Floor Statements

Madam Speaker, I thank the ranking member for yielding.

I want to preface by saying that I do not agree with everything in this bill, but the committee-passed bill is worthy of support.

I want to especially thank Ranking Member Rogers and Chairman Smith for their attention to minimizing extraneous provisions in the markup that have little to do with our national security or supporting our servicemembers. Our struggle to close conference last year because of these issues were wholly associated with provisions that are not connected to national security. And these attempts, I believe, were offensive, and similar attempts to include these unnecessary provisions this year should be rebuffed.

Unfortunately, Speaker Pelosi has not listened to the lessons learned from last year's conference and has decided to add several non-germane bills to the NDAA at Rules that have nothing to do with defense.

I want to make this clear for my colleagues offering these amendments: We should not use servicemembers as a tool to achieve partisan gain. I repeat: We should not use servicemembers as a tool to achieve partisan gain. And I voted in opposition to the rule, but I hope that I can vote for final passage of this year's NDAA.

As to the committee mark, we started with an anemic budget request from the Biden administration that in the Seapower portfolio requested only eight ships, two of which were fleet tugboats. How the administration can set China as the pacing threat and reduce Navy force structure is simply baffling.

Fortunately, with the leadership of Ranking Member Rogers and others on the committee, we were able to authorize additional funds to the defense top line to provide the real growth necessary to dissuade future conflict. With this, we authorized 13 battle force ships and rebuffed the administration's request to retire three cruisers.

Additionally, we sought to expand the submarine industrial base by authorizing funds that enable a submarine construction build rate of three by 2025. The mark also includes critical capabilities to support our Nation's deterrence with continued strong investments in the Columbia-class ballistic missile submarine and the B-21 Raider bomber.

I think this is a good bill in its current form, and it is worthy of my colleagues' support.

MR. SMITH of Washington. Madam Speaker, I yield myself 1\1/2\ minutes just to address a couple things the gentleman from Virginia said.

I want to be clear, it is the longstanding practice of our committee that we take issues that are not in our jurisdiction. We have done it under Republican leadership. We have done it under Democratic leadership.

It is also the longstanding practice of our committee to work with the committees of jurisdiction, and only if in a bipartisan, bicameral way those committees of jurisdiction agree, does it ultimately go into the conference report. So you don't need to be afraid of stuff that you don't like. Work with

your committees of jurisdiction and it goes into the conference report if we get agreement. If it doesn't, it doesn't.

Second, last year that is not what held us up. The two things that held us up last year were one thing that was very much within the jurisdiction of this committee, and that was whether or not to rename military bases; to change the names of the bases named for Confederates, very much in our jurisdiction.

And the second thing was President Trump's last-second desire, out of nowhere, to add section 230 to the bill. We weren't held up by these things, and we will not be held up this year. If the committees of jurisdiction do not agree, we don't do it. We just have that negotiation. If they can, we give them a ride. So don't need to worry about that. It is a good bill. Go ahead and vote for it.

Madam Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Speier), the chairwoman of the Military Personnel Subcommittee.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Melvin Rosson Post 8356, Veterans for Foreign Wars' seventy-fifth anniversary. Melvin Rosson Post 8356 was founded on September 18, 1946, by veterans who had just returned home after World War II as a sanctuary for combat veterans to gather.

Over seventy-five years, the Post has displayed Virginia's commitment to advocacy and civic engagement. The Melvin Rosson Post lends a needed and well-deserved voice to America's veterans, going above and beyond to raise awareness and honor the Nation's brave heroes in our community. Their displays of courage and determination set an excellent example for all of those around us.

Today the Post's mission remains much the same. With a membership of forty plus, the current members strive to serve the community and veterans. The Melvin Rosson Post has served as a support system to not just the veterans but the surviving spouses and children of military, lending a hand whenever possible.

Therefore Madam Speaker, I ask that you rise with me today to honor and celebrate the seventy-fifth anniversary of the Melvin Rosson Post 8356, Veterans for Foreign Wars. I look forward to hearing about the future projects and stories of your continued commitment to our community and great nation.

Madam Speaker, it is with deep sadness but great respect that I take this time to remember one of my constituents, Mr. Ferdinand ``Doc'' Dugan, III of Hague, Virginia.

Mr. Dugan passed away on Sunday, August 15, 2021 at the age of 88. Mr. Dugan was born in Catonsville, Maryland, and completed his undergraduate degree at the U.S. Naval Academy.

Dugan honored his country with lifelong service, first with the United States Navy, and then in business. After retirement, Mr. Dugan went on to open an art gallery, where he sold original artwork and provided custom framing in the Northern Neck.

In addition to a life of leadership in the military and active participation in local politics, Mr. Dugan was known as a family man and a valuable member of the community. Along with his wife, Bobbie Dugan, together they have nine children, twenty-eight grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.

Therefore, Madam Speaker, I ask you to join me in honoring the life of Doc Dugan and applauding his contributions to Westmoreland County and the Commonwealth. On behalf of America's First District, we say thank you to Doc Dugan.

Madam Speaker, since moving to the United States from Gujranwala, Pakistan, Mr. Sheikh has served his community diligently through successful entrepreneurship and advocacy for the Pakistani American and Muslim communities.

Mr. Sheikh's dedication and commitment to the Pakistani American community has had a great impact not only those in Virginia's First District but the Greater Washington area. Throughout the years Mr. Sheikh has worked tirelessly to support Muslim communities through the creation of the Muslim Community Center and the Islamic Circle of North America Sunday School.

Mr. Sheikh is the Founder and Chairman of the U.S.-Pakistan International Chamber of Commerce (USPICC), previously known as the Pakistan American Business Association (PABA), a representative body of entrepreneurs of Pakistani-origin, created in 1985. USPICC has worked with various business and academic entities to provide guidance and support to entrepreneurs, professionals, and the community in general.

In conjunction to advocating for the Pakistani American and Muslim community, Mr. Sheikh has also been a great supporter of several academic boards and business institutions, including George Mason University's (GMU) education program. Through his positions on the board of visitors with George Mason University and Pakistan's National University of Science and Technology (NUST), Mr. Shiekh has been able to create opportunities and connections abroad for both the students and faculty at GMU and NUST.

Madam Speaker, I have had the privilege to know Mr. Sheikh for many years and count him as a friend. I ask you to join me in recognition of Mr. Mohammad Siddique Sheikh's leadership, passion, and determination in service to our great Nation.

Madam Speaker, our Nation should be in the midst of a booming economic recovery.

Unfortunately, what we see is the exact opposite.

Throughout my time in Congress, I have consistently warned against wasteful government spending, and the real harm that it would cause not only to our economy, but to the everyday lives of Americans.

And this was even before President Biden began pushing through this reckless government spending agenda that will raise taxes on American families, destroy jobs, and saddle future generations with a massive debt.

It has also created another crisis: inflation--something House Republicans warned would occur as a result of the President's massive increase in government spending and mismanagement of the economy. Inflation is a tax on all Americans, and it has increased every month since President Biden took office.

The Consumer Price Index increased 5.4 percent from a year ago. This is the largest jump since just before the 2008 financial crisis.

Business owners are worried. Nearly half of America's small businesses have no choice but to raise their prices because the cost to do business is skyrocketing. And that means consumers end up paying more.

The Biden administration has attempted to downplay the harmful effects of inflation, claiming it will resolve itself in the next few months, but top economists project that inflation is here to stay.

Worse yet, now our Democratic colleagues are attempting to push through a partisan $3.5 trillion package that is nothing more than a reckless tax-and-spending spree, which will indeed stick more families with higher taxes and lower wages.

Madam Speaker, make no mistake about it, these are not just numbers. Americans across the country are spending more money on everyday goods and services.

Now more than ever it is critical that we are supporting our workers and families and making sure they succeed. We should be focused on supporting policies that create more jobs, spur growth and innovation, and put more money in the pockets of hardworking Americans.

The President's and our Democratic colleagues' plans are doing the opposite.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize those men and women who have served this great Nation with honor--men such as Colonel William C. Bentley III, United States Marine Corps.

Colonel Bentley's long and distinguished career began after graduating from The Citadel and commissioning through the Platoon Leaders Class. From there, a fruitful career as a USMC Helicopter Pilot blossomed. During this career, Colonel Bentley was stationed and deployed across the globe--from Djibouti to Iraq to Europe, Colonel Bentley has seen it all.

In his final command, Colonel Bentley led Marine Corps Installations National Capital Region-Marine Corps Base Quantico. In this role, I've had the pleasure of witnessing firsthand his passion for the USMC mission. He has assisted me, my staff, and the citizens of Virginia in navigating complex issues with an attention to detail that every public servant should work to emulate.

Colonel Bentley's work ethic, duty to mission, and commitment to servant leadership are without equal. I believe that his personal drive to achieve excellence in his work has and will set a very high standard for his peers. I would also like to thank Colonel Bentley for the service and sacrifice he has made, both for our Nation and our Marine Corps. His impeccable integrity, boundless work ethic, and loyal devotion to duty earned him the respect and admiration of myself, my staff, and the First District of Virginia. In retirement, I have no doubt that Colonel Bentley will continue to serve the Nation honorably and with distinction in whatever path he chooses to pursue.

I wish William and his family the best of luck as they continue their journey together. It was an honor and a pleasure having William serve at Marine Corps Base Quantico. We all can sleep soundly at night knowing that members of our all-volunteer force like William stand ready to defend our country and take the fight to our enemies, far away from their families and the comforts of the United States of America.

I thank Colonel William C. Bentley III, as he has done a fantastic job. Best of luck to him and may God bless him and his family as he moves into this next chapter.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize Deputy Jon Holt for his heroic actions and continued outstanding service.

Most recently, Deputy Holt has been recognized for his courageous act of heroism in the line of duty. Single-handedly, Deputy Holt rescued a woman from being crushed and suffocated underneath an overturned car when he lifted the vehicle off the trapped woman. Both the mother and her child were able to walk away from the accident unharmed.

This was not the first time that Deputy Holt has exhibited bravery and commitment to public safety. Deputy Holt was also recognized by the Greater Hampton Roads Regional Crime Line as both the local and regional ``Top Cop'' after rescuing two people trapped in a burning house.

In addition to his eight years with the Gloucester County Sheriff's Department, Deputy Holt served his country in Iraq as a member of the Virginia National Guard. In 2007 he was severely wounded by an improvised explosive device while on patrol in Baghdad. Following several years of rehabilitation and after medical retirement from the military, Holt joined the Sheriff's Department.

Currently, Deputy Holt is completing his master's degree in National Security and recently began his assignment with the Gloucester Investigations Unit where he hopes to continue to serve his country and community.

Deputy Holt has repeatedly put his own life on the line to keep others safe. It is an honor to recognize his valiant efforts and know that his substantial contribution to law enforcement has not gone unnoticed. I commend Deputy Jon Holt for his service throughout the years. Therefore, Madam Speaker, I ask that you rise with me to recognize the brave and humble service of Deputy Jon Holt.

Madam Speaker, it is with deep sadness but great respect that I take this time to remember one of my constituents, Mrs. Darlene Agnes Tallent, of Chiltons, Virginia.

Mrs. Tallent passed away on Tuesday, January 19, 2021 at the age of 74. Darlene was born and raised in Westmoreland County. She married her high school sweetheart, Joe Tallent, and together they raised their two daughters Kathleen and Lisa in Montross County.

Darlene spent her career working as the Westmoreland County Museum's Genealogical Library Assistant. She assisted countless researchers, authors and visitors in her 25 years of employment by sharing her extensive knowledge on the history of Westmoreland County and helping others trace their heritage and connect with who and where they came from.

Therefore, Madam Speaker, I ask you to join me in honoring the life of Mrs. Darlene Tallent, and applauding her contributions to Westmoreland County and the Commonwealth. On behalf of America's First District, we say thank you.

Madam Speaker, for decades, the Hyde amendment has shielded the American taxpayer from being forced to fund abortion. And for decades, the Hyde amendment has enjoyed broad bipartisan support. Even President Biden supported the Hyde amendment as recently as 2019.

Unfortunately, that is no longer the case. Now, President Biden has reversed course, proposing we repeal the Hyde amendment.

In turn, this would require American taxpayers, no matter what their personal beliefs, to fund abortion.

Madam Speaker, this is wrong. Every life is blessed with inherent worth, infinite potential, and sacred dignity.

As a child of adoption myself, I would not be here today if not for my mother's decision to choose life over abortion.

I urge my colleagues to stand strong in support of the Hyde amendment and against this radical new position of President Biden.

Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that the Committees on Energy and Commerce, Ways and Means, and the Judiciary be discharged from further consideration of H.R. 18 and ask for its immediate consideration in the House.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Friction Science, Inc. and Goodyear Brakes' contribution and support to a thriving domestic manufacturing sector and the ``Buy American'' initiative.

With 50 years of service, Goodyear Brakes and FDP Friction Science Inc., headquartered in Tappahannock, Virginia employs more than 150 local residents and contributes significantly to the local economy. Goodyear Brakes and FDP Friction Sciences Inc. continue to do their part to ensure a strong domestic manufacturing workforce.

Therefore, Madam Speaker, I ask that you rise with me in congratulating to Goodyear Brakes and FDP Friction Science Inc. on their monumental effort to build brake pads and shoes in the United States and support the goal of ``Buy American.''

Madam Speaker, it is with deep sadness but great respect that I take this time to remember Milton V. Peterson of Fairfax, VA.

Mr. Peterson passed away on Wednesday, May 26, 2021 at the age of 85 surrounded by his family. The founder of Peterson Cos., Mr. Peterson will long be remembered for his outsized impact on developing numerous major projects across the Washington, D.C. region. He developed some of the most successful and award-winning mixed-use retail, residential and office developments in Northern Virginia. In addition to being a visionary developer, Peterson and his wife, Carolyn established the Peterson Family Foundation, donating more than $100 million to area charities.

Mr. Peterson was a thoughtful, hardworking, and passionate individual who greatly contributed to countless lives in Northern Virginia. Madam Speaker, I ask you to rise with me in memory of Mr. Milt Peterson. He will be profoundly missed.

Madam Speaker, it is with deep sadness but great respect that I take this time to remember one of my constituents, Ottie Jackson Moore, Sr. of Bowling Green, Virginia.

Mr. Moore passed away on Monday, May 31, 2021 after nearly a century of life. Ottie Moore honored his country with a long career of service first with the United States Army, and then seven-terms as Caroline Counties Sheriff. His life was an example of commitment, dedication, and service from which all of us would be wise to emulate.

When Ottie was not working, he was spending his time improving the community in any way he could. He served as President of the Virginia Sheriffs' Association, advised the Virginia Assembly in passage of legislation to advance local law enforcement and was a founding member of the Board that led to the creation of the Rappahannock Regional Training academy in 1977.

In addition to his life of leadership in the military and local law enforcement, Ottie was known as a family man and valuable member of the community. Along with his wife Dana Moore,--together they raised a daughter Mary and son ``Jack'' and worshipped as members of the Bowling Green Methodist Church.

Madam Speaker, I ask you to join me in honoring Mr. Ottie Moore, Sr. and in thanking the Moore family for his incredible sacrifices, devotion, and service to our Nation; words cannot express our gratitude. On behalf of America's First District, we say thank you.

Mr. Speaker, over 3.8 million people across the world have died from COVID-19, over 600,000 Americans have died. We deserve to know how the COVID-19 pandemic began.

There is mounting evidence to show that the Wuhan Institute of Virology is a probable source of that. If we look at the assertions by China to say that this was transmitted naturally from a bat through a wet market, things just don't add up.

If we look at the information we have gotten from our intelligence communities, if we look at what we have seen to this point across the whole spectrum, we deserve to know exactly what has happened.

If we want to uncover the truth behind COVID-19, if we are serious about preventing future pandemics, if we are serious about holding China accountable, then I believe we need to do everything we can to follow the science.

By profession and by education, I am a biologist. In fact, I worked in and ran laboratories for years, laboratories that handled pathogenic organisms. I know the things that need to be done to uncover exactly what happened at the Wuhan lab.

It doesn't make sense to look at the assertions that China makes and somehow believe that that is indeed the case. I don't think that this is a random event. I do believe that there are links to the Wuhan lab that must have an independent and thoughtful evaluation of exactly what happened.

We have to force China to allow a free, objective, and independent evaluation of exactly what happened at the Wuhan Institute of Virology and determine what role did it play in the origins of this pandemic. We have to do that.

I want to ensure the investigation happens and that we hold Chinese officials accountable. That is why I introduced The World Deserves to Know Act, because, indeed, the world deserves to know. The World Deserves to Know Act will sanction key Chinese officials in their Centers for Disease Control, in their national health commission who obfuscated data, the data necessary to determine exactly what happened; and also, through our intelligence gathering, to identify those individuals in the Chinese Communist Party that persecuted scientists, that persecuted citizen journalists that sought to divulge the truth about what happened there. There must be a free, open, and independent evaluation that is allowed in order for us to know. Again, the world deserves to know.

In the meantime, what my bill would do is also prohibit funding from going to China from any U.S. institution, our universities, our colleges, anyplace that would send money either to the National Health Commission or any entity associated with the National Health Commission, like the Wuhan lab for the research that we have seen going on there, the gain-of-function research. We have to make sure that that happens.

I want to make sure, too, that we identify where dollars have gone from the U.S., from the National Institutes of Health or any other governmental entity or any entity associated with our Federal Government, State governments, or local governments that may have sent money to China for gain-of-function research. We have to know exactly where the money went, where it came from, and who was the decisionmaker about how that money got there. And that needs to go all the way up through our bureaucracies not only at the Federal level, but at the State level also. Anywhere there is an association, that needs to be known.

I want to make sure, too, that my bill allows Taiwan observer status in the World Health Organization to make sure that they check China's malign influence over the organization. Taiwan was at the very beginning of making sure that this was transparent.

This is not about political gamesmanship. This is about getting to the truth not only for the sake of truth itself, but to make sure the United States never suffers another pandemic like the one we just endured.

I hope that all my colleagues on both sides of the aisle will join me in holding China accountable and supporting and cosponsoring The World Deserves to Know Act.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Heritage Baptist Church in Woodbridge, Virginia as it celebrates its 40 years of Christian: service.

In 1981 the Heritage Baptist church was founded in a modest rental facility at Potomac Highschool. While small in numbers, this did not deter the church from making an impact on the community and spreading the word of God. To date, the Heritage Baptist Church has facilitated over 190 worldwide missions, boasts a congregation of over 500 members, and has planted 6 churches across the nation.

In the last 40 years, the congregation has continued to flourish and grow. What began as a small group in a one-room church has evolved into a 17 acres campus that has touched the lives of and inspired hundreds of individuals.

Today the Heritage Church can reach members of the community through the various programs offered, such as a K4 to a twelfth-grade Christian school, Sunday school bus outreach, the Heritage Institute of Ministry, and sermons in Spanish.

Therefore, Madam Speaker, I ask that you rise with me in support of the Heritage Baptist Church 40th anniversary. May God bless the Heritage Baptist Church and its community and may He continue to work through it to continue to spread the Word of God.

Mr. Speaker, I regrettably missed the vote on rollcall No. 144. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on rollcall No. 144.