26 years old.

Lauren was the definition of a fighter. After receiving a lifesaving heart transplant as a child and a kidney transplant from her mother in 2020, she chose to dedicate her life to serving others.

A proud graduate of Albertus Magnus High School and Dominican University, Lauren became a tireless advocate for organ donation, helping pass Lauren's Law, which expanded New York's organ donor registry, before serving as a community and government affairs liaison at LiveOnNY.

I had the privilege of knowing Lauren. I was proud to call her a friend. Even in passing, Lauren gave hope to others as a tissue donor. Today, thousands of Americans are waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant. Lauren's legacy reminds us that one decision can save lives and give families more time.

I urge all of my colleagues and all Americans to consider registering as organ donors.

My deepest condolences go out to Lauren's parents, Jeanne and David; her brother, Brandon; and all of her loved ones. As Ralph Waldo Emerson said: It is not length of life, but depth of life.

In her short life, Lauren made the Hudson Valley and our country a better place. May she rest in peace.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and congratulate Yorktown Police Chief Robert Noble on his retirement after more than three decades of public service.

Chief Noble's career has been defined by commitment, sacrifice, and an unwavering sense of duty. For more than 30 years in law enforcement, including nearly a decade as chief, he led the Yorktown Police Department with professionalism and steady leadership.

For Chief Noble, policing was never simply a job, it was a vocation. He described the department as a second family and fostered a culture of trust, respect, and community engagement.

Throughout his tenure, he strengthened community policing initiatives, expanded school-based programs, and guided the department through the COVID-19 pandemic and other challenging moments, including the loss of an officer.

Beyond his accomplishments, Chief Noble will be remembered for his integrity, his leadership, and his dedication to keeping Yorktown safe.

Mr. Speaker, I thank Bobby, his family, and the entire Yorktown Police Department. I extend my deepest gratitude for his decades of service. May his retirement be filled with some well-earned rest and time with his loved ones.

Remembering Carmine Caponigro

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Carmine Caponigro, a distinguished oral surgeon, veteran, educator, and devoted family man who passed away earlier this month.

A native New Yorker, Carmine was born in Brooklyn and raised in the Bronx, where he embodied the American Dream. As the first in his family to attend college, he earned degrees from Fordham University and New York University College of Dentistry before proudly serving our Nation in the United States Army.

After his military service, he made Rockland County his home, where he built a respected oral surgery practice, served as chief of dental service at Good Samaritan Hospital, and helped educate future dental professionals. His commitment to excellence earned him the Sister Joseph Rita Good Samaritan Award for Medical Excellence.

Beyond his many professional accomplishments, Carmine will be remembered most for his kindness, humility,

sharp intellect, and deep love for his family. He valued service, lifelong learning, and treating every person with dignity and respect.

His beloved wife of 72 years, Lydia, his children, and the entire Caponigro family are in our thoughts and prayers.

Mr. Speaker, may God bless Carmine's memory and may his legacy continue to inspire generations to come.

Honoring Bill Ritter

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a great New Yorker, Bill Ritter, whose decades of work in broadcast journalism have earned him the respect and admiration of viewers across our region. As he and his family face his recent diagnosis of early-stage Alzheimer's disease, I join countless New Yorkers in offering my prayers, support, and deep gratitude for all he has given to our communities.

For decades, Bill has been a trusted presence in New York homes. As the longtime anchor of WABC's Eyewitness News, he built a career defined by integrity, thoughtful storytelling, and an unwavering commitment to keeping the public informed.

Throughout my time in Congress, I have had the opportunity to join Bill on his program where every conversation reflected his fairness, professionalism, and respect for others. Even as he steps away from the anchor desk, Bill continues to lead with courage and purpose by raising awareness about Alzheimer's disease and helping families facing the same journey.

Mr. Speaker, Bill; his wife, Kathleen; his children; and his entire family are in our thoughts and prayers. We are deeply grateful for Bill's decades of service, his friendship, and his voice in our public life.

Mr. Speaker, may God bless Bill and his family, and may He grant him strength, peace, and comfort in the days ahead as he sets out to battle Alzheimer's.

Recognizing Watson Padovani

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a truly inspiring young New Yorker from Somers, 5-year-old Watson Padovani, who is showing all of us that you are never too young to make a difference in your community.

Earlier this June, Watson held his third annual lemonade stand outside of Bobo's Cafe in Somers, raising more than $2,000 for Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation, which supports children and families battling childhood cancer. What began as a simple act of kindness has now become a growing tradition of compassion and service.

The Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation was inspired by the legacy of young Alex Scott, who began raising money with a simple lemonade stand in her fight against childhood cancer.

Today, Watson is helping carry that mission forward, one that has raised millions for pediatric cancer research and brought hope to countless families across the country.

Mr. Speaker, to Watson and his family and the entire Somers community that came together to support this effort, I thank them for setting such a powerful example of kindness, generosity, and community spirit.

Recognizing the '76 House in Tappan, New York

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize one of the Hudson Valley's most historic landmarks, the '76 House in Tappan, New York.

Established in 1686 and expanded in 1755, it is widely known as America's oldest tavern. Mr. Speaker, '76 House stood at the center of a growing community.

On July 4, 1774, local leaders gathered to draft and sign the resolutions of Orangetown, one of the first declarations of independence in American history, helping to lay the foundation for the freedoms we celebrate today.

During the Revolutionary War, '76 House welcomed some of the most important figures in our Nation's founding, including George Washington, Alexander Hamilton, and the Marquis de Lafayette. It also played a role in a pivotal moment of the war, including the trial of Major John Andre, a turning point that reshaped the course of the Revolution.

Today, it remains a living piece of American history, offering a direct connection to the people and events that defined our independence and reflecting the enduring spirit of freedom in the Hudson Valley. As we celebrate America's 250th birthday, I am proud to recognize the Old '76 House's legacy and its role in preserving our Nation's story for generations to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act. We are 8 million units underbuilt nationwide.

Under the prior administration, 30-year mortgage rates hit a 30-year high. The average age of a first-time home buyer is 40 years old.

The bottom line is, we need more housing. This bill, working together, does just that. It eases regulations. It creates greater access to capital. It provides more accountability at HUD. Ultimately, it increases supply, which will have a profound impact on Americans across this country.

I am proud to have coauthored six pieces of legislation that are in the final deal. I look forward to its passage today and President Trump signing it into law tomorrow.

This is a positive step forward for the American people to increase access to housing, to cut regulatory burdens, and to reduce overall costs. I urge everyone to vote ``yes.''

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Anthony Holdampf, a longtime firefighter, veteran, and public servant who passed away on May 30 at the age of 88.

Tony was a proud veteran of the 101st Airborne Division and dedicated decades of his life to serving others, first in uniform and then through a distinguished 37-year career with the FDNY.

During the FDNY's war years of the 1960s and 70s, Tony served on the front lines with Engine 43 and Ladder 19 in the south Bronx. He later became a charter member of the Tactical Control Unit 712, an elite unit assigned to some of the city's most dangerous fires.

After retiring from the FDNY, Tony continued serving his community as a life member of the Volunteer Hose Company No. 2 in West Haverstraw and was honored with the Rockland County Fireman of the Year award.

His commitment to the fire service inspired future generations, including his son, David, and his son-in-law, Robert, both FDNY firefighters.

Whether helping a neighbor, supporting his fellow firefighters, or serving his community, Tony always answered the call. He embodied the very best of service, courage, and selflessness. My thoughts and prayers are with his beloved wife, Mary Ellen; his children; grandchildren; and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Pearl River resident Kevin Haugh, a retired FDNY EMS captain, who bravely battled ALS and passed away last Friday.

Kevin dedicated 38 years to FDNY EMS, retiring as captain after a lifetime of service to the State of New York. He was a 9/11 first responder, a member of the National EMS Memorial Service, and a member of The Four Paul Foundation. Throughout his distinguished career, he was not only a hero in the field but a mentor for those who served alongside him.

Kevin was the founding member of the FDNY EMS Pipes and Drums, serving as the lead bass drummer and retiring as the drum major, in which he took great pride in service, tradition, and his Irish heritage.

He was also a Fourth Degree Sir Knight in the Knights of Columbus St. Dominic's Council 5343, a member of The American Legion, Pearl River Elks Lodge, and the Ancient Order of Hibernians, where he served as their grand marshal in the 2023 Pearl River St. Patrick's Day parade.

Kevin will be deeply missed by his mother, Ann; his son, Michael; and all who knew him. He will be remembered for the life he built through service, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to serving his community. His memory will always be a blessing.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong and steadfast support of H.R. 1993, the 25th Anniversary of 9/11 Commemorative Coin Act. I thank my colleagues from New York, in particular, Congressmen Goldman and Garbarino, as well as 297 other colleagues who have cosponsored this legislation.

Almost 25 years ago, for the first time in history, New York stood silent. The City that Never Sleeps came to a halt, and we all went into mourning for the thousands of innocent people who died that day.

9/11 changed New York, and it changed America. It continues to impact our communities today. To today, we still have first responders dying of 9/11-related illnesses. It is why I have spent so much of my tenure in Congress working on behalf of the victims, their families, and our first responders.

I am currently working to pass legislation to award a Congressional Gold Medal to Welles Crowther posthumously, a local hero who helped save 18 lives, known as the man in the red bandana. He represents the very best of America.

I have also led efforts to ensure and expedite disbursements from the U.S. Victims of State Sponsored Terrorism Fund, and just in the past few months, my New York colleagues and I secured lifetime funding for the World Trade Center Health Program.

Not only am I committed to taking care of our 9/11 community today, but I am committed to keeping our fallen Americans in our hearts, our minds, and our prayers each and every day, and especially every year on September 11.

This bill will allow the U.S. Mint to furnish a coin to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the attacks. Notably, the surcharge proceeds of this coin will go toward the National 9/11 Memorial & Museum to help with the incredible work they do to tell the story of 9/11 and the resilience of New York.

Mr. Speaker, we have promised never to forget 9/11, and we never will. We are committed to upholding that promise. I know my colleagues in Congress support this legislation, and I look forward to its unanimous adoption.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Brett Kelly, owner of La Terrazza restaurant in New City, New York, who passed away peacefully at the age of 58 following a stroke.

A New Jersey native, Brett grew up in South Hackensack and earned a degree from William Paterson University in 1989. From a young age, he dreamed of owning a restaurant where people from all walks of life could gather and enjoy authentic Italian cuisine.

Through his strong work ethic, Brett built a career in the hospitality industry. In 1995, his dream became a reality when he became the proud owner of La Terrazza. There, he created not just a business but a place where people felt at home, and he often referred to his staff as his second family, a testament to the bonds he built throughout his life.

Brett will be remembered for his generosity, kindness, and remarkable ability to make everyone feel at home with his warmth and humor.

Mr. Speaker, I extend my deepest condolences to his wife, Lisa; his daughter, Savannah; and all who had the privilege of knowing him. May his memory be a blessing.

honoring the life of john ``jack'' coyle

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of John ``Jack'' Coyle, a devoted public servant and pillar of the New City community.

Born in Nyack, New York, Jack lived a life defined by service, commitment, and quiet leadership. After graduating from Nyack High School and Southern Methodist University, he proudly answered the call to serve his country in the United States Army, reflecting his lifelong dedication to protecting others.

Jack's commitment to public service continued throughout his time at the New City Fire Department, where he served as a volunteer for a remarkable 70 years, making him the oldest living member at the time of his passing.

Beyond his service, Jack built an impressive career in the insurance and real estate industry, building Coyle & Coyle, Inc., in his hometown, while remaining active in community committees and being an active member of St. John's Episcopal Church in New City.

Mr. Speaker, Jack was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend to all who knew him. I extend my deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. May his memory be a blessing.

honoring thelma barlow

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Thelma Barlow, a pillar of the Somers community serving as a school crossing guard for the Somers Central School District for nearly 40 years.

A lifelong resident of Shenorock, New York, Thelma served as the commissioner of the Boy Scouts of America and was a longtime member of the church of the Good Shepherd in Granite Springs, where she also served on the Altar Guild.

Thelma was an active member of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Somers Fire Department and a member of the Yorktown Grange. Her love of photography and her commitment to her community were always remembered by everyone who knew her. Last year, in recognition of her service, a pedestrian crossing near Route 202, where she

would safely usher children to school, was named in her honor.

Thelma was a remarkable inspiration to her community, and I extend my heartfelt condolences to her family and loved ones.

Recognizing Robert Gebbia

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Robert Gebbia from Cross River on his retirement after nearly 30 years of distinguished leadership and service to suicide prevention.

Bob has led the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, building it into the Nation's leading new suicide prevention organization. Under his leadership, AFSP expanded to more than 70 chapters nationwide and grew its annual revenue from roughly $1 million to more than $50 million, supporting critical work in research, education, advocacy, and community programs, launching annual Out of the Darkness Walks in cities nationwide, connecting millions of Americans affected by suicide to community, and raising awareness.

He has served as a founding member of the National Council for Suicide Prevention and on the executive committee of the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention, helping elevate mental health as a national priority.

Bob leaves behind a legacy marked by meaningful impact, compassion, and a steadfast dedication to the nonprofit sector.

As he enters retirement, I am grateful for his leadership and wish him nothing but the very best in the years to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Clarkstown Police Chief Jeff Wanamaker on his retirement after nearly four decades of service to the town of Clarkstown and Rockland County.

Beginning his law enforcement career with the Clarkstown Police Department in 1987, he rose through every rank of the department, serving as a patrol officer, field training officer, detective, sergeant, lieutenant, captain, and, ultimately, chief. He also served as a volunteer firefighter.

A graduate of Nyack High School, SUNY Oneonta, Seton Hall University, and the FBI National Police Academy, Chief Wanamaker served with distinction on the department's honor guard, leading with the simple principle of community first.

Chief Wanamaker's career reflects the very best of law enforcement. A devoted family man and respected leader, he has spent his entire adult life protecting others.

Mr. Speaker, I join the people of Clarkstown in thanking him for his extraordinary service and wish him and his family all the best in a well-earned retirement. I thank my friend for his many years of dedicated service. God bless him.