Tuesday, May 19, 2026

Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H. Res. 1252, memorializing law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty. This week--National Police Week--is an opportunity for Congress to show our appreciation to the men and women in law enforcement, and express our gratitude for their integrity, sacrifice, and service. Every day, these brave individuals put their lives on the line to keep our communities safe. They protect us and devote themselves to the pursuit of justice. To each of them, we say, "thank you." We especially honor those who lost their lives while striving to make our neighborhoods safer and more secure. At the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial, the names of many Georgians are inscribed among the more than 20,000 men and women who have died while serving their communities. Sadly, 363 more names will be added to the memorial this year. These have been particularly hard times for Georgia's law enforcement community. We have lost several officers in the last 18 months and I include in the Record their names:

We remember them and their families and offer our sincerest condolences. Mr. Speaker, I hope we all take this week to pause and truly contemplate the sacrifices made by these courageous men and women, who go to work every day, regardless of the risk. God bless them and their families.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Brash Rodeo and its continued contribution to preserving Montana's western heritage and way of life. For more than 150 years, rodeo has been an important part of Montana's culture, celebrating the tradition and values that defined the American West and made the official state sport of Montana in 2025. Today, the Brash Rodeo carries on that legacy by providing an opportunity for cowboys and cowgirls from across the region to showcase their talents while sharing the excitement of rodeo with families and visitors from around the world. Starting each day of events off with prayer and the pledge of allegiance, events from bull riding and saddle bronc riding to barrel racing, team roping, and breakaway roping showcase the tasks that Montana family ranchers do every day, the way the generations before them did. Brash Rodeo brings together cowboys from every comer of the world, from Conrad and Kalispell to vaqueros from Brazil and Argentina. This diverse group of people coming together highlights the determination and grit that have long defined this western way of life. Located in the Flathead Valley at the Majestic Valley Arena beside the historic Blue Moon Nite Club, the Brash Rodeo is deeply rooted in the community. For generations, the Blue Moon has brought people together through hospitality and entertainment, while the Brash Rodeo carries forward Montana's western traditions in the arena just outside its doors, Together, they have become gathering places where families, friends, and visitors create lasting memories and experience the spirit of Montana. The competitors who enter the arena represent a proud legacy of hard work. discipline, and perseverance, while the rodeo itself serves as a reminder of the skills that once defined daily life across the frontier. The Brash Rodeo helps preserve these traditions and share them with future generations. Within multiple events, teams of father-daughter duos compete, showcasing not only their skills on horseback but a deeply rooted family bond and tradition. These events and the Brash Rodeo help ensure that Montana's history remains alive and relevant in the modern era. Mr. Speaker, the Brash Rodeo represents more than competition. It represents family, tradition, and the enduring spirit of the American West. Through its commitment to preserving Montana's heritage and bringing people together, the Brash Rodeo continues to strengthen the communities it serves and inspires appreciation for the values that helped build our great state.

Mr. Speaker, America is grateful for the life and extraordinary career of The Honorable William Joseph "Bill" Posey. The Congressman selflessly served the people of Florida and our Nation for 16 years in the United States House of Representatives. His warm smile will always be cherished. I appreciate his dedication and commitment to America. I include in the Record the following obituary provided by the Funeral Solutions SM:

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and commend Asia Scott, a senior at Charleston High School in Tallahatchie County, for being named a finalist for the prestigious Mentor Memphis Grizzlies 2026 Mentee of the Year. This distinguished honor celebrates outstanding young leaders participating in mentoring programs across Mississippi and Tennessee. The Mentee of the Year recognition highlights students who exemplify excellence through academic achievement, active engagement in mentoring organizations, meaningful community service, and participation in mentorship-related initiatives. Asia Scott's dedication, leadership, and positive influence within her community distinguish her as an exceptional nominee worthy of this recognition. A proud member of Exquisite Pearls of Excellence, Asia continues to embody the organization's mission of empowerment, service, and excellence. Through her involvement, she has demonstrated a strong commitment to personal growth while uplifting and inspiring those around her. Asia attributes much of her success to the guidance and support of her mentor, Kenshunda Thomas, a Charleston High School educator. Their mentorship reflects the profound impact of encouragement, leadership, and meaningful community connection in shaping the next generation of leaders. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Asia Scott for her outstanding achievements and in celebrating her bright future. Her accomplishments serve as an inspiration to her peers and as a testament to communities across our Nation.

Mr. Speaker. I rise to recognize Senior Master Sergeant (SMSgt) Justin R. Baysore upon the auspicious occasion of his retirement from the United States Air Force and the Pennsylvania Air National Guard. SMSgt Baysore entered the Air Force in 2004, completing Basic Training and Security Forces Technical Training at Lackland AFB, after which he became the Response Force Leader with the 90th Missile Security Forces Squadron in Cheyenne, Wyoming. In 2006, he served as the Entry Controller with the 51st Security Forces Squadron at Osan AB, South Korea. He briefly returned stateside, serving as the Installation Patrolman with the 88th Security Forces Squadron at Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio, before deploying to the United Arab Emirates as the Security Response Team Leader with the 380th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron. At the end of his active component enlistment in November 2008. SMSgt Baysore served with the 193d Special Operations Security Force Squadron in Middletown, Pennsylvania, where he served as the Fire Team Leader, and deployed to Joint Base Balad, Iraq, in 2009 and 2010 as a force protection specialist in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, where he ensured the security of a Special Operation Forces compound. During the deployment in 2009, he was selected to forward deploy to Fire Base Thomas at Shindand Air Base, Afghanistan, where he provided personnel security at an austere location. In 2013, SMSgt Baysore transferred to Air Transportation with the 193d Special Operations Logistics Readiness Squadron as an Air Transportation Specialist. While assigned to the Cargo, Ramp, and Passenger Services sections, he handled cargo and passenger processing, aircraft on and off-loading operations, fleet service functions, and special handling of hazardous materials. In 2019, he deployed to Ali Al Salem Air Base, Kuwait, where he was crucial to the redeployment of over 75 personnel and 175 short tons of equipment back to the United States. Prior to his current assignment, he was the Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge of the Air Freight Section of the 193d Air Transportation Function. SMSgt Baysore has earned a multitude of awards, decorations, and recognitions, including--but not limited to: Meritorious Service Medal; Air and Space Commendation Medal; Joint Service Achievement Medal; and Air and Space Achievement Medal (w/1 OLC). Just prior to his retirement, SMSgt Baysore served as the Air Transportation Function Operations Supervisor with the 193d Special Operations Logistics Readiness Squadron in Middletown, Pennsylvania, during which he led a 46-member flight overseeing critical cargo, passenger, and special handling functions for global air mobility operations across the Department of War. In his civilian life, SMSgt Baysore enjoys camping at his river lot, fishing, and hunting. While he will continue to work as an FMS Program Manager with the U.S. Navy, he is retiring to spend more weekends with his wife and two sons. Mr. Speaker, I am honored and privileged to recognize Senior Master Sergeant Justin Baysore upon his retirement after more than 21 years of uniformed service to our Commonwealth and Nation in uniform. His tireless, selfless, dedicated, and honorable service to his fellow Airmen and the United States of America, set the standard by which all should be judged.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of accountants in my district and across the Nation in recognition of National Accounting Day. This day, recognized by organizations throughout the country, honors the hundreds of thousands of accounting professionals whose work strengthens the foundation of our economy. CPAs promote accuracy, transparency, and integrity in financial reporting. From the local CPA advising families and small businesses to those serving large and multinational organizations, CPAs play an important role in every community--supporting American entrepreneurship and job creation, compliance and understanding an increasingly complex financial landscape. The accounting profession is defined by rigorous education, examination, and licensing requirements, adherence to high professional standards, and a strong commitment to ethics and competence. These safeguards help protect investors and taxpayers and uphold confidence in financial markets. As technology and financial systems continue to evolve, CPAs apply advanced skills in mathematics, data analysis, and technology to measure performance, manage risk, and build trust. Their work reflects the growing connection between accounting and STEM disciplines--combining technical expertise with professional judgement to support innovation and economic growth. I applaud the dedication and service of CPAs in my district of Pennsylvania and throughout the country, and I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing May 19th as National Accounting Day.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life and legacy of Robert C. "Bob" Burnham, Sr., who will be posthumously awarded the Purple Heart, and to pay tribute to a life marked by service, sacrifice, and devotion to both his country and his family. Bob joined the United States Army in 1943 as the world faced unparalleled conflict during World War II. He completed basic training at Fort Custer, where he prepared for the demands of wartime service with discipline and resolve. He went on to serve as a member of Battery D of the 548th Anti-Aircraft Artillery Automatic Weapons Battalion, rising to the rank of Corporal through dedication and leadership. In 1945, while serving in Germany, Bob was wounded in action. His courage and sacrifice during this pivotal moment in our Nation's history stand as lasting reminders of the price paid by those who fought to secure freedom and peace around the world. In 1946, Bob returned home and built a life grounded in humility, hard work, and steadfast love for his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose quiet strength shaped the lives of all who knew him. Bob also served his community for many years as a courier for Kalamazoo Public Schools. Mr. Speaker, the life of Robert Burnham, Sr. reflects the very best values of our Nation: courage in service, dedication in work, and love in family. As we honor him with the Purple Heart, may this recognition stand not only as acknowledgment of his sacrifice on the battlefield but also of the dedication and resolve that he lived each day of his life. May his family find comfort in knowing his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.

Mr. Speaker, on Roll Call No. 148, I mistakenly voted Aye when I intended to vote No.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Dr. Jeff Mattner from Martinsville, Indiana, a devoted educator whose impact on education will be felt for years to come. For 14 years, Dr. Mattner served with the Association of Christian Schools International as Senior Director of the Central Division, supporting more than 600 schools across 18 states with wisdom, integrity, and a servant's heart. Throughout his decades-long career as a teacher, principal, superintendent, and trusted advisor, he demonstrated an unwavering commitment to advancing educational opportunity and strengthening communities through faith-based education. Guided by his faith, Dr. Mattner also engaged in advocacy efforts that advanced the mission of Christian schools. His legacy endures in the countless students, educators, and families he influenced through his service, and my thoughts and prayers are with his family. May he rest in peace.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Ryan Gallagher for completing his tenure as Chairman of the Orange County Sanitation District Board of Directors, having served from July 2024 through June 2026. In his various positions, Chairman Gallagher has provided nearly six years of continuous leadership and vision to the OC San Board of Directors, Administration Committee, Steering Committee, Operations Committee, Groundwater Replenishment System Steering Committee, General Manager Recruitment Ad Hoc Committee, General Legal Services Ad Hoc Committee, and OC San/Santa Ana Watershed Project Authority Joint Policy Committee. Tustin City Councilmember Ryan Gallagher was born and raised in Southern California and holds a bachelor's degree in civil engineering from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. He is a licensed Civil Engineer in the State of California and was elected to the Tustin City Council in 2020. Mr. Gallagher was elected to serve as Chairman of the OC San Board in 2024 and serves as a member of the Water Advisory Committee of Orange County and Newport Bay Watershed Executive Committee. Prior to joining the City Council, Ryan proudly served on the Tustin Planning Commission and as past Board President of Orange County Water Association, as well as in past Board President roles for local chapters of the Association of Water Agencies, American Public Works Association, and American Society of Civil Engjneers. Ryan is the Chief Operations Officer of MKN, a water and wastewater consulting firm. He previously served as a Vice President of a nationwide engineering firm and Associate Vice President of a Fortune 500 global engineering firm. In his role, he works with local municipalities to plan and design clean water infrastructure for the delivery of safe and reliable drinking water to communities throughout Southern California, which earned him recognition as one of the top 20 engineers in the country under 40 by Engineering News-Record in 2019. During his tenure as Board Chairman from July 2024 through June 2026, Chairman Gallagher compiled a remarkable record of accomplishment. He championed the rollout of the Resource Innovation for a Sustainable Environment program--known as RISE--a forward-looking initiative focused on water, energy, solids, and air that positions OC San to meet future environmental and operational challenges. He oversaw continued fiscal strength, including maintaining OC San's AAA credit ratings from all three major agencies for the 15th consecutive year, reinforcing affordability and responsible rate management. Chairman Gallagher directed Board efforts on the 2025 Strategic Plan update, including the addition of a new policy focus on potable water salinity control and continued emphasis on environmental stewardship and fiscal discipline. He supported the launch of OC San's redesigned website, improving accessibility, transparency, and ease of use for customers and stakeholders, and oversaw increased public engagement efforts--including community events, tours, and educational programs reaching thousands of residents and students across the service area. He also supported initiatives that strengthened workplace culture, including a highly successful employee engagement survey with strong participation and positive feedback on meaningful work and growth opportunities. And throughout his chairmanship, he reinforced OC San's leadership in regulatory compliance and environmental protection through programs like the Pretreatment Honor Roll and longstanding ocean monitoring efforts that protect coastal water quality. I want to thank Chairman Gallagher for his exemplary service and dedication to OC San and the communities we serve and wish him all the best in the years ahead.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to celebrate the career of a faithful servant to our Nation, Ms. Serafina L. De Los Santos, as she retires from the United States Air Force as the Executive Director to the Commander of the 502nd Force Support Group at Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA). Ms. De Los Santos selflessly served our Nation in the civilian service for 23 years, dedicating herself to ensuring the highest operational standards for our military. Her commitment to service also extended to the San Antonio community and I am grateful for her contributions to our neighbors. A native of Brownsville, Texas, Ms. De Los Santos' military career began in 1977 when she began a 5-year tenure with the Air Force. Following her departure in 1982, she enrolled as a student at the University of Houston where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Political Science in 1986. Upon receiving her degree, Ms. De Los Santos was commissioned as an officer in the United States Army. She served as an officer until she retired from active duty in 2004 with the rank of Major. Following her retirement, she began her civil service career as the Senior Logistics Officer for the 470th Military Intelligence Brigade. She would remain with the Army until 2010, when she joined the Department of the Air Force's civil service as the Deputy for Installation Support during the transformation of JBSA. In December of 2013, Ms. De Los Santos became the Executive Director to the Commander of the 502nd Force Support Group. As Executive Director, she oversaw the group's budget and personnel across four military installations--JBSA Randolph, JBSA Lackland, JBSA Fort Sam Houston and JBSA Camp Bullis. Additionally, she was responsible for the base's Community Partnership for Transitioning Service Members, Military Spouses and Family Programs. Throughout her career, Ms. De Los Santos received numerous awards and decorations, including the Senior Civilian Service Award, the Commander's Award for Civilian Service and the Meritorious Service Medal. Ms. De Los Santos was also a dedicated community servant. She helped create and maintain partnerships between the community and military, contributing immensely to the continued growth of San Antonio as Military City, U.S.A. Mr. Speaker, please join me in celebrating the remarkable career of Ms. Serafina De Los Santos. Her leadership and commitment to our Nation will be long remembered and may future generations of leaders look towards her as a shining example.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service of Steve Kelso, a quiet, humble and dedicated public servant whose passing is being deeply felt across Nebraska. Steve devoted more than 40 years to Nebraska's housing industry and public service. Through hard work, integrity and deep expertise, he rose from an entry-level housing manufacturing position to lead the Nebraska Public Service Commission's Housing and Recreational Vehicle Department. Colleagues knew him as unfailingly friendly and approachable, but also deeply committed to protecting public safety and ensuring high standards across the housing industry. Steve's service extended far beyond state government. He devoted countless hours as a volunteer firefighter, emergency medical technician and EMS instructor, helping train first responders in small towns and rural communities across Nebraska. Even while battling cancer, Steve continued assisting others and serving his community until his final days. Those who knew Steve will remember his humor, kindness and extraordinary commitment to community. Steve Kelso was, in every sense, a quintessential Nebraskan. On behalf of the people of Nebraska, I extend heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, coworkers and all those whose lives he touched through his years of service.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Norma Ces, as she enters retirement from her long-time role at the Embassy of Ireland, USA. Her exceptional service over the years deserves celebration. I know I join many of my colleagues in commending her for all she has done to promote the relationship between the United States of America and Ireland. Norma first joined the Embassy of Ireland, USA in December 1984, first as assistant to the Deputy Chief of Mission. She then moved to the consular section in 2000, where she helped Irish citizens in need and assisted many Americans secure Irish citizenship and their first Irish passport. In 2010, she started in the Ambassador's office. She has since supported four different Irish Ambassadors to the United States, Michael Collins, Anne Anderson, Daniel Mulhall, and Geraldine Byrne Nason. Her exceptional dedication and passion for her work have undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the Irish American community, especially in Washington, D.C. Norma played a key role in enhancing Ireland's political, cultural, and economic engagement in D.C. and across the United States. Her contribution to the Embassy has been essential in facilitating the vibrant transatlantic relationship between the United States and Ireland. The deep community that she helped foster is a testament to her unwavering commitment to excellence in her daily life. Mr. Speaker, in recognition of Norma's retirement, we honor her contribution to the Embassy of Ireland, USA.

Mr. Speaker, I missed votes on Friday, May 15, 2026, for an important family commitment. I will be present and voting when the House returns to session this week. Had I been present, I would have voted; NAY on Roll Call No. 174, and YEA on Roll Call No. 175.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Jennifer Yezak of Bremond, Texas, on her retirement after more than 35 years of distinguished service to American agriculture. Jennifer currently serves as Assistant Vice Chancellor for Federal Relations for Texas A&M AgriLife, and she is one of those rare individuals who has touched nearly every corner of agricultural policy. From the Texas House and Texas Department of Agriculture, to USDA, to the halls of Congress, to the boardrooms of national associations, and ultimately to Texas A&M AgriLife, she has been the university system's leading voice for agriculture and natural resources in Washington. Along the way, she earned a reputation as someone who gets things done, who builds relationships that last, and who never lost sight of why any of this work matters--the farmers, ranchers, and rural communities she grew up among in central Texas. Texas A&M and the entire Texas agricultural community have been well served by Jennifer's expertise, her steady hand, and her deep commitment to advancing policies that support food production, natural resources, and rural prosperity. She has been an invaluable advocate, and her fingerprints are on more wins for Texas agriculture than most people will ever know. We wish Jennifer and her family all the best as she begins this next chapter. She has more than earned it.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and commend Dr. Gonzalo Salazar for his dedication to the students, educators, and families of Los Fresnos Consolidated Independent School District (CISD). Over the course of his distinguished career, Dr. Salazar has served in numerous leadership roles within the Los Fresnos CISD, culminating in his tenure as Superintendent beginning in 2006. From his early service as Assistant Principal at Lopez-Riggins Elementary to his leadership as Principal of Palmer-Laakso Elementary and Olmito Elementary, Dr. Salazar consistently worked to expand opportunities and improve outcomes for students. Under his leadership, campuses earned recognition for college readiness from the Texas Education Agency, reflecting his commitment to equipping students with the tools they need to succeed. As Superintendent, Dr. Salazar prioritized educator support through professional development and innovative leadership initiatives, strengthening the district as a whole and fostering a culture of excellence. In recognition of these efforts, Dr. Salazar was named Region One Superintendent of the Year in 2024, reflecting his vision, leadership, and unwavering commitment to educational achievement. Dr. Salazar's career stands as a great example of the impact someone can have on an entire community. His legacy will live on in the success of the countless students and families he has served throughout South Texas. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the people of Texas's 34th Congressional District, I commend Dr. Salazar for his exemplary service and extend my deepest gratitude for his contributions to the Los Fresnos community and beyond.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and remember the life and legacy of Mr. John Lyle Keenan of Jasper County, Mississippi. Mr. Keenan was a respected law enforcement officer and a devoted husband, father, grandfather, neighbor, and friend whose service and character left a lasting mark on his community. Born in Rose Hill, Mississippi, Mr. Keenan graduated from Heidelberg High School in 1964. He began his career at La-Z-Boy in Newton before entering public service as a deputy with the Jasper County Sheriff's Office. In 1977, he joined the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks as a Conservation Officer, where he served with distinction for more than three decades. He rose to the rank of Captain for District IV before retiring in 2010. Two years later, the Jasper County Board of Supervisors appointed him interim sheriff, and he concluded his law enforcement career as a bailiff for the Circuit Court. Mr. Keenan's dedication to public service extended well beyond his official duties. He was deeply committed to the stewardship of Mississippi's natural resources and served as Jasper County Director of the Pat Harrison Waterway District. He also held leadership roles as president of the Jasper Farm Bureau, the Jasper County Soil and Water Commission, the Meridian Stockyard Board of Directors, the Mississippi Pork Producers, and the Heidelberg Academy Athletic Booster Club. He remained active in numerous civic and agricultural organizations, including the Jasper County Forestry Association, the Jasper County Livestock Association, and the Bay Springs Lions Club, in his personal time, he worked in forestry management, raised swine and cattle, and maintained a garden, reflecting a lifelong connection to the land and the people who depend on it. Mr. Keenan was widely regarded as a man of integrity, honor, loyalty, and wisdom. Many sought his counsel on both personal and professional matters, a testament to the trust he earned throughout his life. He was a faithful member of Wesley Independent Methodist Church, where he lived out the values that guided his service. Mr. Keenan will be deeply missed not only by his family but by the entire Jasper County community. It is a privilege to recognize his life, his service, and his enduring commitment to the people of Mississippi, here in the United States House of Representatives.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Police Corporal Marco Valladares for his outstanding service to the City of Euless as he retires after more than three decades in law enforcement and a lifetime dedicated to serving others. Before joining the Euless Police Department, Corporal Valladares proudly served in the United States Marine Corps from 1982 to 1990 as a RADAR Technician on the F-4 Phantom Jet Fighter, earning an Honorable Discharge for his service to our Nation. Throughout his distinguished career with the Euless Police Department, Corporal Valladares served in numerous roles, including Patrol Officer, Gang Officer, SWAT Officer, Bicycle Patrol Officer, Field Training Officer, Criminal Investigator, and School Resource Officer. Promoted to Police Corporal in 1993, he served with professionalism and integrity for more than 30 years. Among his many contributions, Corporal Valladares established the Euless Bicycle Patrol Program, strengthening relationships between officers and the community through neighborhood policing efforts. He also served on the Euless SWAT Team for more than a decade and later became a SWAT Hostage Negotiator and Criminal Investigator, bringing steady leadership to some of the department's most difficult situations. Since 2012, Corporal Valladares has served as the School Resource Officer at Central Junior High School, where he became a trusted mentor and role model to countless students and families in the Euless community. A dedicated public servant and lifelong learner, Corporal Valladares earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Criminal Justice, Summa Cum Laude, from Columbia College and obtained numerous advanced certifications throughout his career, including his Texas Master Peace Officer License. I thank Police Corporal Marco Valladares for his leadership and unwavering commitment to protecting and serving others and wish him all the best in his well-deserved retirement.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to mourn the passing of a lifelong public servant, Mrs. Natalie "Nikki" (Damon) O'Neill. Mrs. O'Neill passed away on Monday, May 18, 2026, at age 90, surrounded by her close friends. She will be sincerely missed and long remembered for her humility, down-to-earth demeanor, decades of service as an elementary school teacher, and commitment as First Lady to former Governor of Connecticut William O'Neill. Born in Leominster, Massachusetts to Alice and George Damon, Mrs. O'Neill was raised alongside her brother, George, Jr., and graduated from Leominster High School in 1954. She pursued higher education, graduating from the University of New Hampshire in 1958 with a Bachelor of Science, and continuing graduate studies at Worcester State Teacher's College, Boston University, University of Hanford, and the University of Connecticut. She met her husband, Korean War Air Force Veteran William "Bill" O'Neill, at a party in East Hampton. They married on December 1, 1962, in her hometown. Mrs. O'Neill dedicated herself to public service, beginning her teaching career in Ashby, Massachusetts and East Hartford, Connecticut for two additional years. She continued her passion for teaching schoolchildren as a fifth-grade teacher at East Hampton Center School for 21 years. Over the years, East Hampton became their hometown. Her beloved husband, William, served as a state representative in 1966 and later became lieutenant governor to Governor Ella T. Grasso. When Governor Grasso resigned due to ill health, Bill took over to finish out her term and Nikki wholeheartedly committed herself to serve as First Lady alongside him. Although she left her years of formal teaching behind, in this new role she visited schools across the state, encouraging children to read, and attended career days, school plays, and concerts. Her decade and a day of service as First Lady of Connecticut were marked by her consistent leadership in civic, cultural, and charitable efforts. She served on the advisory board of the Special Olympics and the Connecticut College Children's Cancer Fund, among her many other positions of leadership. She also utilized the Executive residence to patron the arts, displaying over 500 books authored by 200 Connecticut writers, displaying local artists' works, and allowing 118 charities and organizations to host events in her home. Mrs. O'Neill's role in the success of her husband's tenure as Governor of Connecticut was irreplaceable. She believed in true loyalty and gave her full allegiance to her husband throughout and beyond his career as Governor. Her work and dedication allowed Governor O'Neill to flourish in his role. O'Neill's ten years of service as governor were characterized by protecting and expanding the rights of his constituents; he made indelible impact on the towns comprising the 2nd Congressional District. He provided additional resources for individuals with physical and developmental disabilities, began the Governor's Care and Share program which involved state employees in collecting food during the holidays for those in need, and advocated for the Veteran's cemetery in Middletown. Additionally, he championed investments in Connecticut infrastructure, securing a 10-year, $5.5 billion plan to upgrade Connecticut roads and bridges. He never forgot teachers, like his wife, and oversaw the passing of the Educational Enhancement Act, raising teacher salaries and educational standards in the state. That generational uplift of Connecticut's teaching profession has paid massive dividends over the forty years, as Connecticut school children consistently rank in the highest echelon in national reading and mathematics test scores. Governor O'Neill's administration also created one of the first, pioneering prescription drug programs in the country called ConnPACE, that provided lifesaving medicines to seniors at a time when Medicare did not cover outpatient prescription drug coverage. I had the honor of being a newly elected state representative in 1989 when that groundbreaking measure passed. After a decade in the governor's residence, Mrs. O'Neill and her husband moved back to their home in East Hampton. Governor O'Neill passed in 2007 and was buried with military honors at the Veterans Center in Middletown. Mrs. O'Neill always said she relied on her many friends to make life worth living. Mr. Speaker, Mrs. O'Neill's loss is felt by her friends and colleagues across Connecticut and beyond. Her sharp intelligence, humility, wit, and thoughtfulness will be deeply missed by all those who she impacted through her service. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Nikki's life and legacy.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the Vietnam and Korean War veterans who will travel to Washington, D.C. on May 20, 2026, with Honor Flight Chicago, a program that provides WWII, Vietnam, and Korean War veterans the opportunity to visit their memorials on The National Mall in Washington, D.C. These memorials were built to honor their courage and service to their country. The American Veteran is one of our greatest treasures. The Soldiers, Airmen, Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen who will travel here on May 20, 2026, answered our Nation's call to service during one of its greatest times of need. From the Pacific Asian Theatre to the Korean Theater, these brave Americans risked life and limb, gave service, and sacrificed much, all while embodying what it is to be a hero. We owe them more gratitude than can ever be expressed. I welcome these brave veterans to Washington and to their memorials. I am proud to include in the Record the names of these men and women for all to see, hear, and recognize, and I call on my colleagues to rise and join me in expressing gratitude.

Mr. Speaker, during the consideration of the Fiscal Year 2027 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations bill, the House was scheduled to vote on an amendment to eliminate the Filipino Veterans Equity Compensation Fund. I opposed the proposal, and even though it was ultimately not offered, we must oppose any similar effort to do so in the future. In 1941, more than 250,000 Filipino soldiers responded to President Roosevelt's call-to-arms in the Philippines and elsewhere and fought bravely for the U.S. and our allies during World War II. They endured the horrors of the Bataan Death March and wartime prison camps. They waged a relentless guerrilla campaign and eventually rejoined American forces that eventually returned to the Philippines. Filipino soldiers ultimately paved the way for the liberation of the Pacific and the end of the Second World War. After sacrificing for our country, many returned home from the war only to be denied the benefits promised for their service. Because of the Rescission Acts of 1946, most Filipino World War II Veterans did not receive compensation on par with United States veterans for their service. To help right this wrong, in 2019 Congress passed and the President signed into law legislation that created the Filipino Veterans Equity Compensation Fund. It set up one-time payments to eligible Filipino veterans who aided American troops during World War II. Filipino veterans who were United States citizens were eligible for a one-time payment of $15,000, and veterans who are non-citizens were eligible for a one-time payment of $9,000. Despite efforts to make a payment to every possible beneficiary, many Filipinos struggled to obtain the documentation needed to prove their eligibility given the many decades that passed since World War II. The federal government has held onto these funds to allow these veterans who fought for our Nation every chance possible to prove their service and receive a payment in the final years of their lives, to ease any hardships they may have and to pay off a small part of the debt owed to them for the benefits they earned, yet were taken away from them. Rather than close this program, we should redouble our efforts to help those who struggled to obtain the document to prove their service. We must help and not again abandon these Filipino veterans, most of whom are now in their late 90s or over 100 years old. I strongly urge all my colleagues to oppose this misguided effort.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a truth that Puerto Rico has lived for more than a century: freedom is not inherited. It is forged. Forged in sacrifice, in courage, and in the lives of men and women who answered every call this Nation made, with unmatched devotion and without hesitation. This coming Memorial Day, as our people prepare to gather at the Morovis National Cemetery under the theme "Freedom Forged by Our Heroes," I express our eternal gratitude to those who purchased our freedom with their lives, and our solemn pledge to be worthy of it. For more than a century, Puerto Rico has sent its sons and daughters to every theater of American conflict. In World War I and World War II, tens of thousands served with distinction, carrying the flag of this Nation across every theater of war. In Korea, the 65th Infantry Regiment, the Borinqueneers, forged a legacy that could not be ignored: two Korean Presidential Unit Citations, more than 2,700 Purple Hearts, and the Congressional Gold Medal, authorized by this body in 2014 and formally presented in 2016. Among them stood Private First Class Fernando Luis Garcia of Utuado, who threw himself upon an enemy grenade on September 5, 1952, so his fellow Marines could live. He became Puerto Rico's first Medal of Honor recipient. His name became a standard. In Vietnam, Private First Class Carlos James Lozada of Caguas and Specialist Hector Santiago-Colon of Salinas each gave their lives to save their comrades--Lozada by holding his exposed position under withering fire so his platoon could withdraw, Santiago-Colon by shielding a grenade with his body--both awarded the Medal of Honor posthumously. Two men, two moments, one unbreakable thread of sacrifice. That thread did not end there. Sergeant First Class Pedro A. Munoz of Quebradillas, a Green Beret, was killed on January 2, 2005, after his Special Forces patrol encountered enemy fire in Shindand, Afghanistan. Sergeant First Class Jose A. Rivera of Barranquitas, an 82nd Airborne paratrooper, was killed on November 5, 2003, when his patrol came under fire in Mumuhdyah, Iraq. And recently, Puerto Rico mourned Major Ariana G. Linse Savino--a proud daughter of Puerto Rico, a 31-year-old Air Force pilot, Chief of Current Operations of the 99th Air Refueling Squadron, killed in the line of duty on March 12, 2026, in western Iraq. Governor Gonzalez Colon awarded her the Governor's Medal for Valor and Patriotism--the first time in history that honor was given posthumously. Regarding her family: Puerto Rico embraces them, and will forever carry her memory. For generations, Puerto Rico's fallen rested at the Bayamon National Cemetery, a ground made sacred by the heroes it received. When Bayamon reached its capacity and closed to new interments, Puerto Rico did not leave its veterans without an answer. The Morovis National Cemetery rose to carry that sacred trust forward, extending the same dignity deeper into the heart of the island, closer to the communities that have given the most. Nestled in the mountains of Puerto Rico, Morovis stands as living proof that our commitment to those who serve does not expire. No hero of this island will rest forgotten, and no family will carry their grief without the full honor their loved one earned. From the frozen hills of Korea to the skies above Iran, Puerto Rico has answered every call, in every generation, without fail. Freedom Forged by Our Heroes is not a phrase chosen lightly. It is a truth written in sacrifice, carried across generations, and honored in Morovis, Bayamon, and all across Puerto Rico.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the memory of Erwin J. Korczynski of Chicago, Illinois. Erwin was a United States Marine Corps veteran, commercial airline captain, and Civil Reserve Air Fleet pilot who passed away on January 5, 2011, after a battle with prostate cancer. Erwin Korczynski was born on March 30, 1942, and raised in Chicago, where he attended Lane Technical High School and later Northern Illinois University. During the Vietnam War, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps alongside his identical twin brother, Edwin. After their discharge, both brothers were hired by Eastern Air Lines, beginning careers that would eventually draw them into support roles during two American wars. Through his work with Evergreen Airlines, Erwin became part of the Civil Reserve Air Fleet, a partnership between the Department of Defense and the commercial aviation industry that augmented Military Airlift Command capacity during wartime. During Desert Shield and Desert Storm, CRAF pilots moved 400,000 troops and 335,000 tons of cargo over 165 days, what has been called the greatest airlift in history. Erwin flew 35 sorties in support of those operations, the same number, by extraordinary coincidence, as his twin brother Edwin. On behalf of the residents of the 9th Congressional District of Illinois, I want to share our gratitude for Erwin's service to this country, in uniform as a Marine and in the cockpit as a civilian pilot who kept flying into harm's way long after his discharge.

Mr. Speaker, per House Resolution 480 and Committee on House Administration Resolution 119-13, the Chief Administrative Officer has informed the Committee that all current Members of the House have completed the required training for 2025.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heart that is heavy beyond measure, and yet overflowing with gratitude to a gracious God, to honor the life, the ministry, and the enduring legacy of a man I have been blessed to call my friend, my brother, my teacher, and my faithful companion for more than fifty years--the Reverend George Phillip Shoultz, Jr., of Columbus, Georgia. A home-going service to celebrate his remarkable life will be held on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at the Fourth Street Missionary Baptist Church in Columbus, Georgia. Mr. Speaker, when I think of George Shoultz, I do not think of his many accomplishments, though they were many. I think first of a friend. I think of a brother. I think of the man who, more than half a century ago, sat in the same Sunday School class with me at the Fourth Street Missionary Baptist Church, and who one day, by God's providence, would rise from the pew beside me to stand at the front of the classroom as my Sunday School teacher. That is who George Shoultz was to me. He was the friend who became the teacher. The brother who became the shepherd. The companion who walked with me on every road I have ever traveled in public life. Mr. Speaker, George was born on November 14, 1951, in Savannah, Georgia, the fourth of six children born to George Phillip Shoultz, Sr., and Cora Bell Shoultz. From his earliest days, he understood the meaning of hard work and family responsibility. Even as a young man at Tompkins High School, he worked to help support his family--a quiet sacrifice that would come to define his character. After graduation in 1969, he managed a Burger King and worked at Joe's Picnic, and he went on to study Accounting at Savannah State College, where, in a Sociology class in 1970, he met the love of his life. Miss Betty L. Martin. On July 29, 1972, George and Betty were joined in holy matrimony--a union that would last a lifetime and bless this world with three children. George, III, Brandi, and Geoffrey, and four beautiful grandchildren who were the very light of his eyes. Mr. Speaker, George Shoultz was a businessman of rare vision. He climbed the ranks at Heykow, Inc., from a local store in Savannah to becoming a regional buyer and district manager. In 1975, he arrived in Columbus, Georgia, to serve as Managing Partner of the iconic Sol & Harry's menswear store. And on January 1, 1983, through grit, faith, and sheer determination, he and his family purchased that beloved institution outright. For more than four decades, G. Shoultz & Company has clothed the men of Columbus with dignity and distinction. He was named Outstanding Business of the Year by the U.S. Department of Commerce in 1983, and Regional Retail Minority Entrepreneur in 1985. But ask anyone who walked into his store, and they will tell you--George did not just sell suits. He extended credit when a young man could not afford one for a job interview. He prayed with customers who were grieving. He turned his clothing store into a ministry of dignity. Mr. Speaker, our friendship was forged in the house of the Lord. For more than twenty years, George and I worshiped together at Fourth Street Missionary Baptist Church in Columbus, Georgia. We sat in the same pews. We sang from the same hymnal. We sang and travelled with the choir. We bowed our heads in the same prayers. We sat in the same Sunday School class, week after week, year after year, opening the Word of God together. And there came a day when the Lord raised up our beloved George to teach that very class--and I, who had sat beside him as a fellow student, now sat as his student. He taught the Scriptures the way he lived them: with reverence, with humility, with conviction, and with a love so deep you could feel it in every word he spoke. I am a better man because George Shoultz shared with me the Word of God. I am a better servant of people because of what I learned saw in George. Mr. Speaker, our bond was woven through every chapter of our lives. He trusted me as his attorney, as I had the honor of representing him and his family in matters of business and matters of life. He trusted me with his counsel; I trusted him with my soul. There are not many men in this world whom you could trust unconditionally. George Shoultz was such a man. We watched each other's hair turn gray, and we thanked God for every gray strand of it. Mr. Speaker, when I first stepped into the arena of public service in 1976, seeking election to the Georgia State House of Representatives, George Shoultz was there. He was a young businessman then. I was a young lawyer. And he stood beside me--not because he had anything to gain, but because he believed. He believed in the calling. He believed in the work. He believed that representation mattered. And from that very first campaign, in 1976, all the way through every election I have ever waged--every State House race, every State Senate campaign, every single congressional election from my first run in 1992 to this very day--George Shoultz was there. Not for a season. Not for a cycle. For a lifetime. Mr. Speaker, during my very first campaign for the United States Congress in 1992, George Shoultz served as my Transportation Coordinator--the man who organized and directed our fleet of volunteer drivers to take me from town to town as I campaigned to become the congressman from the 2nd Congressional District of Georgia. And he dispatched them by phone from his counter at Sal and Harry. And how we would talk politics, Mr. Speaker. How we would talk. On the phone late into the evening, over coffee in Columbus, on the church steps after Sunday service, at the back counter of Sol & Harry's with a customer waiting--George had a mind that was sharp as a blade and a heart that was tender as a child's. He understood the long arc of the moral universe, and he believed, as Dr. King believed, that it bends toward justice. But he also knew that it does not bend on its own. He believed it must be pulled, prayed over, and pushed by faithful hands. His hands were among the most faithful I have ever known. He served as Captain of the Dimon Precinct for Mayor Bill Feighner. He worked tirelessly for Councilman Nathan Suber. He stood with Reverend Jesse Jackson, and on the night this Nation elected Barack Obama as President of the United States. George Shoultz and I wept together as men who had lived to see what our fathers and mothers had only dared to dream. In 1991, he joined the bus ride through Forsyth County--an act of moral courage that I shall never forget so long as I draw breath. Mr. Speaker, above every title George Shoultz ever earned in business or in civic life, he wore one with greater pride than all the rest: servant of the Most High God. Ordained to the ministry in the late 1990s, Reverend Shoultz served Fourth Street Missionary Baptist Church in nearly every capacity a man can serve--as Deacon, as Sunday School Teacher and Superintendent, as Chairman of Transportation, as Chairman of Mission, as overseer of the church's radio ministry that carried the Word of God across the airwaves of Georgia on JOY FM and FOXIE 105. He served in the Inspirational Choir, the Evangelism Ministry, the Benevolence Ministry, and the Stewardship Ministry. He also served as Associate Pastor of Spirit, Truth, and Liberty Ministries International. There was no task too small, no hour too late, no soul too lost for Reverend Shoultz to serve. Mr. Speaker, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., once preached words that could have been written about my friend George Shoultz:

Mr. Speaker. that was George Shoultz. A heart full of grace. A soul generated by love. He never sought greatness, and yet greatness found him--because he gave himself away in service to others, day after day, year after year, for a lifetime. Mr. Speaker, there is a particular ache that comes when you lose a friend you have known across the long arc of a lifetime. It is the ache of fifty years of memories. It is the ache of remembering a young man sitting beside you in a Sunday School class and knowing that the seat will be empty now. It is the ache of picking up the phone to call him with news, only to remember that he has gone home. It is the ache of every campaign yet to come, every election night yet to be, every Sunday service--and knowing that George Shoultz will not be there. But, Mr. Speaker, I take comfort in this: he will be there in spirit. He will be there in every Scripture I remember from Sunday School. He will be there in every pew at Fourth Street where his prayers still linger like incense. He will be there in the laughter of his grandchildren. He will be there. His beloved wife of more than fifty years, Betty--walked every step of this journey by his side, from a Sociology class at Savannah State College in 1970 to the threshold of eternity--my heart is broken with hers. To his children, George, III, Brandi, and Geoffrey; to his precious grandchildren, George, IV, Emira, Lydia Grace, and Amira; to his surviving siblings; and to his Fourth Street Missionary Baptist Church family who loved him so well--I offer my deepest condolences and the prayers of a grateful Nation. Their loss is immeasurable. But take comfort, dear ones, in the promise we read in 2nd Timothy: he has fought the good fight, he has finished the course, he has kept the faith. And henceforth, there is laid up for him a crown of righteousness. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives to join my wife Vivian and me, along with the more than 765,000 people of Georgia's 2nd Congressional District in honoring the life and legacy of the Reverend George Phillip Shoultz, Jr. I have lost more than a friend. I have lost a Sunday School teacher who opened the Scriptures to me. I lost a client who trusted me with his affairs. I lost a campaign warrior who carried me from the State House to the U.S. House across fifty years and countless elections. I lost a brother who walked with me through every season of my life. Columbus lost a pillar. Georgia lost a giant. The Kingdom of God gained a saint. I ask my colleagues to join me today in honoring the extraordinary life of Reverend George Phillip Shoultz, Jr.--a husband, a father, a grandfather, a businessman, a deacon, a minister, a teacher, a freedom fighter, and, to me, simply, my beloved friend. Well done, my, brother. Well done, thou good and faithful servant. May he rest now, in the arms of the Savior he served so faithfully. Until that great gettin' up morning--until we meet again on that beautiful shore--rest, dear friend. Rest.

Mr, Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Thomas Tutwiler, a profound music educator with over 30 years of serving students. Mr. Tutwiler built a remarkable career rooted in dedication, excellence, and deep passion for music education. He earned a master's degree in Choral Conducting from the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music and a bacheIor's degree in music education and psychology from James Madison University, an academic foundation that prepared him to inspire generations of students. Over the course of over 30 years, Mr. Tutwiler served at several schools and is now completing his 23rd and final year as Choral Director at C.D. Hylton High School. Throughout his journey, he has made a huge impact on students, parents, teachers, and the broader community, shaping the lives of countless young people through music, mentorship, and leadership. His career includes a huge list of accomplishments. For more than 25 years, he performed with the Men/Girls/Boys Choirs of the Washington National Cathedral, an elite and highly competitive honor requiring exceptional sight-reading ability, vocal proficiency, and musicianship. In addition, he has served as a guest conductor on the regional, district, and county level honor choirs. In 2015, Mr. Tutwiler was also named High School Teacher of the Year by Dale City in Prince William County, Virginia, and was recognized by James Madison University as Alumni Music Educator of the Year. I want to personally thank Mr. Tutwiler for the outstanding impact he has had on students, parents, colleagues, and the many generations he has guided throughout his career. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. Thomas Tutwiler for his outstanding service and the tremendous difference he has made in our communities. I wish him all the best in his well earned retirement.

Mr. Speaker. I missed Roll Call No. 167. Had I been present, I would have voted YES on Roll Call No. 167.

Mr. Speaker, due to unavoidable circumstances, I was absent on April 27, 2026, and therefore missed two votes. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 138, and YEA on Roll Call No. 139.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Senior Master Sergeant Jason W. Kerstetter upon the auspicious occasion of his retirement from uniformed service after 32 years of selfless service. Originally from Richfield, Pennsylvania, SMSgt Kerstetter first enlisted into the United States Army in January 1993. Shortly after his high school graduation, he attended Basic and One Station Unit Training at Fort Knox, Kentucky, graduating as an M1A1 Abrams Armor Crewman. Over the course of his 16-year Army career, he was tasked with various assignments, serving on active federal service with the Pennsylvania National Guard in California, Kentucky, and South Korea. In 2009, SMSgt Kerstetter transferred to the 193d Special Operations Logistics Readiness Squadron, Pennsylvania Air National Guard--becoming one of the first senior Non-Commissioned Officers in the newly created Aerial Port. He deployed in support of myriad missions, including Operations Enduring Freedom and Spartan Shield. Most recently, he completed a tour with the 609th CENTCOM Combined Air Operation Center, serving as the Subject Matter Expert with the A3/4 Air Mobility Division. SMSgt Kerstetter currently serves as the Superintendent of the 193d Air Transportation Function, part of 193d Special Operation Logistics Readiness Squadron out of the Harrisburg International Airport, Middletown, Pennsylvania, which supports the Department of War's capability of moving passengers and air cargo worldwide. As superintendent, SMSgt Kerstetter plans, organizes, directs, coordinates, and controls ail transportation activities. Additionally, he determines and justifies personnel, equipment, and facilities required to accomplish air transportation functions. Outside of the military, SMSgt Kerstetter has been married to his wife, Krista, since 2022, and has served our youth for the past 20 years as a fifth grade teacher in the Lower Dauphin School District. He also is a licensed soccer official (since 2013) for both the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association and the United States Soccer Federation. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize, commend, and congratulate Senior Master Sergeant Jason W. Kerstetter upon the occasion of his retirement after more than 32 years of selfless service in the United States Military, and on a job extremely well done. His dedication, professionalism, and tireless devotion are a great credit to himself, our communities, the U.S. Army, the U.S. Air Force, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the United States of America, and set the standard by which all should be judged.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and recognize the outstanding achievements of an exceptional student, Ja'Shun Adams. Ja'Shun Adams is a senior at Madison Shannon Palmer High School in Marks, Mississippi, where he has distinguished himself as a dedicated student and leader among his peers. Throughout his high school career, Ja'Shun has demonstrated a strong commitment to academic excellence, leadership, and service. During his time at Madison Shannon Palmer High School, Ja'Shun has been actively involved in several organizations that support leadership and student success. He is a proud member of the Beta Club, National Honor Society, FCCLA, and Teen Health Mississippi, where he has consistently worked to better his school and community. Ja'Shun's academic achievements have earned him national recognition. He is the recipient of the prestigious National Merit Stamps Scholarship, an honor awarded to only 0.2 percent of students across the nation, making him the first recipient from the Mississippi Delta. This remarkable accomplishment highlights his dedication to academic excellence and his determination to succeed. After graduating, Ja'Shun plans to attend the University of Mississippi, where he will major in Biological Sciences with plans to pursue Nursing. His long-term goal is to become a Nurse Anesthesiologist, a career that will allow him to serve others through healthcare and make a meaningful impact in his community. Ja'Shun is the son of Latrasha Adams, whose support and encouragement have played a significant role in his academic journey. He also credits much of his success to the guidance of those who have supported him throughout his education. His favorite teacher, Ms. Hannah Watts, and his mentor, Mr. Ricardo Sacks, have played important roles in helping shape his academic path and inspiring him to pursue his dreams. Mr. Speaker, Ja'Shun Adams represents the very best of Mississippi's young leaders. His commitment to education, leadership, and service serves as an inspiration to his classmates and community. I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Ja'Shun Adams for his outstanding accomplishments and wishing him continued success in all his future endeavors.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to include in the Record the following proclamation on behalf of the National Garden Club, and their President Donna Donnelly of South Carolina, in honor of Memorial Day. I especially appreciate the significance of Garden Club as my mother, Wray Wilson, was an active member of the Garden Club of Charleston and was Garden Editor of The News and Courier.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the historic legacy and lasting impact of the Blue Moon Nite Club, a Montana staple that for generations has served as a gathering place, dance hall. and symbol of community in the Flathead Valley. Established in 1948 near Columbia Falls, Montana, the Blue Moon quickly became more than just a local dance hall. Built during a time when Northwest Montana was rapidly growing through the timber industry, railroad expansion. and hardworking families building communities across the Flathead Valley. During this time of change, the Blue Moon became a place for bringing these new neighbors together to share stories and enjoy live music. For decades, Montanans from all walks of life walked through their doors. The Blue Moon earned a reputation throughout Montana for its live music, welcoming atmosphere, and deep connection to the local community that still lives on to this day. Generations of musicians, travelers, workers, and families spent evenings dancing beneath its lights, making it one of the most recognizable establishments in the region. Beyond entertainment, the Blue Moon represented the character of small-town Montana. It reflected the values that continue to define communities across our state: hard work, resilience, hospitality, and the importance of bringing people together. Its legacy serves as a reminder that local establishments like the Blue Moon help shape the identity and history of the communities they serve. Mr. Speaker, it is important to recognize and remember small town institutions that represent an important part of our Nation's culture. The Blue Moon Nite Club stands as a lasting symbol of Montana's heritage and community spirit. Its impact on the Flathead Valley will not be forgotten.

Madam Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 8352, the Criminal History Access Act of 2026. This legislation would improve the vetting of state and local law enforcement officers, and I thank Congressman Schmidt and Congresswoman Ross for working together to craft a straightforward. bipartisan bill. The public counts on our law enforcement agencies to set a high standard for who may become a law enforcement officer. Each state uses a peace officer standards and training agency, or POST agency, to help set the standards and training requirements that a person must meet in order to be eligible to be hired and determine whether candidates actually meet those requirements. Under current law, law enforcement agencies can access the criminal history records of those who apply to be law enforcement officers, but POST agencies cannot. This means that POST agencies must rely on the hiring agency to pass along information about a person's criminal history which might disqualify them from service. This creates an opportunity for mistakes. Those who work on this issue regularly have told us that candidates with disqualifying criminal histories have been hired as law enforcement officers when they should not have. This bill would provide another check against this problem by allowing POST agencies to access criminal history records, which they can use as they assist in vetting and certifying state and local law enforcement officers. This bill is supported by several law enforcement focused organizations, including the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training, the Major County Sheriffs Association, the International Association of Chiefs of Police, and Association of State Criminal Investigative Agencies. I support this targeted bill to improve the vetting of law enforcement officers which will in turn promote trust and improve public safety.