Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I would like to honor the life and memory of my longtime friend, Joe ``Joey'' Columbus Sanders, Jr., of Birmingham, Alabama, who passed away on August 30, 2026, at the age of 65.

I had the privilege of knowing Joey from the very beginning of my political career, and throughout the years, I was proud to consider him a friend. Anyone who spent time in Alabama political circles over the past several decades knew Joey, or at least knew of his work. He had a remarkable understanding of people and politics, a natural instinct for campaigns, and, most importantly, a genuine love for Alabama and its people.

Joey was raised in Greenville, Alabama, and graduated from Fort Dale Academy in 1979. He went on to earn a degree in Broadcast Journalism from The University of Alabama in 1983. While at Alabama, he served as president of the College Republicans, beginning what would become a lifetime of involvement in Republican politics and the conservative movement.

His service eventually took him to the national stage as president of the National Young Republicans and as a member of the site selection committee for the 1988 Republican National Convention. He also served on the staff of Senator Jeremiah Denton, both in Washington and as his State Field Director.

Joey possessed a true gift for political campaigns. Over the years, countless candidates and public officials sought his counsel, creativity, and expertise. He eventually founded Master Image, Inc., where he put those talents

to work, helping candidates at the national, state, and local levels. His influence on Alabama politics extended far beyond any single election or campaign, and many who have served our state benefited from his friendship, advice, and experience.

But politics was only one part of Joey's life. He was deeply involved in his community, serving organizations including the Homewood Library Foundation, City Stages, the Birmingham Irish Cultural Society, the Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex Authority, and the Vestavia Hills Civitan Club. During his service on the BJCC board, he was involved in a transformative period for the complex that included its renovation and the development of Protective Stadium and the Coca-Cola Amphitheater.

Those who knew Joey personally will remember much more than his professional accomplishments. He was a storyteller, a historian, a cook, an outdoorsman, and someone who simply enjoyed bringing people together. Some of his happiest times were spent at Sanders Farm in Greenville, surrounded by family and friends, often gathered around a fire with a pot of his homemade camp stew. He was generous with his time, his friendship, and, as many people across Alabama can attest, his homemade pepper sauce and salsa.

Joey never forgot where he came from, and he remained a strong advocate for the outdoors, wildlife conservation, hunters' rights, the Second Amendment, and the conservative principles that guided him throughout his life.

Above all, Joey loved his family. He leaves behind his wife of 30 years, Luanne; his children, Holton and Anne Heaton; his granddaughters, Poppy and Honey; his sister, Linda; and a large extended family and countless friends who will miss him greatly.

For me personally, it is difficult to say goodbye to someone who has been a friend for virtually my entire political career. Joey was part of Alabama politics for decades, but his legacy cannot be measured simply by campaigns won, candidates elected, or projects completed. It is found in the friendships he built, the people he helped, the stories he told, and the memories he leaves with all of us who were fortunate enough to know him.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of Joe ``Joey'' Columbus Sanders, Jr., and in extending our deepest condolences to Luanne, his children and grandchildren, and the entire Sanders family. I am grateful to have called Joey my friend, and I know his presence will be deeply missed across Alabama.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for yielding.

Mr. Speaker, it is great to be here to rise for this occasion, to recognize the fourth anniversary of Dobbs v. Jackson, where the Supreme Court returned the power to protect the unborn to elected officials and not to an appointed court. The Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade was a landmark moment in the effort to protect the most vulnerable and to give those babies the guarantee of right to life and liberty.

Today is really a day of celebration, but this is also a day of remembrance of the countless lives that we also, on the other hand, have to remember. While we celebrate on one hand, we also commemorate all of the lives that were lost during that flawed decision back in 1974 and all those who still need our protection even today.

I am deeply proud of my home State of Alabama. Our policies there are pro-life, but in many States, the lives of the unborn remain vulnerable. As the chairman of the House Values Action Team, I remain committed to fighting and advocating in Congress to expand our efforts and ensure a safe future for our Nation's children, born and unborn.

I have said this before and I will continue to say that I am pro- life, I am pro-family, and I am pro-child.

Since the Dobbs decision in 2022, I have introduced the Protect Funding for Women's Healthcare Act to continue standing for life by ensuring that Federal tax dollars are not used to fund organizations such as Planned Parenthood.

I will continue to work with my colleagues to defend the sanctity of life, to protect the unborn, and ensure a safer future for our Nation's children. Let me be clear. Our work is not finished, and this week's recognition for the Dobbs anniversary is a good time to reaffirm our unyielding commitment to standing up for the importance of every single human life.

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to recognize Mr. Henry Loyd Ivey of Henagar, Alabama, on the occasion of his 100th birthday, which he will celebrate on June 26, 2026.

Mr. Ivey's century of life has been marked by faithful service to his country, his community, his church, and his family. A proud member of the Greatest Generation, he served honorably in the United States Army from January 1945 to August 1946 with the 25th Ordnance Maintenance Company. During his military service, he earned the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, Victory Ribbon, two Overseas Service Bars, and Sharpshooter qualification with the rifle. He was honorably discharged at Fort Sam Houston, Texas, on August 28, 1946.

Following his military service, Mr. Ivey dedicated his life to hard work and public service. He farmed for many years while also building a successful career with DuPont in Chattanooga, where he worked for more than 32 years before retiring at the age of 55. He further demonstrated his commitment to his hometown through 16 years of service on the Henagar City Council.

Mr. Ivey's faith has been a cornerstone of his life. He has been a member of Liberty Baptist Church since 1944 and has faithfully served as a deacon since 1965. His decades of spiritual leadership have positively impacted countless individuals throughout the Henagar community.

He has shared this remarkable journey with his wife, Louise, whom he married on June 29, 1951. Together they have built a loving family that includes four children, seven grandchildren, and eight great- grandchildren.

For nearly seven decades, they have made their home on Lee's Chapel Road in Henagar, where they have been admired for their devotion to family, faith, and community.

As Mr. Ivey reaches this extraordinary milestone, we celebrate a life well lived and a legacy defined by service, integrity, perseverance, and unwavering faith.

His example stands as an inspiration to all who know him, and I join his family, friends, and neighbors in honoring his many contributions and expressing gratitude for the impact he has made over the course of a remarkable century.

Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to recognize Mr. Cecil E. Satterfield of DeKalb County, Alabama, as he celebrates the extraordinary milestone of his 100th birthday on June 14, 2026.

Born on June 14, 1926, in Crossville, Alabama, Cecil Satterfield has witnessed a century of American history and has lived a life defined by service, hard work, faith, family, and devotion to his community. Raised in DeKalb County, he attended Lathamville School and Oak Hill School before graduating from Crossville High School in 1946. During his school years, he distinguished himself both academically and athletically, serving as Vice President of his class, earning recognition as ``Most Handsome,'' and excelling on the football field as a linebacker and fullback. His leadership abilities were evident early in life, culminating in his role as football team captain during his senior year and his selection to the All-County team for three consecutive years.

Before completing high school, Mr. Satterfield answered his Nation's call to service. He served honorably in the United States Army from January to October 1945, contributing to the defense of freedom during a pivotal period in world history. His military service reflects the commitment and patriotism of the Greatest Generation, whose sacrifices helped secure liberty for future generations.

Following his military service, Cecil built a successful professional career characterized by diligence and integrity. He spent twenty-three years with IBM before retiring on May 31, 1989. Throughout his working years, he earned the respect of colleagues and friends alike through his dedication and strong work ethic.

One of the greatest blessings of Mr. Satterfield's life was his marriage to the late Ruth Smith Satterfield. The couple married on November 23, 1946, and shared more than sixty-one years together until Ruth's passing in 2008. Their marriage stands as a testament to enduring love, commitment, and family values.

Together, Cecil and Ruth built a family whose legacy continues to grow. They were blessed with three children: the late Ed Satterfield, Bobby Satterfield, and Melody Henderson. Their family has expanded to include eight grandchildren and eighteen great-grandchildren, each of whom carries forward the values, character, and example established by Cecil and Ruth over the course of many decades.

As he reaches his 100th year, Cecil Satterfield's life serves as an inspiring example of perseverance, service, and devotion to family and community. His century of life reflects the very best of Alabama and of our Nation. The story of his life reminds us of the

strength and resilience of the generation that endured the Great Depression, answered the call of military service during World War II, and helped build the prosperity of postwar America.

Mr. Speaker, it is my distinct honor to recognize Cecil E. Satterfield on the occasion of his 100th birthday. On behalf of the people of Alabama's 4th Congressional District and the United States House of Representatives, I extend my heartfelt best wishes to Mr. Satterfield; I am confident that his children, grandchildren, great- grandchildren. and all those who have been blessed by his friendship and example will be celebrating with him on this occasion. May he enjoy this special celebration surrounded by the love of family and friends, and may his remarkable legacy continue to inspire future generations.

I wish Cecil Satterfield a happy 100th birthday.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to add my support for this Special Order that commemorates the 250th anniversary of what I like to refer to as the ``semiquincentennial'' of the founding of our Nation and the underpinning of faith and religious commitment that has sustained our Nation from those very first days.

I do appreciate Congressman Brecheen for organizing this and including me in this. Indeed, this is bigger than any issue that we face in Congress. This is the bedrock, and so taking a few minutes here this evening to recognize that is so important.

Mr. Speaker, the Founding Fathers who preceded us in the Continental Congress back in May 1776 made it a priority to acknowledge God. They passed a resolution calling for penitence, prayer, and thanksgiving, and they called it our indispensable duty to: publicly acknowledge God, confess our offensives against him, and to beg for his intervention.

I believe God answered those prayers in ways that would go far beyond what they even dreamed of. God has, indeed, prospered the United States of America over these past 250 years. But as a nation, we have sadly strayed, as has been mentioned here tonight, from the gratitude that we owe to that provision.

Today, as Members of Congress, we come together standing in front just under you, Mr. Speaker, the motto, ``In God We Trust,'' and we feel the great privilege of blessing that we have inherited from the spiritual inheritance that we were given.

As we celebrate America's 250th anniversary and look toward the future, if we are to extend that heritage and see our country flourish in the future, we must rededicate ourselves to shoring up the foundation of faith has sustained us.

Obviously, it is a very good thing that we have the opportunity this Sunday to come together on The National Mall to spend a day of thanksgiving and prayer just as they did 250 years ago.

I know everyone can't come to The National Mall this Sunday, but you can take a moment and the opportunity to spend some time in prayer and reflect on this Nation, remembering that there are so many people in the world that don't have that privilege to meet together in prayer.

As a Member of Congress, I am reminded there are so many people in the world that don't have that privilege. As a young man who grew up in rural Alabama and as a young boy who decided to accept Christ as my Savior, I never imagined that there were people in the world that would be punished for expressing their faith, but it happened then and it is happening now.

We pray for them as well as we pray for our own Nation. May this Nation be one that we always are able to express our faith with confidence and without any fear of the government.

Mr. Speaker, I add my prayers to those of my colleagues here tonight. May God guide us and may God sustain us and our work here in the House, and may He continue to bless these United States of America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Mr. Kyle Buchanan on his appointment as President of Crestwood Medical Center in Huntsville, Alabama.

A native of Tuscumbia, in Alabama's 4th Congressional District, Mr. Buchanan brings more than two decades of experience in health care leadership, along with a strong record of improving hospital operations, advancing patient care, and strengthening workforce engagement. During his tenure as president of Helen Keller Hospital and Red Bay Hospital, he achieved meaningful progress in physician recruitment and retention, while enhancing the overall stability and performance of those institutions.

Mr. Buchanan has consistently demonstrated a commitment to servant leadership--understanding that the foundation of quality patient care begins with supporting dedicated health care professionals. His ability to foster collaboration among physicians, nurses, and staff has made a lasting impact on the communities he has served, and I have no doubt he will bring that same focus and energy to Crestwood Medical Center.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Mr. Buchanan has remained deeply involved in his community. His leadership roles with organizations such as Leadership Alabama, the University of North Alabama Board of Trustees, and the Shoals Chamber of Commerce reflect his dedication to service beyond the hospital setting. He has also been recognized for his contributions with Citizen of the Year honors and remains active in his church, where he serves in leadership roles.

Crestwood Medical Center serves as a critical provider of health care for families throughout Huntsville and the surrounding counties, many of which make up my congressional district, and its continued success is vital to the well-being of North Alabama. I am confident that under Mr. Buchanan's leadership, Crestwood will continue to build upon its strong foundation and expand access to high-quality care for the community.

On behalf of Alabama's 4th Congressional District, I extend my sincere congratulations to Kyle Buchanan on this well-deserved achievement. I wish him continued success as he begins this new role and look forward to the positive impact his leadership will bring to the people of North Alabama.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Jack's Western & Outdoor Wear on the occasion of its 50th Anniversary of serving the people of Cullman County, the State of Alabama, and customers from across the region.

Founded in 1976 by Mr. Larry Allred, Jack's Western & Outdoor Wear began as a modest venture rooted in hard work, vision, and a desire to better serve the local community. After graduating from The University of Alabama in 1969, Mr. Allred returned home to work in his family's business, Jack's Truck Stop. With an entrepreneurial spirit and a clear sense of opportunity, he expanded the business beyond its original scope by building a 1,000-square-foot western wear store alongside the truck stop restaurant. What began as a small addition would, over time, grow into one of the premier western apparel destinations in the State of Alabama.

Over the years, Mr. Allred steadily grew the business through determination and a commitment to excellence. The store expanded to 3,000 square feet in 1987 and then to 7,500 square feet in 1996, reflecting its increasing popularity and strong customer base. Following the sale of the restaurant in 1996, Mr. Allred devoted his full attention to the western wear business, further strengthening its reputation for quality products and exceptional service. In 2013, Jack's Western & Outdoor Wear moved to its current location at 114 Schwaiger Road, where it now operates in a 25,000-square-foot facility featuring unique additions such as a ``bargain boot porch'' and an ``Ariat Annex,'' further enhancing its appeal as a destination store.

Today, Jack's Western & Outdoor Wear stands not only as a successful business but also as a proud symbol of family heritage and community roots. The land on which the current store sits holds deep personal significance, as it was once part of Mr. Allred's great-grandfather's farm and the site of his family home. This connection reflects the enduring values of faith, family, and hard work that have defined the business for generations.

Jack's Western & Outdoor Wear has earned widespread recognition for its excellence, including being voted by readers of The Cullman Times as the ``Best Place to Buy Boots,'' the ``Best Western Wear,'' and the ``Best Place to Buy Men's Clothing,'' honors it has received for several consecutive years. These accolades are a testament to the trust and loyalty the business has built within the community.

As a true family enterprise, Jack's Western & Outdoor Wear continues to thrive with the involvement of Mr. Allred's daughters. His oldest daughter, Sara, has played a key role in the operation of the business since 2007, while his youngest daughter, Kristin, recently returned to lead marketing and e-commerce efforts after a distinguished 20-year career as a television meteorologist. Together, they are helping to carry forward the legacy established by their father while preparing the business for continued success in the years ahead.

Equally important to Jack's success are its dedicated employees and loyal customers, many of whom have longstanding relationships with the business. For five decades, Jack's Western & Outdoor Wear has remained committed to providing quality goods, outstanding service, and a welcoming environment that reflects the character of the community it serves.

Reaching a 50-year milestone is a rare and remarkable achievement, especially for a family-owned small business. It speaks to resilience, adaptability, and a deep connection to the people it serves. Jack's Western & Outdoor Wear exemplifies the vital role that small businesses play in strengthening local economies and preserving the unique identity of communities across our Nation.

On behalf of the people of Alabama's 4th Congressional District, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Larry Allred, his family, and the entire team at Jack's Western & Outdoor Wear on this significant anniversary. I commend them for their decades of service and wish them continued success for many years to come.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Jack's Western & Outdoor Wear for 50 years of excellence, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the community.

Mr. Speaker, today, the U.S. House of Representatives is acting in response to a situation in which a foreign government shut down an American company's operations, seized its property, and ignored the rule of law.

When an American business is targeted in this way, it is not just an attack on one company, it is an attack on American workers, American jobs, and American interests.

Vulcan Materials, an Alabama company, has lawfully operated for 35 years in Mexico. Yet the Mexican government illegally seized its assets. If this can happen to an Alabama company today, it can happen to any American business tomorrow.

That is why this legislation, H.R. 7084, the Defending American Property Abroad Act is so important. It allows the United States to take real action against foreign entities that seize American property.

This is about fairness and accountability. It is about ensuring that American companies and workers are not punished for following the rules while foreign governments face no consequences for breaking them. With this, we are ensuring protection for American companies that operate in the Western Hemisphere.

The protection of American property rights overseas is essential not only for economic growth but also for our national and economic security. When we stand up for our businesses, we stand up for the workers and communities who depend on them.

I am proud to support H.R. 7084 because it defends American property owners from wrongful seizure and sends a clear message: the United States will stand beside its companies, its workers, and its values.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to speak on the bill, S. 3705, the Semiquincentennial Congressional Time Capsule Act, as led by Congresswoman and fellow commissioner on the Semiquincentennial Commission, Bonnie Watson Coleman, and also by Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina.

This bill, of course, makes technical changes to Representative Watson Coleman's bipartisan House-passed bill, H.R. 469, to create a congressional time capsule in commemoration of the semiquincentennial. I think it should be clearly pointed out here that this bill is truly bipartisan, and it is bicameral. It is a piece of legislation

that requires the four corners of congressional leadership to agree on the contents of the capsule including a joint letter.

I look forward to the final product of this legislation and look forward to seeing what will be in it. Again, this will be something that we all can agree on, and it is great to be working at a time when we can all work together and celebrate our Nation's birthday for this 250th celebration.

Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on the legislation.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to speak on the bill that, as the chairman of the House Financial Services Committee just mentioned, I was privileged to introduce. It is a bicameral, bipartisan $2.50 for America's 250th Act in partnership with Congresswoman and fellow U.S. Semiquincentennial Commissioner Bonnie Watson Coleman, as well as Commissioners Congresswoman Maria Salazar and Congressman Dwight Evans.

I thank the chair and ranking member of the Financial Services Committee for their support for this piece of legislation, as we have tried to put it together.

This bill authorizes the Secretary of the Treasury to issue a $2.50 collectible anniversary coin and a viability study for a potential circulating $2.50 coin for everyday use for every American.

The collectible coin will feature the historical design originally issued for America's 150th anniversary. This coin will memorialize and celebrate our moment in American history.

I am grateful for the partnership of my House and Senate colleagues, especially as the America 250 Caucus is now the largest congressional caucus in U.S. history, with bipartisan leadership in both Chambers.

As a founding member of the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission that was tasked with preparing for our Nation's 250th anniversary celebration, it has been a privilege over the past decade to work on bipartisan legislation to honor 250 years of America's independence.

Before I go on, I must recognize what a privilege it has been to serve with my Democrat sponsor of this legislation, Bonnie Watson Coleman.

Unfortunately, she is retiring after this Congress, following an incredible trailblazing career. She will be missed and her voice will be missed in committee, this Chamber, and the entire institution. I thank her for her service to our Nation and to the America 250 Commission, in particular.

Madam Speaker, the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence was a turning point in the history of the United States and also the world, one that warrants national recognition.

I am honored to speak in support of a bill that recognizes this landmark moment of our collective history through a coin that links our Nation's past to its present and its future.

In particular, as someone who fondly remembers, as the chairman mentioned, the bicentennial celebration, even though we were very young at the time, these coins were issued for that occasion at that time. These coins gave parents, families, and community members the opportunity to obtain a physical keepsake to pass down for the next generation. This is exactly what this legislation would do, as well.

I know that my parents passed the circulating coin down to me, and I still have them, as well.

This legislation will also carry on the example set by the 68th Congress that celebrated our Nation's 150th anniversary by authorizing the United States Mint to commemorate the 150th anniversary of America's independence.

Beside me right here is an image of the historical design that was used back in 1926. This bill puts strict design parameters around the new $2.50 coin

to continue that tradition. The only changes that will be made are to update the dates to reflect and celebrate another century that has passed since this coin was put into circulation 100 years ago.

As America marks its 250th anniversary this year, the coin will honor the same ideas and values that were recognized back then for the sesquicentennial in 1926.

Every citizen deserves the opportunity to acquire such a coin as a means to connect the founding principles of liberty, democracy, and self-governance. The $2.50 anniversary coin for the 250th anniversary provides an opportunity for the American people to engage with and to take personal ownership of their national heritage through a tangible and lasting tribute.

In addition to the congressionally authorized activities already planned by the Mint, this new anniversary coin will serve not only as a lasting tribute to the founding generations but to the ideals that we share with them to this very day. It also is a unifying and educational gesture on the occasion of the 250th, or the semiquincentennial, that we celebrate.

In this day and age, I can find no issue more worthy of Congress' attention than an initiative that codifies our unity and reminds us that there will always be more that unites us than divides us.

Madam Speaker, again, I thank my colleague, Bonnie Watson Coleman, for working with me on this piece of legislation. I urge my colleagues to vote for this initiative and to follow in the footsteps of our predecessors in the 68th Congress in 1926 who set an example that will last for generations to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Mr. Dale Greer upon his retirement and to commend him for a lifetime of service to the Cullman community and the State of Alabama. Over the course of more than three decades in economic development, Mr. Greer has helped shape the future of Cullman County through his steady leadership, dedication to public service, and commitment to creating opportunities for others.

Mr. Greer was born in Birmingham and moved to Cullman with his family more than 50 years ago. Cullman has been his home ever since, and his career reflects a deep and lasting investment in the place and people he has served.

Throughout his professional life, Mr. Greer earned a reputation as someone who could be trusted to bring people together, solve problems, and make progress happen. In addition to his work in economic development, he also served the community in many roles over the years, including time spent working at the local electric cooperative and Chamber of Commerce, as well as earlier work as a newspaper reporter and managing editor--experiences that helped shape his understanding of the community he would go on to serve so faithfully.

Mr. Greer's influence can be seen through his involvement with numerous civic and community organizations. He has served as a founding member of the Board of Directors for the Cullman Parks & Recreation Foundation, contributed to the Cullman Rotary Club, and supported Wallace State Community College through the Future Foundation and Alumni Association. He also served on the Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and helped establish the Leadership Cullman program, as a member of its first graduating class.

Mr. Greer's service has extended beyond Cullman as well. He served as Past President of the Economic Development Association of Alabama and was appointed to the Alabama Workforce Council, where he served as Chairman. He also represented Alabama through the Southern Economic Development Council and was later named an Honorary Life Member.

Among Mr. Greer's many accomplishments, he helped develop the Operation Round-up Program for the Cullman Electric Cooperative and Cullman Power Board, an initiative that has generated millions of dollars to support students by allowing customers to round up their bills to the next highest dollar. He also served as the project manager for the Duck River Dam and Reservoir Project, which helped secure Cullman's water source for the next 100 years and stands as one of the most significant long-term infrastructure achievements for the region.

Mr. Greer has also demonstrated a lifelong commitment to professional growth and excellence. He is a graduate of the University of Oklahoma Economic Development Institute, completed coursework at Georgia Tech, and attended the Intensive Economic Development Course at Auburn University. He is also a graduate of Wallace State Community College and Athens State University.

Retirement marks the close of one chapter and the beginning of another, but the impact of Dale Greer's work will continue to be felt for decades to come. His leadership, service, and devotion to Cullman County have left an enduring legacy that will benefit families, businesses, and future generations.

Mr. Speaker, I would also like to recognize Mr. Greer's family, who has supported him throughout his distinguished career and years of service. Dale is married to his wife, Larraine, and together they are proud parents to Jeremy Greer, Cory Greer, Casey Link, Alex Boike and Brandon Boike. Mr. Greer also has seven grandchildren.

I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Mr. Dale Greer on his retirement, and I extend my sincere gratitude to him for his many years of service to our community and our great State of Alabama.

Madam Speaker, I rise today, as my colleagues are, in support of the FY26 appropriations package. As has been said, it provides the full-year funding for five out of the remaining six appropriation bills.

Unfortunately, funding these bills is not optional. It is part of our constitutional requirements, and we must act on our commitment to the American people. With this bill before us today, the government will continue operating effectively and provide stability for the American people.

The path forward in this legislation reflects President Trump's negotiations and direction to avoid a long-term partial shutdown and keep the government operating without further disruptions.

As chairman of the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Subcommittee, I am honored to work with the ranking member of this subcommittee, Ms. DeLauro, who also serves as ranking member of the full committee, in making sure that what we do in this legislation provides funding for critical projects that support jobs and local growth in our districts.

The Labor-Health and Human Services bill on the floor today balances the need for responsible fiscal stewardship while maintaining key investments in biomedical research, schools, and public health.

Thanks to the negotiations on a bicameral, bipartisan level, funding decisions have moved through a deliberative, Member-driven process that emphasizes transparency, accountability, and timely consideration.

The Labor-HHS bill before us demonstrates the will of the American people who want new priorities and accountability in government, including priorities to Make America Healthy Again and Make America Skilled Again.

Investments in this bill are directed to where they matter most: into lifesaving biomedical research and resilient medical supply chains, classrooms and training that prepare the next generation for success, and rural hospitals and primary care to end the chronic disease epidemic.

These measures are part of an agreement that keeps the FY26 spending levels below the level projected under the current continuing resolution, delivering real savings for the American taxpayers. Enactment and passage of full-year appropriations are vital.

Madam Speaker, in conclusion, I thank the staff on both sides, the majority and the minority, for all of their hard work in getting this bill across the finish line. Once again, I urge my colleagues to support the underlying bill.

Madam Chair, I rise today, again, as my colleagues have, to ask for support for the final FY26 appropriations package. It completes the culmination of a lot of hard work from a lot of folks who fulfilled their commitment to the American people.

As chairman of the Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies, I was honored to lead the effort to rein in spending and secure an America First future, while also ensuring that these bills provide for funding for critical projects and growth around our districts.

I thank Chairman Cole for his longstanding leadership on the Labor- HHS bill and express my appreciation for Ranking Member DeLauro, who tirelessly champions her priorities and so many things in this bill. It is an honor to work with both of them as we have moved this bill forward.

The bill on the floor today balances the need for responsible fiscal stewardship while maintaining key investments in biomedical research, schools, and public health.

Thanks to negotiations on a bicameral, bipartisan level, funding decisions have moved through a very deliberate, very Member-driven process that puts an emphasis on transparency, accountability, and timely consideration.

This bill demonstrates the will of the American people who want new priorities and accountability in government, including priorities that make America healthy again and make America skilled again.

Investments in this bill are directed to where they matter most: into lifesaving biomedical research and resilient medical supply chains, classrooms, and training that prepare the next generation for success.

Enactment and passage of this full-year appropriations bill is vital to implementing provisions that keep our Nation strong, secure, and competitive.

In closing, I thank Chairman Cole and Ranking Member DeLauro, again. I also equally thank the committee staff on both sides of the aisle, majority and minority.

For the majority: Kathryn Salmon, James Redstone, Emily Goff, Kirk Boyle, Jaime Varela, along with Megan Medley on my staff, who has worked very diligently on this bill, as well.

For the minority: Stephen Steigleder, who has already been mentioned but needs to be mentioned again, Philip Tizzani, Laurie Mignone, and Jackie Kilroy.

There are so many others that we could name, but those are the folks that were on the front line.

Madam Chair, I urge my colleagues to support this bill. This is a good bill.

Mr. Speaker, it is great to have a chance to address the House on this anniversary of the Supreme Court's decision and to recognize the tragedy that took place in 1973.

Of course, the Dobbs decision as we know rightly returned this issue to the American people and their elected Representatives. But our work continues to make sure that the lives of the unborn are protected both on the State and on the Federal level.

I want to just say thank you to Chris Smith and the chairs of the Pro-Life Caucus for their continued work on the pro-life issue. Having served with Chris Smith for many, many years here in the House of Representatives, I can tell you this is an issue that he takes very seriously, as he should, and for his leadership we applaud him. I thank him for all his hard work and all that he does in chairing the Pro-Life Caucus.

Also, I want to thank the marchers for life for organizing a powerful and meaningful day that we will have tomorrow as Americans across the United States unite in their commitment to celebrate and defend life.

Here in Congress it is one of my greatest honors to be a voice on Capitol Hill for the most vulnerable among us: our unborn children.

For me, my pro-life stance is deeply rooted in my Christian faith and belief that all human life is precious, and it is a gift from the almighty God. Defending the unborn has long been one of my highest priorities, and the first term I got elected to Congress, one of my first votes was cast in favor of life.

This is a celebration of life to celebrate the Dobbs decision. It is a celebration of lives that have been saved thanks to advocates like March for Life. I would like to thank every advocate for their unwavering dedication to this cause. I look forward to continuing our work together until every child is guaranteed our most fundamental right, and that is the right to life.

As I have said before, no argument made by the other side can triumph this one undeniable fact, and that is abortion stops a beating heart.

Mr. Speaker, may God bless you, and may God bless the unborn in this country and around the world.

Mr. Speaker, this month, our friend and partner, the Republic of Azerbaijan marks the 36th anniversary of ``Black January.''

This period symbolizes the beginning of the end of Soviet rule over Azerbaijan, an occupation that lasted for much of the 20th Century. This was a time of oppression and horror. But uncowed by the evil of communism, the people of Azerbaijan yearned for freedom.

On January 19, 1990, violence erupted in Azerbaijan's capital city of Baku where Soviet troops killed over 100 Azeri demonstrators and wounded another 700. Undeterred, the people of Azerbaijan continued their peaceful protests until declaring independence from the U.S.S.R. on October 18, 1991.

Now, 36 years on from this tragedy, Azerbaijan can celebrate this as the first year of sustained peace since gaining its independence. With the assistance of the American President, the end of the Armenia- Azerbaijan conflict promises to be a turning point for the region.

I ask my colleagues to join me in commemorating the events of Black January in Azerbaijan and honoring those who lost their lives in pursuit of freedom. Further, please join me in thanking President Donald J. Trump for his work to secure peace and prosperity with our friend and partner. The United States continues to stand with the people of Azerbaijan and their right to live free.