Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman, the chairman of the full Committee on Energy and Commerce, for yielding.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 9340, the Ratepayer Protection Act, led by the gentleman from Colorado's Eighth Congressional District.

This legislation passed out of our Energy and Commerce Committee with a 52-0 vote.

Mr. Speaker, the goal here is very simple: Data centers should pay their own way. That is why this legislation is so important. We must ensure that American families and small businesses are protected from electricity price increases caused by large loads like data centers.

The increase in data center development raises important questions about how these facilities will affect local electric grids in nearby communities.

H.R. 9340 encourages States to establish a standard that requires large data centers to cover the full costs necessary to service their loads.

Over the last 5 years, electricity rates have steadily increased across the country.

While data center demand growth is exploding, at the same time, record amounts of baseload generation are prematurely leaving our grids. This is a problem that must be addressed.

H.R. 9340 ensures that States can hold AI companies responsible for their own costs and that hardworking American families aren't on the hook for the bill.

Mr. Speaker, I urge the House to pass the Ratepayer Protection Act.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman, the chairman of the full Committee on Energy and Commerce, for yielding.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 9340, the Ratepayer Protection Act, led by the gentleman from Colorado's Eighth Congressional District.

This legislation passed out of our Energy and Commerce Committee with a 52-0 vote.

Mr. Speaker, the goal here is very simple: Data centers should pay their own way. That is why this legislation is so important. We must ensure that American families and small businesses are protected from electricity price increases caused by large loads like data centers.

The increase in data center development raises important questions about how these facilities will affect local electric grids in nearby communities.

H.R. 9340 encourages States to establish a standard that requires large data centers to cover the full costs necessary to service their loads.

Over the last 5 years, electricity rates have steadily increased across the country.

While data center demand growth is exploding, at the same time, record amounts of baseload generation are prematurely leaving our grids. This is a problem that must be addressed.

H.R. 9340 ensures that States can hold AI companies responsible for their own costs and that hardworking American families aren't on the hook for the bill.

Mr. Speaker, I urge the House to pass the Ratepayer Protection Act.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate SSgt. Calvin ``Cal'' Rettig, who has been named Hancock County Veteran of the Year. This honor recognizes Cal's decades of service to his family, community, and the Nation.

Cal was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1944, where he trained for a frontline unit. He was tasked with detecting the enemy and relaying intelligence back to the artillery. His unit was initially sent to the Philippines to begin night patrols. Following the bombing of Japan, his group occupied Tokyo, where Cal served on security and police patrol as a staff sergeant until his release in 1946.

Cal married his wife, Bernice, on the day he returned home. The two of them had met in 1941 and dated until he left for the war. They were married for sixty-five years. They raised three children, and their family has since grown to include twenty grandchildren and twenty-five great-grandchildren.

After his discharge, Cal built two full careers. From 1948 to 1966, he managed the Farm Bureau lumber yard. After the lumber yard, he spent the next twenty-two years at Whirlpool as a mold setter. He also farmed 340 acres throughout both careers.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating SSgt. Rettig on being named the Hancock County Veteran of the Year. On behalf of the people of the Fifth Congressional District of Ohio, I recognize the devotion and compassion that Cal has for his community, and I thank him for his service to our Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Four County Career Center in Archbold, Ohio, as it celebrates the ribbon cutting for its new Welding and Electrical Trades Expansion. This new facility marks a significant investment and a renewed dedication to the future workforce of Northwest Ohio.

Four County Career Center opened in 1969 as the first career center in Ohio built entirely with local funds. Today, it serves hundreds of students from Defiance, Fulton, Henry, and Williams counties, providing hands-on training across dozens of technical programs. The school's reach extends beyond high schoolers, offering workforce development programs to many adults each year. The new expansion adds state-of-the- art labs for welding, fabrication, and electrical trades, which will help Four County continue to prepare its students for the workforce of tomorrow. Its completion reflects the collaboration of many individuals, businesses, and organizations throughout the region.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Four County Career Center's Board of Education and administration on this achievement. Career-technical education plays a vital role in preparing our next generation for the workforce, and this expansion will help ensure that Four County's students have access to the training they need to succeed. On behalf of the 5th Congressional District of Ohio, I wish Four County Career Center all the best in their continued success.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Kentucky, the chair of the full committee, for recognizing me today.

I rise in support of H.R. 7257, the SECURE Grid Act, which I sponsored with the gentlewoman from California's Seventh Congressional District.

State energy security plans, or SESPs, provide States with an opportunity to identify threats and vulnerabilities in their respective energy networks. This collaborative process ensures that States can stay on the cutting edge of an evolving threat landscape.

While the initial exercise of SESPs has meaningfully assisted States in managing their energy systems, there is room for improvement to enhance visibility and threat detection and to holistically consider disparate vulnerabilities across the sector.

The SECURE Grid Act achieves this goal by ensuring States incorporate security and resilience of distribution networks. Distribution networks bring wholesale power directly to homes and businesses to keep the lights on and keep our businesses up and running. Any threat to the distribution system is a threat to our communities.

Importantly, the legislation also brings industry experts to the table during the development of SESPs to ensure State governments are equipped with the resources and operational understanding of the complex infrastructure.

In addition, the bill affirms the important leadership role of State governments to protect their energy systems while fostering collaborative partnerships with Federal counterparts.

Given the States' authority and understanding of their own unique energy needs, it is imperative that they are empowered to develop their own plans while working collaboratively with Federal partners.

This legislation comes at a timely moment in our Nation's history. Throughout the 119th Congress, the Energy Subcommittee of the House Energy and Commerce Committee has held several hearings with experts and administration officials to examine the state of our Nation's energy systems.

Each day, it becomes ever more apparent that our reliance on energy is growing because of AI advancements, reshoring of manufacturing facilities, and general economy-wide electrification.

Families across the country can be burdened by high energy costs, and we know that there is nothing more expensive than a blackout.

We also know that adversarial nations and nefarious actors are actively seeking out any vulnerability in our interconnected energy infrastructure to sow chaos and cause harm to everyday Americans.

To combat these efforts, the legislation requires proactive information sharing, constant vigilance, and clear visibility into the widening threat landscape. The SECURE Grid Act ensures that State energy offices and their respective Governors are able to put processes in place to detect, mitigate, and respond to potential attacks targeting critical infrastructure.

The everyday lives of families and businesses are wholly reliant on a secure, reliable, and affordable energy system.

Mr. Speaker, for the reasons stated, it is important that the House pass H.R. 7257, the SECURE Grid Act.

Again, I thank the gentlewoman from California's Seventh District for her help on this legislation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay special tribute to an outstanding student from Ohio's 5th Congressional District. I am pleased to announce that Gavin Minich of Bloomdale, Ohio, has been offered an appointment to the United States Military Academy in West Point, New York.

Gavin's offer of appointment permits him to attend the United States Military Academy this fall with the incoming Class of 2030. Attending one of our Nation's military academies not only offers the opportunity to serve our country but also guarantees a world-class education while undertaking one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of his life. Gavin brings a tremendous amount of leadership. service, and dedication to the incoming Class of 2030. While attending Elmwood High School, he participated in National Honor Society, Quiz Bowl, student government, debate club, and was on the honor role. Throughout high school, Gavin was involved in cross country, indoor track, and track and field, earning his varsity letter. I am confident that he will carry the lessons of his student and athletic leadership to the Military Academy.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Gavin Minich on his offer of appointment to the United States Military Academy. Our service academies offer the finest military training and education available, and I am positive that Gavin will excel during his career at the Military Academy. I ask my colleagues to join me in extending their best wishes to him as he begins his service to our Nation.

Mr. Speaker, it is my great pleasure to pay special tribute to an outstanding student from Ohio's 5th Congressional District. I am pleased to announce that Trever Blackburn of LaGrange, Ohio, has been offered an appointment to the United States Military Academy in West Point, New York.

Trever's offer of appointment permits him to attend the United States Military Academy this fall with the incoming Class of 2030. Attending one of our Nation's military academies not only offers the opportunity to serve our country but also guarantees a world-class education while undertaking one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of his life. Trever brings a tremendous amount of leadership, service, and dedication to the incoming Class of 2030. While attending Keystone High School, he participated in football, basketball, and baseball, earning his varsity letter in all three. After high school, he attended the Military Academy Preparatory School in West Point, New York. I am confident that he will carry the lessons of his student and athletic leadership to the Military Academy.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Trever Blackburn on his offer of appointment to the United States Military Academy. Our service academies offer the finest military training and education available, and I am positive that Trever will excel during his career at the Military Academy. I ask my colleagues to join me in extending their best wishes to him as he begins his service to our Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Central Insurance of Van Wert, Ohio, on the occasion of its 150th anniversary. This milestone is a testament to the company's enduring commitment to its policyholders, agents, employees, and the community it has proudly called home since its founding.

Formally incorporated in 1876 as Van Wert County Mutual Fire Insurance Company, Central Insurance started out as a small, community- based mutual insurer formed by neighbors to help neighbors share risk at a time when formal insurance was still emerging in rural America. Central's operations soon began to stretch beyond Van Wert County. By 1883, the company had become an interstate operation, and the name Van Wert County Mutual Fire Insurance Company was limited. In 1884, the name was changed to The Central Manufacturers' Mutual Insurance Company. By its 25th anniversary in 1901, the company had expanded operations into six states. As transportation transformed American life in the early twentieth century, Central adapted its offerings to include automobile insurance. Its regional footprint expanded further in the following decades, with branch offices established in Boston, Atlanta, and Dallas. Today, Central Insurance serves hundreds of thousands of individuals and businesses across the country.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Central Insurance on this extraordinary milestone. For 150 years, Central Insurance has exemplified the very best of American business and served with integrity and dedication. We wish Central Insurance all the best in their future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay special tribute to an outstanding student from Ohio's 5th Congressional District. I am pleased to announce that Jack Buell of Pandora, Ohio, has been offered an appointment to the United States Military Academy in West Point, New York.

Jack's offer of appointment permits him to attend the United States Military Academy this fall with the incoming Class of 2030. Attending one of our Nation's military academies not only offers the opportunity to serve our country but also guarantees a world-class education while undertaking one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of his life. Jack brings a tremendous amount of leadership, service, and dedication to the incoming Class of 2030. While attending Pandora- Gilboa High School, he participated in student government, National Honor Society, Quiz Bowl, and Big Brothers Big Sisters, and was on the honor roll. Throughout high school, Jack was involved in cross country, basketball, and track and field, earning his varsity letter in all three. I am confident that he will carry the lessons of his student and athletic leadership to the Military Academy.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Jack Buell on his offer of appointment to the United States Military Academy. Our service academies offer the finest military training and education available, and I am positive that Jack will excel during his career at the Military Academy. I ask my colleagues to join me in extending their best wishes to him as he begins his service to our Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay special tribute to an outstanding student from Ohio's 5th Congressional District. I am pleased to announce that Michele Smith of Avon, Ohio, has been offered an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Michele's offer of appointment permits her to attend the United States Air Force Academy this fall with the incoming Class of 2030. Attending one of our Nation's military academies not only offers the opportunity to serve our country but also guarantees a world-class education while undertaking one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of her life. Michele brings a tremendous amount of leadership, service, and dedication to the incoming Class of 2030. While attending Avon High School, she participated in National Honor Society, Orchestra, Leo Club, CLIMB Club, and was on the honor roll. Throughout high school, Michele was involved in cross country, high school swim team, and club swim team, earning her varsity letter in swimming. I am confident that she will carry the lessons of her student and athletic leadership to the Air Force Academy.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Michele Smith on her offer of appointment to the United States Air Force Academy. Our service academies offer the finest military training and education available, and I am positive that Michele will excel during her career at the Air Force Academy. I ask my colleagues to join me in extending their best wishes to her as she begins her service to our Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay special tribute to an outstanding student from Ohio's 5th Congressional District. I am pleased to announce that Eli Chevalier of Sycamore, Ohio, has been offered an appointment to the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland.

Eli's offer of appointment permits him to attend the United States Naval Academy this fall with the incoming Class of 2030. Attending one of our Nation's military academies not only offers the opportunity to serve our country but also guarantees a world-class education while undertaking one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of his life. Eli brings a tremendous amount of leadership, service, and dedication to the incoming Class of 2030. While attending Mohawk High School, he participated in academic team, Spanish Club, Mentor Club, and was President of National Honor Society. Throughout high school, Eli was involved in football, basketball, and track and field, earning his varsity letter. I am confident that he will carry the lessons of his student and athletic leadership to the Naval Academy.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Eli Chevalier on his offer of appointment to the United States Naval Academy. Our service academies offer the finest military training and education available, and I am positive that Eli will excel during his career at the Naval Academy. I ask my colleagues to join me in extending their best wishes to him as he begins his service to our Nation.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay special tribute to an outstanding student from Ohio's 5th Congressional District. I am pleased to announce that Adam Buell of Pandora, Ohio, has been offered an appointment to the United States Military Academy in West Point, New York.

Adam's offer of appointment permits him to attend the United States Military Academy this fall with the incoming Class of 2030. Attending one of our Nation's military academies not only offers the opportunity to serve our country but also guarantees a world-class education while undertaking one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of his life. Adam brings a tremendous amount of leadership, service, and dedication to the incoming Class of 2030. While attending Pandora- Gilboa High School, he participated in National Honor Society, Quiz Bowl, and Big Brothers Big Sisters, and was on the honor roll. Throughout high school, Adam was involved in cross country, basketball, and track and field, earning his varsity letter in all three. I am confident that he will carry the lessons of his student and athletic leadership to the Military Academy.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Adam Buell on his offer of appointment to the United States Military Academy. Our service academies offer the finest military training and education available, and I am positive that Adam will excel during his career at the Military Academy. I ask my colleagues to join me in extending their best wishes to him as he begins his service to our Nation.

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

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

Mr. Chair, I rise in support of my amendment, which I am pleased to lead with the gentlewoman from Illinois' Second Congressional District.

For years, large parts of my district and rural areas across America have lacked access to fast broadband connections. Reliable internet access is more than just being able to stream your favorite TV shows and movies. It is the crucial link that connects us all.

Our people, Nation, and economy run on reliable internet connections. Agriculture producers in Ohio and across America also know that reliable broadband connections are essential to their operations. After all, it helps deploy technologies that increase their productivity, produce higher yields, and minimize operating costs.

Today's smart agriculture technology, from autonomous tractors to distributed soil sensors, rely on internet connections to share data.

In fact, our ag producers use information in real time to make smarter decisions on how to optimize inputs and whether and when to plant or harvest. When terrestrial or cellular networks are not available, satellite broadband steps in to make these technologies work.

However, it is not just advanced satellite broadband capabilities that improve precision agriculture. Earth-imaging satellites also provide important information that helps farmers and ranchers identify visual trends that may require immediate attention.

In order to ensure our regulations maximize those opportunities, our amendment would require the FCC to review its current satellite rules to determine if rural changes can be made to promote precision agriculture.

I am committed to ensuring our agricultural producers have the tools at their disposal to help them to increase productivity while minimizing costs. This amendment is an excellent step forward in that mission.

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

Mr. Chair, I urge my colleagues to support this amendment and the overall bill, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate a dedicated public servant, Rick McCoy, who will be retiring after thirty-five years of service as the Director of the Van Wert County Emergency Management Agency. Rick's commitment to public safety has helped the county's residents weather any emergency that has come their way.

Throughout his thirty-five years of service, Rick has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the safety and resilience of Van Wert County and its residents. He has led the agency through countless emergencies, natural disasters, and unforeseen crises, ensuring that communities received the swift and coordinated responses they needed in their most vulnerable moments. Under Rick's leadership, the agency grew into a model of preparedness and professionalism, forging strong partnerships with local, state, and federal partners to protect lives and property. His steady hand and tireless dedication have left Van Wert County a safer and better-prepared county.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in paying special tribute to Rick McCoy upon his retirement. On behalf of the people of the 5th Congressional District of Ohio, I recognize the dedication and leadership that Rick has shown through his decades of service to his community. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate a dedicated public servant, Jerry Greiner, who will be retiring after thirty-seven years of service as the founding Director of the Northwestern Water and Sewer District. Over the course of his career, Jerry's commitment to expanding access to clean water and modern sewer services, has had a lasting impact on the health, quality of life, and economic vitality of the region.

Jerry was hired by the Wood County Commissioners in 1988 to manage the county's sanitary engineer's office. When the Northwestern Water and Sewer District was established in 1993, he became its first and only director. Under his leadership, the district grew from serving a few thousand customers to connecting more than 20,000 customers across Wood County and the neighboring counties of Hancock, Henry, Lucas, and Sandusky. Today, the district employs seventy-nine people, manages $230 million in assets, distributes 6.5 million gallons of water daily through nearly 500 miles of waterlines, and serves fourteen municipalities and twenty-four townships in Wood County alone.

Throughout his tenure, Jerry was instrumental in attracting major employers to the region, including First Solar, the CSX rail hub, UPS, and others, by ensuring reliable water and sewer infrastructure were in place to support economic growth. In 2023, the district was recognized as Wood County's Corporate Citizen of the Year by the Wood County Development Commission.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in paying special tribute to Jerry Greiner. On behalf of the people of the 5th Congressional District of Ohio, I recognize the dedication and leadership that Jerry has shown through his decades of service to his community. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors.