Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of my bipartisan bill titled the Setting Consumer Standards for Lithium-Ion Batteries Act.

Mr. Speaker, I am deeply grateful to Chair Guthrie, Ranking Member Pallone, Chair Bilirakis, and all the members of the Energy and Commerce Committee for their support. I am equally grateful to my partners in this effort, Congress Members Yvette Clarke, Andrew Garbarino, and Nick Langworthy.

At the heart of our legislative progress has been the tireless advocacy of the FDNY, the finest and bravest fire department in the Nation.

The sheer speed and scale of destruction caused by a lithium-ion battery fire is nothing short of staggering. In the Bronx, we witnessed one of our few neighborhood supermarkets, 2096 Grand Concourse, instantaneously reduced to rubble by a five-alarm fire caused by a malfunctioning lithium-ion battery. These fires are happening with greater frequency and ferocity across America.

Nowhere has this crisis been more acute than in New York City, which has emerged as the epicenter of lithium-ion battery fires, with more than a thousand incidents since 2019. The number of fires has been rising relentlessly, from 30 in 2019 to 44 in 2020, 104 in 2021, 219 in 2022, 268 in 2023, and 279 in 2024. In just 4 years, America's largest city has seen an over 800 percent surge in these fires, creating an unprecedented crisis in public safety.

Poorly manufactured lithium-ion batteries often imported from China are hidden ticking time bombs waiting to detonate in American homes and neighborhoods. The danger has become too great to ignore.

Today, the House is poised to pass bipartisan legislation that will finally empower the Consumer Product Safety Commission to establish mandatory safety standards for the manufacture of lithium-ion batteries in e-mobility devices.

In doing so, we are acting to prevent needless fires, save lives, and safeguard communities across our Nation, and we are honoring our most sacred duty: to protect the American people.

I urge my colleagues to support this legislation. Mr. Speaker, I include in the Record letters of support from a coalition of stakeholders in favor of this bipartisan legislation.

Mr. Speaker, Reverend Dr. Allen N. Pinckney, Jr. has served as the Senior Pastor of the Butler Memorial United Methodist Church in the Bronx, New York from July 2011 to the present. He follows a line of strong pastoral leaders in serving one of the historic United Methodist Churches in the Bronx community, and it is under his leadership that Butler has completed its renovation project.

Prior to serving as the pastor of Butler, his ordained ministry journey began in Long Island, New York serving as the pastor of South Floral Park UMC (1988-1989), Wakefield Grace UMC (1989-1997), St. John's UMC in Elmont (1997-2001), District Superintendent of the Long Island East District (2001-2007) and Salem UMC (2007-2011). His vision for Butler is for God's people to listen to the Spirit as a launching, learning, loving and living witness for Christ in the home, in the church, in the community and in the world.

A community builder, a community activist and an advocate for social justice issues, Dr. Pinckney has provided leadership in various community boards and agencies throughout his journey in ministry and continues to advocate for children and families as the building blocks for expanding the Kingdom of God in these contemporary times. With this vision, Dr. Pinckney has been instrumental in advocating for The Learning Tree Cultural Center to occupy the educational wing of the newly renovated Church building.

In addition to his pastoral responsibilities, Dr. Pinckney served on the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry of the United Methodist Church, the Board of Directors of the Black Methodists for Church Renewal and as a member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, the Bronx Cooperative Parish as well as other ecumenical and advocacy agencies.

Dr. Pinckney has been a lifelong Methodist and disciple for Jesus Christ with an unwavering passion for proclaiming the Good News of Salvation and participating in the lives of those who are seeking a better relationship with God.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to our dear colleague, Nita Lowey, who served as the U.S. Representative for New York's 17th Congressional District from 1989 to 2021. Congresswoman Lowey made a profound and lasting impact on this body, and her dedication to public service will be remembered for years to come. Today, we reflect on her tireless work, her trailblazing leadership, and the legacy she leaves behind.

Representative Lowey's career was defined by her unwavering commitment to advancing key issues such as healthcare, women's rights, support for Israel, combating anti-Semitism, and the well-being of her constituents. In 2019, the Congresswoman made history as the first woman to serve as the chair of the House Appropriations Committee, Through this influential position, she played a critical role in shaping and directing the federal budget, ensuring that vital programs in healthcare,

education, and infrastructure received the funding they needed to thrive. As a strong advocate for healthcare, Representative Lowey played an active role in supporting the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and worked tirelessly to secure federal funding for services that benefited underserved communities. Her advocacy also extended to women's health, where she fought for access to reproductive healthcare and made sure that healthcare was available to women in need.

Beyond her healthcare work, Congresswoman Lowey was an outspoken advocate for women's rights and gender equality. She supported the reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act and pushed for policies that promoted gender equality and women in leadership. The Congresswoman was also deeply committed to global issues, particularly U.S.-Israel relations, serving as a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee. Her leadership led to the passage of the Nita M. Lowey Middle East Partnership for Peace Act. This bill provides extraordinary funding to foster economic cooperation between Israelis and Palestinians to help build lasting peace.

Representative Nita Lowey's legacy in Congress is one of tireless service, advocacy, and leadership. Her work in securing funding for healthcare, education, foreign aid, and her unwavering support for women's rights, Israel, and the Jewish people will continue to influence the policy agenda for years to come. As we move forward in Congress, let us remember the example she set--a reminder that public service is about improving the lives of others and fighting for what is right. I offer my deepest gratitude for her decades of dedicated service. My thoughts are with her family and loved ones as we honor her memory.

Mr. Speaker, it is my great honor to rise today in recognition of Melissa Sigmond, a remarkable leader, executive, and community advocate, in celebration of Women's History Month. Throughout her career, Melissa has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence and service, using her diverse skill set to benefit both the business and nonprofit sectors.

Melissa's professional journey is nothing short of inspiring. After earning her degree from UCLA, she began her career in Hollywood, where she worked on global feature film and television production. This experience provided her with a strong foundation in leadership, creativity, and strategic thinking. However, Melissa's career path took a pivot as she transitioned into the finance sector, working at Bank of America, where she led the corporate events team. She then continued her career in finance with hedge and venture funds in Manhattan, where her contributions were instrumental in driving business success.

In 2013, Melissa decided to apply her expertise to nonprofit leadership, an area where she shines. She led the design, build, and opening of New York City's first technology center for older adults, a project funded by former Mayor Bloomberg, Google, Sony, and a range of corporate donors and private foundations. This groundbreaking initiation not only provided critical resources for older adults but also reflected Melissa's deep commitment to using her skills to serve others and address the needs of marginalized communities.

Today, as Chief Executive Officer at the Riverdale Y, Melissa continues to make a profound impact. She has proven herself as a transformational leader, dedicated to building and strengthening community in the Bronx. Her work at the Riverdale Y reflects her dedication to creating inclusive and supportive environments that benefit individuals and families across the borough.

Melissa's multifaceted career and unwavering commitment to social impact highlight her exceptional leadership and ability to create positive change. She has worked with numerous philanthropic organizations, technology and education nonprofits, and faith-based institutions, always focusing on advancing the well-being of the communities she serves. It is with great admiration that I honor Melissa Sigmond for her outstanding accomplishments and tireless dedication to making a difference in the lives of others. Her ability to bring together diverse sectors for the greater good, as well as her devotion to the Bronx and beyond, exemplify the values we celebrate during Women's History Month.

Mr. Speaker, it is my great honor to rise today to recognize an exceptional leader, advocate, and community servant, Rosemary Ordonez-Jenkins, in

recognition of her outstanding contributions to our community and her enduring commitment to social justice. In celebration of Women's History Month, we take this opportunity to highlight the invaluable impact that Rosemary has made in the Bronx and beyond.

A lifelong resident of the Bronx, Rosemary is an Afro Latina and a proud member of the Garifuna community. She has spent her life dedicated to serving others, with a focus on empowerment, advocacy, and uplifting those in need. Rosemary's work continues to reflect her deep- rooted belief in the power of community and the importance of ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to thrive.

Currently serving as Deputy Executive Director for Community & Economic Empowerment at Phipps Neighborhoods, Rosemary oversees a variety of programs aimed at ensuring that Bronx residents receive the support and resources they need. She leads the Resident Services portfolio, assisting households transitioning from homelessness to permanent housing. Through her leadership, Rosemary and her team provide critical services that enable families to move into stable, long-term housing and integrate successfully into their communities.

Rosemary's efforts extend beyond housing support, as she also manages essential social service programs, including food pantries, services for older adults, and community development initiatives such as Beacons, Cornerstones, and Arches Re-Entry. Her work touches the lives of residents across the Bronx, Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens, and she continues to be a tireless advocate for those seeking financial stability and community involvement.

Her exceptional service to the community has earned Rosemary numerous accolades, including being named one of the Power Women of the Bronx by Schneps Media in 2022, as well as being named one of the 25 Most Influential Women in Bronx County by the Bronx Times in 2010. She has received widespread recognition from elected officials and organizations for her unwavering commitment to enhancing the quality of life for economically challenged communities.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Rosemary is a prominent civic leader. She serves as Vice President of the Bronx Democratic Party, a Judicial Delegate, and a County Committee Member. She also holds a leadership role as a Special Advisor to the Garifuna Coalition and is an active member of Friends of Crotona Park. Furthermore, Rosemary serves as a Board Member of the Lincoln Fund, a renowned philanthropic organization working to foster positive change in underserved communities.

Her academic accomplishments are equally impressive. Rosemary holds a master's degree in social work from Fordham University and is a New York State Licensed Master Social Worker. She also earned a bachelor's degree in Sociology from Marymount Manhattan College.

Rosemary's legacy is one of profound service, dedication, and leadership. Through her work, she has created lasting change in the lives of countless individuals and families. Her tireless efforts to advocate for social justice, economic opportunity, and community empowerment continue to inspire those around her.

It is with great respect and admiration that I recognize Rosemary Ordonez-Jenkins as a true champion of the Bronx, a leader in her community, and an outstanding woman whose contributions to our society exemplify the values we celebrate during Women's History Month.

Mr. Speaker, It is my great honor to rise today to recognize and celebrate the exceptional contributions of Sophia L. Reid, a true champion for seniors and community empowerment in the Bronx. In celebration of Women's History Month, I proudly honor Sophia for her tireless commitment to enhancing the lives of older adults and for her selfless dedication to building a stronger, more vibrant community.

Sophia has served as the Program Director of the R.A.I.N. (Regional Aid for Interim Needs) Eastchester Neighborhood Older Adults Center since November 2016. Prior to her current role, she was the Program Director at the R.A.I.N. Boston Secor Older Adults Center, where she laid the foundation for her distinguished career in senior services. In her role, Sophia is responsible for fostering healthy aging and well- being for older adults by offering a wide array of programs, including physical exercise activities, mental stimulation sessions, and health awareness initiatives. She ensures that every member of the community has access to the resources and support they need to live a fulfilling life.

Sophia's journey in service began at the Eastchester Center in 2006, when she joined as an Administrative Assistant. Over the years, her dedication, hard work, and passion for community service led her to rise through the ranks, ultimately becoming the Program Director in 2016. Sophia's educational background, which includes a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from The College of New Rochelle, a Certificate in Information Processing from New York Business School, and a Medical Assistant Diploma from Blake Business School, has provided her with the foundation to thrive in both healthcare and community services. She has also pursued additional certifications, including training as a Diabetes Self-Management Program Peer Leader and a Certified Trainer for Bronx Health Corps. Her commitment to ongoing education underscores her dedication to improving the lives of those around her.

Sophia's impact extends far beyond her professional roles. She has received numerous awards and recognitions for her exemplary service, including a Certificate of Appreciation from the New York City Department for the Aging, a Citation of Merit fiom Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz, Jr., and the Live On New York Appreciatively Certificate. In 2023 alone, Sophia received the Phenomenal Woman Award, the Women of Influence Award, and a Proclamation from the New York City Council, among other honors.

Sophia has created an environment at the Eastchester Older Adults Center where members feel safe, valued, and supported. As one of her seniors put tt, Sophia is like a ``mother hen,'' always looking out for everyone, and no one is too far out of reach for her care. Sophia's love and commitment to her community, particularly her ``seasoned Seenagers,'' is not only reflected in her numerous awards but in the lives she touches every day.

It is with great admiration and gratitude that I recognize Sophia L. Reid for her remarkable dedication to the Bronx and to the well-being of our senior citizens. Her exemplary service and her unwavering commitment to the community exemplify the qualities we celebrate during Women's History Month.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to honor Rosetta Kirkland, a dedicated community leader, advocate for workers' rights, and steadfast supporter of her neighborhood in the Bronx. In celebration of Women's History Month, we recognize Rosetta for her exceptional contributions to her community, her advocacy for social justice, and her ongoing efforts to improve the lives of working people in the Bronx.

Rosetta is a pillar of her community, serving as the President of the Board of Directors for Concourse Village. As an active leader, she has worked alongside elected officials, including Congress Member Ritchie Torres and Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson, to improve the quality of life for her fellow residents. Through her tireless work, Rosetta has become a vital force in making her community a better place for all.

In addition to her leadership in the Bronx, Rosetta has been deeply involved in her faith community, contributing to the Greater Universal and New Seasons Churches. She has served in various capacities, including as a Choir Member, President of the Pastor Aide Committee, Deaconess, and Chair of the Prayer Warriors. Her commitment to her faith and her community is an integral part of who she is, inspiring others through her example of service and devotion.

Professionally, Rosetta has had an impactful career, having worked for 21 years at MTA/NYCT, and today serving as a proud member of 1199 SEIU. Her peers elected her as their Union Delegate, a role in which she demonstrated tireless advocacy for the rights of workers. As a Delegate, Rosetta has been instrumental in grievance procedures, ensuring that workers' rights were upheld and protected, as well as engaging members in campaigns to preserve essential healthcare funding. She also serves on the 1199 Candidates Screening Team, where she plays a crucial role in helping the union choose and endorse political candidates who share their values and commitment to improving the lives of working people.

In her personal life, Rosetta enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, attending Broadway musicals, watching movies, socializing with friends, cooking, and studying God's word. She finds fulfillment in encouraging others to remain faithful, regardless of the challenges they may face in life.

It is with immense respect and admiration that I honor Rosetta Kirkland for her dedicated service to her community, her advocacy for workers' rights, and her ongoing commitment to improving the lives of those around her. Her leadership, compassion, and tireless work on behalf of others exemplify the values we celebrate duirig Women's History Month.

Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to honor and celebrate Vanessa L. Gibson, the 14th Bronx Borough President, in recognition of her exemplary leadership, dedication to public service, and unwavering commitment to the people of the Bronx. As we celebrate Women's History Month, we reflect on the incredible achievements of women like Ms. Gibson, who continue to shape and inspire our communities with their hard work and determination.

A proud native New Yorker, Ms. Gibson's journey in public service began while she was still a student at the University at Albany, when she joined the New York State Assembly Intern Program in 2001. There, she was assigned to work with then-Assemblywoman Aurelia Greene, where she quickly demonstrated her passion for legislative work and serving her community. From that moment, Ms. Gibson knew that public service would be her life's calling.

Upon graduating, Ms. Gibson transitioned to the role of Legislative Aide and later became the District Manager of Assemblywoman Greene's Bronx office. As District Manager, she played a vital role in ensuring effective administrative services and constituent outreach. After Assemblywoman Greene's resignation in 2009, Ms. Gibson ran in a special election for the 77th Assembly District, winning the seat and making a powerful mark on the state legislature.

During her two terms in the New York State Assembly, Ms. Gibson was a dedicated advocate for the issues that matter most to the Bronx. Her tireless work on education, affordable housing, public safety, and criminal justice reform earned her respect from her colleagues and the community alike. In 2013, she ran for a seat on the New York City Council, was elected, and quickly became known as a leader in the fight for tenant protections, alternatives to incarceration, enhanced police training, and criminal justice reform.

One of her landmark achievements as a Council Member was her collaboration with then-Council Member Mark Levine to pass the Right to Counsel legislation in 2017, which ensures free legal representation for low-income tenants facing eviction. Additionally, she championed the development of a ten-year food strategy for New York City, which addresses food deserts and promotes access to healthy, sustainable food options for all New Yorkers. It was my immense honor to have served alongside Ms. Gibson in the New York City Council.

In 2020, Ms. Gibson announced her candidacy for Bronx Borough President, presenting a bold vision for the future of the borough. With a focus on public safety, food equity, housing insecurity, health and wellness, gender equity, and support for the LGBTQIA+ community, Ms. Gibson's campaign resonated deeply with Bronx residents. After winning both the primary and general elections, she made history as the first woman and the first African American to be elected as Bronx Borough President.

As Borough President, Ms. Gibson has continued her lifelong work of advocating for equitable opportunities and improving the quality of life for all Bronxites. Her leadership is transforming the borough, with a focus on community-centered initiatives that empower residents, strengthen neighborhoods, and create sustainable economic growth.

It is with great admiration and respect that I honor Vanessa L. Gibson for her trailblazing accomplishments, her dedication to justice, and her unwavering commitment to the Bronx. Ms. Gibson exemplifies the power of public service and the profound impact that women can have on shaping our communities and our future.

Mr. Speaker, I honor the life and work of Bill Harris. A lifelong advocate for children and their families, especially those facing difficult circumstances. Bill believed in crafting sound public policy to help those in need, those facing trauma, and any other difficult situation affecting the lives of children. He will be remembered as a kind father, a loving husband, a good friend, and man who was willing to help those who needed it. May he rest in peace.

Mr. Speaker, we remember Staff Sergeant Yuval Shoham who was tragically killed while defending his beloved Israel. Yuval, a brave member of the 9th Battalion of the 401st Brigade of the Israeli Defense Forces was only 22 years old.

Yuval was the beloved son of Oshrat and Effie Shoham, former members of Riverdale's SAR Academy community, where Yuval was part of the third-grade class during the 2010-2011 school year.

Yuval will be remembered not only as a soldier who made the ultimate sacrifice but also as the child who so eagerly learned and grew.

He will be sorely missed, and may we honor his courage by continuing to stand in support of community and the values that he held dear.

Mr. Speaker, I want to honor the life and memory of Larry Condon. A New York Advocate and well-respected man who dedicated much of his time providing transformative philanthropic funding to a host of initiatives. At the time of his passing, Larry was still working tirelessly for others. He was serving as Chairman Emeritus of the Mertz Gilmore Foundation, a Life Trustee at the New York Botanical Garden, and an honorary advisor to the Public Theater.

Larry became one of the six original trustees of the LuEsther T. Mertz Charitable Trust, which during its 30-year life distributed 450 million dollars to the Public Theater, The New York Botanical Garden, the Joyce Theater, WNET, and many other cultural, environmental and civil rights organizations. This was coupled with his leadership of the Mertz Gilmore foundation which focused on climate change, civil rights, LGBTQ rights, community engagement, and the performing arts in New York City.

His work with the New York Botanical Garden was immense. Larry underwrote multiple initiatives including exhibitions, visitor programs, scientific works, and important capital projects including the Haupt Conservatory. Larry also worked diligently to protect and endow the LeEsther T. Mertz Library, the world's leading botanical library.

Larry Condon lived his life in pursuit of improving the world around him for generations to come. From his first job as a high school teacher to his philanthropic work, Larry provided growth and love to those around him. He will be sorely missed.

Mr. Speaker, I want to celebrate the life and work of a Bronx icon, Barbara Holmes. As her daughter put it, ``She fought for the rights of her children, her neighbors and their children, her neighborhood and colleagues. No matter the fight she continued to fight a good one.'' This sentiment captures the light and good she brought into the world.

Barbara always fought for what was right. In the 60's, the Board of Education teachers went on strike. Barbara organized school parents to make sure that not a single child was stopped from getting their education. Later in the 70's, as she attended Bronx Community College, her rights were violated. This led Barbara and her colleagues to stage a weeklong sit-in on campus to ensure their right to attend college was respected.

Barbara touched the lives of countless individuals in her community as the President of the Community Council of Police Service Area 7. In her role, she was dedicated to assisting residents of NYCHA Developments with a wide range of challenges, particularly those related to public safety. As Tenant Association President, Barbara consistently went above and beyond. She organized programs to provide food for families in need, as well as toys and school supplies for children. Barbara accomplished all of this while tirelessly working to support the families and communities she served.

Barbara was all about community and family. She worked for the benefit of others until the day she passed, and the entire community will be forever grateful. Her spirit will live on through the Barbara Holmes Impact Foundation and her entire Bronx family.

Mr. Speaker, on Roll Call No. 429 of the 118th Congress, which was H.R. 7909 the Violence Against Women by Illegal Aliens Act, I voted in error NAY, when I fully intended to vote YEA. I am here to set the record straight: I strongly support legislation that deports the worst violent criminals, including sex offenders. There should be zero tolerance for sex offenders in our society.

Mr. Speaker, I want to celebrate Director Mike McGuire's incredible body of work as he retires from his position as Director of the Mason Tenders' District Council PAC and from Laborers' Local 79.

During his 28 years as Director, Mike worked to protect and strengthen safe, local, well-paying union jobs. Mike navigated the competitive New York City construction industry with grace, all while putting the worker before anything else. This passion stemmed from his 44 years in Laborers' Local 79 where he worked diligently for other members both on and off job sites.

Labor protections and unions are paramount, especially in New York's most dangerous large industry. Mike advocated his hardest for the safety of the individuals tasked with building our communities. I thank him for all of his amazing work and look forward to hearing about his next chapter.

Mr. Speaker, I want to recognize the history of, and the amazing work carried out by the New Testament Temple Church of God (NTT). A Church that has always put community and congregation first, even in its name. In 1976, Jamaican Immigrant, Reverend Albert Edwards and his family founded the church in affiliation with the Church of God. To honor Jamaican naming preferences New Testament was added into the name, and the church added temple to honor the former Synagogue whose space the church bought. The church was officially named the New Testament Temple Church of God in 2013 to reflect the church's rich history. In 1983, the church purchased the location on Seymour Ave. where it resides today.

NTT has always carried the Lord's work across the community. Originally, Edwards attended a church with his family outside of the Bronx, but soon found the travel distance to be too long. So, Reverend Edwards opened his home to provide a space to for a small fellowship to worship. As the congregation grew, so too did the services provided. Since becoming Senior Pastor in 1994, Bishop Paul Peart helped the church establish a non-profit called the Good Neighbors Community Outreach Agency (est. 2002). The organization provides so many social services within the church and to the broader community. Services have included GED courses, computer access, preschool, after school, housing assistance, food assistance, clothing provision, and a host of other critical community services.

NTT played a key role in the community during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the community will be forever thankful for that. The church was deemed an essential organization and provided food pantry services to families. During the pandemic NTT went from assisting 200 families per week to over 2,000 families per week. Without their services many individuals would have been without food, NTT also partnered with United Way of NYC to provide other essential supplies to the community during the pandemic.

Currently NTT is responding to increased migration by hosting up to 120 asylum seekers per week. Giving them access to kitchen and dining facilities, as well as clothing and other necessities. Importantly NTT provides asylum seekers with local community connections.

I thank the New Testament Temple Church of God and reiterate their motto. G.R.O.W.T.H.S Through Joyful Service. G--Glorifying God, R-- Religious Life, O--Outreach Evangelism, W--World Missions, T--Training of Disciples, H--Hospitality, S--Supportive Ministries. I look forward to hearing about NTT's continued community leadership.