Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the members of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, Chapter 711, and to honor all Purple Heart recipients in southern Nevada as we observe Purple Heart Day.

Purple Heart Day provides our nation with an opportunity to recognize the extraordinary courage and sacrifice of the men and women who were wounded or killed while serving in defense of the United States. The Purple Heart is one of our nation's oldest and most revered military decorations, representing a legacy of selfless service, resilience, and unwavering devotion to duty.

The Military Order of the Purple Heart, Chapter 711, has long served as a steadfast advocate for combat-wounded veterans and their families throughout southern Nevada. Through its commitment to veterans' outreach, mentorship, community service, and support for fellow Purple Heart recipients, the chapter continues to uphold the values of honor, patriotism, and service that define our nation's military.

The members of Chapter 711 not only carry the visible and invisible wounds of war with dignity, but they also dedicate themselves to ensuring that no veteran is forgotten. Their leadership strengthens our community, inspires future generations, and reminds us of the tremendous cost of the freedoms we enjoy each day.

On Purple Heart Day, we extend our deepest gratitude to every recipient of this distinguished medal. Their sacrifices have safeguarded our nation and preserved the liberties we cherish. We remain forever indebted to these brave Americans and to the families who have stood beside them through every challenge.

It is my distinct honor to recognize the Military Order of the Purple Heart, Chapter 711, for its continued service to our veterans and our community. On behalf of Nevada's 3rd Congressional District and a grateful nation, I thank them for their sacrifice, their leadership, and their enduring commitment to those who have borne the battle.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Tami Hance-Lehr, a pillar in Nevada's nonprofit and education community and a dear friend of mine, on her well-earned retirement.

Tami has over three decades of leadership and the last 9 years as president of Communities in Schools, an organization that is near and dear to me. Communities in Schools of Nevada serves more than 100,000 students in 117 high-needs schools across our State, providing students with a one-on-one relationship with a caring adult to remove barriers and help students stay in school.

Under Tami's leadership, Communities in Schools experienced unprecedented growth. She expanded the reach of CIS and made a lifelong impact on thousands of students across the State.

Throughout her career, Tami has helped prove that when young people have the support they need, they can achieve anything. I thank Tami for her dedication and belief in students. As she steps into retirement, I know that her passion for serving others will remain.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman and my colleague from Colorado for their leadership in this package.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of a rare issue that is uniting Americans from the right, the left, and the center: geothermal energy. Particularly during a time when it too often can feel like Congress can't agree on anything, today's package is a standout in the best way.

As the United States continues to face increasing energy demand here at home and rising energy costs from abroad, fully harnessing our domestic

geothermal resources is more important than ever.

My home State of Nevada has been a pioneer of both conventional and next-generation geothermal energy, including as the site of the country's first enhanced geothermal plant.

With exciting and ongoing developments in the geothermal technology, the Department of Energy has estimated that America will be able to affordably capture enough of our abundant geothermal resources nationwide to power more than 65 million homes over the next 25 years.

Let me be clear: This is baseload, 24/7 clean energy, and that is why I am proud to co-lead the Geothermal Energy Advancement Act with Congressman Hurd.

Our bipartisan package is the most significant geothermal legislation in more than a half a century since the foundational Geothermal Steam Act of 1970. I am thrilled that the package includes my STEAM Act, which I am proud to co-lead with Representative Celeste Maloy and Senator Catherine Cortez Masto. The STEAM Act will ensure that the geothermal industry has the same flexibility to explore and develop on previously disturbed or studied public lands that the oil and gas industry has had for upwards of two decades. At long last, we will be leveling the playing field for this promising and proven 24/7 clean energy source.

Mr. Speaker, there is a reason that the STEAM Act and all six bills in the package unanimously passed out of the House Natural Resources Committee: It is because Members from all corners of the ideological spectrum know that geothermal can make a real difference.

The U.S. contains more than five terawatts of geothermal resources, enough to meet the electricity needs of the entire world. With energy costs going up, I have long said that we need to embrace an all-of-the- above approach to bring down these costs for hardworking Americans. This geothermal package and the homegrown energy that it supports will do just that.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support our bipartisan, commonsense, and cost-saving legislation.

Mr. Speaker, during Police Week, I am proud to stand in support of the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act.

Organized retail crime puts all of us in danger. This isn't typical shoplifting. It involves integrated organized networks, often transnational, who are very sophisticated in planning and reselling their items.

Quite simply, it is a coordinated criminal enterprise that hurts consumers, taxpayers, and businesses of all sizes. In fact, it is especially small businesses that often lack security teams, can't absorb large losses, and face higher insurance costs that are hurt the most.

These crimes have more widespread consequences for public safety because these organized groups often resell their stolen goods to finance other illicit activities, including drug and human trafficking operations.

My hometown of Las Vegas is ranked sixth in the Nation for cities affected

by organized retail crime. In Nevada alone, organized retail crime has caused an estimated loss of $85 million in tax revenues and close to a half a billion dollars in the total amount of goods stolen each year.

This isn't just a financial issue, however. It is a public safety one. Shoppers and retail employees face intimidation, threats, and real physical danger.

We need to work to dismantle these criminal networks. Our local and State law enforcement agencies are doing incredible work, but this shouldn't be left up to local police alone. We need coordination at the Federal level to investigate and prosecute these crimes and link activity across State and transnational lines.

CORCA would update the law to designate organized retail crime as a Federal offense and give law enforcement the tools they need to crack down on criminal operations.

I am grateful that over 200 of my colleagues cosponsored this legislation, and I ask both Democrats and Republicans to join me in passing it to support our local businesses, equip our law enforcement with the resources they need, and keep our retail workers and customers safe.

Mr. Speaker, I was in committee voting on DACA. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY on Roll Call No. 130.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of William O'Neill McCurdy, Sr., affectionately known to many simply as Billy.

Billy was a prominent figure in Las Vegas, a long-time pastor, entrepreneur, and community activist, among so much more.

A true Las Vegas icon, he was an influential community figure with decades of civic and political ties across the State. Although he never held public office himself, he had an immense influence in the community and in Nevada politics.

The McCurdy family has been a fixture on the historic Westside and the entire State of Nevada for seven decades. Nevada is so honored to have felt his impact throughout the years, and we will continue to feel that impact through his family and his son, William McCurdy II, the Clark County Commissioner.

Billy McCurdy will forever be remembered and greatly missed by the entire Las Vegas community.

Mr, Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate a milestone for the Jewish community in southern Nevada-- Temple Beth Sholom marking 80 years of service, to be celebrated at their ``A Night in Jerusalem'' event taking place on April 26, 2026.

Temple Beth Sholom was the first Jewish congregation to be established in southern Nevada, and its members and programs continue to play an integral part in the development of Las Vegas.

Founded in the era of the Boulder Dam, the Temple's story mirrors Las Vegas' evolution. From its humble beginnings to the present, it has blossomed into a vibrant community, fostering deep roots and an unyielding commitment to Jewish heritage.

As Temple Beth Shalom celebrates 80 years, this milestone carries deeper meaning in Hebrew tradition, where the number 80 corresponds to the letter Peh, symbolizing the ``mouth'' and the power of voice. This anniversary reflects not only a legacy of faith, tradition, and community, but also the enduring voice of a congregation that has uplifted generations, shared stories, and strengthened connection across time.

``A Night in Jerusalem'' honors this legacy, bringing together culture, history, and community in a celebration that reflects both the richness of the past and the promise of the future. Just as Peh represents expression and continuity, this moment marks Temple Beth Shalom's ongoing commitment to being a voice of unity, faith, and inspiration for years to come.

Under the current leadership of Rabbi Felipe Goodman, Temple Beth Sholom promotes the role of the synagogue in Jewish life, encourages members to perform acts of kindness and charitable assistance, observe rituals, and be involved in the community.

On this historic occasion, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Temple Beth Sholom and its dedicated members who contribute to its enduring legacy in southern Nevada.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize March 23rd to March 27th as National AHEC (Area Health Education Centers) Week.

Southern Nevadans are facing a dire shortage of health care providers, which means longer wait times, fewer choices, and less access to quality care.

According to new Association of American Medical Colleges, the U.S. could see a shortage of up to 124,000 physicians by 2034, and the American Hospital Association says more than 200,000 new registered nurses are needed each year to meet increasing health care needs and to replace nurses entering retirement.

To solve this crisis, underserved communities like ours need to expand the resources we offer so that medical providers can learn and grow their careers in southern Nevada. AHECs are a part of that solution, expanding the health care workforce, especially in rural and underserved communities.

That has been and will continue to be key as we fight to ensure every Nevadan has access to the health care they need. The AHEC program has already trained millions of health care professionals. Across our state, from Elko to Reno to Las Vegas, the AHEC program is strengthening the future of our health care workforce which will help the health of all Nevadans.

That is why I am proud to support this program and why, year after year, I have fought to secure essential federal investments in the national AHEC program.

On behalf of my constituents at the Nevada AHEC program, their national counterparts, and the thousands of Americans who benefit from the care fostered by AHECs, I am proud to recognize this National Area Health Education Centers Week.

I thank them all for their dedication to keeping our communities healthy.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate a milestone for the Jewish community in southern Nevada-- Temple Sinai's 18th Birthday Mazel Fest taking place on April 11, 2026.

In 1992, former members of Beth Am established Adat Ari El. They had humble beginnings, with around 15 families and held services in a storefront with a visiting Rabbi.

Throughout the years, the Temple Sinai family has remained a vibrant, thriving community that holds close its core values and vision of worship, is vested in the community, and is alive with congregants and students who are enriching the lives of others.

Temple Sinai is a community treasure for our families, with multiple touch points throughout the Jewish life cycle, from preschool to exclusive senior programming. Their vision reflects the passion, dedication, and commitment of its congregational family to look forward and strive to attain its goals for the future.

As Temple Sinai celebrates 18 years, this milestone carries deeper meaning in Hebrew tradition, where the number 18 symbolizes ``Chai,'' the Hebrew word for life. Because Hebrew letters have numerical values (gematria), the letters chet (8) and yud (10) add up to 18, making it a lucky number representing life, vitality, and good fortune.

Under the current leadership of Rabbi Ilana G. Baden, Cantor David Perper, and all its staff, Temple Sinai is a cornerstone of our strong, vibrant Jewish community across the valley. They are a beacon of hope, compassion, soulful worship, and lifelong education providing a sanctuary for spiritual growth, cultural celebration, and community engagement.

On this historic occasion, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Temple Sinai and its dedicated members who contribute to its enduring legacy in southern Nevada.

Mr. Speaker, my vote was not recorded on Friday, March 27. Had it been recorded, I would have voted: NAY on Roll Call No. 106.

Mr. Speaker, had I been present, I would have voted NAY on Roll Call No. 51.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate my constituent, Alex Honnold, on his remarkable climb of one of the world's tallest skyscrapers, Taipei 101, without a rope.

Alex is a world-class athlete and perhaps one of the best athletes of our time. He is also known for being the first person to ever free solo El Capitan in Yosemite.

I am proud to say that Alex and I have worked together to promote outdoor recreation with my PARC Act, which helps protect climbers on our beautiful public lands. Alex also founded the Honnold Foundation, which partners with marginalized communities to expand equitable solar access around the world.

Nevada's Third District is honored to have such an accomplished athlete with a passion for outdoor recreation and making the world a better place. We are all looking forward to seeing what Alex will accomplish next.

I congratulate Alex.

Mr. Speaker, during Roll Call No. 12 on H.R. 5184, my vote was incorrectly recorded as NAY. Had it been recorded correctly, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 12.

Stated against:

Ms. DeLauro. Mr. Speaker, had I been present, I would have voted NAY on Roll Call No. 12.

Mr. Chair, in Nevada, the Sun shines more than 300 days a year, and solar is among the cheapest and most abundant sources of energy, not only in my State but across the country. That is why I am leading 30 of my colleagues in championing the most supported amendment to the SPEED Act by far to save solar and wind from this administration's war on clean energy.

On July 15, President Trump's Interior Department actively chose to wrap the biggest piece of permitting red tape around the neck of the renewable energy sector that we have ever seen, directing the Interior Secretary to personally sign off on every permit to solar and wind energy.

In just one example from my State, what would have been the largest solar facility in North America, the administration is making that project jump through 69 hoops seven times. That is the opposite of efficient.

Even my State's Republican Governor has said that these actions have ``not only stopped solar development on Federal lands in Nevada, but also on private land where Federal approvals . . . are required.''

More broadly, this administration's attacks on America's solar and storage industry are threatening over 500 projects that could be powering 16 million homes. Together, these projects represent half of all new planned capacity in the United States.

For this reason, at the appropriate time, I will offer a motion to recommit this bill back to the committee.

If the House rules permitted, I would have offered the motion with my important amendment to this bill.

Quite simply, my amendment to the SPEED Act would put an end to this nonsensical political tit for tat and ensure equal treatment for all energy sources as part of the DOI permitting process moving forward.

If we are going to bring down energy bills for everyone, the path forward is obvious. Solar and wind are the clear cheapest choice.

Republicans in Congress are more interested in getting retribution for their corporate donors than bringing down the costs for American families. Let's be clear: They know this isn't right. Even my colleagues who represent States like Texas and Arizona, where energy projects are being held up, are refusing to speak up. They would rather let this reckless administration put its finger on the scale and jack up prices for their constituents than stand up to this President.

Already, families across the country are seeing their electric bills increase by an average of 13 percent. In States like Florida, that is an average annual increase of about $400.

Mr. Chair, every day, more Americans are concerned about huge data centers causing their electric prices to spiral even further out of control. It doesn't have to be this way.

We need to provide real permitting certainty and permitting fairness and let investors, not Washington, pick winners and losers. Under this approach, Americans paying their electric bills each month are the ones who are really losing.

Mr. Chair, I include in the Record the text of my amendment.

Ms. Lee of Nevada moves to recommit the bill H.R. 4776 to

the Committee on Natural Resources with instructions to

report the same back to the House forthwith, with the

following amendment:

Add at the end the following:

Mr. Chair, I hope my colleagues will join me in voting for the motion to recommit.

Mr. Speaker, I have a motion to recommit at the desk.

Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.