Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor two exceptional officers from the Vidor Police Department, Officer Michael Stephenson and Officer Ashton Moss, for their courageous, life- saving actions in the face of a family's worst nightmare. Their swift and selfless response is a shining example of the best that law enforcement has to offer--timely heroics in the service of others.

In the early hours of Tuesday, September 10, 2024, at 1:49 AM, the Vidor Police Dispatch Center received a call about a residential fire with reports of children trapped inside. When Officers Stephenson and Moss arrived on the scene, they wasted no time. Spotting an air conditioning unit in the window of the children's room, they immediately began working to dislodge it, knowing every second counted.

Officer Stephenson managed to remove the window unit, and with the help of Officer

Moss, they reached inside and pulled out two young children--a 7-year- old and a 9-year-old. Just moments after they rescued those precious kids, flames erupted from the window.

I thank Officers Michael Stephenson and Ashton Moss, for their bravery, speed, and dedication. Their actions embody the true spirit of Southeast Texas--courage, selflessness, and a deep commitment to protecting others. It is an honor to represent them in Congress, and their heroism sets an example for us all.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of my bill, H.R. 7073, the Next Generation Pipelines Research and Development Act.

I introduced this important piece of legislation earlier this year to direct the Department of Energy toward a new and more modern approach to pipeline research and development.

The chairman talked about over 2 million something miles of pipelines in the United States. Well, I am from the great State of Texas, which has over half a million miles of gas and liquid pipelines, so that is about a fourth of the whole pipelines in the United States if my high school math is holding up. This creates $374 billion, with a b, in total economic output for my State.

That is because pipelines deliver oil and gas safely, reliably, and efficiently. However, as the chairman mentioned, half of all U.S. pipelines are over 60 years old, so we can expect defects and anomalies to occur more often. It is just a fact of the wear and tear they are under. Imagine driving a car that was over 60 years old, and yet it had never been tended to, which is unbelievable.

Now, that is not to say that pipelines are dangerous, Mr. Speaker. Actually, the truth is quite the opposite, as pipelines safely deliver oil and gas without incident--check these numbers out--24/7, 99.999 percent of the time. That is a pretty good safety record, Mr. Speaker.

As new energy sources emerge, like hydrogen, carbon dioxide, and methane, we can expect pipelines to be the primary source of transportation to American energy independence into the future.

H.R. 7073 encourages new public-private projects in maintenance of our current pipeline infrastructure, and in supporting next-generation systems. Through the technological innovation directed by this legislation, the American energy sector will actually see a strengthened focus on material behavior, leak detection capabilities, and multifuel transportation.

The Next Generation Pipeline R&D Act also brings together industry stakeholders, academia, and Federal agencies to collaborate and coordinate on vital pipeline research needs. It ensures that the Department of Energy focuses on basic research that is actually too low on the technology readiness level for industry to conduct. At the same time, this bill enables industry to be involved and ready to run with the innovation that does come from that kind of research.

Lastly, this bill codifies and updates a multiagency research program that includes the Department of Energy, the National Institute of Standards and Technology, and the Department of Transportation. This language updates and builds upon the original memorandum of understanding that was put in place way back in 2004.

H.R. 7073 is a good government bill with bipartisan support, as you have heard here tonight. It strengthens U.S. leadership in oil and natural gas research and actually provides a good return on investment for the American taxpayer. I thank Representatives Caraveo and Obernolte, as well as Chairman Lucas and our ranking member across the aisle for cosponsoring and being great partners on this bill. I urge all of my colleagues to support it.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition. This is unbelievable. I can't believe the radical left's absolutely relentless climate alarmism that has already claimed a bunch of victims: plastic straws, ceiling fans, gas stoves, you name it.

Now, the EPA is targeting our combustion engine cars, trying to shove their electric vehicle agenda down the throats of freedom-loving Americans. This is all in the name of so-called climate change, while making us even more dependent on the Chinese Communist Party.

To put this in perspective, how out of touch this frigging proposal is, there are 260 million gasoline- and diesel-powered passenger vehicles on the road today but only 3 million EVs. Let that sink in, Mr. Speaker. Of those EV drivers, 46 percent want to go back to gasoline cars. How about that?

One of the things I tell people is if you are driving an electric car, don't ever turn onto a dead-end street because you will be stuck on a road with no outlet. Let that sink in.

All jokes aside, I am absolutely proud to support my colleague John James' bill to protect consumer choice, allowing Americans--who would have known--to actually have realistic car options in the marketplace, which at the same time prevents further reliance on China.

I am tired of hearing all the climate alarmism. Now they are trying to make Americans do what they want them to do. Well, Mr. Speaker, I tell the climate alarmists they can blow it out their tailpipes.

I urge my colleagues to support this bill and let Americans drive the agenda and not some high-minded bureaucrats.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor a remarkable couple who have been pillars of our community in Friendswood, Texas. The Glines Family, as some of the earliest residents of our beloved town, have left an indelible mark on the fabric of our society.

Billy and Jackie Glines share a love story that reads like a fairytale. They met in 1957, and it wasn't long before sparks flew. Their first date in July of that year set the stage for a lifelong romance. By late October, Billy was called to serve our great country. Knowing he had found his soulmate, Billy was determined to marry Jackie before someone else did, for he knew he would ``never find another girl like her.''

On Christmas leave from basic training, Billy and Jackie had a quaint ceremony on December 23, 1957. Their love was tested early on, as Billy soon departed for Germany to serve as an Advanced Weapons Support Commander.

Their bond only grew stronger over the miles and years. In November 1960, they welcomed their first child, Kimberly, followed by Britt in April 1964. Kimberly and her husband, Stan, have two children, while Britt and his wife, Shannon, have three. The Glines family legacy continues to thrive through these wonderful families.

Billy's career journey led him to establish the Mustang Auto Shop with his brother-in-law, a business that remains in operation today, serving the Friendswood community. Jackie, after initially working at a weight loss facility, found her calling as a secretary at Accident Insurance Company from 1958 to 1960. She paused her career to raise her children, then dedicated 30 years as a beloved school secretary at her son's elementary school.

Last Christmas, Billy and Jackie celebrated 67 years of enduring love and commitment. Their contributions to Friendswood are immeasurable, and their story is an inspiration to us all.

Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to represent folks like Billy and Jackie Glines, whose lives are a testament to the values we hold dear--love, dedication, and service. Their story is a shining example of the American spirit, and their enduring marriage is a beacon of hope and stability in our community. Here's to Billy and Jackie Glines, for their steadfast love, their service to our country, and their unwavering commitment to our community. May they continue to share many more happy years together.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to advocate for funding in this bill and the rule that underlies it.

It is interesting to hear the ranking member from Massachusetts talk about how this is all about corporations. We are going to talk about energy. You heard the gentlewoman from Florida talk about energy bills and it is going to cost jobs. My district, the Texas Gulf Coast, has seven ports in it, more than any other Member of Congress. We produce 65 percent of the Nation's jet fuel and 80 percent of the Nation's military grade fuel.

This is about working families. This bill will bolster our economic strength. It will create jobs. It will ensure that our infrastructure can support growth and withstand challenges.

The Texas Gulf Coast is the energy producing capital. We have got 7 of America's largest petroleum refineries, 3 LNG plants, and 60 percent of the Nation's Strategic Petroleum Reserve.

We are not talking about shipping gas to our enemies. Was that the comment from the gentlewoman from Florida? We are talking about shipping it to our allies, so they don't have to buy from enemies.

As the energy capital of the world in Texas, we understand the critical importance of this bill. Our hardworking families--again, it is about working families--depend on a robust energy sector. This legislation will help us continue to lead in producing the cleanest and most affordable oil and gas. Let's keep our Nation strong. Help me to keep Texas strong. Let's secure this for generations to come.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support the rule and the underlying bills.

Mr. Speaker, due to a scheduled appointment at Walter Reed Medical Center, I missed the following votes. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 348; YEA on Roll Call No. 349; YEA on Roll Call No. 350; and YEA on Roll Call No. 351.

Madam Speaker, I am honored to rise today to recognize the well-deserved retirement of Mr. Jay Coppock after over 35 years in the financial industry, including 15 years at the Associated Credit Union of Texas.

During Jay's time at ACU of Texas, he served as the executive director of SERVE, an organization dedicated to bringing Gulf Coast area veterans groups together to combine resources and information. Since its founding in August 2015, SERVE has grown from 6 organizations to over 60, all focused on improving the lives of our great military personnel and their families.

Jay's commitment to our community and veterans has been exemplary, creating a network of support that has made a real difference. As Jay steps into a well-deserved retirement, we celebrate his profound impact and lasting legacy of service and compassion.

I thank Jay. Brenda Gail and I hope he and his bride, Lauri, enjoy retirement.

Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Alabama (Mr. Moore) for this Special Order commemorating the valor of the Greatest Generation.

Eight decades ago, brave men stormed Normandy's beaches to confront tyranny and secure our freedoms. On this 80th D-Day anniversary, we honor their courage and resilience. Their sacrifice reminds us of humanity's resilience in adversity.

I will share a couple of quotes from a sergeant and lieutenant, highlighting the battleship USS Texas' power, which is now proudly stationed, by the way, Madam Speaker, in Texas-14, highlighting the bravery of its soldiers.

As the sky lightened, the armada became visible. The

smoking and burning French shoreline also became more

defined. At 0600, the huge guns of the Allied navies opened

up with what must have been one of the greatest artillery

barrages ever.

The diesels on board our craft failed to muffle the

tornadic blasting. I could see the battleship Texas firing

broadside into the coastline. Boom-ba-ba-boom-ba-ba-boom.

Within minutes, giant swells from the recoil of those guns

nearly swamped us and added to the seasickness and misery,

but one could also actually see the 2,000-pound missiles

tumbling on their targets.

This is one from Sergeant Robert Bixler, 116th Infantry Regiment, the 29th Infantry Division, and I thank Sergeant Bixler, another of our brave patriots. He said this:

The ramp was lowered immediately after the rockets fired.

It was our hope and desire to run right up on the beach for a

dry landing, not because we were afraid of getting wet but

because if we were soaked, it would be added weight to carry

while climbing.

The British Navy man had promised to put us down dry, but

suddenly, we ran aground with the ramp dropped. The officer

said, ``Everybody out.'' Looking ahead, I could see 15 or 20

feet of water, a muddy, dirty gray stretch. The entire area

was marked by craters, shell holes from the guns of the

Texas and the bombers.

Madam Speaker, I thank Lieutenant Kerchner, 2nd Ranger Battalion.

I want to tell you, Madam Speaker, we should never forget the bravery of the Greatest Generation. Let us always uphold the principles for which they fought so valiantly. Most importantly, let us ensure that we teach our children, the latest generation, about the Greatest Generation and about their remarkable legacy. They came home from World War II. They destroyed the vilest enemy the world had ever seen and kept the world safe. They simply came home and built the greatest country the world has ever known.

Madam Speaker, Saturday marked the 6-year anniversary of the shooting at Santa Fe High School where 10 innocent lives were lost at the hands of evil. We will never forget that tragic day that forever changed Santa Fe, Texas.

As a community, we have witnessed the resilience of Santa Fe. The community's strength, their courage, and unity have been inspiring. We honor the victims by remembering their lives each and every day.

Thank you for the bravery of the first responders and everyday heroes who showed remarkable courage on that day and in the days that followed.

Madam Speaker, 6 years have passed, and not a day goes by that I don't think about each life that was taken on May 10, 2018. That day will be ingrained in my memory and our community until the end of time.

Let us continue to work together to ensure that such a tragedy never happens again.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of an extraordinary Texan, Sergeant Jesse Clay, Jr., who recently passed away. Born on September 16, 1929, in Kirbyville, Texas, Jesse exemplified dedication and bravery. Mr. Clay was a devout and dedicated member of the Mt. Carmel Baptist Church in Dickinson. He was baptized there and served throughout his life as an usher and member of the male chorus.

In 1952, he enlisted in the United States Army, and on June 14, 1953, during the Korean War, he was wounded under intense artillery fire. For his bravery, Jesse was awarded the prestigious Purple Heart Medal.

Despite his injury, Jesse's commitment to our Nation didn't end there. He reenlisted, serving another two years with distinction before being honorably discharged again in 1955. His dedication to duty and country is a shining example of the American spirit.

After his military service, Jesse continued to contribute to his community. He worked at Gay Pontiac, McRee Ford, and retired from NASA Clay Holt and Dickinson I.S.D. after 30 years of service. His meticulous care for the Dickinson High School football field was well- known around town, and his efforts ensured that the field was always in pristine condition.

Jesse's legacy is one of service, dedication, and community. His story is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by our veterans and the enduring impact of their service.

Sergeant Jesse Clay, Jr.'s life and service to our country will never be forgotten.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of one Senator Carl Allen Parker, a true southeast Texas giant.

Born in Port Arthur during the Great Depression, Senator Parker dedicated decades to serving the people of southeast Texas. He was a distinguished lawyer, statesman, and beloved native son of Port Arthur.

Senator Parker leaves behind a legacy of unwavering dedication to public service and tireless advocacy for the people of our great State. He will be remembered for his 34 years as a member of the Texas Legislature, starting with his election to the House of Representatives in 1962 and then later to the Texas Senate, where he served until 1995.

As we mourn the passing of this remarkable man, let us also celebrate his extraordinary life and the lasting impact he had on our State. May his legacy inspire future generations of public servants to follow in his footsteps and continue the work of building a better Texas for us all.

Honoring Judge Randall Hufstetler

Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the extraordinary life of the Honorable Kenneth Randall Hufstetler, State district judge of the 300th District Court of Brazoria County. For his relentless dedication to public service and remarkable contributions to our community, he will always be remembered as a Brazoria County icon.

Randy was a Texan whose life exemplified faith, family, and service. His tenure as a judge was marked by his steadfast commitment to upholding our United States Constitution. With integrity and diligence, he interpreted and applied the law to ensure fairness and justice in every single case that crossed his bench.

Despite losing his battle with cancer too soon, Randy's legacy of courage and strength will endure, inspiring us all. Though he may no longer walk among us, Randy's impact will continue to be felt in the lives he touched and the values he instilled.

To his beautiful family, Danette and kids, Randy was the epitome of love, strength, and devotion, cherishing each moment with them as the greatest gift of his life.

To Judge Kenneth Randall Hufstetler, we say farewell with gratitude and admiration.

Honoring Gerald Sullivan

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a distinguished Texan, Gerald Sullivan, who has been selected as the 2024 Buck N' Ball honoree.

Gerald's story is nothing but a pure Lone Star legend, showcasing grit, guts, and a whole lot of Texas-sized success.

From Galveston County to the halls of Texas A&M, Gerald's entrepreneurial spirit has left an indelible mark. As chairman of the Port of Galveston, he steered us through Hurricane Ike's wrath, ensuring our ports and Galveston's resilience.

His dedication to education and sharing insights with students reflects his commitment to the next generation, not to mention the Sullivan family's century-long legacy in the beef cattle industry, grazing cattle in salt grass pastures along the Coastal Bend and then shipping them from the Port of Galveston to Caribbean nations like Haiti and Cuba.

I congratulate Gerald and Susanne, his lovely bride, on Gerald receiving the Buck' N Ball award from the Bryan Museum in Galveston, where they are preserving Texas history. Gerald's commitment and dedication are inspiring to southeast Texas, and I am glad and proud to call him a friend.

Mr. Speaker, I rise with a heart full of pride as we celebrate the remarkable achievement of our very own Port Neches- Groves football team for winning the 2023 5A State championship, the first State football title in 48 years. They have made Texas-14 proud.

I congratulate each of the football players. They displayed unwavering grit and Texas determination throughout the season, overcoming challenges with resilience that led to a State champ title. I congratulate Coach Jeff Joseph and the entire coaching staff for instilling discipline, strategy, and a winning mindset in every player.

I thank the students, faculty, and fans for representing our community with absolute honor and pride. This victory is not just for PN-G but for all of southeast Texas.

I congratulate the Indians. They deserve it. God bless the Port Neches-Groves Indians, and God bless Texas.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate a true American hero, World War II veteran, and former POW, Mr. Louis Rayford Guzardo, who will turn 100 on April 6.

Mr. Guzardo isn't just any ordinary Joe. He served as a B-24 gunner during World War II. His courage and dedication exemplified the finest tradition of our Armed Forces, inspiring us all to strive for excellence as well as selflessness. He is a part of the Greatest Generation.

Despite enduring the horrors of war and being held as a prisoner of war, Mr. Guzardo's spirit remained unbroken, fueled by his love of his country and his unwavering faith.

Mr. Guzardo, thank you for your service. Thank you for your sacrifice and unwavering dedication to your community in Nederland. Happy 100th birthday, and may your days be filled with joy and blessings. Know that your legacy will be in this Congressional Record for generations to come, and your love for the United States will always be remembered.

Madam Speaker, since President Joe Biden's first

day in office, he has actively attacked our energy industry.

Joe Biden's blatant political ploys to satisfy his radical climate activists have directly impacted my energy-heavy district, which houses approximately 50 percent of Texas' daily refining output. It is home to seven of America's largest petroleum refineries, which processes 2.6 million barrels of oil every day. It is also home to three LNG facilities and 60 percent of the Nation's Strategic Petroleum Reserve.

Our strategic reserve sites along the Gulf Coast are still dangerously low on oil, leaving America more vulnerable to a true energy supply disruption caused by a hurricane or natural disaster, not to mention our enemies.

Port Arthur LNG, in my district, is now in limbo because this President recklessly decided to ban LNG exports.

Do you know what that means for my district? This means that Texans will be without jobs and our community will suffer because these facilities typically invest heavily back into our community.

Madam Speaker, our way of life in southeast Texas depends on the certainty of energy. The President's every move and decision to kill our energy security has only resulted in leaving America more reliant on foreign adversaries.

Madam Speaker, quite frankly, I am surprised the President has the energy to do this.

Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that I may hereafter be considered the first sponsor of H.R. 4506, a bill originally introduced by Representative Johnson of Ohio, for the purpose of adding cosponsors and requesting reprintings pursuant to clause 7 of rule XII.