Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and congratulate the Bayonne Chapter of UNICO National on their 75th anniversary.

Since their inception in 1949, these dedicated men and women who volunteer in service to their community have lived up to their values of unity, integrity, charity, and opportunity.

Rooted in their Italian-American heritage, the entire Bayonne Chapter of UNICO has left a remarkable impact on New Jersey throughout their history, supporting underserved families, investing in impactful local organizations, and working tirelessly to bring our neighborhoods together.

It was my honor to join them this year honoring the 2024 Man of the Year, my friend Brian Dellabella. It is a

privilege to represent Bayonne in Congress, and on behalf of all of New Jersey's Eighth Congressional District, I congratulate the Bayonne Chapter of UNICO on 75 great years.

Madam Speaker, I was not present during Roll Call No. 474. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 474.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of a dedicated public servant and friend, Hoboken Council President Jen Giattino, who passed away last week.

Jen was more than an elected official. She was someone who cared deeply for Hoboken and was a pillar for her community.

She was a champion for the unhoused, a compassionate advocate for small business owners, and a warmhearted, generous presence throughout the city that she served and loved.

Her legacy will live on in Hoboken and the hearts of all those who had the privilege of knowing her.

In this difficult time, my thoughts are with her husband, Joe; her sons, Joe, Jack, and Alex; and her family, friends, and the people of Hoboken who adored her.

In her memory, let us live by the example that she set: compassion, generosity, and care for others.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in solidarity with immigrant communities across the country, the people who we call our friends, neighbors, and loved ones.

We know that immigrants serve a vital role in the fabric of our Nation. Unfortunately, Donald Trump and his allies have spent their time and energy spreading lies about them. The most recent lies about immigrants are as dangerous as they are false, and they are part of the same tired playbook that we have seen from extremist Republicans time and time again.

From Springfield, Ohio, to Hudson County, New Jersey, immigrants are being vilified, threatened, and harassed. Immigrants don't feel safe going to work, picking up their children from school, or even going to their places of worship. This is a direct result of the dangerous rhetoric coming from the very top of the Republican Party, and it is unacceptable. It is past time that we return to the level of political discourse that lifts immigrants up, not tears them down.

I am immensely proud to represent New Jersey's 8th Congressional District, a community that is over 40 percent foreign born. I, myself, am the grandson of Cuban immigrants. Their story and the stories of so many in New Jersey and across the country are what make America great.

Our district is proof that when we stand side by side with immigrant families, embracing different ideas, cultures, and backgrounds, we make our communities stronger.

In Congress, I strive for leadership rooted in respect, and I would hope that all those who have the privilege of serving in elected office would do the same. That is how we promise a future for this country rooted in respect, integrity, and inclusivity.

Madam Speaker, 23 years ago, the events of 9/11 forever changed our Nation. Family members, friends, neighbors, and loved ones left their homes that morning never to return. Firefighters from across our district answered the call that day. Port Authority police officers would lay down their lives to save others, honoring the oath they made the day they put on their uniform for the first time.

Our hearts are heavy with the memories of those who were lost on that fateful day, but we haven't forgotten and we will never forget the bravery and courage of the New Jerseyans and all those who responded to 9/11. Their memory is a blessing and a solemn reminder of what is most important in our own lives.

I personally remember being a high schooler, standing across the Hudson River, watching countless men and women covered in ashes just trying to make their way home. We all realized in that moment that our Nation would never be the same.

Since then, more brave responders have died of illnesses caused by 9/ 11 than were lost on that day. This tragic reality is proof that there is more work to be done. We will continue to fight for 9/11 first responders and their families, to ensure they are given the resources, support, and gratitude for the sacrifices they made in service to others.

As we mourn today, let our memories be a reminder that in the wake of 9/11, we united as a country. We united not just in grief, but in resolve. We set aside our differences, we found common ground, and we healed together.

Today, as we face a Nation that feels more divided than ever before, I join my colleagues in remembering the challenges that we have overcome and the unity that made it possible. For the sake of our country, let's recommit ourselves to finding that unity, once again. If we do so, we will truly honor all of the lives that were lost that day and in the years since.

Remembering Bill Pascrell, Jr.

Madam Speaker, on August 21, New Jersey lost one of the greatest champions in our State's history.

Bill Pascrell was more than just a Member of Congress. He was a friend, a mentor, and someone who was loved and admired by many, myself included.

Bill was a true Patersonian, Paterson with one t, and his constituents knew that in him they had a fighter. He was always ready to speak up for what was right, and he served with purpose. Bill was tough, but kind; strong-willed, but a team player; and he always had a joke or story that would make you laugh.

His legacy has left a mark on this institution and our entire country that will never be forgotten.

Since coming to Congress last year, I knew I could count on Bill, and this place will not be the same without him here. I know the same is true for all of those who had the privilege of serving alongside him.

It is on all of us to continue Bill's legacy by continuing to fight for that which we know is fair and right. That is how we can rightfully honor such a great man, a great leader, and a great friend.

Madam Speaker, may Bill rest in peace. It was an honor and privilege to know him and to call him friend.

Mr. Speaker, I was not present during Roll Call Vote No. 227. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY on Roll Call No. 227.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2024, which includes my bill, H.R. 7702, to prevent tragedies like the Port Newark fire.

This bill is personal to me and to our district.

In July of last year, a fire broke out aboard a vessel docked at Port Newark. Two firefighters made the ultimate sacrifice while responding, Augusto ``Augie'' Acabou and Wayne ``Bear'' Brooks, Jr.

Newark and the entire State of New Jersey will always remember these heroes for their bravery on that day.

They were beloved by their families, communities, and the Newark Fire Department. While we can't bring them back, we can work to prevent tragic accidents like this one from happening again.

Responding to vessel fires is incredibly difficult. Each vessel is unique, and the presence of smoke in extremely tight, unfamiliar spaces makes them even more difficult to navigate and that much more dangerous for our firefighters.

Our bill tasks the GAO to study vessel fires, examine non-Federal collaborations to address vessel fire risk, and make recommendations on preparedness, responses, and training for fires of this nature.

I am proud this bill was included in the Coast Guard Reauthorization Act in honor of Augie and Bear.

I urge my colleagues to vote for this important bill.

Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for yielding. I rise today to pay tribute to the life and legacy of my friend and colleague, Congressman Donald Payne, Jr.

Congressman Payne was a fierce advocate and a dedicated public servant who fought tirelessly throughout his distinguished career for the city, county, State, and country that he loved. He wasn't just a Member of Congress. He was a pillar of hope and strength for the communities he served and the people who he represented and who he loved.

He was a mentor and a role model to many, myself included, always willing to lend a helping hand and offer words of encouragement. This institution can be intimidating, but having a big brother here made it home.

His passing leaves a profound void in our delegation and in this institution. The Halls of Congress will be a little less bright and a lot less stylish without him. I will miss the looks he would give me when we were getting into some good trouble in committee or on the House floor. It was a privilege to serve alongside him.

As we remember our friend, let's recommit to the ideals he lived by-- justice, equality, and the pursuit of a better tomorrow for all. In doing so, we can honor an incredible Congressman and a man whose life exemplified the best of what it means to serve others. Thank you for everything, Don. We will carry you with us.

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

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 6260, as amended. H.R. 6260, the Federal Oversight of Construction Use and Safety Act, introduced by Representative Chavez-DeRemer, makes a good faith effort at reducing the costs of the General Service Administration's capital projects.

The bill requires GSA to notify the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and the Senate Committee on the Environment and Public Works--GSA's congressional authorizers--when GSA construction or renovation project costs increase or decrease by 5 percent. It also requires GSA to submit an amended prospectus to congressional authorizers when project costs increase or decrease by more than 10 percent.

The FOCUS Act requires GSA to collect data from tenants about safety incidents in and around public buildings and submit that data to congressional authorizers.

It requires GSA to include utilization and occupancy data and prospectuses submitted to congressional authorizers. Additionally, the bill requires GSA to share location information between Federal agencies in the same geographical area to facilitate opportunities for space sharing and consolidations.

This bill also requires GSA to notify congressional authorizers when project milestones are accomplished, such as the solicitation and award of design services, the completion of any actions required under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, and when the project is completed.

Finally, the bill requires the Government Accountability Office to require the use of special spaces, such as fitness centers and conference centers, in Federal buildings.

With strong provisions like these, this bill will likely help reduce the costs of GSA capital projects.

I support H.R. 6260, as amended, and I urge my colleagues to do the same.

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

Mr. Speaker, H.R. 6260, the Federal Oversight of Construction Use and Safety Act, introduced by my colleague, Representative Chavez-DeRemer, makes a good faith effort at reducing the costs of GSA's capital projects.

I support this bill, and I encourage my colleagues to do the same.

Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

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

Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 6261. This bill introduced by my colleague, Representative Chavez-DeRemer, directs the Government Accountability Office to study and report to Congress on the effects that crime and safety concerns have on in-person work in Federal buildings.

Federal buildings must be safe and secure places for Federal employees, contractors, and the American public.

Evaluating the safety in and around Federal buildings is a good idea. I recommend that the GAO gather and include in the report data from the Federal Protective Service, the agency responsible for protecting Federal buildings and assessing the security of Federal buildings, as well as the employees who populate them.

I also recommend that GAO include the Office of the Inspector General of the Department of Homeland Security in the development of the report. DHS' OIG has access to historical data and current trends which may assist in the evaluation of the impacts noted in the bill.

Mr. Speaker, I support this legislation, and I urge my colleagues to do the same. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. Speaker, Federal buildings must be safe and secure places for Federal employees, contractors, and the American public.

I believe evaluating the safety in and around Federal buildings is a good idea, which is why I support this bill and encourage my colleagues to do the same.

Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Madam Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time.

I rise in support of H.R. 1836, as amended.

The Ocean Shipping Reform Implementation Act is bipartisan legislation championed by my colleagues, Representative Dusty Johnson and Representative Garamendi. This bill improves upon the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 2022, which passed into law last Congress.

Throughout the pandemic, Members of Congress from across the country were hearing from shippers in their districts about problems importing and exporting cargo. This bill protects American importers and exporters, standardizes data, establishes the National Port and National Ocean Carrier Advisory Committees, and builds upon efforts to improve the resiliency of the U.S. supply chain.

I thank Representative Dusty Johnson and Representative Garamendi for their work on this legislation, and I

thank Chairman Graves and Ranking Member Larsen for their continued support.

Madam Speaker, the Ocean Shipping Reform Implementation Act is bipartisan legislation that will protect American importers and exporters and build upon past efforts to improve the resiliency of the U.S. supply chain.

Madam Speaker, I support this bill. I encourage my colleagues to do the same, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to oppose the partisan sham impeachment proceedings against a dedicated and honorable public servant, Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas.

Secretary Mayorkas has done his job while operating within a broken immigration system that this Congress has refused to fix. Instead of working with House Democrats and the Biden administration on serious solutions, House Republicans are focused on one thing: appeasing former President Donald Trump.

This impeachment is an unconstitutional abuse of power. It is clear that policy differences are not grounds for impeachment. Even worse, in the partisan nature of these proceedings are the alleged facts that they are based on. To build their case, House Republicans work with and cite reports from groups such as the Center for Immigration Studies, a Southern Poverty Law Center designated hate group.

When I attempted to introduce an amendment to point this out, it was rejected by House Republicans twice in committee--once in Homeland and once in Rules.

Madam Speaker, Republicans don't want Americans to know the baseless and completely unprecedented nature of this impeachment, and that is that antimigrant hate groups form the foundation of the case that we are listening to today.

I stand with my Democratic colleagues against this partisan impeachment, and I urge all of my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to vote ``no.''

Mr. Speaker, as we close out 2023, I want to talk about the results my team and I have delivered for New Jersey's Eighth Congressional District during my first year in office.

Our team has solved over 1,100 constituent cases, which have ranged from getting evacuees out of Afghanistan, to resolving passport issues so constituents can visit their loved ones, to returning over $270,000 to our constituents. We have sent over 26,000 letters communicating directly with our residents about the issues they care about.

We have also secured over $11 billion in Federal grants for projects in our district. That includes over $6.9 billion for the Gateway Program, the largest critical infrastructure project in the country. We also secured over $4 billion to overhaul the Northeast Corridor, drastically improving the commuter experience on the busiest passenger rail line in the country.

We secured millions for additional priorities such as community policing, environmental justice, and tackling climate change, all in less than a year.

I have also introduced six bills and cosponsored over 100 bills that address affordability, improve the quality of life for residents in our district, and fight for our Democratic values and priorities.

The first bill I introduced was the Working Families Task Force Act, which would establish a whole-of-government approach to improve the standard of living for working families in our district and across the country, including access to childcare and healthcare and creating good-paying jobs.

I made quality-of-life issues a priority, introducing legislation to battle helicopter noise in our communities. I am proud to have cosponsored legislation to protect reproductive rights, support our LGBTQ community, and fight gun violence.

As a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I have worked hard every day to improve critical infrastructure across our district. This includes strongly advocating for commuting alternatives for you and your family, such as extending New York City's 7 line to New Jersey.

Serving on the House Committee on Homeland Security, I have prioritized our work to keep our country safe while following our American and Democratic values.

I have tackled the work of reforming our broken immigration system head-on as co-chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Immigration Task Force. I have fought to close the privately run Elizabeth Detention Center, which has had a decades-long record of abuse and neglect of migrant detainees.

I have stood alongside my colleagues to call for relief for cities that are handling an influx of asylum-seekers. I have led efforts to oppose harmful Republican targeting of migrants.

This year, alongside House Democrats, my team and I have delivered significant and meaningful results for every single resident of New Jersey's Eighth Congressional District despite the House Republicans' dysfunction and division. We are just getting started.

My top priority is and has always been serving you. I love this district and every community I have the honor of representing. Delivering real, tangible results is what motivates me every day.

I look forward to working for you in Washington and in the district. My team and I are available to help you and your family with any issues you may be having with the Federal Government. We are here to serve you. I thank you for this incredible opportunity, and I look forward to continuing to deliver for all of you in 2024.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak in support of H. Res. 178, which preserves the benefits our seniors are entitled to and ensures these programs are available for future generations.

While House Republicans are focused on embracing extreme fiscal policies that will defund the critical programs that Americans depend on, House Democrats are fighting to protect and strengthen them.

In my district alone, we have 90,000 residents who are eligible for Medicare and Social Security. That is why we must protect these critical lifelines for our seniors, families, and our most vulnerable neighbors.

While Republicans may say the right things when they are with their constituents, their actions speak louder than words. Republicans have repeatedly tried to cut and modify these programs and take away the benefits that Americans have paid into and earned. They have proposed ending Federal programs after 5 years unless reauthorized. They have proposed eliminating cost-of-living adjustments for some seniors. They have proposed vouchers. They have proposed increasing the retirement age.

H. Res. 178 commits the House of Representatives to protecting Social Security and Medicare and makes clear their status as foundational promises of our society. This resolution honors the wishes of the majority of the American people to strengthen and improve Social Security and Medicare and ensures that these programs will be available for future generations of Americans.

In short, H. Res. 178 represents what House Democrats stand for: putting people over politics.

Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to defeat the previous question so we can bring up this important legislation.

Mr. Chair, I thank my friend and colleague from Arizona for yielding and for his leadership on this issue.

I rise today because while House Republicans vilify families that are coming to the United States for refuge, House Democrats and the Biden administration are working to address immigration challenges with real solutions.

As many cities are welcoming asylum seekers and migrant families, House Democrats are fighting to provide resources to local governments that are processing migrant arrivals. House Democrats are fighting to relieve the immigration court backlog and provide stability for those stuck in the system. House Democrats are fighting to allow people to work and support their families. House Democrats are fighting to improve processing at the border.

To be clear, this bill does not provide any solutions for our communities. This bill does not address the core issues driving migration. It does not provide resources to local governments that are handling migrant arrivals. It does nothing. In fact, it does the exact opposite of being productive by limiting available facilities to house migrants while they go through a process to which they are legally entitled. This bill has no purpose other than to score cheap political points for House Republicans.

When House Republicans are ready to discuss real solutions, we will be ready to work with them. Right now, I encourage all of my colleagues to vote ``no'' on H.R. 5283.