House of Representatives
Page H3913 · Official textThe House met at noon and was called to order by the Speaker pro tempore (Mr. Issa).
Monday, June 8, 2026
Vol. 172, No. 96 · 119th Congress, 2nd session
Designation of Speaker Pro Tempore
Page H3913 · Official textThe SPEAKER pro tempore laid before the House the following communication from the Speaker:
Text printed in the Record (157 characters)
June 8, 2026.
I hereby appoint the Honorable Darrell Issa to act as Speaker pro tempore on this day.
Mike Johnson, Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Morning-Hour Debate
Page H3913 · Official textThe SPEAKER pro tempore
Pursuant to the order of the House of January 6, 2026, the Chair will now recognize Members from lists submitted by the majority and minority leaders for morning-hour debate.
The Chair will alternate recognition between the parties, with time equally allocated between the parties and each Member other than the majority and minority leaders and the minority whip limited to 5 minutes, but in no event shall debate continue beyond 1:50 p.m.
Recognizing Jenny Mearkle
Pages H3913–H3914 · Official text(Mr. Joyce of Pennsylvania was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.)
Mr. Speaker, it is with gratitude and respect that I rise to recognize Jenny Mearkle, a valued colleague and friend, who will be retiring at the end of June after more than 21 years of service to constituents throughout Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District.
Jenny's work in constituent services has been characterized by efficiency and empathy. The foundation of Jenny's success as manager of the Altoona district office is her heartfelt desire to help people. When it comes to resolving an issue for a constituent, Jenny is never confined by space or by the time that is needed.
Wherever she might be--during or outside the boundaries of a traditional workday--Jenny makes every effort to respond to constituent casework inquiries, not only because it is the professional thing to do, but because Jenny genuinely cares.
As a builder of relationships throughout the 13th Congressional District, Jenny has achieved unparalleled success while earning the admiration of her constituents.
I thank Jenny Mearkle. I thank her for her distinguished legacy of dedicated service to the constituents of Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District, and I wish her much happiness in all the years to come.
Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Sam Worley as the recipient of the Franklin County Conservation District's Lifetime Achievement Award.
Sam, who will be celebrating his 105th birthday on June 13, is a proud U.S. Army Air Corps veteran of World War II. Notably, he has lived a life in distinguished service to his community and to his country.
The award presented to Sam by the Franklin County Conservation District pays tribute to his decades of leadership and enduring impact on the conservation of natural resources in Franklin County.
Sam accepted the appointment as the director with the Franklin County Conservation District in 1992. Now, more than three decades later, Sam continues to serve the district in his role as associate director.
Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Sam on this prestigious award. He truly embodies what it means to a member of the Greatest Generation.
Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize a dedicated public servant, Cheryl Johns, who is retiring as the executive director of the Altoona Housing Authority with over 26 years of service.
Cheryl is admired and respected for her commitment to maintaining the highest standard of administrative excellence. She has been a trusted and dependable public servant. She works for families and individuals who seek affordable and reliable housing in the city of Altoona.
As a housing administrator for the last 33 years, Cheryl has created a legacy of service based on the belief that a healthy and productive society is founded on safe and stable housing.
On behalf of the constituents throughout Altoona and the entire 13th Congressional District, I personally thank Cheryl Johns for her commitment to her profession and extend best wishes for a wonderful retirement.
Celebrating 50th Anniversary of Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art
Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the 50th anniversary of the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art, known in Pennsylvania as SAMA.
Incorporated in 1975, SAMA opened its first gallery in June 1976 in Altoona. Galleries were subsequently opened in Johnstown, Ligonier, and Bedford.
Today, SAMA successfully operates the Nation's longest-running museum satellite program. The museum maintains a permanent collection of more than 7,500 works.
SAMA is a dynamic cultural leader, enriching lives through exhibitions and programs that advance the appreciation of art. The museum itself serves as a vibrant hub of education and community engagement.
As the celebration of SAMA's golden anniversary continues throughout this year, I personally express my gratitude to the museum's president, Barry Newborn; to the vice president, Ehrin Ward; the board of trustees; and the entire staff of SAMA for their commitment to sharing the absolute beauty of art.
Opposing the Ice Budget Bill
Page H3914 · Official text(Ms. Barragan of California was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.)
Mr. Speaker, families are struggling to pay for groceries, gas, rent, and healthcare.
What are Republicans doing? They are bringing a budget to the floor this week to give ICE and Border Patrol another $70 billion blank check--no guardrails, no oversight, no accountability.
Not a single dollar in this bill covers the cost of living for Americans. Not a single dollar makes life more affordable for working families. Instead, Republicans are spending billions to bankroll Donald Trump's cruelty and corruption.
At the same time, they are letting Trump keep a $1.8 billion slush fund that can be used to reward political allies and advance his own agenda. This is not fiscal responsibility. This is the betrayal of the American people.
We have already seen where these priorities lead. Republicans cut healthcare. They cut food assistance for children, for seniors, and veterans, all while protecting giveaways for the wealthy.
Now they want Americans to pay for more masked ICE agents to brutalize our communities and violently target law-abiding immigrant families.
Communities across the country are demanding accountability. Instead, Republicans are writing another blank check.
House Democrats are fighting to lower costs and make Americans lives safer, healthier, and more affordable while holding this administration accountable.
Congress should be lowering costs. We should be helping working people. We should be holding this administration accountable, and that is why House Democrats reject this reckless budget.
Text printed in the Record (62 characters)
Fighting Back Against the Dismantling of the Voting Rights Act
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to say I dissent. I strongly dissent.
I join Justices Elena Kagan, Sonia Sotomayor, and Ketanji Brown Jackson in their dissent in Louisiana v. Callais, a decision that seeks to demolish the Voting Rights Act.
As Justice Kagan stated: "the Court's decision will set back the foundational right Congress granted of racial equality in electoral opportunity."
Make no mistake, this is an attack on fair representation. Republican-led southern States have wasted no time to redraw their districts to eliminate any Democratic representation. In some extreme cases, they have canceled elections that already started. Just last week, the Supreme Court allowed Alabama to eliminate a whole majority Black district, essentially reversing its previous opinions.
Whether you are in a majority Black district or not, this impacts all of us.
Right now, they are targeting Black representation in the South, but tomorrow it could be a blue district in any State. This is about fair representation, and it is about our democracy.
Justice Sonia Sotomayor stated in her dissent, the Court "debases the democratic process" and "corrodes the rule of law by rewarding Alabama's gamesmanship and outright defiance of Court orders."
Republicans know they have to rig the maps in November to win because they cannot run on their failed policies, policies which have led to high gas prices and made life more expensive.
People shed blood and some died for the right to vote for fair representation.
We need to come together now to fight for our voting rights. Black, Latino, Asian American, White, and all communities need to unite in one mission: to protect democracy.
We must guarantee that every American has an equal voice in our democracy and an equal opportunity to elect Representatives who represent their constituents' interests.
When Democrats regain the House, we will work to pass the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act to restore voting protections to guarantee fairness and equal representation in our elections.
This is about preserving the promise of American democracy itself. I call on every American to organize, to educate your friends, neighbors, and colleagues on what is at stake and to vote.
As we head into November, House Democrats will work with the civil rights and voting rights advocates, legal experts, and grassroots organizers to defend American democracy.
When people come together to fight for justice, history shows us that justice ultimately wins, and Democrats will never stop fighting for it.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Members are reminded to refrain from engaging in personality toward the President.
Honoring the Life of Manuel "Manny" Duenas
Pages H3914–H3915 · Official text(Mr. Moylan of Guam was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.)
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Manuel, best known as Manny, Duenas, a beloved son of Guam and one of the strongest voices our island has ever had for its fishing community.
For decades, Manny was more than the president of the Guam Fishermen's Cooperative. To many, he was the face of the Hagatna Boat Basin and the heart of Guam's fishing industry.
Whether greeting fishermen before sunrise, helping them load the day's catch, or advocating at public meetings, Manny dedicated his life to protecting a way of live that has sustained our islands for generations.
He understood that fishing on Guam was about far more than commerce. It was culture. It was family. It was tradition. It was a connection between our people and the ocean that surrounds us.
Manny spent his life defending that connection. He championed local fishermen through challenging regulations, economic challenges, and environmental concerns.
He worked tirelessly to ensure that Guam's fishermen had a seat at the table and that their voices were heard whenever decisions affecting our waters were being made.
But perhaps what made Manny special was his belief in stewardship. Long before sustainability became a widely used term, he was teaching the importance of protecting our marine resources for future generations. He believed that preserving our waters and preserving our culture went hand in hand.
Those who knew Manny remember not only his determination, but also his warmth. He welcomed visitors, mentored young fishermen, shared stories, and helped countless people understand the importance of Guam's fishing heritage.
He was a teacher, an advocate, a leader, and a friend.
Today, Hagatna Boat Basin will feel a little quieter. The fishermen who worked beside him, the families who relied on him, and the community he served so faithfully will deeply feel his absence.
Yet, his legacy remains. It remains in the stronger fishing community he helped build. It remains in generations of fisherman he inspired, and it remains in the waters he worked so hard to protect for those who will follow.
On behalf of the people of Guam, I extend my deepest condolences to Manny's family, friends, and the entire Guam fishing community. I thank him for a lifetime of service, leadership, and dedication to our island.
May he rest in peace and may his legacy continue to guide future generations of Guam's fishermen.
"Thank you, Manny"; "Si Yu'os Ma'ase', Manny."
James C. Moylan (R-GU)12:15 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Master of CHamoru Dance Frank Rabon of Guam, who was recently named a 2026 National Heritage Fellow by the National Endowment for the Arts, the Nation's highest honor in folk and traditional arts.
For more than 40 years, Frank Rabon has dedicated his life to preserving and revitalizing CHamoru dance, chant, and cultural traditions across Guam and the Mariana Islands. Through his leadership, teachings, and choreography, he has helped generations of CHamorus remain connected to their language, heritage, and identity. His work has strengthened cultural preservation efforts not only on Guam but throughout the CHamoru diaspora and across the Pacific region.
This recognition is a proud moment for our island and a testament to the importance of preserving indigenous traditions for future generations. I thank Mr. Frank Rabon for his lifelong dedication to the CHamoru people, and I congratulate him on this historic honor.
Health Insurance Company Medicare Advantage Denials
Page H3915 · Official text(Mr. Murphy of North Carolina was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.)
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to continue to shed light on the egregious practices of our health insurance industry companies that continue to deny patients care and rip off the American taxpayers.
I have been practicing medicine now for 35 years and have dedicated my life to serving others, primarily those in rural and underserved areas. American medicine is sick. American medicine is unaffordable.
A few months ago, the House Ways and Means Committee hosted representatives from multiple insurance companies to deal with healthcare affordability. During that time, I exposed the unconscionable practices of these megacorporations that squeeze every penny out of patients and physicians for their own profit.
Today, I want to talk about the bad actors in Medicare Advantage, a program that seeks to prey upon the elderly and those who have health insurance issues as they get older, that rely on prior authorizations as a way to deny care.
These denials have been up in recent years, as have been, amazingly enough, insurance company profits. They have created barriers to lifesaving care for patients.
In fact, in 2024, Medicare Advantage insurers denied over 4 million prior authorization requests. Yet, when appealed, over 80 percent of those were overturned. This was only after patients and caregivers were forced to fight for the care that they deserve. Sadly, many give up, and they don't receive the care that they need and the care that they have paid for.
I am far from the only physician ringing the bell on this travesty. Recent surveys show that 93 percent of doctors say that prior authorization leads to care delays, and 82 percent say that it sometimes causes patient harm. Nearly one in three state that delays have contributed to a serious adverse safety event.
The current state of prior authorization allows insurance companies to deny care and pad their profits.
I commend the Trump administration for bringing insurance companies to the table and forcing them to improve their process. Sadly enough, I don't believe a word that these insurance companies say because they are ever increasingly putting profits above patients.
I understand that there are bad actors and those who overbill the system. I truly do. They overorder to drive up costs. The response cannot be a regime that continues delays and denies care for patients who deserve to be healthy.
Congress must be bold in its action to deliver meaningful and lasting solutions to make healthcare work for all Americans.
I am proud to have introduced the Medicare Advantage Improvement Act with my friend and colleague, Dr. John Joyce. As co-chairs of the GOP Doctors Caucus, our unique experience as physician-legislators gives us perspective on how the healthcare system delivers and finances care.
MAIA streamlines Medicare Advantage prior authorization by enabling real-time approvals for routine care, setting up clear decision guidelines and preventing repetitive reauthorization denials, denials, denials. It also strengthens network adequacy and access centers so that seniors can obtain the full spectrum of medically necessary care when they need it.
Healthcare is expensive. We are living longer because of wonderful innovations in healthcare. Yet, sadly enough, vertical integration and the middlemen are destroying the American healthcare system. We don't need to be padding the profits of middlemen, be they insurance companies, be they PBMs, or be they any individuals in the middle who are siphoning off profits away from patients and away from those who care for patients.
We need to get back to a system that is streamlined, and we need to stop paying those who deny patient care.
Still Waiting in California
Pages H3915–H3916 · Official text(Mr. Kiley of California was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.)
Mr. Speaker, we had an election in California last Tuesday. It is now the following Monday, and the State still has millions of votes to count.
How can this be? Nothing like this happens in any other State in the country or, for that matter, any other democratic country in the world. California's absurdly slow, glacial vote counting has been the subject of broad, sweeping bipartisan criticism.
The Washington Post's editorial board called it a national embarrassment. The New York Times' editorial board said that California's elections are something out of the pre-telegraph era.
How does the State justify this process of taking a month to count votes? They generally offer two excuses.
First, they say that California is a really big State. The problem with that argument is that this doesn't come as a surprise every election that we have a lot of people. Maybe you should prepare for that. There are other big States in the United States that manage to count their votes on election night, and there are other, much larger countries around the world, like India, that manage to count their votes a lot more quickly than California does.
The second excuse you get is that California is just trying to make sure that every vote is counted and that the people have every possible means of participating. Throughout my time in office, I have supported measures to make voting as accessible to folks as possible, but that has nothing to do with taking a month to count votes.
As a matter of fact, if you look at the nonpartisan Elections Performance Index, California ranks 41 out of 50. This measures things like the share of voter turnout, voter registration, transparency, and so forth. California not only has the slowest elections. It actually tends to perform worse across every metric than the rest of the country does.
Make no mistake, this is an attempt to cloak administrative incompetence under a disguise of false civic virtue. The consequences for our democracy should not be understated. When we take weeks and weeks to count votes, with the results often changing based upon what they were on election night, it fosters distrust in the entire process.
It also creates great instability, as people don't know and the representatives themselves don't know who will be their school board member, county supervisor, city councilor, State legislator, or Member of Congress.
Mr. Speaker, I have introduced, along with my colleagues from California here in the House, the Election Results Accountability Act, which says, very simply, that California needs to get its act together. California needs to count votes in a timely manner and give folks results in a timely manner and in a way that should be expected of a well-functioning democratic society.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and congratulate Sonbol Aliabadi, the longtime executive director for the Sierra College Foundation, on her retirement at the end of May 2026.
Throughout her 22-year tenure, Sonbol aided the foundation in expanding access and opportunity for Sierra College students by mobilizing more than $22 million in community support funds and awarding nearly $7 million in scholarships, as well as by delivering on many other major initiatives.
Sonbol's contributions reduced barriers, enabling more students to enroll and continue their education, and strengthened the Sierra College community.
Under Sonbol's leadership, the foundation has helped launch a variety of student support programs, such as the Veterans Success Center, the Student Assistance Fund Endowment, the Basic Needs Center, the Guardian Scholars Program, and more. Earlier this year, the program Endow-a-Bed launched under Sonbol's leadership, providing free room and board for 10 students in the school's new student housing.
The foundation has also worked to fund educational and extracurricular opportunities for students, such as the Sierra College Athletics Program and career and technical education programs. Moreover, they have helped provide services to students with intellectual and developmental disabilities and have supported programs that embrace a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship in the school.
Valued by so many, Sonbol is known for her leadership and guidance in the foundation. Her passion for supporting students on their educational journey encourages those around her to put students first, as she does. Her devoted efforts have made a lasting difference in the lives of countless Sierra College students and have contributed to the growth and success of the school.
As a former educator, I have appreciated the opportunity to work with Sonbol since my time in elected office. It is a true honor to represent such inspirational and effective community leaders like Sonbol.
Therefore, on behalf of the United States House of Representatives, I am honored to join the community in celebrating Sonbol Aliabadi's successful career and service to the Sierra College community over the past two decades, and I wish her the very best in her next chapter.
Self-Enrichment Rewarded, Oversight Blindfolded
Page H3916 · Official text(Mr. Ivey of Maryland was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.)
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to address a deeply troubling pattern of behavior that strikes at the very heart of the American justice system. It is a pattern where self-enrichment is rewarded, oversight is blindfolded, and rule of law is bent to serve the powerful.
I sit on the Appropriations Committee, and we had a chance last week to hear the testimony of the Acting Attorney General, Mr. Blanche. I asked him about what I thought was a blatant pay-for-pardon scheme, and this involves the Binance Corporation.
Let me walk through some of the facts of what happened there, as I did there with the Attorney General.
In late 2023, Binance agreed to pay a penalty of $4.36 billion. A U.S. judge approved the guilty plea and settlement for the anti-money laundering and sanctions in February 2024. In other words, the chairman of Binance and the company itself pled guilty to crimes that involved money laundering. This involved money laundering that was helping groups like ISIS and al-Qaida, enemies of the United States, and the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps.
In December 2024, Mr. Zhao and Mr. Witkoff met in Abu Dhabi at the Bitcoin MENA 2024 Conference. Mr. Witkoff is the special envoy for the Trump administration who negotiates agreements with respect to the Middle East and does this on behalf of the Trump administration. They discussed the violations of anti-money laundering laws while Mr. Zhao was serving at Binance.
In October 2025, Mr. Trump granted a full pardon to Mr. Zhao. That meant that they did not have to pay back the money that was part of the fine, and it wiped away the conviction and the related elements of that.
According to The Wall Street Journal, part of what happened between the pardon and the meeting was that there was a payment that was made. That was money that was paid, according to The Wall Street Journal, from Binance, which took steps that catapulted the Trump family venture's new stablecoin product. The Trump family venture was WLF, and it dealt with cryptocurrency. Members of Trump's family, two of his sons, and Mr. Witkoff all had vested interests in that company.
While they put the money into the WLF transaction, that enhanced the credibility and pushed up the market value of the WLF company from $127 million to over $2.1 billion.
I asked Mr. Blanche, given that he had this meeting, then the money, and then the pardon, did he think it would be important to appoint a special prosecutor to review the transaction just to make sure that there was no misconduct that took place, whether it was on behalf of the President or any of the other factors or players who were involved, and he said no.
A special prosecutor would be someone who the Attorney General could appoint in order to have a full and independent investigation done, but he refused to do that.
It is important to put this into context, too. Just in the first 3 months of this year, Mr. Trump has engaged in 3,700 stock transactions personally, and his net worth has grown from $2.3 billion to $6.5 billion since 2024. That is a $4.2 billion increase in his personal wealth since he returned to the White House.
There are other issues that we should raise. In fact, the sentences to my right were taken from a New York Times article that chronicles many of these types of issues. Nvidia stock is another one where there was a potential benefit of $5 million to WLF and the Trump family.
I am not saying that there was or was not misconduct by Mr. Trump. We don't know that yet, but it is important to make sure that somebody who is independent, objective, and knowledgeable would conduct that kind of investigation.
So far, the Trump administration has refused to do that, so I am going to be introducing legislation that I think will help to facilitate that. If you have a President who doesn't want to have his Attorney General conduct any investigations into what his administration is doing, we should have other avenues to move that forward. We have in the past, like the Independent Counsel Act. We also could beef up the inspector general law which was put in place after Watergate took place and was put in place specifically because of the Nixon administration misconduct and the failure to have anybody in the Nixon administration investigate that.
You might recall that John Mitchell was the Attorney General. He ended up going to jail because he participated in that misconduct. We need to make sure we don't find ourselves in this situation again where we have got the fox guarding the henhouse.
We will offer this legislation soon, but I think it is critical to make sure we understand a couple of things in the wake of this. We need to keep an eye on the Trump administration, and we need to remember, too, that after the testimony he gave, he was promoted to Attorney General by the President.
Recognizing Lives Lost and Survivors of 1967 Israeli Attack on U.s. Observation Ship
Pages H3916–H3918 · Official textRECOGNIZING LIVES LOST AND SURVIVORS OF 1967 ISRAELI ATTACK ON U.S. OBSERVATION SHIP (Mr. Massie of Kentucky was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.)
Mr. Speaker, it is my great honor, maybe one of the biggest honors of my lifetime, to stand here on the floor and do something that is 59 years overdue, to recognize the survivors and those who gave their lives on the USS Liberty 59 years ago today, when they were viciously attacked by IDF jets and also after that by torpedo boats.
I am going to tell you a little bit of their story. By the way, there are at least a dozen of them here today with us. I just met with them in my office, and they related this story to me.
It was a clear day. The USS Liberty was one of the most technologically sophisticated ships in the Navy, but it was virtually unarmed. It was sent to observe the Six-Day War going on in the Middle East between Israel and its neighbors.
It arrived on June 7, and the weather was clear. Planes came out to meet them, to investigate. Then on the next day, on June 8, when they started the day, the visibility was unlimited and the American flag was flying proudly on the USS Liberty. More planes came from Israel to surveil the ship. They thought they were in good shape, but what happened next surprised them all.
French Mirage jets showed up, and for 25 minutes, strafed and attacked the USS Liberty. They shot rockets. They shot 30-millimeter cannons into the hull and into the ship. They even dropped napalm on the bridge of the ship. This was an effort to kill everybody on board. There was no intention of taking prisoners.
After the 25 grueling minutes of attack on this virtually unarmed ship, when they thought things were over and they could recover, the torpedo boats showed up, three torpedo boats. They launched four torpedoes. One of them hit the hull of the USS Liberty and killed 25 people instantly. It blew a 40-by-40-foot hole in the side of this ship. They were intent on sinking it. They were intent on not having a single survivor.
According to eyewitness accounts, the Israelis machine-gunned the lifeboats that they put down. They machine-gunned the firefighters who were on the deck. They were bringing the wounded and the dead to the mess hall to triage them. They had one doctor who was trying to help them all, put a few stitches in. It was harrowing.
It was amazing that if not for that crew, that boat would have sunk that day.
But it still wasn't over. Helicopters showed up, combat helicopters. The USS Liberty, even though their signals were being jammed by the Israelis, got a signal out. There were ships that tried to respond. The USS Saratoga and the USS America sent planes. Both of them sent planes to help the USS Liberty. And something happened that has never happened before to a ship under attack: The planes were recalled. This has never happened before. They sat there for 17 hours with 34 dead and 174 wounded out of 294 crewmembers. That is over a 70 percent casualty rate, which is unheard of. The Israelis were intent on leaving no survivors.
What about our own military? Why did they not send anybody for 17 hours to help these men?
So what really happened? The official reports say that it was a case of mistaken identity. But if you listen to Dean Rusk, former Secretary of State; Richard Helms, CIA Director; Bobby Ray Inman, head of the NSA; Captain Ward Boston, who was the chief council of the court of inquiry; and if you listen to Admiral Moore, who served in Pearl Harbor, Midway, commanded both the Atlantic and Pacific fleet, and was chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, none of these distinguished men think this was an accident. They think it was intentional murder by the country of Israel, either as a false flag operation or because they simply didn't want anybody observing what they were doing that day.
Well, I have got a call to action for everybody here. Honor these individuals. Quit ignoring that they exist. Go to their website, ussliberty.org. Support them while they are still alive. They need closure. Let's give them closure. Let's have an investigation. Let's pass a resolution honoring them. It is long overdue. Then they can have their justice.
Mr. Speaker, I insert into the Record the declaration of Ward Boston declaring that the only official court of inquiry was invalid.
affidavit of captain ward boston, usn. jag (ret.), senior counsel to the u.s. navy court of inquiry
Text printed in the Record (7,855 characters)
For more than 30 years, I have remained silent on the topic of the USS Liberty. I am a military man and when orders come in from the Secretary of Defense and President of the United States, I follow them.
However, recent attempts to rewrite history compel me to share the truth.
In June of 1967, while serving as a Captain in the Judge Advocates General Department of the Navy, I was assigned as senior legal counsel for the Navy's Court of Inquiry into the brutal attack on the USS Liberty, which had occurred on June 8th.
The late Admiral Isaac C. Kidd, president of the Court, and I were given only one week to gather evidence for the Navy's official investigation into the attack, despite the fact that we both has estimated that a proper Court of Inquiry into an attack of this magnitude would take at least six months to conduct.
Admiral John S. McCain, Jr., then Commander-in-chief, Naval Forces Europe (CINCUSNAVEUR), at his headquarters in London, had charged Admiral Kidd (in a letter dated June 10, 1967) to:
"inquire into all the pertinent facts and circumstances leading to and connected with the armed attack: damage resulting therefrom; and deaths of and injuries to Naval personnel."
Despite the short amount of time we were given, we gathered a vast amount of evidence including hours of heartbreaking testimony from the young survivors.
The evidence was clear. Both Admiral Kidd and I believed with certainty that this attack which killed 34 American sailors and injured 172 others, was a deliberate effort to sink an American ship and murder its entire crew. Each evening, after hearing testimony all day, we often spoke our private thoughts concerning what we had seen and heard. I recall Admiral Kidd repeatedly referring to the Israeli Forces responsible for the attack as "murderous bastards." It was our shared belief, based on the documentary evidence and testimony we received first hand, that the Israeli attack was planned and deliberate, and could not possibly have been an accident.
I am certain that the Israeli pilots that undertook the attack, as well as their superiors who had ordered the attack, were aware that the ship was American.
I saw the flag, which had visibly identified the ship as American, riddled with bullet holes and heard testimony that made it clear that the Israelis intended there be no survivors.
Not only did the Israelis attack the ship with napalm, gunfire, and missiles, Israeli torpedo boats machine-gunned three lifeboats that had been launched in an attempt by the crew to save the most seriously wounded--a war crime.
Admiral Kidd and I both felt it necessary to travel to Israel to interview the Israelis who took part in the attack. Admiral Kidd telephoned Admiral McCain to discuss making arrangements. Admiral Kidd later told me that Admiral McCain was adamant that we were not to travel to Israel or contact the Israelis concerning this matter.
Regrettably, we did not receive into evidence, and the court did not consider any of the more than sixty witness declarations from men who had been hospitalized and were unable to testify in person.
I am outraged at the efforts of the apologists for Israel in this country to claim that this attack was a case of "mistaken identity."
In particular, the recent publication of Jay Cristol's book, The Liberty Incident, twists the facts and misrepresents the views of those of us who investigated the attack.
It is Cristol's insidiuous attempt to whitewash the facts that has pushed me to speak out.
I know from personal conversations I had with Admiral Kidd that President Lyndon Johnson and Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara ordered him to conclude that the attack was a case of "mistaken identity" despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary.
Admiral Kidd told me, after returning from Washington, D.C. that he had been ordered to sit down with two civilians from either the White House or the Defense Department, and rewrite portions of the court's findings.
Admiral Kidd also told me that he had been ordered to "put the lid" on everything having to do with the attack on the USS Liberty. We were never to speak of it and we were to caution everyone else involved that they could never speak of it again.
I have no reason to doubt the accuracy of that statement as I know that the Court of Inquiry transcript that has been released to the public is not the same one that I certified and sent off to Washington.
I know this because it was necessary, due to the exigencies of time, to hand correct and initial a substantial number of pages. I have examined the released version of the transcript and I did not see any pages that bore my hand corrections and initials. Also, the original did not have any deliberately blank pages, as the released version does. Finally, the testimony of Lt. Painter concerning the deliberate machine gunning of the life rafts by the Israeli torpedo boat crews, which I distinctly recall being given at the Court of Inquiry and included in the original transcript, is now missing and has been excised.
Following the conclusion of the Court of Inquiry, Admiral Kidd and I remained in contact. Though we never spoke of the attack in public, we did discuss it between ourselves, on occasion. Every time we discussed the attack, Admiral Kidd was adamant that it was a deliberate, planned attack on an American ship.
In 1990, I received a telephone call from Jay Cristol, who wanted to interview me concerning the functioning of the Court of Inquiry. I told him that I would not speak to him on that subject and prepared to hang up the telephone. Cristol then began asking me about my personal background and other, non-Court of Inquiry related matters. I endeavored to answer these questions and politely extricate myself from the conversation. Cristol continued to return to the subject of the Court of Inquiry, which I refused to discuss with him. Finally, I suggested that he contact Admiral Kidd and ask him about the Court of Inquiry.
Shortly after my conversation with Cristol, I received a telephone call from Admiral Kidd inquiring about Cristol and what he was up to. The Admiral spoke of Cristol in disparaging terms and even opined that "Cristol must be an Israeli agent." I don't know if he meant that literally or it was his way of expressing his disgust for Cristol's highly partisan, pro-Israeli approach to questions involving USS Liberty.
At no time did I ever hear Admiral Kidd speak of Cristol other than in highly disparaging terms. I find Cristol's claims of a "close friendship" with Admiral Kidd to be utterly incredible. I also find it impossible to
believe the statements he attributes to Admiral Kidd, concerning the attack on USS Liberty.
Several years later, I received a letter from Cristol that contained what he purported to be his notes of our prior conversation. These "notes" were grossly incorrect and bore no resemblance in reality to that discussion. I find it hard to believe that these "notes" were a product of mistake, rather than an attempt to deceive. I informed Cristol that is disagreed with his recollection of our conversation and that he was wrong. Cristol made several attempts to arrange for the two of us to meet in person and talk but I always found ways to avoid doing this. I did not wish to meet with Cristol, as we had nothing in common and I did not trust him.
Contrary to the misinformation presented by Cristol and others, it is important for the American people to know that it is clear that Israel is responsible for deliberately attacking an American ship and murdering American sailors, whose bereaved shipmates have lived with this egregious conclusion for many years.
Dated: January 8, 2004, Coronado, California.
Signed Ward Boston, Jr., Captain, JAGC USN (Ret.), Senior Counsel to the USS Liberty Court of Inquiry
Announcement by the Speaker Pro Tempore
Page H3918 · Official textThe SPEAKER pro tempore
The Chair will remind all persons in the gallery that they are here as guests of the House and that any manifestation of approval or disapproval of proceedings is in violation of the rules of the House.
Nation Losing Its Moral Compass
Page H3918 · Official text(Ms. Stansbury of New Mexico was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.)
Mr. Speaker, I rise on the floor this afternoon because I believe this Nation is losing its moral compass, led by a President who is more interested in ballrooms and bullying reporters than the rights and the dignity of our basic human rights as Americans.
This week, this body will consider a $70 billion package of funding for ICE to continue a cruel and inhuman detention system that has robbed countless Americans of their freedom and human dignity; that has fueled a massive for-profit private prison industry with billions of taxpayer dollars on the backs of the suffering of our people; that has torn families apart, incarcerated children, killed dozens in detention, violated human and civil liberties, and left millions of people in this country living in fear every day.
Now, the leadership of this body wants to approve another $70 billion on top of the more than $100 billion that they already gave them so that the Trump administration can continue to terrorize our families and communities without any checks. This is not okay. This body has lost its moral compass.
It follows after last week as this body passed appropriations bills that cut hundreds of millions of dollars in food assistance to children, not just children here in the United States but abroad. In a time when hunger is higher now in this country today than it was during COVID, they chose to cut food assistance to American children and children across the world.
Last week, in their agriculture bill, they cut food, housing, and basic infrastructure for rural communities and food to children.
Now, they want another blank check for ICE?
What next? The President is asking for $1.5 trillion for more bombs for illegal wars to continue the suffering abroad.
That is why I am here today to stand, to fight, to fight back, to reclaim the dignity of this body, the moral compass of this country.
Last week, we finally passed a War Powers Resolution to end the war in Iran. We did not succeed yet in passing a War Powers Resolution to end the war in Lebanon, but we cannot stand by and let this reckless President wage illegal wars in the Middle East and empower an out-of-control foreign leader, who even this weekend further threatened the peace of the Middle East through continued attacks. It must stop. Congress must assert not only our Constitutional authority but reclaim our moral compass.
As we stand here in this Chamber, violence continues abroad. Over the weekend, bombs and firefights shelled communities in Lebanon, Israel, and Iran. In Lebanon, more than 3,500 people have been killed, nearly 11,000 injured, and more than a million people have been displaced and lost their homes. Families have lost loved ones. Communities have been uprooted. Entire neighborhoods have been reduced to rubble. Across the region, innocent people are paying the price for decisions they did not make and conflicts they did not create.
As this violence rages on, it happens against the backdrop of a humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, ongoing human rights violations in the West Bank, human suffering that has reached unimaginable levels. Children are facing hunger, displacement, and the constant threat of violence. Families are struggling to access food, clean water, medicine, and shelter.
In the West Bank, Palestinian families continue to face violence daily. A 7-month-old baby was shot and killed by a soldier just days ago in a car. Entire villages and sacred olive trees have been destroyed. There are restrictions on movement, indignities in everyday life, and unfathomable cruelty.
These impacts are not just felt in these communities but in our districts here at home, as their families and friends watch in horror and grief.
We have a fundamental, not only constitutional, responsibility as Congress to rein in these immoral and illegal wars but to stop these crimes.
Congress cannot stand by and let this continue. These illegal wars are not only violations of our war powers, they are violations of the basic human rights of our people.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
The time of the gentlewoman has expired.
So it is time to end these illegal wars.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
The time of the gentlewoman has expired.
End the cruel and inhuman policies that are terrorizing our communities.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
The gentlewoman is no longer recognized.
Recess
Page H3918 · Official textThe SPEAKER pro tempore
Pursuant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair declares the House in recess until 2 p.m. today.
Accordingly (at 12 o'clock and 43 minutes p.m.), the House stood in recess.
After Recess
Page H3918 · Official textThe recess having expired, the House was called to order by the Speaker at 2 p.m.
Prayer
Page H3918 · Official textThe Chaplain, the Reverend Margaret Grun Kibben, offered the following prayer: Our king and our God, Your throne endures forever. You rule with a scepter of equity. You love the right and despise the wrong. Humbly, we come before You with the prayers of this body and of this Nation. You have blessed us richly, guiding the founding of this democracy with the enduring virtues of freedom and liberty, peace and justice. You have raised up leaders and citizens whose blood, sweat, and tears have watered our soil, bringing forth the fruits of Your planting. Grant, we pray, Your continued blessing upon this land that we love, that America would reflect its noble heritage and the lessons learned from both the triumphs and failings of the past. Give us each a renewed spirit of dependence on You and a deep thirst for Your direction, that we may preserve the blessings we have inherited and pass them faithfully to those who follow after us. May peace and prosperity be our hope and Your abiding and steadfast love and salvation our reward. In all generations, may Your name be celebrated, that all peoples may praise You forever and ever. Amen.
The Journal
Pages H3918–H3919 · Official textThe SPEAKER
The Chair has examined the Journal of the last day's proceedings and announces to the House the approval thereof.
Pursuant to clause 1 of rule I, the Journal stands approved.
Pledge of Allegiance
Page H3919 · Official textThe SPEAKER
Will the gentlewoman from Kansas (Ms. Davids) come forward and lead the House in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Ms. DAVIDS of Kansas led the Pledge of Allegiance as follows:
Text printed in the Record (174 characters)
I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
Kansas City Ready for Fifa World Cup
Page H3919 · Official text(Ms. DAVIDS of Kansas asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)
Mr. Speaker, later this week, the FIFA World Cup will kick off here in the United States, and I could not be more excited for Kansas City to welcome the world.
As the founder of the Congressional FIFA World Cup 2026 Caucus, I have had the opportunity to see firsthand just how much work has gone into preparing for this moment.
Today, I thank everyone who helped to make this possible. From local leaders and small businesses to first responders, transit workers, volunteers, and organizers, countless people have spent years preparing for these next 5 weeks.
The matches are going to bring excitement, visitors, and economic opportunity to the Kansas City metro area, but the impact will not end there. It is not going to end when the final whistle blows. The investments we have made in infrastructure, transportation, safety, and community development are things that are going to benefit Kansas City and our surrounding communities for generations to come.
This is a chance to showcase what makes our community so special: our hospitality, our culture, our barbecue, our love of sports, and our ability to come together and accomplish really big things.
The world is coming. Kansas City is ready. It is going to be an incredible celebration.
Communication from the Clerk of the House
Page H3919 · Official textThe SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Evans of Colorado) laid before the House the following communication from the Clerk of the House of Representatives:
Text printed in the Record (678 characters)
Washington, DC, June 5, 2026. Hon. Mike Johnson, Speaker, House of Representatives, Washington, DC.
Dear Mr. Speaker: Pursuant to the permission granted in Clause 2(h) of Rule II of the Rules of the U.S. House of Representatives, the Clerk received the following message from the Secretary of the Senate on June 5, 2026, at 9:00 a.m.:
That the Senate passed S.2.
That the Senate agreed to Relative to the death of the Honorable Donald W. Riegle, Jr. former Senator for the State of Michigan S. Res. 755.
Appointment:
Board of Trustees of the John C. Stennis Center for Public Service Training and Development.
With best wishes, I am,
Sincerely,
Kevin F. McCumber, Clerk.
Recess
Page H3919 · Official textThe SPEAKER pro tempore
Pursuant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair declares the House in recess subject to the call of the Chair.
Accordingly (at 2 o'clock and 5 minutes p.m.), the House stood in recess.
After Recess
Page H3919 · Official textThe recess having expired, the House was called to order by the Speaker pro tempore (Mr. Evans of Colorado) at 2 o'clock and 31 minutes p.m.
Announcement by the Speaker Pro Tempore
Page H3919 · Official textThe SPEAKER pro tempore
Pursuant to clause 8 of rule XX, the Chair will postpone further proceedings today on motions to suspend the rules on which a recorded vote or the yeas and nays are ordered, or votes objected to under clause 6 of rule XX.
The House will resume proceedings on postponed questions at a later time.
Pre-Payment Fraud Prevention and Treasury Data Access Act
Pages H3919–H3923 · Official textMr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 8463) to establish governmentwide requirements for pre-payment fraud prevention actions, to provide the U.S. Treasury appropriate data resources, to facilitate participation in governmentwide anti-fraud data sharing, and for other purposes, as amended.
The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows:
Text printed in the Record (10,963 characters)
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the "Pre-Payment Fraud Prevention and Treasury Data Access Act".
SEC. 2. PRE-PAYMENT FRAUD PREVENTION REQUIREMENTS FOR
AGENCIES.
(a) Establishment of Pre-payment Agency Responsibilities.--
(1) Amendment.--Chapter 33 of title 31, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section 3325 the following:
"Sec. 3325a. Agency duties for fraud and improper payment
prevention before the issuance of a payment voucher request
"(a) Mandatory Actions Before Issuing a Payment Voucher.--The head of an agency, or an officer or employee described in section 3325(a)(1(B), may not certify a voucher under section 3325 until the following requirements are met:
"(1) Each pre-certification requirement described in subsection (b) for such payment request.
"(2) Confirmation is provided that the payment complies with any disbursement requirement and instruction, including any pre-certification requirement, published by the Secretary of the Treasury.
"(3) Confirmation is provided that any other appropriate payment, account, and payee validation program or service that the Secretary of the Treasury, in consultation with the Director, requires to reduce fraud and an improper payment resulting in financial loss to the Government, including any agency evaluation of the fraud-risk indicator of a program required under section 3352 and agency procedures required under section 3554(b)(1), have been conducted, in accordance with necessary exceptions for statutory, policy, or operational reasons.
"(b) Payment Verification Pre-certification Requirements.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this section, and as needed thereafter, the Secretary of the Treasury shall, in consultation with the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, issue regulations, and guidance as necessary, for the pre-certification requirements of this section, for vouchers certified under section 3325, including any deadline for pre-certification information and related records to be submitted to the requisite Treasury official and disbursing official under subchapter IV of this chapter, before the date of disbursement in order to allow for sufficient time to meet the requirements of this section, including the following:
"(1) Funds are available at the time the obligation is incurred and if an obligation is incurred when funds are not available, then the agency may not certify the payment voucher.
"(2) The amount of the payment and the name of the payee on the payment voucher are correct, in conformance with the prescribed standard format.
"(3) A valid social security number, taxpayer identification number, employer identification number, individual taxpayer identification number, or payee ID number is provided for each payee on the voucher, if applicable.
"(4) The appropriation or fund from which the payment will be made is available for the purpose described in the voucher and indicated with the appropriate Treasury Account Symbol or Business Event Type Code.
"(5) A payee is not deceased, if the payment would be improperly made to a deceased payee.
"(6) The account number, if any, provided on the payment voucher is held at a financial institution and is open, valid, and belongs to the payee or a valid designee of the payee.
"(7) Any other identifier in conformance with the payment verification pre-certification requirements established by the Secretary of the Treasury, which may include the Procurement Instrument Identified and the Federal Award Identification Number.
"(c) Return of Payment Voucher.--The Secretary, in consultation with the Director, shall issue guidance and establish procedures to authorize the Chief Disbursing Officer of the Department of the Treasury, or an agency disbursing official, to return to the relevant agency certifying official, including a notification to the agency, any payment or payment voucher issued under section 3325 which does not comply with pre-certification
verification requirements established under this section as determined by the Secretary.
"(d) Agency Requests for Exemptions.--The Secretary of the Treasury shall include in the regulations issued under subsection (b), or in other regulations or guidance issued under this chapter, a process for agencies to request exemptions from some or all of the payment verification requirements for specific payments or categories of payments under this section, which shall include a requirement for the agency to provide a plan and reasonable timeframe to remediate the need for the exemption. Any approved exemption shall be documented in any related payment voucher certified under section 3325 for the duration of the exemption.".
(2) Technical and conforming amendment.--The table of sections for chapter 33 of title 31, United States Code, is amended by inserting after the item for section 3325 the following:
"3325a. Agency duties for fraud and improper payment prevention before the issuance of a payment voucher request.". (b) Amendment to Responsibilities of Agency Certifying Official for Payment Vouchers.--Section 3528(a) of title 31, United States Code, is amended--(1) in paragraph (2), by inserting after "of this title" the following: ", including pre-certification requirements described in section 3325a"; (2) by redesignating paragraphs (4) and (5) as paragraphs (5) and (6), respectively; and (3) by inserting after paragraph (3) the following: "(4) Ensuring that--"(A) the agency has complied with the requirements of section 3325a and subchapter IV of this title; and "(B) a covered recipient is in compliance with the reporting requirements under section 6107.". (c) Prepayment Requirements of Payment Disbursing Officials.--Section 3325 of title 31, United States Code, is amended--(1) in subsection (d) by striking "taxpayer identifying number of each person" and inserting "information required to be submitted under section 3325a(b) of each payee"; and (2) by adding at the end the following: "(e)(1) Before certifying a voucher to a disbursing official, the head of an agency or an officer or employee of an agency described in subparagraph (A) or (B) of subsection (a)(1), as applicable, shall take necessary actions to accurately disburse payments to the recipients of those payments, including by--"(A) verifying the accuracy of the bank account information to which a payment is to be disbursed, to the extent practicable; and "(B) comparing the bank account information of the proposed recipient to other payment records available to the agency, to the extent practicable. "(2) The Secretary of the Treasury shall issue guidance to carry out this subsection, which may be carried out through any guidance issued for section 3325a(b).". (d) Addition of Fraud Prevention Indicators to Agency Improper Payment Risk Assessments.--(1) Definitions amendments.--Section 3351 of title 31, United States Code is amended--(A) in paragraph (3)--(i) in the heading, by striking "initiative" and inserting "system"; (ii) by striking "Initiative" and inserting "System"; and (iii) by striking "initiative" and inserting "system"; and (B) by adding at the end the following (and by redesignating and moving the paragraphs to appear in alphabetical order): "(9) Appropriate authorizing and appropriations committees of congress.--The term `appropriate authorizing and appropriations committees of Congress' means the following: "(A) The Committees on Appropriations of the Senate and the House of Representatives. "(B) The Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of the Senate. "(C) The Committee on Oversight and Government Reform of the House of Representatives. "(D) The Budget Committee of the House of Representatives and the Committee on the Budget of the Senate. "(D) Any other relevant congressional committee of jurisdiction. "(10) Director.--The term `Director' means the Director of the Office of Management and Budget. "(11) Fraud-risk indicator.--The term `fraud-risk indicator' means an objective data point or analytic signal that indicates an anomalous payment pattern or increase in the volume of a payment amount, a verified data mismatch, network or behavioral anomaly, or match identified by the Do Not Pay system and any other payment, account, and payee validation program or service provided by the Department of the Treasury that would result in financial loss to the Government.". (2) Amendment.--Section 3352(a)(1) of title 31, United States Code, is amended--(A) in subparagraph (A), by striking "; and" and inserting a semicolon; (B) in subparagraph (B), by striking the period at the end and inserting "; and"; and (C) by adding at the end the following: "(C) design and apply fraud-risk indicators to the programs identified under paragraph (A).".
SEC. 3. TREASURY DO NOT PAY SYSTEM.
(a) Amendment.--Section 3354 of title 31, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in the heading, by striking "Initiative" and inserting "system";
(2) in subsection (a)--
(A) by amending paragraph (1) to read as follows:
"(1) In general.--The head of each executive agency shall establish and maintain appropriate preaward and prepayment procedures to prevent and recover improper payments, including payments resulting in financial loss to the Government, and to prevent financial fraud. Such procedures shall include, at a minimum--
"(A) screening all persons or entities that receive, or seek to receive, Federal awards or payments against all appropriate Do Not Pay system data assets, including data assets described in paragraph (2)(a), and risk tools before an award is made or a payment request is submitted to the disbursing officer in accordance with section 3325a; and
"(B) a periodic review of available data assets and notification to the Secretary of any data asset that the agency requires access to, either directly or through the Do Not Pay system.";
(B) in paragraph (2), by striking "At a minimum and before issuing any payment or award, each executive agency shall review as appropriate the following databases to verify eligibility of the payment and award:" and inserting the following: "Consistent with the routine use authority under section 552a of title 5, and subject to the requirements of paragraphs (3) and (6), the Secretary shall have access to the following data assets for the purposes described in paragraph (1):"; and
(C) by adding at the end the following:
"(3) Publication of data assets; additional data assets.--
"(A) Publication of data assets.--The Secretary shall publish and maintain a System of Records Notice for the Do Not Pay system that identifies each data asset, the routine uses under which the data asset is disclosed from that system of record, the specific permitted purposes, and the access controls applicable to each data asset.
Text printed in the Record (9,657 characters)
A data asset may not be disclosed from the Do Not Pay system before publication of the applicable routine uses in the relevant System of Records Notice.
"(B) Designation.--The Secretary, in consultation with the Director, may designate additional categories of data assets for inclusion in the Do Not Pay system that substantially assist agencies in carrying out the requirements of paragraph (1).
"(C) Privacy and notice.--In designating data assets that include personally identifiable information, law enforcement sensitive information, or information subject to section 552a of title 5, the Secretary shall--
"(i) act in coordination with the Director of the Office of Management and Budget; and
"(ii) provide public notice and an opportunity for comment for not less than 15 days prior to designation.
"(D) Database inclusion.--Following designation of a category of data assets under subparagraph (B), the Secretary shall provide public notice and an opportunity for comment for not less than 30 days before adding any specific data asset within such category.
"(E) Non-sensitive data.--Data assets that do not include personally identifiable information, law enforcement sensitive information, or information subject to section 552a of title 5 may be added at the discretion of the Secretary without designation if a list of such data assets is disclosed to the public on a public website maintained by the Department of the Treasury.
"(4) Treatment of data matching for purposes of agency use of do not pay system.--For purposes of section 552a of title 5, or any other provision of law, a computerized comparison of two or more automated Federal systems of records, or a computerized comparison of a Federal system of records with other records or non-Federal records, carried out by the Secretary to verify payments or identify or recover improper payments under this section shall not be considered a matching program if such match-based inquiry is conducted in strict adherence to the limitations of use under paragraph (5), returns a binary verification response, resulting data is not retained by the agency for more than 30 days in order to address the immediate award eligibility or payment verification determination, and contains not more than 20 discrete record requests at a time for a particular agency program.
"(5) Limitation on use.--
"(A) In general.--Information obtained through the Do Not Pay system may be used solely for the purposes described in paragraph (1), or for Federal or State law enforcement or investigative purposes and any officer, employee, contractor, subcontractor, or agent of a Federal or State entity may not publish, examine for a purpose not explicitly authorized under this section, or communicate such information furnished in such data assets other than in fulfillment of the purposes of this section.
"(B) Implementation of system.--The Do Not Pay system shall be implemented in a manner to strictly provide match-based queries that return only limited responses derived from the data submitted by any individual described in subparagraph (A) with the minimum data exchanged and retained in order to conduct the verification match and any associated responsibility under section 552a(p) of title 5, if--
"(i) such responses to match-based queries are limited to a confirmation or denial of a match, the level of confidence in a match, the data sources that informed the match, and other administrative metadata or the minimum additional data elements necessary to achieve the purposes described in paragraph (1); and
"(ii) any individual described in subparagraph (A) is prohibited from retrieving, browsing, making repeated and tailored match-based inquiries with the intention of reconstituting the underlying record in another system, or otherwise accessing any underlying record maintained in the Do Not Pay system under subsection (a)(2) beyond the information necessary to resolve a match-based query solely for the purposes described in paragraph (1).
"(C) Individuals accessing information.--Any individual described in subparagraph (A)--
"(i) may not take an adverse action against any individual based solely upon the information obtained under such subparagraph;
"(ii) shall take additional independent steps to verify the eligibility of a benefit recipient before taking any adverse action, when necessary or appropriate or when required by applicable law; and
"(iii) shall make an independent judgment regarding the decision to certify a payment for disbursement or pursue recovery of a potentially improper payment.
"(6) Confidentiality maintenance.--The Secretary shall maintain, with respect to each data asset obtained through the Do Not Pay system, the same level of confidentiality required by the law governing the source of that data asset. Information obtained from a data asset may only be used for purposes for which the source statute authorizes disclosure, and access to such information shall be limited to persons and entities for whom the source statute authorizes access. The Secretary shall document, in the System of Records Notice required under paragraph (2), the specific confidentiality obligations applicable to each data asset and the means by which Treasury ensures compliance.
"(7) Penalty for unlawful disclosure.--Any individual described in paragraph (5)(A) who knowingly and willfully discloses information in violation of paragraph (5) shall be fined not more than $250,000, imprisoned not more than 5 years, or both.
"(8) Exception when payment otherwise required under law.--The head of an executive agency may be exempt from the requirements of paragraph (1) if a Federal statute expressly requires that a payment or award be made notwithstanding potential ineligibility, and the agency head notifies the Secretary of the Treasury and the Director of the Office of Management and Budget prior to certification of the payment under section 3325.
"(9) Definition.--In this section, the term `data asset' has the meaning given that term in section 3502(17) of title 44.";
(3) by striking subsections (b) through (c) and inserting the following:
"(b) Establishment of System.--The Secretary of the Treasury shall establish and maintain a Do Not Pay system, which shall be administered and operated by the Fiscal Service of the Department of the Treasury. The Do Not Pay system shall include--
"(1) the data assets described in subsection (a)(2); and
"(2) such other data assets as the Secretary of the Treasury may designate, in consultation with the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, to assist agencies in carrying out subsection (a)(1).
"(c) State and Other Governmental Use.--
"(1) In general.--Each State and local government administering a federally funded program, and any contractor, subcontractor, or agent thereof, including State and local government auditors, shall have access to the Do Not Pay system to review preaward and prepayment data in order to prevent and recover improper payments, including payments resulting in financial loss to the Government, and to prevent financial fraud if procedures are established regarding--
"(A) the screening of persons or entities that receive, or seek to receive Federal awards or payments against appropriate Do Not Pay system data assets, including data assets described in subsection (a)(2), and risk tools before an award is made or a payment request is submitted to the disbursing officer; and
"(B) periodic review of available data assets and notification to the Secretary of any data asset that the agency requires access to, either directly or through the Do Not Pay system.
"(2) Other governmental use.--The judicial and legislative branches of the United States (as defined in section 202(e) of title 18) shall have access to the Do Not Pay system strictly for purposes of verifying eligibility for payments and preventing fraud and improper payments as authorized under subsection (a)(1).
"(3) Privacy requirements.--The Director, in coordination with the Secretary, shall issue regulations implementing this section, including establishing privacy and other requirements applicable to such access and disclosure, consistent with section 552a of title 5.
"(d) Quarterly Report.--The Secretary, in consultation with the Director, shall submit to the appropriate authorizing and appropriations committees of Congress quarterly reports on the governmentwide operation of the Do Not Pay system, which may be included as part of another report submitted to Congress by the Secretary, and which shall include the following:
"(1) Performance measures for monitoring the effectiveness of the system in reducing improper payments.
"(2) Information on the frequency of corrections and identification of erroneous data.
"(3) Recommendations for legislative or administrative action to enhance the operations of the system.
"(4) An assessment of agency, State, and local compliance with the requirements of this section, including a listing of all memorandums established with the head of an agency under subsection (a)(4) that documents agency use of the Do Not Pay system.
"(e) Evaluation.--Not less than annually, the Evaluation Officer of the agency, as designated under section 313 of title 5, shall provide the appropriate authorization and appropriations committees of Congress an evaluation of the Do Not Pay system, including the best available estimate of the effectiveness of the system in reducing fraud and improper payments that lead to financial loss of the Government in agency programs on a monthly and regional basis for such program.
Text printed in the Record (8,483 characters)
The evaluation shall include an analysis of which data sources maintained by the Do Not Pay system are attributed to identifying or reducing instances of likely fraudulent or improper payments by count and total dollar savings value to the Government.
"(f) Continuity and Transition.--
"(1) Continuation of previous system if necessary.--The Do Not Pay initiative in effect on the day before the date of the enactment of this section shall continue as necessary to support implementation of the Do Not Pay system.
"(2) Guidance, rules, and procedures.--Guidance, rules, and procedures in effect before the date of the enactment of this section shall remain in effect until modified by the Secretary or the Director of the Office of Management and Budget.
"(3) Rules of construction.--Nothing in this subsection may be construed--
"(A) except as specifically provided in subsection (a)(4), to modify or supersede the requirements of section 552a of title 5, including the requirements for notice in section 552a(e)(12) and for due process rights of an individual under section 552a(p); or
"(B) to limit any authority of an Inspector General under applicable law.";
(4) in subsection (d)--
(A) in paragraph (1)(C)--
(i) in clause (i), by striking "3 years" and inserting "5 years"; and
(ii) in clause (ii), by striking "3 years" and inserting "5 years";
(B) by redesignating paragraphs (2) through (4) as paragraphs (3) through (5), respectively; and
(C) by inserting after paragraph (1) the following:
"(2) Voluntary expedited process for computer matching by executive agencies for purposes of using the do not pay system.--
"(A) In general.--In accordance with section 552a of title 5 (commonly known as the `Privacy Act of 1974'), the head of each executive agency may enter into an expedited process for establishing a computer matching agreement with the head of another executive agency for the purposes of ongoing and automated data matching with the Do Not Pay system for purposes under this section in order to assist in the detection and prevention of fraudulent and improper payments.
"(B) Requirement for use of computer matching agreement template.--Not later than 180 days after the effective date of this section, the Director, in coordination with the Secretary of the Treasury, shall establish a standard computer matching agreement template for the Do Not Pay system which shall authorize an agency that adopts the standard template to be deemed to have satisfied the requirements of section 552a(o) of title 5 upon execution of the agreement without the need for review by a Data Integrity Board established under section 552a(u) of title 5.
"(C) Requirement for federal record notices and publication.--The standard computer matching agreement template described under paragraph (B), and any future modification to the template, shall be published in the Federal Register by the Secretary of the Treasury 30-days prior to putting any such template or modification of such template into effect. On a quarterly basis the Secretary of the Treasury shall publish in the Federal Register a consolidated listing of each computer matching agreement using the standardized template under paragraph (B) and maintain on a publicly available website all active computer matching agreements using such template or the process under paragraph (1) that shall include the agency name, data assets covered, authorized purposes, and date of the agreement. The consolidated quarterly listing under this subparagraph shall satisfy the matching program notice requirements of section 552a(e)(12) of title 5 for each computer matching agreement using the standardized template under paragraph (B), and no separate Federal Register publication under section 552a(e)(12) shall be required of any agency participating in such an agreement.
"(D) Termination date.--An agreement under this paragraph--
"(i) shall have a termination date of less than 5 years; and
"(ii) during the 3-month period ending on the date on which the agreement is scheduled to terminate, may be renewed by each executive agency that entered into the agreement for not more than 5 years if the head of the agency attests to the Secretary of the Treasury and the Director of the Office of Management and Budget that the agreement is not being modified.
"(E) Requirement for omb guidance.--Not later than 180 days after the effective date of this section, the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, in consultation with the Secretary of the Treasury, shall issue guidance, including the computer matching agreement template, to implement this paragraph.
"(F) Multiple agencies.--For purposes of this paragraph, section 552a(o)(1) of title 5 shall be applied by substituting `between the source agency and the recipient agency or non-Federal agency or an agreement governing multiple agencies' for `between the source agency and the recipient agency or non-Federal agency' in the matter preceding subparagraph (A)."; and
(5) by striking subsection (e).
(b) Technical and Conforming Amendment.--The item relating to section 3354 in the table of sections for chapter 33 of title 31, United States Code, is amended, by striking "Initiative" and inserting "system".
SEC. 4. SINGLE REPORT ON FIRST TIME USE OF FUNDS BY
RECIPIENT.
(a) Establishment of Post-award Single Report Requirement on First-time Use of Funds by Recipient of Federal Award.--Chapter 61 of title 31, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
"Sec. 6107. Single report on first time use of funds by
recipient
"(a) Federal Award Reporting Requirement.--The head of each agency that administers a covered award shall require each covered recipient to, as a condition of receiving amounts under such award, submit to the head of the agency, not later than 180 days after the receipt of such award unless a deadline exception may be applied pursuant to pursuant to regulations promulgated under subsection (b), a one-time report on the use of such amounts that--
"(1) includes any content required to be included in such report pursuant to subsection (b); and
"(2) is in the format required under such subsection.
"(b) Governmentwide Report Regulations and Guidance.--
"(1) Contents and format of report.--
"(A) Promulgation.--Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this section, the Director, in coordination with the Secretary of the Treasury and the standard-setting agency designated under section 6402(a)(1), shall promulgate regulations, and any clarifying guidance as may be necessary, to establish governmentwide requirements for the content and format of the report described under subsection (a).
"(B) Updates.--Any guidance or regulation promulgated under subparagraph (A) shall be updated as necessary, but in any case, shall be updated not less often than once every 5 years.
"(2) Report minimum requirements.--The regulations and any clarifying guidance promulgated under paragraph (1), shall at a minimum--
"(A) enable the head of an awarding agency to determine whether amounts provided under a covered award are being used by the recipient required to submit the report, and any sub-recipient or sub-grantee thereof, for the intended purpose of the program, as set forth in statute, regulation, or policies and procedures of the agency;
"(B) enable fraud prevention, detection, investigation, and mitigation, in future awards of Federal funds to the recipient required to submit the report by identifying relevant fraud-risk indicators that would require a referral for investigation and criminal referral to the appropriate entity of the Federal Government, including any identified effort by a recipient to defraud the Federal Government or violate sections 3729 through 3731 of title 31 (commonly referred to as the `False Claims Act');
"(C) ensure that any sub-recipient or sub-grantee, at any level, of the recipient required to submit the report provide to such recipient such information as may be necessary to enable aggregate reporting on the covered award by the recipient;
"(D) require the heads of agencies to apply the governmentwide data standards established under chapter 64 with respect to the format and content of the report required to be submitted;
"(E) align with the Federal award reporting requirements and data standards under the Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act of 2006 (Public Law 109-282; 31 U.S.C.
Text printed in the Record (5,399 characters)
6101 note), to the maximum extent practicable;
"(F) reduce recipient and agency reporting burdens by avoiding duplication in recipient reporting obligations, to the extent practicable; and
"(G) provide clarification for agencies to apply a reporting deadline exception under subsection (a)(1), which may be made for an entire program or type of covered award, beyond 180 days when the use of the covered funds by the covered recipient takes place more than 180 days after a receipt of such covered award.
"(c) Agency Requirements.--In accordance with the regulations and any clarifying guidance promulgated under subsection (b), the head of an agency that administers a covered award shall--
"(1) update the terms and conditions of Federal awards in the agency programs to implement subsection (a) for covered recipients;
"(2) include a summary of the post-award reporting requirements established under subsection (a), including the required content and reporting format, in the Notice of Funding Opportunity (which has the meaning given the term in section 200.1 of title 2, Code of Federal Regulations) for Federal financial assistance (as defined under section 7501 of this title) in order to assist applicants for such assistance in understanding post-award reporting obligations;
"(3) to the maximum extent practicable--
"(A) provide user-friendly and plain language directives for covered recipients to fulfill their reporting obligation under subsection (a); and
"(B) use existing post-award reporting requirements to reduce the burden of cumulative post-award reporting; and
"(4) establish procedures within the agency to identify covered recipients that are not in compliance with the reporting requirement under subsection (a).
"(d) Noncompliance.--For a case in which a covered recipient does not submit the report required by subsection (a), the awarding agency shall--
"(1) provide a timely written notice of noncompliance to the recipient that--
"(A) clearly states the reason for noncompliance;
"(B) notifies the recipient of the obligation of the agency to cease further disbursements to the entity until the covered recipient is in compliance; and
"(C) provides clear instructions to the covered recipient on how to come back into compliance; and
"(2) prevent a payment voucher from being issued under section 3325 for a payment to such recipient for funds related to the particular program for which the report was required, until such report is submitted.
"(e) Availability of Report.--Each report submitted under subsection (a) shall be--
"(1) kept on file by the agency for a period of not less than 5 years after the date on the conclusion of the duration of the award; and
"(2) made available upon request to--
"(A) the Director;
"(B) the Secretary of the Treasury;
"(C) the Attorney General;
"(D) the Inspector General of the agency concerned; and
"(E) the appropriate congressional committees.
"(f) Use of Information Included in Report.--Information included in the report required by subsection (a) shall be used by the agency in support of improper payment activities of the agency under section 3352 as appropriate and applicable.
"(g) Definitions.--In this section:
"(1) Appropriate congressional committees.--The term `appropriate congressional committees' means--
"(A) the Committees on Appropriations of the Senate and the House of Representatives;
"(B) the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of the Senate;
"(C) the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform of the House of Representatives; and
"(D) any other relevant congressional committee of jurisdiction.
"(2) Covered award.--The term `covered award' means a Federal award (as defined under section 7501) in an amount not less than $50,000 (based on fiscal year 2027 constant dollars).
"(3) Covered recipient.--The term `covered recipient' means any entity, including any State, the District of Columbia, and any territory or possession of the United States, including a pass-through entity (as defined under section 7501), that receives the covered award from a particular agency program for the first time in that program's existence.
"(4) Fraud-risk indicator.--The term `fraud-risk indicator' means an objective data point or analytic signal that indicates an anomalous payment pattern or increase in the volume of a payment amount, a verified data mismatch, network or behavioral anomaly, or match identified by the Do Not Pay system and any other payment, account, and payee validation program or service provided by the Department of the Treasury that would result in financial loss to the government.".
(b) Technical and Conforming Amendment.--The table of sections for chapter 61 of title 31, United States Code, is amended, by adding at the end the following:
"6107. Single report on first time use of funds by recipient.". (c) Clarification of Application of First Reporting Deadline.--The report required under subsection (a) of section 6107 of title 31, United States Code, as added by subsection (a), shall apply to a covered award made during the fiscal year following the promulgation of regulations or guidance by the Director under subsection (b)(1)(A) of such section.
SEC. 5. EFFECTIVE DATE.
This Act and the amendments made by this Act shall take effect on the date that is 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Gill) and the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Subramanyam) each will control 20 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Texas.
Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on this measure.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Is there objection to the request of the gentleman from Texas?
There was no objection.
Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from Kentucky (Mr. Comer) such time as he may consume.
Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 8463, the Pre-Payment Fraud Prevention and Treasury Data Access Act.
Every year, the Federal Government loses hundreds of billions of dollars to fraud and improper payments.
The Government Accountability Office estimates that the Federal Government has lost over $2.8 trillion since 2003 to payments that should never have been made or were made incorrectly.
Annual improper payments ballooned to nearly $236 billion in fiscal year 2023, more than six times the amount in 2003.
The Government Accountability Office also estimates that the Federal Government loses between $233 billion and $521 billion annually to fraud across government programs.
Fraud at these levels costs each tax filer, on average, between $1,000 and $3,000 per year. These losses should alarm each one of us and call us to action. The American taxpayer is covering the bill for fraud while criminals get rich.
This bill takes meaningful steps to mitigate this problem by meaningfully curbing fraudulent payments and improper payments before funds go out the door and are lost forever.
The Pre-Payment Fraud Prevention and Treasury Data Access Act enhances and expands government financial integrity controls by requiring anti-fraud risk evaluations to identify suspicious payments before agencies request a payment be issued by the U.S. Treasury.
These reforms are centered around increasing the use and effectiveness of the Treasury's existing Do Not Pay system. It is currently only utilized by a mere 4 percent of eligible programs across the government.
This bill will address the procedural hurdles agencies face in using the system and bring agencies into compliance with their required anti-fraud checks.
The bill also lowers barriers for the Treasury to bring additional nonsensitive datasets into the Do Not Pay system.
This legislation was drafted in coordination with privacy stakeholders to ensure appropriate data protection safeguards for personal and sensitive information.
The reforms in this legislation are commonsense and long overdue.
I thank House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Ranking Member Garcia and his staff for working together with us to ensure such crucial legislation could advance on a bipartisan basis.
Mr. Speaker, I think we have a strong bill that will truly make a meaningful difference for the financial and program integrity of the U.S. Government. I encourage my colleagues to support this bipartisan reform bill.
Mr. Speaker, I also rise in support of H.R. 8463, the Pre-Payment Fraud Prevention and Treasury Data Access Act.
This bill will help prevent improper payments by requiring that agencies verify with the U.S. Treasury that payments are going to the right place before they are made. Agencies would be required to use the Treasury's Do Not Pay system to confirm that recipients, one, have a valid Social Security number; two, are not deceased; and, three, have a valid bank account.
The bill would also impose heavy fines for any misuse of the Do Not Pay system.
This is a commonsense change, and I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this bill.
Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 8463, the Pre-Payment Fraud Prevention and Treasury Data Access Act. I have no further speakers. I am prepared to close, and I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, I am prepared to close, as well.
Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bill, H.R. 8463. I congratulate the chair and ranking member on their bipartisan work, and I yield back the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, I encourage my colleagues to support H.R. 8463, the Pre-Payment Fraud Prevention and Treasury Data Access Act.
As Chairman Comer, the bill's sponsor, explained, this legislation enhances and expands the government's financial integrity controls by codifying agency pre-payment anti-fraud risk evaluations.
This will help identify suspicious payments before they are sent out the door, stopping fraudulent or improper payments before they happen.
In fiscal year 2025, the U.S. Treasury Department reported that they have helped agencies and States prevent and recover over $11 billion in fraudulent and improper payments. They have done this by using existing tools such as the Do Not Pay system.
However, as the chairman explained, these systems are being drastically underutilized by Federal agencies and are in need of certain reforms. We can only imagine the additional savings that H.R. 8463's reforms will help achieve by increasing the pre-payment fraud prevention activities of Federal agencies and increasing the utilization of the Do Not Pay system.
I encourage my colleagues to support the bipartisan H.R. 8463 so we can protect taxpayers, ensure proper program integrity, and prevent fraud before it happens.
Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
The question is on the motion offered by the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Gill) that the House suspend the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 8463, as amended.
The question was taken; and (two-thirds being in the affirmative) the rules were suspended and the bill, as amended, was passed. A motion to reconsider was laid on the table.
Federal Program Integrity and Fraud Prevention Act of 2026
Pages H3923–H3925 · Official textMr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 6916) to amend title 41, United States Code, to identify individuals who commit certain Federal felonies implicating Federal programs as an excluded source on the System for Award Management Exclusions list, and for other purposes, as amended.
The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows:
Text printed in the Record (6,149 characters)
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the "Federal Program Integrity and Fraud Prevention Act of 2026".
SEC. 2. PROHIBITING FEDERAL FUNDS FROM BEING PROVIDED TO
INDIVIDUALS CONVICTED OF CERTAIN FEDERAL
FELONIES.
(a) Prohibition.--Subchapter II of chapter 33 of title 31, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
"Sec. 3337. Prohibiting Federal Funds from being provided to
individuals convicted of certain Federal felonies.
"(a) Prohibition.--
"(1) In general.--The head of an agency may not enter into, renew, or extend a Federal contract, or provide a grant or other Federal financial assistance to, an individual convicted of a covered felony arising out of any Federal contract, grant, cooperative agreement, loan, or other financial assistance, or to an entity of which such individual is a beneficial owner, during the three year period following the date of the conviction.
"(2) Application.--The prohibition under paragraph (1) shall apply with respect to an individual convicted after the date of the enactment of this section.
"(b) Waiver.--
"(1) Authority.--The head of an agency may waive on a case-by-case basis the prohibition under subsection (a) with respect to an individual or entity described under such
subsection if the head of the agency determines such waiver
is justifiable.
"(2) Written congressional notification of waiver.--
Immediately after making a determination to issue a waiver
under paragraph (1), the head of an agency shall provide to
Congress a written notification of such determination that
includes the justification for the waiver.
"(c) Notice Requirements.--For each individual convicted
of a covered felony arising out of any Federal contract,
grant, cooperative agreement, loan, or other financial
assistance--
"(1) the Attorney General shall notify the Administrator
of General Services in a timely manner of such conviction;
and
"(2) the Administrator shall promptly update the System
for Award Management Exclusions list described in part 9 of
title 48, Code of Federal Regulations, and part 180 of title
2 of such Code, or any successor regulation, to include such
individual.
"(d) Guidance.--Not later than 1 year after the date of
the enactment of this Act, the Director of the Office of
Management and Budget shall issue guidance for the
implementation of, and compliance with, the requirements of
this section.
"(e) Federal Acquisition Regulation.--The Federal
Acquisition Regulation shall be revised as necessary to
implement the provisions of this section.
"(f) Rules of Construction.--
"(1) Federal interests.--Nothing in this section may be
construed to prohibit an agency from seeking or taking any
other available criminal, civil, or administrative action to
protect Federal Government interests, including the proposal
or implementation of suspension or debarment actions pursuant
to subpart 9.4 of title 48, Code of Federal Regulations, and
part 180 of title 2 of such Code.
"(2) Exclusion.--Nothing in subsection (b) may be
construed to affect any other statutory or regulatory waiver
authority related to an exclusion.
"(g) Definitions.--In this section:
"(1) Agency.--The term `agency' means--
"(A) an Executive department (as defined under section 101
of title 5);
"(B) a military department (as defined under section 102
of title 5);
"(C) a Government corporation (as defined under section
103 of title 5); and
"(D) an independent establishment (as defined under
section 104(1) of title 5).
"(2) Beneficial owner.--The term `beneficial owner'--
"(A) means, with respect to an entity, an individual who,
directly or indirectly, through any contract, arrangement,
understanding, relationship, or otherwise--
"(i) exercises substantial control over the entity; or
"(ii) owns or controls not less than 25 percent of the
ownership interests of the entity; and
"(B) does not include--
"(i) a minor child, as defined in the jurisdiction in
which the entity is formed, if the information of the parent
or guardian of the minor child is reported in accordance with
this section;
"(ii) an individual acting as a nominee, intermediary,
custodian, or agent on behalf of another individual;
"(iii) an individual acting solely as an employee of a
corporation, limited liability company, or other similar
entity and whose control over or economic benefits from such
entity is derived solely from the employment status of the
person;
"(iv) an individual whose only interest in a corporation,
limited liability company, or other similar entity is through
a right of inheritance; or
"(v) a creditor of a corporation, limited liability
company, or other similar entity, unless the creditor meets
the requirements of subparagraph (A).
"(3) Convicted.--The term `convicted' means any of the
following:
"(A) A judgment of conviction has been entered against the
individual by a Federal court, except for any individual
whose conviction has been reversed or vacated.
"(B) A plea of guilty or nolo contendere by the individual
has been accepted by a Federal court, except for any case in
which the conviction entered as result of such plea has been
reversed or vacated.
"(C) The individual has entered into a first offender,
deferred adjudication, deferred prosecution, or other
arrangement or program in which the individual admitted guilt
or responsibility to the underlying offense.
"(4) Covered felony.--The term `covered felony' means a
felony described under section 286, 287, 371, 508, 641, 666,
1001, 1002, 1014, 1017, 1028, 1028A, 1030, 1031, 1040(a)(2),
1341, 1342, 1343, 1344, 1345, 1349, 1956, or 1957 of title 18
or section 16 of the Small Business Act (15 U.S.C. 645).".
(b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for
subchapter II of chapter 33 of title 31, United States Code,
is amended by adding at the end the following: "3337. Prohibiting Federal funds from being provided to individuals
convicted of certain Federal felonies.".
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Gill) and the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Subramanyam) each will control 20 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Texas.
Brandon Gill (R-TX)2:40 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on this measure.
The SPEAKER pro tempore2:40 p.m.
Is there objection to the request of the gentleman from Texas?
There was no objection.
Brandon Gill (R-TX)2:40 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 6916, the Federal Program Integrity and Fraud Prevention Act.
The Federal Government pays a substantial amount of money to contractors for services to help agencies fulfill their missions. It is a privilege, not a right, to receive a contract, grant, loan, or other form of Federal financial assistance.
Unfortunately, there are individuals who take advantage of these resources and use it as an opportunity to defraud the government.
This bill closes a glaring loophole by prohibiting individuals that are convicted of certain felonies, primarily defrauding the Federal Government, from receiving Federal awards.
Under H.R. 6916, fraudsters will no longer be able to get rich from taxpayers' hard-earned dollars. This bill requires these individuals to be listed on the General Services Administration's System for Award Management Exclusion list, thus ensuring that Federal agencies know who these individuals are to ensure they, or any entity of which they have a controlling interest, are not awarded a contract or grant.
Mr. Speaker, I thank the bill's sponsors, Congressman Keith Self and Congresswoman Emily Randall, a colleague on the House Oversight Committee, for bringing this commonsense bill to the Committee.
Mr. Speaker, I encourage my colleagues to support this necessary and bipartisan bill, and I reserve the balance of my time.
Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA)2:40 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today also in support of H.R. 6916, the Federal Program Integrity and Fraud Prevention Act.
This bill would automatically ban individuals and companies convicted of defrauding the government from receiving Federal contracts, grants, and other Federal financial assistance for 3 years.
Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 minutes to the gentlewoman from Washington (Ms. Randall)
Emily Randall (D-WA)2:40 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the Federal Program Integrity and Fraud Prevention Act, bipartisan legislation that I am proud to lead with Representative Self.
This bill is rooted in a pretty basic idea: If someone is convicted of defrauding a Federal program, they should not be able to turn around and keep doing business with the Federal Government. This isn't about politics. It is about protecting taxpayer dollars and making sure that the Federal Government is worthy of the trust that the people place in it.
In every community we represent, people work hard, pay their taxes, and expect government programs to be run with honesty and accountability.
Each year, the Federal Government awards more than $700 billion in contracts to various agencies. Taxpayers expect those dollars to support families, to strengthen communities, and to deliver the services Congress intended, not go back to people who have already been convicted of abusing public funds.
This issue was brought to us by the inspectors general, the public servants who spend every day rooting out waste, fraud, and abuse across the Federal Government. They identified a real gap in the current system.
Too often, individuals convicted of fraud involving Federal programs remain eligible to apply for and receive Federal contracts. Under current law, agencies can suspend or debar these individuals, but the process can be slow, staff intensive, and inconsistent.
We have been told that preparing one single suspension or debarment package can take up to 20 hours.
For agencies already operating with limited staff and growing backlogs, that means people who should be barred from Federal contracts can slip through the cracks. That is exactly the kind of problem Congress should be working together to fix.
According to a study by the inspectors general, of 550 felony fraud convictions involving pandemic-related Federal program funds over a 3-year period, more than 95 percent of those convicted were not suspended or debarred from doing business with the government. That is unacceptable.
Our bill creates a clear, commonsense standard: Individuals convicted of fraud involving Federal programs would be automatically ineligible for Federal contracts for at least 3 years. That means stronger accountability, more consistent enforcement, and more time for the inspectors general to focus on other cases of waste, fraud, and abuse.
The American people are owed more accountability and transparency into what taxpayer-funded contracts are being approved.
The Federal Program Integrity and Fraud Prevention Act is a targeted, bipartisan solution to a documented problem. It protects taxpayers. It supports the work of the inspectors general, and it helps make sure Federal dollars go where they are supposed to go. I am grateful to the inspectors general who raised this issue and helped us develop this legislation, and I thank Representative Self for his partnership.
Mr. Speaker, I urge all my colleagues to support the Federal Program Integrity and Fraud Prevention Act.
Brandon Gill (R-TX)2:40 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 minutes to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Self).
Keith Self (R-TX)2:40 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I rise in favor of H.R. 6916, the Federal Program Integrity and Fraud Prevention Act of 2025.
The American people expect their hard-earned tax dollars to be used responsibly. They should never have to worry that individuals convicted of defrauding the Federal Government can turn around and receive additional Federal contracts, grants, or loans.
Unfortunately, we have seen too many examples of individuals exploiting Federal programs for personal gain. One repeat fraudster submitted at least 22 fraudulent pandemic loan applications and additional fraudulent unemployment benefit applications, resulting in more than $250,000 in taxpayer losses. That is only one case.
It is common sense to expect that someone convicted of defrauding the government should not return and apply for more money. This bill closes that loophole.
H.R. 6916 requires individuals convicted of specific Federal fraud offenses involving Federal programs to be placed on the System for Award Management Exclusion list for 3 years. In simple terms: If someone is convicted of stealing from, lying to, or defrauding the Federal Government, they will not be eligible to receive more Federal dollars.
This bill does not create new crimes. It does not expand Federal spending. It simply ensures that individuals convicted of serious fraud involving Federal programs are temporarily barred from receiving additional taxpayer funds.
At a time when Americans are demanding greater accountability from their government, Congress should send a clear message: Taxpayer dollars are not an entitlement in the face of fraud.
Mr. Speaker, I thank the Office of Inspector General and the professionals who worked with my team throughout the development of this legislation. Their work investigating fraud and protecting taxpayer dollars is indispensable.
Mr. Speaker, I also thank Representative Randall for her partnership with this legislation, and I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 6916.
Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA)2:40 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, as the sponsors of the bill mentioned, we have a responsibility to ensure that Federal funds are spent wisely and go to Americans who truly need them. I think it is pretty clear that if you commit fraud to steal from the Federal Government, you should not be rewarded with a Federal contract or grant.
Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bill, and I yield back the balance of my time.
Brandon Gill (R-TX)2:40 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 6916, the Federal Program Integrity and Fraud Prevention Act.
The House Oversight and Government Reform Committee's extensive investigations and hearings on fraud in Federal programs have made one thing clear: If fraudsters are successful, they will continue to find new ways to steal taxpayer dollars.
Such egregious actions require proactive fraud mitigation to prevent fraudsters and criminals from taking advantage of loopholes in our government and continuing to enrich themselves with taxpayer dollars.
Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
The SPEAKER pro tempore2:40 p.m.
The question is on the motion offered by the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Gill) that the House suspend the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 6916, as amended.
The question was taken; and (two-thirds being in the affirmative) the rules were suspended and the bill, as amended, was passed. The title of the bill was amended so as to read: "A bill to amend title 31, United States Code, to prohibit Federal Funds from being provided to individuals convicted of certain Federal felonies, and for other purposes.". A motion to reconsider was laid on the table.
Zeroing Out Monetary Benefits Improperly Expended Act
Pages H3925–H3928 · Official textMr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 8467) to reform the Payment Integrity Information Act of 2019 to ensure executive agencies focus on fraud prevention, and for other purposes, as amended.
The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows:
Text printed in the Record (11,445 characters)
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the "Zeroing Out Monetary Benefits Improperly Expended Act" or the "ZOMBIE Act".
SEC. 2. REFORMS TO PAYMENT INTEGRITY INFORMATION ACT OF 2019.
(a) Definitions.--Section 3351 of title 31, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in paragraph (2)--
(A) in subparagraph (A)--
(i) in clause (i)--
(I) by inserting "information on" before "improper payments";
(II) by striking "information with" and inserting "resulting in financial loss to the Government in the accompanying materials to"; and
(III) by striking "and" at the end; and
(ii) by inserting after clause (ii) the following new clause:
"(iii) published information on improper payments resulting in financial loss to the Government with the annual budget justification of the executive agency for the most recent fiscal year;";
(B) by redesignating subparagraphs (B) and (C) as clauses (iv) and (v), respectively (and adjusting the margins accordingly);
(C) by redesignating subparagraphs (D) through (F) as subparagraphs (B) through (D), respectively;
(D) in subparagraph (A)(iv), as so redesignated--
(i) by striking "if required, has"; and
(ii) by inserting "and" after the semicolon at the end;
(E) in subparagraph (A)(v), as so redesignated, by striking "if required, publishes" and inserting "published";
(F) by striking subparagraph (B), as so redesignated; and
(G) by redesignating subparagraphs (C) and (D), as so redesignated, as subparagraphs (B) and (C); and
(2) by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
"(9) Financial loss to the government.--The term `financial loss to the Government'--
"(A) means any payment or part of a payment made in excess of the correct amount authorized by law that results in a financial loss to the Federal Government; and
"(B) does not include any payment or part of a payment made to the correct person or entity for the correct amount authorized by law but not made in accordance with certain administrative procedures applicable to the executive agency (excluding any such procedure necessary to establish eligibility or to verify that any payment or part of a payment was made in such correct amount).".
(b) Estimates of Improper Payments Resulting in Financial Loss to the Government and Reports on Actions to Reduce Such Payments.--Section 3352 of title 31, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in the heading--
(A) by inserting "resulting in financial loss to the Government" before "and reports" (and by conforming the item relating to such section in the table of sections in chapter 33); and
(B) by striking "reduce improper payments" and inserting "reduce such payments" (and by conforming the item relating to such section in the table of sections in chapter 33);
(2) in subsection (a)--
(A) in paragraph (1)--
(i) in subparagraph (A), by striking "periodically review all programs and activities" and inserting "submit annually a list of each program and activity required to be reported on the Program Inventory under section 1122"; and
(ii) in subparagraph (B)--
(I) by striking "all programs and activities" and inserting "each program and activity from each such list"; and
(II) by striking "(3)" and inserting "(2)";
(B) by striking paragraph (2);
(C) by redesignating paragraph (3) as paragraph (2); and
(D) in paragraph (2), as so redesignated--
(i) in subparagraph (A), by striking "improper payments and payments whose propriety cannot be determined" and inserting "improper payments resulting in financial loss to the Government and payments lacking sufficient documentation to determine whether the payments result in financial loss to the Government";
(ii) by redesignating subparagraphs (B) and (C) as subparagraphs (D) and (E), respectively;
(iii) by inserting after subparagraph (A) the following new subparagraphs:
"(B) Development of risk assessment guidance.--Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Treasury shall develop risk assessment guidance to assess the risk of improper payments resulting in financial loss to the Government that addresses the following:
"(i) The likelihood of payment errors and the magnitude of such errors that do not result in financial loss to the Government.
"(ii) The likelihood of payment errors and the magnitude of such errors that do result in financial loss to the Government.
"(iii) A formula for estimating financial loss to the Government.
"(iv) Relevant governmentwide documents and best practices for managing improper payments and mitigating fraud risks in Federal programs, such as the document of the Government Accountability Office entitled `A Framework for Managing Fraud Risks in Federal Programs' (or any successor document), as applicable and appropriate.
"(C) Scope.--In preparing a list under paragraph (1)(A), the head of each executive agency shall require, within 6 months after issuing the risk assessment guidance, a risk assessment using the guidance developed under subparagraph (B) for each program or activity listed under paragraph (1)(A) for each--
"(i) existing programs or activities prior to the next disbursement of Federal funds with respect to the program or activity; and
"(ii) newly authorized programs and activities prior to any disbursement of Federal funds with respect to the program or activity.";
(iv) in subparagraph (D), as so redesignated--
(I) in the heading, by striking "Scope" and inserting "Requirements";
(II) in the matter preceding clause (i)--
(aa) by striking "In conducting a review under paragraph (1), the head of each executive agency shall" and inserting "Risk assessments are to be conducted on an ongoing basis, but no less frequently than once every 3 years, and"; and
(bb) by inserting ", including with respect to fraud in any program or activity listed under paragraph (1)(A) that causes improper payments resulting in financial loss to the Government" before ", such as";
(III) in clause (x), by striking "data systems" and inserting "data assets"; and
(IV) in clause (xi)--
(aa) by inserting "or improper payments" before "as assessed"; and
(bb) by inserting ", or any successor document" after "(commonly known as the `Green Book')"; and
(v) in subparagraph (E), as so redesignated--
(I) in the heading, by striking "Annual report" and inserting "Reports";
(II) in the matter preceding clause (i), by striking "Each executive agency shall publish an annual report" and inserting "Not less than once every 3 years, the head of each executive agency shall publish a report, which may be included in a report required under subsection (b)(2)(F) by such head with respect to a high-priority Federal program or activity,";
(III) in clause (i), by striking "; and" and inserting a semicolon;
(IV) in clause (ii), by striking the period at the end and inserting "; and"; and
(V) by adding at the end the following new clause:
"(iii) a prioritized listing of risks identified in subparagraph (D) associated with each program and activity listed under paragraph (1)(A) and any corresponding financial and administrative control to mitigate any such risk, including the use of the Do Not Pay Initiative (or any successor system) and any other system or data asset maintained by the Secretary of the Treasury or the Inspector General of the executive agency to prevent fraud or improper payments resulting in financial loss to the Government prior to making an eligibility determination to receive Federal funds with respect to any such program or activity listed under paragraph (1)(A), issuing an award, or requesting a payment.";
(3) in subsection (b)--
(A) in the heading, by inserting "That Result in Financial Loss to the Government" after "Improper Payments";
(B) in paragraph (1)--
(i) in subparagraph (A)--
(I) by inserting "and activities" after "high-priority Federal programs"; and
(II) by inserting "that result in financial loss" after "improper payments" each place it appears; and
(ii) in subparagraph (B), by striking "associated" and inserting "and financial loss associated"; and
(C) in paragraph (2)--
(i) in the heading, by inserting "that result in financial loss to the government" after "improper payments";
(ii) in subparagraph (A), by striking "shall on an annual basis" and inserting ", not less frequently than once every 3 years, shall";
(iii) in subparagraph (B)--
(I) in clause (i)--
(aa) in subclause (I)--
(AA) by inserting "that result in financial loss to the Government" after "improper payments"; and
(BB) by striking "; and" and inserting a semicolon;
(bb) in subclause (II), by inserting "that result in financial loss to the Government, including by making it harder for fraudulent actors to exploit the program" after "improper payments"; and
(cc) by adding at the end the following new subclause:
"(III) has taken or plans to take to reduce the percentage of improper payments that result in financial loss to the Government;";
(II) by inserting after clause (i) the following new clause:
"(ii) shall include--
"(I) an estimate of the total amount of the payments that result in financial loss to the Government;
"(II) an estimate of the total amount of the payments that do not result in financial loss to the Government;
"(III) the percentage of payments that result in financial loss to the Government;
"(IV) an assessment of the portion of the total amount of payments that result in financial loss to the Government that are due to fraudulent actions by the recipient of such payments;
"(V) the total amount of disbursed payments; and
"(VI) a description of resources or legislative changes proposed to improve or maintain the integrity of the relevant program or activity; and";and
(III) by redesignating clause (iii) as clause (ii);
(iv) in subparagraph (E)(i)--
(I) in subclause (I)--
(aa) by striking "improper payment" and inserting "improper payments that result in financial loss"; and
(bb) by striking "; and" and inserting a semicolon;
(II) in subclause (II), by striking "improper payments" and inserting "improper payments that result in financial loss"; and
(III) by adding at the end the following new subclause:
"(III) each statistically valid estimate developed under subsection (c)(1)(A) and make a recommendation to the head of the executive agency on whether the agency estimate should be reassessed and reestablished; and";
(v) by amending subparagraph (F) to read as follows:
"(F) Agency liaison designation and mandatory coordination meetings.--Not less frequently than once every fiscal year, the head of each executive agency with a high-priority Federal program or activity identified under paragraph (1)(B) shall designate a senior official of the executive agency to serve as the liaison of the executive agency for work under this subchapter who shall meet for a non-audit or investigative purpose with the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (or a designee of the Director), the Commissioner of the Bureau of the Fiscal Service of the Department of the Treasury (or a designee of the Commissioner), the Inspector General of the executive agency (or a designee of the Inspector General), and the Pandemic Response Accountability Committee established under section 15010 of the CARES Act (Public Law 116-136; 134 Stat.
Text printed in the Record (10,776 characters)
533) (or any successor organization) to report on any action taken during the preceding fiscal year and any planned action, including any reform to any financial or administrative control, to prevent improper payments (with a focus on improper payments that lead to financial loss to the Government) and mitigate fraud in such program or activity."; and
(vi) by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
"(G) Federal-state coordination meetings.--Not less frequently than once every fiscal year, the Director of the Office of Management and Budget and the Secretary of the Treasury shall convene a meeting of State officials responsible for program and payment integrity in programs administered on behalf of the Federal Government by a State or local government to review fraud
prevention performance, share best practices, and identify ongoing coordination challenges.";
(4) in subsection (c)--
(A) in the heading, by inserting "That Result in Financial Loss to the Government" after "Improper Payments";
(B) in paragraph (1)--
(i) by amending subparagraph (A) to read as follows:
"(A) develop a statistically valid estimate of improper payments that result in financial loss to the Government;";
(ii) by striking subparagraph (B); and
(iii) by adding at the end the following new subparagraphs:
"(B) include such estimate in the annual budget justification of the executive agency; and
"(C) revise such estimate if the head of the executive agency determines, which may be based on a recommendation from the Director in consultation with the Secretary of the Treasury and the Inspector General of the executive agency, that there is a need to reestablish the estimate of improper payments that result in financial loss to the Government due to--
"(i) a significant change, as determined by the agency head, to the program or activity's appropriation or authorization;
"(ii) newly establishing the program or activity; or
"(iii) a recommendation from the agency Inspector General in the annual compliance report issued under section 3353(a)."; and
(C) in paragraph (2)--
(i) in subparagraph (A), by inserting "resulting in financial loss to the Government" after "improper payment"; and
(ii) in subparagraph (B), by striking "improper payments" before "estimate";
(5) in subsection (d)--
(A) in the heading--
(i) by striking "Reduce" and inserting "Reduce and Prevent"; and
(ii) by inserting "That Result in Financial Loss to the Government" after "Improper Payments";
(B) in the matter preceding paragraph (1)--
(i) by inserting "that result in financial loss to the Government" after "estimated improper payments"; and
(ii) by striking "reduce improper payments" and inserting "reduce and prevent such payments";
(C) in paragraph (1), by inserting "that result in financial loss to the Government (including actions used to commit fraud)" after "improper payments";
(D) in paragraph (2)--
(i) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by inserting "that result in financial loss to the Government" after "in order to reduce improper payments";
(ii) in subparagraph (B), by striking "; and" and inserting a semicolon at the end;
(iii) in subparagraph (C), by inserting "and" after the semicolon; and
(iv) by adding at the end the following new subparagraph:
"(D) access to appropriate records and data assets, whether maintained by an executive agency, a State or local government, or a private sector organization;";
(E) in paragraph (4), by inserting "that result in financial loss to the Government" after "improper payments";
(F) in paragraph (5)--
(i) by inserting "that result in financial loss to the Government" after "improper payments" each place it appears; and
(ii) in subparagraph (B)(ii), by striking "; and" and inserting a semicolon at the end;
(G) by amending paragraph (6) to read as follows:
"(6) a description of how the level of planned or completed actions by the executive agency to address the causes of the improper payments that result in financial loss to the Government matched the level of improper payments that resulted in financial loss to the Government, including a breakdown by category of such improper payments and specific timelines for completion of those actions; and"; and
(H) by adding at the end the following new paragraph:
"(7) information on the progress of the executive agency with respect to--
"(A) implementing the financial and administrative controls required to be established under subsection (a)(2)(E)(iii);
"(B) implementing relevant governmentwide documents and best practices for managing improper payments and mitigating fraud risks in Federal programs, such as the document of the Government Accountability Office entitled `A Framework for Managing Fraud Risks in Federal Programs' (or any successor document), as applicable and appropriate, including with respect to the identification of--
"(i) any dedicated entity that leads the fraud risk management activity of the executive agency;
"(ii) responsibilities of such entity, including any program or operation for which the entity is responsible;
"(iii) capacity, including any limitations, to strategically manage fraud risks;
"(iv) any program or operation within the executive agency for which there is not a dedicated entity that leads fraud risk management, along with a detailed justification for not having such a dedicated entity; and
"(v) the status of implementing the overarching concepts with associated leading practices identified in such document entitled `A Framework for Managing Fraud Risks in Federal Programs' (or any such successor document), as applicable and appropriate;
"(C) implementing the Office of Management and Budget Circular A-123, or any successor policy, with respect to leading practices for managing fraud and improper payments risk;
"(D) identifying fraud risks and vulnerabilities, including but not limited to payroll, beneficiary payments, grants, large contracts, and purchase and travel cards; and
"(E) establishing strategies, procedures, and other steps to prevent, detect, and respond to fraud.";
(6) in subsection (e)--
(A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1)--
(i) by inserting "that result in financial loss to the Government," after "With respect to improper payments"; and
(ii) by striking "the improper payments" and inserting "such payments";
(B) in paragraph (1), by inserting "that result in financial loss to the Government" after "improper payments"; and
(C) in paragraph (2), by inserting "that result in financial loss to the Government," after "improper payments";
(7) in subsection (f)--
(A) in paragraph (1)--
(i) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A)--
(I) by inserting "that result in financial loss to the Government" after "regarding improper payments"; and
(II) by inserting "such" after "recover";
(ii) in subparagraph (B)--
(I) by inserting "Government" before "Reform"; and (II) by striking "and" at the end;
(iii) by inserting after subparagraph (B) the following new subparagraphs:
"(C) the Committee on the Budget of the Senate;
"(D) the Committee on the Budget of the House of Representatives;
"(E) the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate;
"(F) the Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives; and"; and
(iv) by redesignating subparagraph (C) as subparagraph (G); and
(B) in paragraph (2)--
(i) in subparagraph (A), by inserting "that result in financial loss to the Government" after "improper payments";
(ii) in subparagraph (C), by inserting "that result in financial loss to the Government" after "improper payment";
(iii) in subparagraph (D), by inserting "that result in financial loss to the Government" after "improper payments"; and
(iv) in subparagraph (E), by inserting "that result in financial loss to the Government" after "improper payment";
(8) in subsection (g)--
(A) in paragraph (1), by inserting "and periodically thereafter," after "Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of this section,"; and
(B) in paragraph (2)(B), by striking "prepayment and postpayment" and inserting "pre-award, pre-payment, and post-payment"; and
(9) in subsection (i)(2)--
(A) in subparagraph (C), by striking "25" and inserting "10"; and
(B) in subparagraph (D), by striking "25" and inserting "75".
SEC. 3. REFORMS TO ANNUAL COMPLIANCE REPORT BY INSPECTORS
GENERAL OF EXECUTIVE AGENCIES.
(a) OMB Guidance.--Section 3353(a)(3) of title 31, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A)--
(A) by striking "date of enactment of this section" and inserting "date of the enactment of the amendments made to this section by the `Zeroing Out Monetary Benefits Improperly Expended Act' or the `ZOMBIE Act' "; and
(B) by striking "shall develop and promulgate guidance" and inserting "shall revise existing guidance issued under this section";
(2) in subparagraph (B)--
(A) by striking "improper payment estimates methodology" and inserting "estimation methodologies"; and
(B) by inserting "that result in financial loss to the Government" after "improper payments";
(3) in subparagraph (C), by inserting "that result in financial loss to the Government" after "improper payments";
(4) in subparagraph (D), by inserting "that result in financial loss to the Government" after "improper payments"; and
(5) in subparagraph (E)--
(A) by striking "Inspectors General include" and inserting "Inspectors General shall include"; and
(B) by inserting "that result in financial loss to the Government" after "improper payments".
(b) CIGIE Guidance.--Section 3353(a)(4) of title 31, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A)--
(A) by striking "date of enactment of this section" and inserting "date of the enactment of the amendments made to this section by the `Zeroing Out Monetary Benefits Improperly Expended Act' or the `ZOMBIE Act' "; and
(B) by striking "develop and promulgate guidance" and inserting "revise existing guidance issued under this section";
(2) in subparagraph (B)--
(A) in clause (i)--
(i) by striking "section 3351(2)(B)" and inserting "section 3351(2)(A)(iv)"; and
(ii) by inserting "that result in financial loss to the Government" after "improper payments" each place it appears;
(B) in clause (ii), by striking "section 3351(2)(C)" and inserting "section 3351(2)(A)(v)";
(C) by striking clause (iii);
(D) by redesignating clauses (iv) through (vi) as clauses (iii) through (v), respectively;
(E) in clause (iii), as so redesignated, by inserting "that result in financial loss to the Government" after "improper payments"; and
(F) in clause (iv), as so redesignated, by inserting "that result in financial loss to the Government" after "improper payments".
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Gill) and the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Subramanyam) each will control 20 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Texas.
Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on this measure.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Is there objection to the request of the gentleman from Texas?
There was no objection.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 8467, the Zeroing Out Monetary Benefits Improperly Expended Act.
This bill strengthens agency efforts to prevent improper payments that lead to financial loss to the government. Estimates made by the Government Accountability Office reveal that the Federal Government has lost $2.8 trillion to improper payments since 2003.
In fiscal year 2025, Federal agencies reported $186 billion in improper payments, an increase of about $24 billion from the previous year alone. These heinous findings prove that the status quo is not working and is unacceptable.
This bill replaces the current broken practice of conducting backward-looking annual improper payment estimates that remain unchanged year to year. Instead, it directs agencies to focus more closely on payments that result in financial loss to the government and cost savings associated with anti-fraud activity.
This bill requires agencies to comprehensively assess fraud risk management practices in their programs, such as the implementation of the Government Accountability Office's fraud risk management framework and to develop fraud risk indicators and apply key fraud risk controls and procedures.
The bill also increases much-needed regular coordination and information-sharing among government stakeholders responsible for identifying and preventing improper payments.
Mr. Speaker, I thank my Oversight Committee colleague, Congressman Gary Palmer, for leading on these important and long-overdue improper payment reforms. I encourage my colleagues to support this bill, and I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today also in support of H.R. 8467, the Zeroing Out Monetary Benefits Improperly Expended Act.
The bill is simple. It would require the Treasury to develop risk assessment guidance for improper payments. It also requires Federal agencies to conduct a risk assessment and publish a prioritized list of programs at risk for fraud.
Federal agencies with the highest risk of fraud and improper payments would be required to report on the steps they are taking to resolve those risks. These are commonsense measures to help prevent improper payments and promote accountability within Federal agencies.
Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleagues for their work on this legislation, and I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Alabama (Mr. Palmer).
Mr. Speaker, every year, hardworking Americans dutifully pay their taxes to support Federal public programs and other priorities. Unfortunately, the Federal Government has too often squandered their money through mismanagement.
For example, just last year, the Federal Government lost an estimated $186 billion in improper payments. Six years ago, the COVID-19 pandemic produced what is now often referred to as the greatest theft of taxpayer dollars in history.
This is not new. The Federal Government has been on this track for over 23 years, losing almost $3 trillion in taxpayer dollars since that time.
The definition of insanity is continuing to take the same actions and expecting a different result. It is time for us to make changes. Absent major systematic reforms, we will continue to violate the public trust at increasingly unsustainable levels.
That is why I am pleased to sponsor H.R. 8467, the Zeroing Out Monetary Benefits Improperly Expended Act, or the ZOMBIE Act.
The ZOMBIE Act reforms Federal law to prevent improper payments before money goes out the door. It codifies a longtime recommendation from the Government Accountability Office to conduct regular risk assessments of improper payments that result in actual financial loss to the Federal Government. Assessments will focus on a comprehensive review of risk, including implementing fraud prevention best practices.
The bill increases coordination among the inspectors general, the U.S. Treasury, and other partners via annual meetings. Heads of Federal agencies or designees of their choice will have the option to attend these meetings to help identify and prevent improper payments that result in financial loss for the government.
Additionally, the ZOMBIE Act incentivizes Federal agency reporting by permitting up to 75 percent of the amount recovered to be redirected back to the program. That is an increase from the current 25 percent threshold.
By implementing the ZOMBIE Act, agencies will be able to shift or focus toward preventing improper payments rather than on compliance activities.
Mr. Speaker, I thank my Democratic colleagues for supporting this bill and urge all of my colleagues to support this bill.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time to close.
Mr. Speaker, I thank the sponsor of the bill. I commend him on his creativity with acronyms of bill names, and I urge everyone to support the ZOMBIE Act. It is very much alive. I yield back the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, I encourage my colleagues to support H.R. 8467, the Zeroing Out Monetary Benefits Improperly Expended Act, which reforms the Payment Integrity Information Act to refocus Federal agencies on proactively identifying and preventing improper payments before they happen, rather than wasting resources on backward-looking compliance activities.
Mr. Speaker, we need reforms like this bill that force agencies to focus on preventing improper payments in the first place, and this smart legislation does just that.
Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
The question is on the motion offered by the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Gill) that the House suspend the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 8467, as amended.
The question was taken.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
In the opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being in the affirmative, the ayes have it.
Mr. Speaker, I object to the vote on the ground that a quorum is not present and make the point of order that a quorum is not present.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Pursuant to clause 8 of rule XX, further proceedings on this question will be postponed.
The point of no quorum is considered withdrawn.
Taxpayer Resources Used in Emergencies Accountability Act
Pages H3928–H3931 · Official textMr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 8466) to require certain agencies to develop plans for internal control in the event of an emergency or crisis, and for other purposes, as amended.
The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows:
Text printed in the Record (7,232 characters)
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the "Taxpayer Resources Used in Emergencies Accountability Act" or the "TRUE Accountability Act".
SEC. 2. OMB GUIDANCE.
(a) Plans for Emergency Spending.--Subchapter IV of chapter 33 of title 31, United States Code is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
"Sec. 3359. Requirement for financial and administrative
controls for emergency spending
"(a) Definitions.--In this section:
"(1) Covered agency.--The term `covered agency' means an agency described in section 901(b).
"(2) Director.--The term `Director' means the Director of the Office of Management and Budget.
"(3) Internal control.--The term `internal control' means a process that is--
"(A) affected by the management and other personnel of an entity; and
"(B) designed to provide reasonable assurance with respect to the achievement of objectives relating to--
"(i) effectiveness and efficiency of operations;
"(ii) reliability of financial reporting; and
"(iii) compliance with applicable law.
"(b) Guidance.--
"(1) In general.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this section, the Director shall issue, and every 3 years thereafter review and if necessary update, guidance to covered agencies for the development of plans for internal control that are ready or adaptable for immediate use in a future disaster, pandemic, economic relief, or other such emergency supplemental appropriations legislative measure.
"(2) Contents.--The guidance issued under paragraph (1) shall--
"(A) incorporate relevant governmentwide documents and best practices for preventing improper payments and mitigating fraud risks in Federal programs, including the documents of the Government Accountability Office entitled `A Framework for Managing Improper Payments in Emergency Assistance Programs' and `A Framework for Managing Fraud Risks in Federal Programs' (or any successor documents); and
"(B) require a plan for internal control of each covered agency that shall include--
"(i) the identification of a senior official of the covered agency to be responsible and accountable for the implementation of the plan; and
"(ii) policies and procedures to timely--
"(I) in accordance with paragraph (3), assess the risks of improper payments and fraud relating to the implementation of any supplemental appropriation, or other increase in budget authority, that may be made available to the covered agency for a purpose relating to implementing a disaster, pandemic, economic relief, or other such emergency supplemental appropriations legislative measure;
"(II) develop and implement mitigation strategies to reduce the risks described in subclause (I), including any change to internal controls, to ensure that, to the greatest extent possible, appropriate controls are in place prior to the expenditure of funds; and
"(III) adopt real-time, data driven payment monitoring techniques to identify and reduce improper and fraudulent payments, such as anomaly detection, volume plausibility checks, and network analysis.
"(3) Assessment of risk.--The assessment of risk required
by paragraph (2)(B)(ii)(I) shall include a substantive
evaluation of the risk of financial loss to the Federal
Government caused by improper payments and fraud that shall
include with respect to the relevant agency program or
activity--
"(A) an assessment of the likelihood and impact of
inherent risks affecting the agency program or activity;
"(B) an identification of the risk tolerance; and
"(C) an assessment of the suitability of existing controls
and prioritization of residual risks.
"(c) Plan Submission.--
"(1) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the date of
the enactment of this section, the head of each covered
agency shall submit to the Director the plan required by
subsection (b)(2)(B).
"(2) Revisions.--Not later than 3 years after the date on
which the head of a covered agency submits a plan under
paragraph (1), and not less frequently than once every 3
years thereafter, the head of each covered agency shall--
"(A) review and, if necessary, revise the plan of the
covered agency; and
"(B) submit to the Director any revised plan of the
covered agency.
"(3) Submission to congress.--Not later than 15 months
after the date of the enactment of this section, and not less
frequently than annually thereafter, the Director shall
assemble and submit to the Committee on Homeland Security and
Governmental Affairs of the Senate and the Committee on
Oversight and Government Reform of the House of
Representatives the plans submitted by covered agencies under
paragraph (1) and a summary of the plans to help agencies
prepare to implement such plans, including any action planned
to harmonize the agency programs and activities and any
legislative recommendations for a future disaster, pandemic,
economic relief, or other emergency supplemental
appropriation.
"(d) After-action Review.--
"(1) In general.--Not later than 180 days after the
initial obligation of funds under any emergency supplemental
appropriations legislative measure for a disaster, pandemic,
economic relief, or other emergency, the head of each covered
agency that obligates such funds shall submit, in
consultation with the Inspector General of the covered
agency, to the Director an after-action review of the
implementation of the plan required by subsection (b)(2)(B)
relevant to such emergency supplemental appropriations
legislative measure.
"(2) Contents.--Each after-action review required by
paragraph (1) shall include the following:
"(A) An assessment of the effectiveness of the internal
controls implemented pursuant to the relevant plan in
preventing and detecting improper payments and fraud,
including the effectiveness of any real-time, data driven
payment monitoring techniques used to identify and reduce
improper payments and fraud.
"(B) A description of any significant control failures or
gaps and any fraud risks identified during such
implementation.
"(C) A summary of the number and amount of improper
payments made per agency program or activity.
"(D) An explanation of any plan to recover any funds lost
as a result of any such improper payment.
"(E) Any recommendations for improving internal controls
for future emergency supplemental appropriations legislative
measures.
"(3) Incorporation.--The Director shall incorporate the
findings of each after-action review required by paragraph
(1) into each submission required under subsection (c)(3),
including by identifying common challenges, effective
practices, and opportunities to improve internal controls
across covered agencies.".
(b) Technical and Conforming Amendment.--The table of
sections for chapter 33 of title 31, United States Code, is
amended by inserting after the item relating to section 3358
the following: "3359. Requirement for financial and administrative controls for
emergency spending.".
(c) No Additional Funds.--No additional funds are
authorized to be appropriated for the purpose of carrying out
this Act.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Gill) and the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Subramanyam) each will control 20 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Texas.
Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on this measure.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Is there objection to the request of the gentleman from Texas?
There was no objection.
I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 8466, the Taxpayer Resources Used in Emergencies Accountability Act, or the TRUE Accountability Act.
This bill takes action to ensure agencies be prepared to protect taxpayer dollars during future national emergencies when Federal agency programs and spending are often rapidly expanded by supplemental emergency spending packages advanced by Congress.
Between March 2020 and March 2021, Congress enacted a series of six laws providing over $4.6 billion in Federal funds to mitigate the economic and public health impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The unprecedented expansion of government programs and lack of commensurate and adequate fraud prevention and financial management capabilities created a perfect scenario for existing program and payment integrity weaknesses to be exploited.
In short, agencies rushed to get money out the door as fast as possible and, in some cases, loosened the guardrails to make funding access easier and more efficient.
While the true extent of pandemic relief fraud may never be known, the Comptroller General of the United States observes that hundreds of billions of dollars in potentially fraudulent payments were dispersed.
The TRUE Accountability Act requires that agencies are prepared for future emergency supplemental spending legislation.
Specifically, the bill requires the Office of Management and Budget to issue guidance and for agencies to develop plans for internal controls for use in future emergencies. It is imperative that Federal agencies and programs have strong financial controls in place from the start, rather than developing them after the fact, as funding is already flowing out the door during a national emergency. This bill will help mitigate fraud in future national emergencies.
Mr. Speaker, I thank my Oversight Committee colleagues Congressmen Andy Biggs and Suhas Subramanyam for championing this necessary and forward-looking legislation. I encourage my colleagues to support this important bipartisan bill, and I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 8466, the Taxpayer Resources Used in Emergencies Accountability Act. I am proud to be co-lead of this legislation with my colleague, Representative Biggs, and I thank him for his work on this issue.
This bill would require Federal agencies to develop internal control plans for future national emergencies. In times of disasters, pandemics, and other crises, it is crucial that the emergency Federal spending reaches the people who need it the most.
Emergency assistance can save small businesses from closing, protect public health, provide people displaced by disasters with housing, and much more.
But, unfortunately, bad actors can take advantage of these situations to commit fraud and steal funds. Every cent that is stolen doesn't reach the Americans who need it. Having an internal control plan will help Federal agencies develop strategies to mitigate those risks.
This is a commonsense, bipartisan solution that will ensure that agencies like FEMA and the Small Business Administration are better prepared for the future. That way we can ensure that emergency funds reach the people who need them quickly.
An effective response to a national emergency starts with advanced planning, and that is what this bill does. I encourage my colleagues to join me in supporting this bill, and I reserve the balance of my time.
Brandon Gill (R-TX)3:00 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I yield 10 minutes to the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Biggs).
Andy Biggs (R-AZ)3:00 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding time to me.
Mr. Speaker, over the past few months, the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform has taken the lead on investigating a staggering amount of fraud. The common theme we have seen in this fraud has been bad actors taking advantage of emergency funds from the government. Agencies disburse money from these taxpayer-funded accounts to help those in need when an emergency, such as the COVID pandemic, cause major disruptions in the day-to-day lives of Americans.
Emergency relief funds are meant to help families stay afloat in a crisis. Instead, a lack of planning by and failures of oversight of Federal agencies have turned these emergency funds into a jackpot for fraudsters.
For example, a central point of Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison's oversight hearing dealt with his ties to the criminals in the Feeding Our Future scheme. That scheme involved more than $250 million in taxpayer money being stolen by the Feeding Our Future organization, which defrauded USDA's COVID programs.
What became glaringly evident in the aftermath of the COVID pandemic was that government agencies were not properly equipped to deal with emergency relief funds. Even those in government, such as Minnesota's Attorney General Ellison, have failed to investigate and even potentially aided fraudsters abusing these funds.
It was one of the largest COVID-era fraud schemes in the country, and it happened right under the nose of Minnesota's top law enforcement officer.
That is why we need to make sure emergency relief funds are protected from fraud. In total, the Government Accountability Office estimates that a staggering 19 different pandemic relief programs were defrauded from 2020 to 2024 to the tune of $300 billion. What is even more disturbing is that was just the fraud in COVID-related programs.
In addition to COVID-related fraud, the Government Accountability Office also estimates that the government may lose as much as $521 billion. That is not waste. That is not error. That is a heist of historic proportions.
These numbers are practically unfathomable. Yet, here they are staring at us as a reality. We, quite literally, cannot afford as a country to be losing that amount of money per year to fraudsters. Our national dealt is nearing $39 trillion.
That is why I joined my Democratic colleague (Mr. Subramanyam), and we introduced the TRUE Accountability Act together. That passed out of the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform unanimously.
The TRUE Accountability Act is simple. It tells Federal agencies to plan ahead, protect taxpayer dollars, and stop treating fraud as an afterthought or a cost just built into the system as a feature, because it is time to bring some accountability to our government so that we stop losing untold amounts of hard-earned taxpayer money.
This act forces government agencies to be better prepared for an emergency, requires them to make internal plans that incorporate data-driven frameworks such as the GAO's A Framework for Managing Improper Payments in Emergency Assistance Programs, and A Framework for Managing Fraud Risk in 20 Federal Programs.
These plans will include policies and procedures to assess risks of improper payments, fraud, and related mitigation strategies, as well as to identify a senior official responsible and accountable for implementing the plan.
These internal plans will go a long way in combating any potential fraud that might occur when emergency relief funds are disbursed.
We must not be caught off guard the next time an emergency hits. In an emergency, people's lives are already upended. They don't need to also be worrying about fraudsters looting the Federal Treasury. We need to be ready to act in an efficient manner that protects taxpayer dollars.
This is a commonsense, bipartisan effort that both sides of the aisle can easily agree on, and it must be passed to safeguard the hard-earned money of American taxpayers.
Fraudsters learned from the COVID-era. With this bill, next time we will be ready for them, not the other way around.
Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA)3:00 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, in closing, I thank the sponsor again for co-leading this bill with me.
I will say that I lived in New Orleans when Hurricane Katrina hit the city, and there was a lot of fraud related to the money disbursed there afterwards. This has been a long-standing problem for many decades across Democratic and Republican administrations. I am glad that we are taking steps in a bipartisan way to address this issue to make sure there is less fraud.
These internal control plans, while they don't seem exciting, are very effective. I have done them at private companies, and I think these Federal agencies will benefit from them.
Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support the bill, and I yield back the balance of my time.
Brandon Gill (R-TX)3:00 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, I encourage my colleagues to support H.R. 8466, the TRUE Accountability Act, which will mitigate future fraud like we have recently experienced in the pandemic-era emergency spending.
Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Taylor)3:00 p.m.
The question is on the motion offered by the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Gill) that the House suspend the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 8466, as amended.
The question was taken.
The SPEAKER pro tempore3:00 p.m.
In the opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being in the affirmative, the ayes have it.
Brandon Gill (R-TX)3:00 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.
The yeas and nays were ordered.
The SPEAKER pro tempore3:00 p.m.
Pursuant to clause 8 of rule XX, further proceedings on this motion will be postponed.
Taxpayer Funds Oversight and Accountability Act
Pages H3931–H3933 · Official textMr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 8340) to modify the governmentwide financial management plan, and for other purposes, as amended.
The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows:
Text printed in the Record (11,047 characters)
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the "Taxpayer Funds Oversight and Accountability Act".
SEC. 2. CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICERS; GOVERNMENTWIDE FINANCIAL
MANAGEMENT PLAN.
(a) Chief Financial Officer and Deputy Chief Financial Officer.--Chapter 9 of title 31, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in section 902(a)--
(A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking "An" and inserting "It shall be the duty and responsibility of each agency Chief Financial Officer to oversee and, unless specified otherwise in law, provide leadership in the areas of budget formulation and execution, planning and performance, risk management, internal controls, financial systems, accounting, and other areas as designated by the Deputy Director of Management under their authorities described in section 503 of this title. In carrying out the preceding sentence, each";
(B) in paragraph (3)--
(i) in subparagraph (C), by inserting "areas and" before "systems"; and
(ii) in subparagraph (D)--
(I) in clause (iii), by striking "and" at the end;
(II) in clause (iv), by striking "performance;" and inserting "performance and integration of performance and cost information; and"; and
(III) by adding at the end the following:
"(v) annual agency financial statements prepared in accordance with applicable accounting standards;";
(C) by redesignating paragraphs (5), (6), (7), and (8) as paragraphs (7), (8), (9), and (11) respectively;
(D) by inserting after paragraph (4) the following:
"(5) oversee and provide leadership over the design, implementation, and operation of the internal controls of the agency over financial reporting and key financial management information identified under section 3512(e)(1);
"(6) prepare, in consultation with financial management and other appropriate experts, an agency plan to implement the 4-year financial management plan prepared by the Director of the Office of Management and Budget under section 3512(a)(2) of this title and to achieve and sustain effective financial management in the agency, which shall--
"(A) be completed within 120 days after the issuance of a governmentwide plan under such section 3512(a)(2);
"(B) be revised as determined necessary by the Chief Financial Officer and the Director of the Office of Management and Budget;
"(C) include financial management metrics against which the financial management performance of the agency shall be assessed; and
"(D) be submitted upon completion or revision to the head of the agency, the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, the Comptroller General, and appropriate committees of Congress, and be made publicly available;";
(E) in paragraph (7), as so redesignated--
(i) by striking subparagraph (A);
(ii) by redesignating subparagraphs (B) through (E) as subparagraphs (A) through (D), respectively; and
(iii) in subparagraph (C), as so redesignated, by adding "and" at the end;
(F) in paragraph (8), as so redesignated--
(i) in the matter preceding subparagraph (A), by striking "and the Director of the Office of Management and Budget," and inserting ", the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, the Comptroller General, and appropriate committees of Congress, which shall be made publicly available and";
(ii) in subparagraph (A), by striking "agency;" and inserting "agency, including--
"(i) the progress of the agency in implementing the agency plan described in paragraph (5);
"(ii) the progress of the agency in implementing the governmentwide 4-year financial management plan prepared by the Director of the Office of Management and Budget under section 3512(a)(2) of this title; and
"(iii) the performance of the agency against financial management metrics established by the Director of the Office of Management and Budget;"; and
(iii) in subparagraph (D)--
(I) by striking "of the reports" and inserting "of--
"(i) the reports";
(II) in clause (i), as so designated, by striking "the amendments made by the Federal Managers' Financial Integrity Act of 1982 (Public Law 97-255); and" and inserting "section 3512(d) of this title; and"; and
(III) by adding at the end the following:
"(ii) the reporting of the agency under the Federal Financial Management Improvement Act of 1996 (31 U.S.C. 3512 note); and";
(G) in paragraph (9), as so redesignated--
(i) by striking "monitor the" and insert "manage the formulation and"; and
(ii) by striking ", and prepare and submit to the head of the agency timely performance reports; and" and inserting a semicolon;
(H) by inserting after paragraph (9), as so redesignated, the following:
"(10) coordinating with the responsible agency official to ensure performance and cost information are linked, including in the preparation and submission to the head of the agency of timely performance reports that incorporate cost information;";
(I) in paragraph (11), as so redesignated--
(i) by inserting "inflation and" before "costs"; and
(ii) by striking the period at the end and inserting "; and"; and
(J) by adding at the end the following:
"(12) coordinate with senior agency personnel, including but not limited to, those with statutory, regulatory, and related policy responsibility which may include the Chief Data Officer, Chief Information Officer, Chief Performance Officer, Chief Acquisition Officer, Chief Risk Officer, and Chief Evaluation Officer of the agency on--
"(A) the exercise of authorities under this subsection; and
"(B) the strategic planning, performance measurement and reporting, and risk management functions of the agency."; and
(2) in section 903--
(A) in subsection (a), by inserting "and who shall assist the agency Chief Financial Officer in the performance of each of the duties of the agency Chief Financial Officer under this chapter" after "matters"; and
(B) by adding at the end the following:
"(c) Notwithstanding subchapter III of chapter 33 of title 5, in the event of a vacancy in the position of Chief Financial Officer of an agency, the Deputy Chief Financial Officer of the agency shall serve as the acting Chief Financial Officer.".
(b) Governmentwide Financial Management Plan.--Section 3512 of title 31, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)--
(A) in paragraph (1), by striking "a financial management status report and a governmentwide 5-year financial management plan" and inserting "a governmentwide 4-year financial management plan, to be included within the Federal Government performance plan described in section 1115, and a financial management status report";
(B) by striking paragraph (2);
(C) by redesignating paragraph (3) as paragraph (2);
(D) in paragraph (2), as so redesignated--
(i) in subparagraph (A)--
(I) by striking "5-year" and inserting "4-year";
(II) by striking "shall describe" and inserting the following: "shall--
"(i) describe";
(III) in clause (i), as so redesignated, by striking "5 fiscal years to improve the financial management of the Federal Government." and inserting "4 fiscal years to improve the financial management of the Federal Government in a manner that is strategic, comprehensive, and cost-effective, and shall also include strategies for enabling data sharing in accordance with applicable law and joint fraud prevention initiatives with State (meaning a State of the United States, the District of Columbia, a territory or possession of the United States, or a federally recognized Indian tribe) and local governments that administer federally funded programs or disburse Federal funds on behalf of the Federal Government; and"; and
(IV) by adding at the end the following:
"(ii) be developed in consultation with the Chief Financial Officers Council and, as appropriate, other councils and financial management experts, including the Chief Information Officers Council, the Chief Data Officer Council, the Chief Acquisition Officers Council, and the Government Accountability Office, as determined by the Director of the Office of Management and Budget in consultation with the Chief Financial Officers Council."; and
(ii) in subparagraph (B)--
(I) in the matter preceding clause (i), by striking "5-year" and inserting "4-year";
(II) in clause (iii)--
(aa) by striking "for developing" and inserting "for improving financial management systems, including--
"(I) developing"; and
(bb) by adding at the end the following:
"(II) describe how performance and cost information are linked in order to facilitate effective and efficient decision making;
"(III) eliminating duplicative and unnecessary systems and activities; and
"(IV) identifying opportunities for agencies to share systems and services and encouraging agencies to do so where practicable;";
(III) by striking clause (iv);
(IV) by redesignating clause (v) as clause (iv);
(V) by inserting after clause (iv), as so redesignated, the following:
"(v) provide a strategy for reporting performance and cost information;";
(VI) in clause (vi), by striking "5-year" and inserting "4-year";
(VII) in clause (vii), by striking "identify" and inserting "provide a strategy for strengthening the Federal financial management workforce, including identification of";
(VIII) in clause (viii), by striking "and" at the end;
(IX) by redesignating clause (ix) as clause (x);
(X) by inserting after clause (viii) the following:
"(ix) include financial management metrics against which the performance of executive agencies can be assessed; and"; and
(XI) in clause (x), as so redesignated, by striking "5-year" and inserting "4-year";
(E) by inserting after paragraph (2) the following:
"(3) A financial management status report under this subsection shall include--
"(A) a description and analysis of the status of financial management in the executive branch, including the progress made towards implementing the governmentwide 4-year financial management plan, and the status of remaining challenges to implementing the governmentwide 4-year financial management plan;
"(B) a summary of the performance of agencies against the metrics developed and identified by the Director of the Office of Management and Budget in the governmentwide 4-year financial management plan;
"(C) a summary of the most recently completed financial statements--
"(i) of Federal agencies under section 3515 of this title; and
"(ii) of Government corporations;
"(D) a summary of the most recently completed financial statement audits and reports--
"(i) of Federal agencies under subsections (e) and (f) of section 3521 of this title; and
"(ii) of Government corporations;
"(E) a summary of reports on internal accounting and administrative control systems submitted to the President and Congress under subsection (d);
"(F) a listing of agencies whose financial management systems do not comply substantially with the requirements of section 803(a) of the Federal Financial Management Improvement Act of 1996 (31 U.S.C.
Text printed in the Record (3,369 characters)
3512 note), and a summary statement of the efforts underway to remedy the noncompliance; and
"(G) any other information the Director considers appropriate to fully inform Congress regarding the financial management of the Federal Government.";
(F) in paragraph (4)--
(i) in subparagraph (A)--
(I) by striking "15 months after the date of the enactment of this subsection" and inserting "12 months after the date of the enactment of the Taxpayer Funds Oversight and Accountability Act"; and
(II) by striking "5-year" and inserting "4-year";
(ii) in subparagraph (B)--
(I) in clause (i)--
(aa) by striking "Not later than January 31 of each year thereafter" and inserting "At a minimum, concurrently with the submission of the budget of the United States Government under section 1105(a) of this title made in the first full fiscal year following any year in which the term of the President commences under section 101 of title 3";
(bb) by striking "financial management status report and a revised governmentwide 5-year" and inserting "governmentwide 4-year"; and
(cc) by striking "5 fiscal years" and all that follows through the period at the end and inserting "4 fiscal years."; and
(II) in clause (ii)--
(aa) by striking "revised governmentwide 5-year" and inserting "governmentwide 4-year"; and
(bb) by striking "paragraph (3)(B)(viii)" and inserting "paragraph (2)(B)(viii)"; and
(iii) by adding at the end the following:
"(C) Each year, concurrently with the submission of the budget of the United States Government under section 1105(a) of this title, the Director of the Office of Management and Budget shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress and the Comptroller General a financial management status report."; and
(G) by striking paragraph (5);
(2) in subsection (d)(2)--
(A) in subparagraph (A), by striking "and" at the end;
(B) in subparagraph (B), by striking the period at the end and inserting "; and"; and
(C) by adding at the end the following:
"(C) a separate report on the results of the assessment and conclusion required under subsection (e)(2).";
(3) by redesignating subsections (e), (f), and (g) as subsections (f), (g), and (h), respectively; and
(4) by inserting after subsection (d) the following:
"(e) The head of each executive agency shall--
"(1) in establishing the internal accounting and administrative controls under subsection (c), identify the key financial management information needed for effective financial management and decision making, which shall include a consideration of--
"(A) the agency spending data required to be published under the Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act of 2006 (31 U.S.C. 6101 note); and
"(B) the information used by the agency to report on improper payments under section 3352 of this title; and
"(2) annually assess and make a conclusion on the effectiveness of the internal controls of the executive agency over financial reporting and key financial management information identified under paragraph (1) consistent with guidance provided by the Director of the Office of Management and Budget.".
(c) Technical and Conforming Amendment.--Section 3348(e) of title 5, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in paragraph (3), by adding "or" at the end;
(2) by striking paragraph (4); and
(3) by redesignating paragraph (5) as paragraph (4).
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Gill) and the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Subramanyam) each will control 20 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Texas.
Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on this measure.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Is there objection to the request of the gentleman from Texas?
There was no objection.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 8340, the Taxpayer Funds Oversight and Accountability Act.
It is no secret that weak internal controls and agency inaction on known fraud risks enables fraud.
Federal agency chief financial officers play a vital role in the financial management of their agencies. But, unfortunately, their roles are frequently undefined and their positions are often left vacant.
Stakeholders in financial management have been calling for agencies to establish clear accountability in government structures for program integrity, including designating an accountable senior official.
The Taxpayer Funds Oversight and Accountability Act ensures each agency chief financial officer is responsible for overseeing and providing leadership on risk management and internal controls.
Specifically, the bill requires chief financial officers to identify key information such as spending and reporting on improper payments and assess the effectiveness of internal controls annually. This ensures that a top-level official is responsible for effective and targeted financial management.
In the event of a vacancy, this bill enables a deputy CFO to serve as an interim CFO, an important change that allows for leadership continuity over agency financial management.
Mr. Speaker, I thank my Oversight Committee colleagues, Congressmen Dave Min and William Timmons, for championing this smart legislation. I encourage my colleagues to support this bill, and I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today also in support of H.R. 8340, the Taxpayer Funds Oversight and Accountability Act. This bill would make a number of improvements to the financial management at Federal agencies.
Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 minutes to the gentleman from California (Mr. Min).
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak in favor of H.R. 8340, the Taxpayer Funds Oversight and Accountability Act.
I introduced this legislation alongside Representative William Timmons, and I thank him again for co-leading this important bill to promote efficiency and optimization in Federal agencies.
I would note that this legislation was originally lead by former Ranking Member Gerry Connolly, and I am proud that I can help carry forward this tool and hopefully continue forward his legacy of trying to improve the way that our Federal Government functions.
This legislation is straightforward. It is designed to modernize how Federal agencies track spending, strengthen financial oversight, and improve accountability in how the Federal Government manages our precious taxpayer dollars.
This bill makes long-overdue updates to the decades-old Chief Financial Officers Act of 1990, incorporating longstanding recommendations from the GAO to ensure that agencies can make better management decisions, improve efficiency, and prevent waste, fraud, and abuse.
For example, this legislation would require Federal agencies to annually assess financial reporting internal controls, link agency performance and cost data to enhance financial valuations, and prioritize the elimination of duplicative systems and unnecessary spending.
As someone who started my career at the Securities and Exchange Commission tracking fraud in the private sector, I think it is important we also try to prevent fraud in the public sector, as well. I think this bill would take an important step forward in achieving that goal.
Congress has to play an active role in reducing waste, fraud, and abuse, and we can do so by ensuring that Federal agency chief financial officers are responsible stewards of taxpayer money.
I am confident this legislation will play an important role in doing so, and I urge my colleagues to support this commonsense legislation.
Brandon Gill (R-TX)3:10 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA)3:10 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time for the purpose of closing.
Mr. Speaker, as the gentleman from California mentioned, this is a great accountability bill. It requires the Federal Government to create a governmentwide financial management plan every 4 years and increases the responsibilities of agency CFOs to implement those plans.
It is common sense and bipartisan, and I urge my colleagues to support the bill.
Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
Brandon Gill (R-TX)3:10 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, I encourage my colleagues to support H.R. 8340, the Taxpayer Funds Oversight and Accountability Act, which implements important reforms for improving agency financial management planning.
Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
The SPEAKER pro tempore3:10 p.m.
The question is on the motion offered by the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Gill) that the House suspend the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 8340, as amended.
The question was taken.
The SPEAKER pro tempore3:10 p.m.
In the opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being in the affirmative, the ayes have it.
Brandon Gill (R-TX)3:10 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I object to the vote on the ground that a quorum is not present and make the point of order that a quorum is not present.
The SPEAKER pro tempore3:10 p.m.
Pursuant to clause 8 of rule XX, further proceedings on this question will be postponed.
The point of no quorum is considered withdrawn.
Government Audit and Accountability of Federally Funded State- Administered Programs Act
Pages H3933–H3934 · Official textMr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 8107) to require the establishment of a list identifying program areas and administrative practices presenting the greatest risk to the integrity of Federal funds administered by States and local governments, as amended.
The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows:
Text printed in the Record (3,744 characters)
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the "Government Audit and Accountability of Federally Funded State-Administered Programs Act".
SEC. 2. FEDERALLY-FUNDED STATE-ADMINISTERED PROGRAMS
VULNERABILITY ASSESSMENT.
(a) In General.--Not later than 2 years after the date of the enactment of this Act, and periodically thereafter, the Comptroller General of the United States shall submit to Congress an assessment of program areas and administrative practices that present the greatest risk to the integrity of Federal funds administered by State and local governments and pass-through entities subject to audit under chapter 75 of title 31, United States Code.
(b) Contents.--Each assessment required by subsection (a) shall--
(1) identify program areas and administrative practices at the Federal, State, and local level that present systematic vulnerabilities in the administration of Federal funds by State and local governments, including practices that are more susceptible to waste, fraud, abuse, and improper payments;
(2) assess evidence-based best practices and strategies that have strengthened the integrity of Federal funds administered by State and local governments and reduced waste, fraud, and abuse in Federally-funded programs;
(3) assess program areas and administrative practices at the Federal, State, and local level that--
(A) have demonstrated effectiveness in mitigating waste, fraud, abuse, and improper payments; or
(B) have shown limited effectiveness in reducing such risks;
(4) identify Federal tools, resources, and technical assistance available to State and local governments and how such tools may be improved to prevent and mitigate the systemic vulnerabilities identified under paragraph (1); and
(5) include recommendations to Federal agencies and matters for consideration to Congress to address and improve the program areas and administrative practices identified under paragraph (1), including recommendations to improve eligibility determination and enrollment processes to mitigate risks.
(c) Sources.--
(1) Audit and related materials.--In carrying out the preparation of the assessment under subsection (a), the Comptroller General shall rely, to the extent practicable, on existing oversight, audit, and investigative materials to conduct an analysis of Federal funds administrated by State and local governments, which may include--
(A) any finding of a Federal, State, or local auditor, comptroller, treasurer, inspector general, attorney general, or any other similar official with respect to the administration of such funds;
(B) any audit required under section 7502 of title 31, United States Code; and
(C) any other publicly available Federal, State, or local oversight and program integrity data.
(2) Additional materials.--In preparing each assessment required by subsection (a), the Comptroller General may supplement the materials described in paragraph (1) with additional analysis and new audit work, including by drawing on prior and ongoing work, where such materials are insufficient to assess the program areas and administrative practices identified under subsection (b)(1).
(d) Form and Methodology.--The Comptroller General shall determine the appropriate form and methodology for preparing and submitting each assessment required by subsection (a).
(e) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Improper payment.--The term "improper payment" has the meaning given that term in section 3351(4) of title 31, United States Code.
(2) State.--The term "State" has the meaning given that term in section 6720(a)(4) of title 31, United States Code.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Gill) and the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Subramanyam) each will control 20 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Texas.
Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on this measure.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Is there objection to the request of the gentleman from Texas?
There was no objection.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 8107, the Government Audit and Accountability of Federally Funded State-Administered Programs Act.
The reforms of H.R. 8107 represent a long-overdue step to ensure that Congress is fully informed about fraud risks in Federal programs administered at the State level.
This bill requires the Government Accountability Office to assess program areas and administrative practices that present the greatest risk to the integrity of federally funded programs administered by States and local governments.
This assessment will bring together the typical program-specific assessments to help Congress and other officials better identify common risks. With this information, Congress can bolster its oversight of agencies' and States' efforts to efficiently mitigate fraud risks, including through payment integrity controls.
This legislation will better position Congress to assist Federal agencies and State and local governments to obtain the fraud prevention and investigative resources that they require.
I thank my Oversight and Government Reform Committee colleagues Congressmen Ro Khanna and Tim Burchett for championing this helpful legislation that will help lawmakers understand State-level program risks and inform future fraud prevention reforms.
Mr. Speaker, I encourage my colleagues to support this bipartisan and commonsense bill, and I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, I also rise in support of H.R. 8107, the Government Audit and Accountability of Federally Funded State-Administered Programs Act.
Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from California (Mr. Khanna).
Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding.
Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the House taking up the Government Audit and Accountability of Federally Funded State-Administered Programs Act. It is a long way of saying that this is a bill to go after fraud.
I thank Congressman Tim Burchett for his partnership on this bipartisan legislation. I also thank Chairman Comer; Ranking Member Garcia; Congressman Gill; Congressman Subramanyam; my staff lead, Selene Ceja; and Kevin Fox, my legislative director, for their help in advancing this effort.
The bill is straightforward. It directs the Government Accountability Office to conduct an independent review of Federal programs that States administer on behalf of working families.
Congress has a responsibility to ensure that every tax dollar reaches the people and communities these programs are intended to serve. To do that, we need facts, data, and evidence.
The legislation helps us better understand how these programs operate across States where vulnerabilities may exist, what practices are working, and what improvements Congress should consider to stop fraud.
At its core, the bill is about prevention, accountability, and good governance. By directing the GAO to identify effective tools, technical assistance, and proven practices, we can help States strengthen program administration before problems occur, and it applies to all 50 States, so there is no politics in it.
The families who rely on these programs deserve services that are efficient, reliable, accessible, and protected.
Tackling fraud is not a partisan issue. Congress needs to continue bipartisan, evidence-based efforts to better understand how Federal funds flow through State-administered programs and how we can strengthen those systems.
I recognize Congressman Tim Burchett for his extraordinary leadership and partnership here. This bill gives us the information we need to make informed decisions and strengthen the public trust.
Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the great gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. Burchett).
Mr. Speaker, I appreciate your abilities at short stop, as well.
I thank Mr. Ro Khanna for his kind words. I have never heard the words "extraordinary leadership" attached to the named Tim Burchett before, and I thank the gentleman for that. I thank the gentleman also for including me in this bill.
Mr. Speaker, I rise, of course, in support of the bipartisan Government Audit and Accountability of Federally Funded State-Administered Programs Act.
This bill directs the Comptroller General, or our good friends at the Government Accountability Office, to produce recurring assessments of federally funded State-administered programs.
This report will compare trends across States and identify programs and administrative practices most vulnerable to waste, fraud, and abuse in State and local administration of Federal funds.
Every year, approximately $1.1 trillion of taxpayer dollars are administered by State and local governments. The money is administered with little or no oversight from the Federal Government.
How many times have we heard that we need to audit those folks? This does just that. By requiring the GAO to monitor and report on trends across States, we will begin to see which administrative practices are most vulnerable to waste, fraud, and abuse.
Recently, I have seen fraud run rampant at all levels of government. It is time that we mandate oversight so that the American people know where their taxpayer dollars are going.
Mr. Speaker, we have an obligation to our constituents to protect their hard-earned money. We have an obligation to make sure that government is working for the people. We have an obligation to actually do something, dadgummit, to rid government of waste, fraud, and abuse. It starts today with voting "yes" on this bill.
Mr. Speaker, I thank my good friend Representative Ro Khanna for his support in rooting out waste, fraud, and abuse, and I urge my colleagues to pass this bipartisan piece of legislation.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time for the purpose of closing.
Mr. Speaker, this bill is an important step toward preventing fraud and improper payments before they happen. I urge my colleagues to support the bill, and I yield back the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, approximately $1.1 trillion of taxpayer dollars are administered annually by State and local governments with little to no comprehensive and recurring oversight from the Federal Government or Congress.
H.R. 8107 would require the Government Accountability Office to study the specific risks associated with federally funded State-administered programs and enable Congress to track emerging fraud patterns before they become billion-dollar scandals.
Mr. Speaker, I, therefore, encourage my colleagues to support the Government Audit and Accountability of Federally Funded State-Administered Programs Act, and I yield back the balance of my time.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
The question is on the motion offered by the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Gill) that the House suspend the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 8107, as amended.
The question was taken; and (two-thirds being in the affirmative) the rules were suspended and the bill, as amended, was passed. A motion to reconsider was laid on the table.
Federal Fraud Prevention Workforce Training Act
Pages H3934–H3936 · Official textMr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 8428) to amend title 5, United States Code, to establish a mandatory antifraud and improper payment training program for Federal program administrators, to provide for the availability of such training to State and local entities administering Federally funded programs, and for other purposes, as amended.
The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows:
Text printed in the Record (5,035 characters)
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the "Federal Fraud Prevention Workforce Training Act".
SEC. 2. ESTABLISHMENT OF ANTIFRAUD AND IMPROPER PAYMENT
PREVENTION TRAINING PROGRAM.
(a) In General.--Chapter 41 of title 5, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following new section:
"Sec. 4122. Federal Government-wide antifraud and improper
payment prevention training program
"(a) Establishment.--The Secretary of the Treasury and the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, in consultation with the Director of the Office of Personnel Management, may establish and maintain a Federal Government-wide program for antifraud and improper payment prevention training (in this section referred to as the `Program').
"(b) Curriculum Requirements.--The Program shall include comprehensive instruction on--
"(1) identifying and assessing fraud and improper payment risks in Federal programs;
"(2) implementing resources, including the Government Accountability Office's Framework for Managing Fraud Risks in Federal Programs and the Office of Management and Budget's Circular A-123 and its applicable appendices, the Department of the Treasury's Anti-Fraud Playbook, the National Institute of Standards and Technology Digital Identity Guidelines, and data analytics tools in agency program administration;
"(3) using systems and resources maintained by the Department of the Treasury, including the Do Not Pay system established under 3354 of title 31, and any other payment, account, and payee validation programs (including government-wide antifraud data sharing programs) and services to prevent and address fraud and improper payments in Federal programs;
"(4) reporting mechanisms for suspected fraud, waste, and abuse; and
"(5) the establishment and use of internal controls designed to prevent improper payments and fraud in Federal programs.
"(c) Mandatory Participation.--
"(1) In general.--The head of each agency shall ensure that any employee serving as a program administrator, program officer, financial administrator or manager, disbursement certifying official under section 3528 of title 31, auditing official, grants manager, or in a similar oversight capacity of Federal programs or Federal financial assistance completes the Program--
"(A) not later than 180 days after the date of appointment to such position or, for any employee occupying such a position on the effective date of this section pursuant to section 2(c) of the Federal Fraud Prevention Workforce Training Act, within 180 days of such effective date; and
"(B) not less frequently than once every 2 years thereafter.
"(2) Certification.--The Director of the Office of Personnel Management shall provide a system for certifying completion of the Program and maintaining records of such certifications.
"(d) Availability to State, Local, or Tribal-Administered Programs.--
"(1) In general.--The Secretary of the Treasury may make the Program available at no cost to employees or contractors of a State (defined in this subsection as any State of the United States, the District of Columbia, a territory or possession of the United States, or a federally recognized Indian Tribe) or local government who are responsible for the administration of Federally funded programs.
"(2) Technical assistance.--The Secretary of the Treasury may provide technical assistance to such State or local governments to integrate the Program's standards into the respective administrative frameworks of such entities.
"(e) Reporting.--Not later than 2 years after the date of the enactment of the Federal Fraud Prevention Workforce Training Act and annually thereafter, the Secretary of the Treasury and the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, in consultation with the Director of the Office of Personnel Management, shall submit, to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of the Senate, a report on the implementation of the Program, including participation rates and an assessment of the Program's effectiveness in reducing fraud and improper payments.".
(b) Clerical Amendment.--The table of sections for such chapter is amended by adding at the end the following:
"4122. Federal Government-wide antifraud and improper payment prevention training program.". (c) Effective Date.--(1) In general.--Except as provided in paragraph (2), this Act and the amendments made by this Act shall take effect on the date that is 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act. (2) Regulations.--Not later than 180 days after the effective date in paragraph (1), the Secretary of the Treasury may prescribe such regulations as necessary to implement or administer the training program established under section 4122 of title 5, United States Code, as added by subsection (a) of this section.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Gill) and the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Subramanyam) each will control 20 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Texas.
Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on this measure.
Brandon Gill (R-TX)3:20 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 8428, the Federal Fraud Prevention Workforce Training Act.
Every year, billions of taxpayer dollars are lost to increasingly sophisticated fraud schemes. Unfortunately, the increase in sophistication of fraudsters and criminals is outmatching the capabilities of Federal agencies that work to safeguard taxpayer funds.
H.R. 8428 identifies this expanding challenge and helps bolster the financial defenses of our Federal programs against malicious actors.
Specifically, it authorizes the U.S. Treasury to establish a government-wide antifraud training program for agency officials, like grant managers and auditors, so they are adequately trained on best practices for preventing and addressing fraud in agency programs.
The bill also allows the U.S. Treasury to provide the training programs to State and local agencies administering federally funded programs at no cost.
This training will help ensure agency program management and State-level officials are better equipped to confront the challenges associated with fraud and improper payments by better utilizing the tools and best practices already established.
Such tools include more fully implementing agency fraud prevention frameworks in the program's administration and fully utilizing Treasury's Do Not Pay System.
This is important and forward-looking legislation, and I applaud my Oversight Committee colleagues Congressman Glenn Grothman and Raja Krishnamoorthi on these programs.
I encourage my colleagues to support this bipartisan and forward-looking bill, and I reserve the balance of my time.
Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA)3:20 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
I rise today in support of H.R. 8428, the Federal Fraud Prevention Workforce Training Act.
This bill would establish programs to train Federal workers to identify the risks of fraud and improper payments.
Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Krishnamoorthi).
Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL)3:20 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I thank Congressman Grothman for being a partner on this bill.
H.R. 8428, the Federal Fraud Prevention Workforce Training Act, is legislation that would address a central concern of the American people, which is fraud and waste in government.
Every dollar lost to fraud is a dollar that cannot be used to serve the American people. Yet, over the last 20 years, at least $3 trillion in improper payments have been made by the American Government.
Our bipartisan bill protects taxpayer dollars by creating a universal Federal training program to fight fraud. By giving our government employees the tools that they need to identify fraud and avoid spending mistakes, we can stop waste before it happens.
Accountability to the American people is not optional. It is required. I am proud to support policies that keep our Federal programs strong and that use taxpayer dollars responsibly.
Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this key legislation, and I thank the bill's sponsors, Chairman Comer, and Ranking Member Garcia for bringing this bill to the floor today.
Brandon Gill (R-TX)3:20 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr. Grothman).
Glenn Grothman (R-WI)3:20 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the Federal Fraud Prevention Workforce Training Act. It is a bipartisan bill that strengthens fraud prevention efforts across the Federal Government.
Americans work hard for their money. They pay their taxes, follow the rules, and expect the Federal Government to treat every dollar with care.
Unfortunately, fraud in Federal programs remains far too common, and too often it could have been prevented. The problem is not only the bad actors who try to steal from the taxpayer. Too many Federal employees and program administrators are left without training, guidance, or tools they need to identify risks before taxpayer dollars go out the door.
The bill takes a commonsense step to fix that. The Federal Fraud Prevention Workforce Training Act directs the Department of the Treasury, in coordination with OMB and OPM, to establish a standardized, government-wide fraud prevention training program. That training would help Federal employees identify fraud risks, implement proven antifraud practices, and make better use of existing tools, including the Do Not Pay System.
It would also make these resources available to State and local governments that administer Federal funds.
That last point is important. Many Federal programs are not administered only in Washington. They depend on State and local partners who are often on the front lines and don't have any skin in game. If we want to protect taxpayer dollars, those partners need access to the same knowledge and best practices the Federal Government has.
Every dollar lost to fraud is a dollar that cannot help a veteran, a senior, a small business, a family in need, a community that depends on Federal assistance, or pay down our ridiculous Federal debt. It is also a dollar added to the debt and a dollar taken from hardworking Americans who expect better from their government.
We should not wait until fraud has already occurred to ask what went wrong. We should train the Federal workforce to identify warning signs early, use the tools already available, and stop fraud before taxpayer dollars are wasted.
I thank Congressman Krishnamoorthi for leading the bipartisan effort with me. I also thank Chairman Comer for his leadership on the Oversight Committee and his work to hold the Federal Government accountable.
Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support the bill.
Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA)3:20 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time for closing.
Preventing improper payments and fraud starts with a well-trained workforce. I thank my colleagues for their work on this important legislation.
I urge my colleagues to support the bill, and I yield back the balance of my time.
Brandon Gill (R-TX)3:20 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time.
I encourage my colleagues to support H.R. 8428, the Federal Fraud Prevention Workforce Training Act.
In order to meaningfully address the massive scale of fraud in Federal programs, we need to implement a standardized, government-wide training program for employees administering agency programs.
H.R. 8428 helps establish leading fraud prevention training practices throughout the Federal Government so we can recognize and prevent fraud before it happens.
Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
The SPEAKER pro tempore3:20 p.m.
The question is on the motion offered by the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Gill) that the House suspend the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 8428, as amended.
The question was taken.
The SPEAKER pro tempore3:20 p.m.
In the opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being in the affirmative, the ayes have it.
Brandon Gill (R-TX)3:20 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.
The yeas and nays were ordered.
The SPEAKER pro tempore3:20 p.m.
Pursuant to clause 8 of rule XX, further proceedings on this motion will be postponed.
Bonuses for Cost-Cutters and Fraud Preventers Act of 2026
Pages H3936–H3938 · Official textMr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 428) to amend title 5, United States Code, to enhance the authority under which Federal agencies may pay cash awards to employees for making cost saving disclosures, and for other purposes, as amended.
The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows:
Text printed in the Record (7,245 characters)
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the "Bonuses for Cost-Cutters and Fraud Preventers Act of 2026".
SEC. 2. COST SAVINGS ENHANCEMENTS.
(a) Definitions.--Section 4511 of title 5, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in the section heading, by striking "Definition" and inserting "Definitions"; and
(2) in subsection (a)--
(A) by striking the period at the end and inserting a semicolon;
(B) by striking "this subchapter, the term" and inserting the following: "this subchapter--
"(1) the term"; and
(C) by adding at the end the following:
"(2) the terms `improper payment' and `payment' have the meanings given such terms, respectively, in section 3351 of title 31; and
"(3) the term `wasteful expenses' means amounts made available for salaries and expenses accounts, operations and maintenance accounts, or other equivalent accounts--
"(A) that are identified by an employee of the agency under section 4512(a) as wasteful; and
"(B) that the Chief Financial Officer of the agency determines are not required for the purpose for which the amounts were made available.".
(b) Authority.--Section 4512 of title 5, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in the heading, by inserting "and improper payment" before "disclosures";
(2) in subsection (a)--
(A) by inserting after the first sentence the following: "The head of an agency may pay a cash award to any employee of such agency whose identification of wasteful expenses to the Chief Financial Officer of such agency, through a process determined by the head of such agency, has resulted in cost savings for the agency or prevented a payment that, if made, would be an improper payment resulting in financial loss to the Government.";
(B) in paragraph (1) by striking "$10,000" and inserting "$20,000";
(C) in paragraph (2)--
(i) by inserting "or prevented improper payments" after "cost savings";
(ii) by inserting "Chief Financial Officer," after "Inspector General,";
(iii) by striking "subsection (b)" and inserting "subsection (b) or (c), as applicable"; and
(iv) by inserting "or identification" after "disclosure"; and
(D) in the matter following paragraph (2)--
(i) by inserting ", Chief Financial Officer," after "Inspector General";
(ii) by inserting "or prevented improper payments" after "cost savings"; and
(iii) by inserting "or identification" after "disclosure"; and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
"(c)(1) If the Chief Financial Officer of an agency determines that potential wasteful expenses identified by an employee meet the requirements of section 4511(a)(3)(B), the head of such agency shall notify the President.
"(2) If the Chief Financial Officer of an agency determines that a payment identified by an employee would, if made, be an improper payment resulting in financial loss to the Government, the head of such agency shall notify the Secretary of the Treasury of such payment for purposes of preventing similar improper payments.
"(3) In the case of an agency for which there is no Chief Financial Officer, the head of the agency shall designate an agency employee who shall have the authority to make the determinations for identification of wasteful expenses or prevented improper payments under this section.
"(d) The head of each agency shall make available, along with, and in the same manner and form as, the provision of information required under section 1116 of title 31, information on disclosures of wasteful expenses or prevented improper payments pursuant to which an award was made under this section, including--
"(1) a description of each disclosure of possible wasteful expenses or improper payments identified by an employee and determined by the agency to have merit; and
"(2) the number and amount of cash awards provided by the agency under subsection (a).
"(e) An individual may not receive a cash award under this subchapter if the individual is--
"(1) an officer or employee of the Office of the Inspector General of an agency; or
"(2) ineligible for a cash award under section 4509.
"(f) The Director of the Office of Personnel Management, in coordination with the Director of the Office of Management and Budget and the Secretary of the Treasury, shall--
"(1) ensure that the cash award program of each agency under this section complies with this section; and
"(2) submit to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of the Senate an annual certification indicating whether the cash award program of each agency under this section complies with this section.
"(g) Not later than 3 years after the date of enactment of the Bonuses for Cost-Cutters and Fraud Preventers Act of 2026, and every 2 years thereafter for 4 years, the Comptroller General of the United States shall submit to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs of the Senate a report on the operation of the cost savings and awards program under this section, including any recommendations for legislative changes.".
(c) Office of Management and Budget Guidance.--
(1) In general.--Not later than six months after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Director of the Office of Management and Budget, in coordination with the Director of the Office of Personnel Management and the Secretary of the Treasury, shall issue guidance to Federal agencies on implementing the amendments made by this Act.
(2) Contents.--The Director of the Office of Management and Budget shall include in the guidance required by paragraph (1) the following:
(A) Guidelines for employees of Federal agencies to identify and report within the agency of such employee a wasteful expense or improper payment.
(B) Guidelines for Federal agencies to make a determination as to whether an identification of a wasteful expense or improper payment is appropriate.
(C) Guidelines for determining an appropriate cash award for an employee of a Federal agency who identifies and reports a wasteful expense or improper payment, including any considerations for such employee's grade, locality pay, and other considerations that may factor into the aggregate compensation limit applicable to such employee in a given calendar year.
(D) Procedures for reporting actions taken under the amendments made by this Act to the Office of Management and Budget, the Department of the Treasury, and the Office of Personnel Management, as appropriate.
(d) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall take effect on the date that is one year after the date of the enactment of this Act.
(e) Technical and Conforming Amendment.--The table of sections for subchapter II of chapter 45 of title 5, United States Code, is amended--
(1) by striking the item relating to section 4511 and inserting the following:
"4511. Definitions and general provisions."; and (2) by striking the item relating to section 4512 and inserting the following:
"4512. Agency awards for cost savings and improper payment disclosures.".
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Gill) and the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Subramanyam) each will control 20 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Texas.
Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on this measure.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Is there objection to the request of the gentleman from Texas?
There was no objection.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 428, the Bonuses for Cost-Cutters and Fraud Preventers Act of 2026.
This bill expands existing incentives for Federal employees to identify and disclose waste and abuse before American tax dollars are spent.
Without incentives to disclose wasteful spending, Federal employees who are most likely to identify and halt such spending may not speak up.
It was because of instances like these that in 1981 Congress created a cash awards program to encourage employees to take proactive action to prevent waste, fraud, and abuse. This program was so successful that it was made permanent just over a decade later.
Over the years, these authorities have resulted in creative ideas coming from agency employees themselves, contributing to the saving of millions in taxpayer dollars. These cost-cutting ideas included allowing veterans to use otherwise safe, discarded medicine and eliminating wasteful printing of the Federal Register.
It is time that Congress does more to expand the cost-saving potential of Federal employees by expanding these authorities.
H.R. 428, as amended, increases incentives for Federal employees by allowing cash awards for reporting wasteful spending and improper payments before funds go out the door.
The best way to recover misspent tax dollars is to not misspend them in the first place. I support this important legislation, which helps preserve Congress' constitutional role in the appropriations process and helps reduce wasteful spending.
I thank Congressman Chuck Fleischmann for bringing this creative solution to preventing fraud to the Oversight Committee and for working with the committee to expand it to address improper payments.
I encourage my colleagues to support this bipartisanship bill.
Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA)3:30 p.m.
I yield myself such time as I may consume.
I rise today in support of H.R. 428, as well, the Bonuses for Cost-Cutters and Fraud Preventers Act 2026. This bipartisan bill would increase the maximum cash bonus awarded to Federal employees who report waste, fraud, and abuse, from $10,000 to $20,000. Increasing this award will encourage more Federal workers to come forward and report on waste and improper spending. It will reward employees for acting in the best interest of American taxpayers.
The bill also requires agencies to report on the wasteful and improper spending reported by employees, promoting transparency.
I thank my colleagues for their work on this bill.
Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
Brandon Gill (R-TX)3:30 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 minutes to the gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. Fleischmann).
Charles J. "Chuck" Fleischmann (R-TN)3:30 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this bill. Let me begin by stating a straightforward fact: The Federal Government spends excessively, and much of these funds are wasted. The Bonuses for Cost-Cutters and Fraud Preventers Act of 2026 offers a practical solution to ensure that taxpayers' hard-earned dollars are wisely managed and efficiently.
This legislation takes our existing Federal rewards program, a program that already rewards employees who identify fraud, waste, and mismanagement, and expands it. Under this legislation, any Federal employee who identifies wasteful operational expenses that an agency itself determines are not required for its stated purpose can bring that information forward. The agency will then be required to propose those funds for rescission. On top of that, we double the maximum cash award available to employees who identify wasteful spending.
Federal employees are often the first to recognize when funds are allocated to outdated programs or when bureaucratic practices prioritize institutional interests over those of taxpayers. For too long, there has been no incentive to speak up, and in some cases real disincentives have existed. This bill addresses that issue.
Tennessee's Third District, my district, is home to thousands of dedicated Federal employees at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, the Tennessee Valley Authority, and other Federal sites throughout our region.
These hard-working public servants take their responsibility to taxpayers seriously. H.R. 428 honors their commitment by giving them a meaningful role in eliminating waste and rewarding them for delivering results to the people who fund our government.
We are taking these steps at a critical moment. The American people have given us a clear mandate to rein in spending. This administration is actively working to eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse across the Federal Government.
The efforts by the Department of Government Efficiency reflect the same mandate, and H.R. 428 supports that mission by establishing a permanent statutory framework that will endure beyond any one administration.
It is also important to emphasize that this is not a partisan bill. Taxpayers in Tennessee, and across the Nation, regardless of party, do not want their money wasted. They expect a government that is accountable, efficient, and worthy of their trust.
I have worked on this legislation for years, and I am proud that the Oversight Committee has advanced it.
Mr. Speaker, I say to my colleagues on both sides of the aisle, this is a commonsense, fiscally responsible, pro-taxpayer bill. I urge everyone to support it.
Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA)3:30 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time for closing.
Increasing the bonus for identifying waste, fraud, and abuse will save taxpayer dollars, make government more efficient, reward honest workers, and increase accountability.
I thank my colleagues again for this bill, and I urge my colleagues to support it.
Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
Brandon Gill (R-TX)3:30 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I encourage my colleagues to support H.R. 428, Bonuses for Cost-Cutters and Fraud Preventers Act of 2026, which establishes additional incentives for Federal employees to identify wasteful expenses or improper payments.
Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
The SPEAKER pro tempore3:30 p.m.
The question is on the motion offered by the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Gill) that the House suspend the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 428, as amended.
The question was taken; and (two-thirds being in the affirmative) the rules were suspended and the bill, as amended, was passed. The title of the bill was amended so as to read: "A bill to amend title 5, United States Code, to enhance the authority under which Federal agencies may pay cash awards to employees for making cost saving and improper payment disclosures, and for other purposes.". A motion to reconsider was laid on the table.
Legislative Branch Agencies Clarification Act
Pages H3938–H3943 · Official textMr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 6028) to modify the appointment and removal process for certain legislative branch officers, and for other purposes, as amended.
The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows:
Text printed in the Record (11,231 characters)
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the "Legislative Branch Agencies Clarification Act".
SEC. 2. LIBRARIAN OF CONGRESS.
(a) In General.--The Librarian of Congress Succession Modernization Act of 2015 (Public Law 114-86; 129 Stat. 675), is amended--
(1) by redesignating section 3 as section 5;
(2) by redesignating section 2 as section 3;
(3) by inserting after section 1 the following:
"SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.
"In this Act:
"(1) Commission.--The term `commission' means a congressional commission consisting of the oversight committee leadership and the House and Senate leadership.
"(2) Deputy librarian.--The term `Deputy Librarian' means the Deputy Librarian of Congress.
"(3) House and senate leadership.--The term `House and Senate leadership' means the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the majority leader of the Senate, the minority leader of the House of Representatives, and the minority leader of the Senate.
"(4) Librarian.--The term `Librarian' means the Librarian of Congress.
"(5) Oversight committee leadership.--The term `oversight committee leadership' means the chair and ranking minority member of the Committee on House Administration of the House of Representatives and the chairman and ranking minority member of the Committee on Rules and Administration of the Senate."; and
(4) in section 3, as so redesignated--
(A) by striking subsection (a) and inserting the following:
"(a) Appointment.--
"(1) Commission.--The Librarian shall be appointed by the commission in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (2), without regard to political affiliation, and solely on the basis of fitness to perform the duties of the office.
"(2) Appointment procedures.--
"(A) Recommendation of 3 individuals.--If there is a vacancy in the position of Librarian, the oversight committee leadership shall jointly recommend 3 individuals for appointment to the vacant office.
"(B) Selection by leaders.--The Librarian shall be appointed from among the 3 individuals recommended under subparagraph (A) upon a majority vote of the House and Senate leadership.";
(B) in subsection (b), by striking "of Congress";
(C) in subsection (c), by striking "of Congress, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate,"; and
(D) by striking subsection (d) and inserting the following:
"(d) Removal.--The Librarian may be removed from office at any time upon a majority vote of the House and Senate leadership.".
(b) Pay.--Section 904 of the Supplemental Appropriations Act, 1983 (2 U.S.C. 136a-2) is amended--
(1) by inserting "(a)" before "Notwithstanding"; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
"(b) The Librarian of Congress shall not be considered to serve under a political appointment for purposes of section 747 of the Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Act, 2024 (division B of Public Law 118-47; 138 Stat. 585), or any other subsequently enacted similar provision of law.".
SEC. 3. DEPUTY LIBRARIAN OF CONGRESS.
The Librarian of Congress Succession Modernization Act of 2015 (Public Law 114-86; 129 Stat. 675), is amended by inserting after section 3, as so redesignated, the following:
"SEC. 4. DEPUTY LIBRARIAN OF CONGRESS.
"(a) Establishment of Deputy Librarian.--
"(1) In general.--The Librarian shall appoint a suitable individual to be the Deputy Librarian of Congress.
"(2) Duties.--The Librarian may delegate to the Deputy Librarian such duties as the Librarian determines are necessary or appropriate.
"(b) Deadline.--The Librarian shall appoint a Deputy Librarian under subsection (a)(1) not later than 120 days after--
"(1) the date on which the Librarian is appointed under section 3, if there is no Deputy Librarian on the date of the appointment; or
"(2) the date on which a vacancy arises in the office of the Deputy Librarian.
"(c) Failure to Appoint.--If the Librarian does not appoint a Deputy Librarian on or before the applicable date specified in subsection (b)--
"(1) the oversight committee leadership shall jointly recommend an individual for appointment to the vacant office; and
"(2) upon a majority vote of the House and Senate leadership, the individual recommended under paragraph (1) shall be appointed as the Deputy Librarian.
"(d) Notification.--If the position of Deputy Librarian becomes vacant, the Librarian shall immediately notify the members of the commission.
"(e) Service as Acting Librarian.--
"(1) In general.--The Deputy Librarian shall act as Librarian if the Librarian is absent or disabled or there is no Librarian.
"(2) Absence, disability, or vacancy in office of deputy librarian.--
"(A) In general.--For purposes of paragraph (1), if the Deputy Librarian is also absent or disabled or there is no Deputy Librarian--
"(i) the oversight committee leadership shall jointly recommend an individual to be designated to serve as acting Librarian; and
"(ii) upon a majority vote of the members of the House and Senate leadership, the individual recommended under clause (i) shall be designated to serve as acting Librarian.
"(B) Period of appointment.--An individual designated as acting Librarian under subparagraph (A) may serve until--
"(i) the end of the absence or disability of the Librarian or the Deputy Librarian; or
"(ii) in the case of vacancies in both positions, a Librarian has been appointed under section 3.
"(3) Authority.--An officer serving as acting Librarian under paragraph (1) or (2) shall perform all the duties and exercise all the authorities of the Librarian, including the authority to delegate the duties and authorities of the Librarian.".
SEC. 4. DIRECTOR OF THE GOVERNMENT PUBLISHING OFFICE.
(a) In General.--Chapter 3 of title 44, United States Code, is amended--
(1) by inserting before section 301 the following:
"Sec. 300. Definitions
"In this chapter--
"(1) the term `commission' means a congressional commission consisting of the oversight committee leadership and the House and Senate leadership;
"(2) the term `House and Senate leadership' means the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the majority leader of the Senate, the minority leader of the House of Representatives, and the minority leader of the Senate; and
"(3) the term `oversight committee leadership' means the chair and ranking minority member of the Committee on House Administration of the House of Representatives and the chairman and ranking minority member of the Committee on Rules and Administration of the Senate."; and
(2) in section 301--
(A) by striking subsection (a) and inserting the following:
"(a)(1) The Government Publishing Office shall be headed by a Director.
"(2)(A) The Director shall be appointed by the commission in accordance with the procedures specified in subparagraph (B), without regard to political affiliation, and solely on the basis of fitness to perform the duties of the office.
"(B)(i) If there is a vacancy in the position of Director, the oversight committee leadership shall jointly recommend 3 individuals for appointment to the vacant office.
"(ii) The Director shall be appointed from among the 3 individuals recommended under clause (i), upon a majority vote of the House and Senate leadership.";
(B) in subsection (c), by striking ", by and with the advice and consent of the Senate,"; and
(C) by adding at the end the following:
"(d) The Director may be removed from office at any time upon a majority vote of the members of the House and Senate leadership.".
(b) Pay.--Section 303 of title 44, United States Code, is amended--
(1) by inserting "(a)" before "The annual rate of pay for the Director of the Government Publishing Office"; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
"(b) The Director of the Government Publishing Office shall not be considered to serve under a political appointment for purposes of section 747 of the Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Act, 2024 (division B of Public Law 118-47; 138 Stat. 585), or any other subsequently enacted similar provision of law.".
(c) Conforming Amendment.--The table of sections for chapter 3 of title 44, United States Code, is amended by inserting before the item relating to section 301 the following:
"300. Definitions.".
SEC. 5. DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF THE GOVERNMENT PUBLISHING OFFICE.
(a) In General.--Section 302 of title 44, United States Code, is amended to read as follows:
"Sec. 302. Deputy Director of the Government Publishing
Office: appointment; duties
"(a) In this section--
"(1) the term `Deputy Director' means the Deputy Director of the Government Publishing Office; and
"(2) the term `Director' means the Director of the Government Publishing Office.
"(b)(1) The Director shall appoint a suitable person to be the Deputy Director.
"(2) The Deputy Director shall supervise the buildings occupied by the Government Publishing Office and perform any other duties required by the Director.
"(c) The Director shall appoint a Deputy Director under subsection (b)(1) not later than 120 days after--
"(1) the date on which the Director is appointed under section 301, if there is no Deputy Director on the date of the appointment; or
"(2) the date on which a vacancy arises in the office of the Deputy Director.
"(d) If the Director does not appoint a Deputy Director on or before the applicable date specified in subsection (c)--
"(1) the oversight committee leadership shall jointly recommend an individual for appointment to the vacant office; and
"(2) upon a majority vote of the House and Senate leadership, the individual recommended under paragraph (1) shall be appointed as the Deputy Director.
"(e) If the position of Deputy Director becomes vacant, the Director shall immediately notify the members of the commission.".
(b) Service as Acting Director.--Section 304 of title 44, United States Code, is amended to read as follows:
"Sec. 304. Director of the Government Publishing Office:
vacancy in office
"(a) In this section, the terms `Deputy Director' and `Director' have the meanings given such terms in section 302(a).
"(b) The Deputy Director shall act as Director if the Director is absent or disabled or there is no Director.
"(c)(1) For purposes of subsection (b), if the Deputy Director is also absent or disabled or there is no Deputy Director--
"(A) the oversight committee leadership shall jointly recommend an individual to be designated to serve as acting Director; and
"(B) upon a majority vote of the House and Senate leadership, the individual recommended under subparagraph (A) shall be designated as the acting Director.
"(2) An individual designated as acting Director under paragraph (1) may serve until--
"(A) the end of the absence or disability of the Director or the Deputy Director; or
"(B) in the case of vacancies in both positions, a Director has been appointed under section 301.
"(d) An officer serving as acting Director under subsection (b) or (c) shall perform all the duties and exercise all the authorities of the Director, including the authority to delegate the duties and authorities of the Director.".
SEC. 6.
Text printed in the Record (10,933 characters)
COPYRIGHT OFFICE.
(a) Removing Supervisory Authority of Library of Congress Over Copyright Office.--
(1) In general.--Title 17, United States Code, is amended--
(A) in chapter 1--
(i) in section 111(d)--
(I) in paragraph (2), in the second sentence, by striking "Librarian of Congress" and inserting "Register of Copyrights"; and
(II) in paragraph (4)--
(aa) in subparagraph (B), in the second sentence, by striking "Librarian of Congress" and inserting "Register of Copyrights"; and
(bb) in subparagraph (C), by striking "Librarian of Congress" and inserting "Register of Copyrights";
(ii) in section 112(e)(5), by striking "Librarian of Congress" and inserting "Register of Copyrights";
(iii) in section 114(f)(2), by striking "Librarian of Congress" and inserting "Register of Copyrights";
(iv) in section 115(d)--
(I) in paragraph (3)(A)(iv), by striking ", with the approval of the Librarian of Congress pursuant to section 702,"; and
(II) in paragraph (5)(A)(iv), by striking ", with the approval of the Librarian of Congress pursuant to section 702,";
(v) in section 118(b)(2), by striking "Librarian of Congress" and inserting "Register of Copyrights"; and
(vi) in section 119(b)--
(I) in paragraph (3), in the second sentence, by striking "Librarian of Congress" and inserting "Register of Copyrights"; and
(II) in paragraph (5)--
(aa) in subparagraph (B), in the second sentence, by striking "Librarian of Congress" and inserting "Register of Copyrights"; and
(bb) in subparagraph (C), by striking "Librarian of Congress" and inserting "Register of Copyrights";
(B) in chapter 7--
(i) in section 701--
(I) in subsection (a)--
(aa) in the first sentence, by striking "of the Library of Congress"; and
(bb) by striking the second sentence and inserting the following: "The Register of Copyrights shall be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, but before the President makes such an appointment, the chair and ranking minority member of each of the Committee on House Administration of the House of Representatives, the Committee on the Judiciary of the House of Representatives, the Committee on Rules and Administration of the Senate, and the Committee on the Judiciary of the Senate shall jointly recommend 3 individuals whom the President may consider in making the appointment. The subordinate officers and employees of the Copyright Office shall be appointed by the Register of Copyrights.";
(II) in subsection (d)--
(aa) in the first sentence, by striking "the Librarian of"; and
(bb) by striking the second sentence; and
(III) in subsection (f), by striking the second and third sentences and inserting the following: "The Register of Copyrights shall establish not more than 4 positions for Associate Registers of Copyrights and shall make appointments to those positions.";
(ii) in section 702, by striking the second sentence and inserting "The Register shall consult with the Librarian of Congress prior to establishing regulations that affect deposits made under sections 407 and 704 of this title. The Register shall consult with the Librarian of Congress before establishing any regulation under this title that affects the authority, rights, or access of the Library of Congress under this title with respect to any material deposited in the Copyright Office."; and
(iii) in section 704(d), by striking "joint discretion of the Register and the Librarian" and inserting "discretion of the Register, in consultation with the Librarian,";
(C) in chapter 8--
(i) in section 801--
(I) in subsection (a)--
(aa) in the first sentence, by striking "Librarian of Congress" and inserting "Register of Copyrights"; and
(bb) by striking the second sentence;
(II) in subsection (d), by striking "Librarian of Congress" and inserting "Register of Copyrights"; and
(III) in subsection (e)--
(aa) in the heading, by striking "Library of Congress" and inserting "Copyright Office"; and
(bb) by striking "Library of Congress" and inserting "Copyright Office";
(ii) in section 802--
(I) in subsection (d)--
(aa) in paragraph (1), in the first sentence, by striking "Librarian of Congress" and inserting "Register of Copyrights"; and
(bb) in paragraph (2), by striking "Librarian of Congress" and inserting "Register of Copyrights";
(II) in subsection (f)(2)--
(aa) in subparagraph (A), by striking "Library of Congress" and inserting "Copyright Office"; and
(bb) in subparagraph (B), by striking "Librarian of Congress" and inserting "Register of Copyrights";
(III) in subsection (h), by striking "Librarian of Congress" and inserting "Register of Copyrights"; and
(IV) in subsection (i)--
(aa) by striking "Librarian of Congress" each place that term appears and inserting "Register of Copyrights"; and
(bb) in the third sentence, by striking "Librarian" and inserting "Register of Copyrights"; and
(iii) in section 803--
(I) in subsection (a)(1), in the second sentence--
(aa) by striking "the Librarian of Congress" and inserting "the Register of Copyrights"; and
(bb) by striking "of the Librarian of Congress or" and inserting "of";
(II) in subsection (b)(6)(A), in the second sentence, by striking "Librarian of Congress" and inserting "Register of Copyrights";
(III) in subsection (c)(6)--
(aa) by striking "Librarian of Congress" each place that term appears and inserting "Register of Copyrights"; and
(bb) in the second sentence, by striking "Librarian" and inserting "Register of Copyrights"; and
(IV) in subsection (e)(1)--
(aa) in the paragraph heading, by striking "library of congress and"; and
(bb) in subparagraph (A)--
(AA) by striking "The Librarian of Congress" and inserting "The Register of Copyrights"; and
(BB) by striking "the Librarian of Congress, the Copyright Office, and" and inserting "the Copyright Office and";
(D) in section 1007--
(i) in subsection (b), in the third sentence, by striking "Librarian of Congress" and inserting "Register of Copyrights"; and
(ii) in subsection (c), in the third sentence, by striking "Librarian of Congress" and inserting "Register of Copyrights";
(E) in section 1201(a)(1)--
(i) in subparagraph (C)--
(I) in the matter preceding clause (i)--
(aa) in the first sentence, by striking "the Librarian of Congress, upon the recommendation of the Register of Copyrights, who shall consult with the Assistant Secretary for Communications and Information of the Department of Commerce and report and comment on his or her views in making such recommendation" and inserting "the Register of Copyrights, after consultation with the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information"; and
(bb) in the second sentence, by striking "the Librarian" and inserting "the Register of Copyrights"; and
(II) in clause (v), by striking "Librarian" and inserting "Register of Copyrights"; and
(ii) in subparagraph (D), by striking "Librarian" each place that term appears and inserting "Register of Copyrights";
(F) in section 1331, by striking "of the Library of Congress"; and
(G) in chapter 15--
(i) in section 1502(b)--
(I) in paragraph (1)--
(aa) in the first sentence, by striking "recommend" and inserting "appoint"; and
(bb) by striking the second sentence;
(II) in paragraph (6)--
(aa) in subparagraph (A)(i), by striking "the Librarian of Congress shall, upon the recommendation of, and in consultation with, the Register of Copyrights," and inserting "the Register of Copyrights shall"; and
(bb) in subparagraph (B), by striking "the Librarian of Congress shall, upon recommendation of, and in consultation with, the Register of Copyrights," and inserting "the Register of Copyrights shall"; and
(III) in paragraph (7), by striking "Librarian of Congress" and inserting "Register of Copyrights"; and
(ii) in section 1503(b)(3), by striking "Library of Congress or".
(2) Amendments to other laws.--
(A) Computer software rental amendments act of 1990.--Section 805(d) of the Computer Software Rental Amendments Act of 1990 (17 U.S.C. 205 note; Public Law 101-650) is amended by striking the second sentence.
(B) Unlocking consumer choice and wireless competition act.--Section 2 of the Unlocking Consumer Choice and Wireless Competition Act (17 U.S.C. 1201 note; Public Law 113-144) is amended--
(i) in the heading, by striking "by librarian of congress";
(ii) in subsection (a), by inserting after "United States Code," the following: "(as in effect before the date of enactment of the Legislative Branch Agencies Clarification Act)";
(iii) in subsection (c), by striking paragraph (2) and inserting the following:
"(2) as authorized by an exemption adopted by--
"(A) the Librarian of Congress pursuant to a determination made on or after the date of enactment of this Act and before the date of enactment of the Legislative Branch Agencies Clarification Act under section 1201(a)(1)(C) of title 17, United States Code; or
"(B) the Register of Copyrights pursuant to a determination made on or after the date of enactment of the Legislative Branch Agencies Clarification Act under section 1201(a)(1)(C) of title 17, United States Code,"; and
(iv) in subsection (d), by striking paragraph (2) and inserting the following:
"(2) Librarian of congress; register of copyrights.--Nothing in this Act alters, or shall be construed to alter, the authority of--
"(A) the Librarian of Congress under section 1201(a)(1) of title 17, United States Code, as in effect before the date of enactment of the Legislative Branch Agencies Clarification Act; or
"(B) the Register of Copyrights under section 1201(a)(1) of title 17, United States Code, as in effect on or after the date of enactment of the Legislative Branch Agencies Clarification Act.".
(C) Act of june 13, 1957.--The first section of the Act entitled "An Act to fix the responsibilities of certifying officers and disbursing officer of the Library of Congress", approved June 13, 1957 (2 U.S.C. 142b), is amended by striking ", including the Copyright Office,".
(b) Register of Copyrights Qualifications; Term of Office.--Section 701(a) of title 17, United States Code, as amended by this section, is amended--
(1) by inserting before "shall be appointed by the President" the following: "shall be a citizen of the United States with a background and experience in copyright law, and"; and
(2) by inserting before "The subordinate officers" the following: "The Register of Copyrights shall be appointed for a term of 10 years, but if the Register is appointed to fill a vacancy occurring prior to the expiration of the term for which the most immediate predecessor was appointed, the Register shall be appointed for the remainder of such term. The Register may be reappointed for 1 or more additional terms of 5 years each.".
(c) Establishment of Inspector General of the Copyright Office.--Section 1307 of the Legislative Branch Appropriations Act, 2006 (2 U.S.C.
Text printed in the Record (10,588 characters)
185), is amended by adding at the end the following:
"(i) Establishment of Inspector General of the Copyright Office as a Separate Office.--
"(1) Office of inspector general.--There is an Office of Inspector General within the Copyright Office which is an independent objective office to--
"(A) conduct and supervise audits and investigations (excluding incidents involving violence and personal property) relating to the Copyright Office, except that nothing in this subparagraph may be construed to authorize the Inspector General to audit or investigate any operations or activities of the United States Capitol Police;
"(B) provide leadership and coordination and recommend policies to promote economy, efficiency, and effectiveness; and
"(C) provide a means of keeping the Register of Copyrights and the Congress fully and currently informed about problems and deficiencies relating to the administration and operations of the Copyright Office.
"(2) Appointment of inspector general; supervision; removal; pay; limits on bonuses; counsel.--
"(A) Appointment and supervision.--
"(i) In general.--There shall be at the head of the Office of Inspector General, an Inspector General who shall be appointed by the Register of Copyrights without regard to political affiliation and solely on the basis of integrity and demonstrated ability in accounting, auditing, financial analysis, law, management analysis, public administration, or investigations. The Inspector General shall report to, and be under the general supervision of, the Register of Copyrights.
"(ii) Audits, investigations, and reports.--The Register of Copyrights shall have no authority to prevent or prohibit the Inspector General from--
"(I) initiating, carrying out, or completing any audit or investigation;
"(II) issuing any subpoena during the course of any audit or investigation; or
"(III) issuing any report.
"(B) Removal or transfer.--
"(i) In general.--The Inspector General may be removed from office, or transferred to another position within, or another location of, the Copyright Office, by the Register of Copyrights.
"(ii) Notice.--Not later than 30 days before the Register of Copyrights removes or transfers the Inspector General under clause (i), the Register of Copyrights shall communicate in writing the reason for the removal or transfer to--
"(I) the Committee on House Administration and the Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives; and
"(II) the Committee on Rules and Administration and the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate.
"(iii) Applicability.--Nothing in this subparagraph shall prohibit a personnel action (except for removal or transfer) that is otherwise authorized by law.
"(C) Pay.--
"(i) In general.--The position of Inspector General shall--
"(I) be classified as a position above GS-15 in accordance with section 5108 of title 5, United States Code; and
"(II) have a rate of basic pay that is not less than the average rate of basic pay of all other employees in positions classified as above GS-15 of the Copyright Office calculated on an annual basis.
"(ii) Adjustments.--The Register of Copyrights shall establish the amount of the annual adjustment in the rate of basic pay for the Inspector General in an amount equal to the average of the annual adjustments in the rate of basic pay provided to all other employees in positions classified as above GS-15 of the Copyright Office, in a manner consistent with section 5376 of title 5, United States Code.
"(D) No bonuses.--The Inspector General may not receive any cash award or cash bonus, including a cash award under chapter 45 of title 5, United States Code.
"(E) Counsel.--The Inspector General shall, in accordance with applicable laws and regulations governing selections, appointments, and employment at the Copyright Office, obtain legal advice from a counsel reporting directly to the Inspector General or another Inspector General.
"(3) Duties, responsibilities, authority, and reports.--
"(A) In general.--Sections 404, 405 (other than subsection (b)(13)), 406(a) (other than paragraphs (7) and (8) thereof), and 407 of title 5, United States Code, shall apply to the Inspector General of the Copyright Office and the Office of such Inspector General and such sections shall be applied to the Copyright Office and the Register of Copyrights by substituting--
"(i) `Copyright Office' for `establishment'; and
"(ii) `Register of Copyrights' for `head of the establishment'.
"(B) Employees.--
"(i) In general.--The Inspector General, in carrying out the provisions of this subsection, is authorized, without the supervision or approval of any other employee, office, or other entity within the Copyright Office, to select, appoint, and employ such officers and employees (including consultants) as may be necessary for carrying out the functions, powers, and duties of the Office of Inspector General subject to the provisions of law governing selections, appointments, and employment in the Copyright Office.
"(ii) Security and suitability.--Appointments under the authority under clause (i) shall be made consistent with personnel security and suitability requirements.
"(iii) Consultants.--Any appointment of a consultant under the authority under clause (i) shall be made consistent with section 406(a)(9) of title 5, United States Code.
"(C) Law enforcement authority.--
"(i) In general.--Subject to clause (ii), any supervisory special agent under the Inspector General and any special agent supervised by such a supervisory special agent is authorized to--
"(I) make an arrest without a warrant while engaged in official duties as authorized under this section or any other statute for any offense against the United States committed in the presence of such supervisory special agent or special agent, or for any felony cognizable under the laws of the United States if such supervisory special agent or special agent has reasonable grounds to believe that the person to be arrested has committed or is committing such felony;
"(II) seek and execute warrants for arrest, search of a premises, or seizure of evidence issued under the authority of the United States upon probable cause to believe that a violation has been committed; and
"(III) carry a firearm while engaged in official duties as authorized under this section or any other statute.
"(ii) Requirements to exercise authority.--
"(I) Required certification.--
"(aa) In general.--In order to exercise the authority under clause (i), a supervisory special agent or a special agent supervised by such a supervisory special agent shall certify that he or she--
"(AA) is a citizen of the United States;
"(BB) has successfully completed a basic law enforcement training program or military or other equivalent; and
"(CC) is not prohibited from receiving a firearm under Federal law, including under section 922(g)(9) of title 18, United States Code, because of a conviction of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.
"(bb) Additional requirements.--After providing notice to the appropriate committees of Congress, the Inspector General may add requirements to the certification required under item (aa), as determined appropriate by the Inspector General.
"(II) Maintenance of requirements.--The Inspector General shall maintain firearms-related requirements (including quarterly firearms qualifications) and use of force training requirements that, except to the extent the Inspector General determines necessary to effectively carry out the duties of the Office of the Inspector General, are in accordance with the Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency use of force policies, which incorporate Department of Justice guidelines.
"(III) Eligibility determination.--
"(aa) In general.--The Inspector General shall--
"(AA) determine whether an individual meets the requirements under this subparagraph; and
"(BB) revoke any authority granted to an individual under clause (i) if the individual is not in compliance with the requirements of this subparagraph.
"(bb) Reauthorization.--The Inspector General may reauthorize an individual to exercise the authority granted under clause (i) if the Inspector General determines the individual has achieved compliance with the requirements under this subparagraph.
"(cc) Limitation on appeal.--A revocation of the authority granted under clause (i) shall not be subject to administrative, judicial, or other review, unless the revocation results in an adverse action. Such an adverse action may, at the election of the applicable individual, be reviewed in accordance with the otherwise applicable procedures.
"(iii) Semiannual certification of program.--
"(I) In general.--Before the first grant of authority under clause (i), and semiannually thereafter as part of the report under section 405 of title 5, United States Code, the Inspector General shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a written certification that adequate internal safeguards and management procedures exist that, except to the extent the Inspector General determines necessary to effectively carry out the duties of the Office of the Inspector General, are in compliance with standards established by the Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency, which incorporate Department of Justice guidelines, to ensure proper exercise of the powers authorized under this subparagraph.
"(II) Suspension of authority.--The authority granted under this subparagraph (including any grant of authority to an individual under clause (i), without regard to whether the individual is in compliance with clause (ii)) may be suspended by the Inspector General if the Office of Inspector General fails to comply with the reporting and review requirements under subclause (I) of this clause or clause (iv). Any suspension of authority under this subclause shall be reported to the appropriate committees of Congress.
"(iv) Peer review.--To ensure the proper exercise of the law enforcement powers authorized under this subparagraph, the Office of Inspector General shall submit to and participate in the external review process established by the Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency for ensuring that adequate internal safeguards and management procedures continue to exist. Under the review process, the exercise of the law enforcement powers by the Office of Inspector General shall be reviewed periodically by another Office of Inspector General or by a committee of Inspectors General.
Text printed in the Record (9,976 characters)
The results of each review shall be communicated in writing to the Inspector General, the Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency, and the appropriate committees of Congress.
"(v) Alleged misconduct.--Any allegation of misconduct by an individual granted authority under clause (i) may be reviewed by the Integrity Committee of the Council of the Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency.
"(vi) Appropriate committees of congress.--In this paragraph, the term `appropriate committees of Congress' means--
"(I) the Committee on Rules and Administration and the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate; and
"(II) the Committee on House Administration and the Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives.
"(D) Budget independence.--The Register of Copyrights shall include the annual budget request of the Inspector General in the budget of the Copyright Office without change.".
(d) Appointment of Acting Officers by Acting Register.--Section 701(a) of title 17, United States Code, as amended by this section, is amended by adding at the end the following: "Any officer appointed by an acting Register of Copyrights, including a Copyright Royalty Judge, shall be an acting officer, and may be removed from office at any time by an individual serving in the office of Register of Copyrights pursuant to an appointment by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate.".
(e) Ratification of Actions Taken by Copyright Entities Prior to Enactment.--Each action taken under title 17, United States Code, by the Copyright Office, the Register of Copyrights, the Copyright Royalty Judges, or the Copyright Claims Board during the period beginning on May 8, 2025, and ending on the date of enactment of this Act is ratified and shall be given full force and effect.
(f) Support Agreements; Reimbursement.--Section 701 of title 17, United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following:
"(g) Support Agreements; Reimbursement.--The Library of Congress and any other agency or office in the legislative branch of the Federal Government may provide administrative, facilities, financial management, information technology, legal, security, and other appropriate support to the Copyright Office as provided under an agreement for services entered into by the applicable agency or office and the Copyright Office.".
(g) Transition Provisions.--During the period specified in paragraph (1):
(1) Period.--The period specified in this paragraph is the period that begins on the date of the enactment of this Act and ends on September 30, 2029.
(2) Transfers of appropriations.--The Register of Copyrights and the Librarian of Congress may enter into such agreements as necessary to transfer appropriated amounts from one to the other if such amounts are necessary to carry out this Act and effectuate the separation of the Copyright Office and the Library of Congress.
(3) Personnel.--The laws with respect to the personnel of the Federal Government shall apply to the personnel of the Copyright Office to the same extent as such laws apply to the Library of Congress. Each officer or employee of the Copyright Office shall be appointed solely with reference to the fitness of the officer or employee to carry out the particular duties of the officer or employee.
SEC. 7. GOVERNMENT PUBLISHING OFFICE PERSONNEL REFORMS.
(a) Application of the Congressional Accountability Act to the Government Publishing Office.--Section 101(a) of the Congressional Accountability Act of 1995 (2 U.S.C. 1301(a)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (3)--
(A) in subparagraph (J), by striking "or";
(B) in subparagraph (K), by striking the period at the end and inserting "; or"; and
(C) by adding at the end the following:
"(L) the Government Publishing Office.";
(2) in paragraph (7), by striking "through (K)" and inserting "through (L)";
(3) in paragraph (8), by striking "through (K)" and inserting "through (L)"; and
(4) in paragraph (9)(D)--
(A) by striking "and the John" and inserting "the John"; and
(B) by inserting ", and the Government Publishing Office" before "; or".
(b) Conforming Amendments.--
(1) Section 2301(a) of title 5, United States Code, is amended to read as follows:
"(a) This section shall apply to an Executive agency.".
(2) Section 2302(a)(2)(C) of title 5, United States Code, is amended by striking "and the Government Publishing Office".
(3) Section 4301(1) of title 5, United States Code, is amended--
(A) by striking "(1) `agency' means--" and all that follows through "but does not include--" and inserting the following:
"(1) `agency' means an Executive agency, but does not include--"; and
(B) by redesignating clauses (i), (ii), and (iii) as subparagraphs (A), (B), and (C).
(4) Section 4701(a)(1) of title 5, United States Code, is amended by striking "and the Government Publishing Office".
(5) Section 5102(a)(1) of title 5, United States Code, is amended--
(A) by striking subparagraph (D); and
(B) redesignating subparagraphs (E) and (F) as subparagraphs (D) and (E), respectively.
SEC. 8. HUMAN CAPITAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FOR THE GOVERNMENT
PUBLISHING OFFICE.
(a) In General.--Section 305(a) of title 44, United States Code, is amended--
(1) in the first sentence--
(A) by striking "other persons" and inserting "other people"; and
(B) by striking "the persons employed" and inserting "those employed";
(2) in the second sentence, by striking "persons" and inserting "people";
(3) by striking the third sentence; and
(4) by striking "oftener than once a year." and inserting "more often than once a year.".
(b) Human Capital Management System.--
(1) In general.--Chapter 3 of title 44, United States Code, is amended by inserting after section 306 the following:
"Sec. 306A. Director of the Government Publishing Office;
human capital management system
"(a) The Director of the Government Publishing Office shall establish and maintain a human capital management system (in this section referred to as the `system').
"(b) The system shall--
"(1) include the merit system principles set forth under section 2301(b) of title 5;
"(2) prohibit any personnel practice prohibited under section 2302(b) of title 5;
"(3) prohibit any political activity prohibited under subchapter III of chapter 73 of title 5;
"(4) ensure that officers and employees of the Government Publishing Office are appointed, promoted, and assigned only on the basis of merit and fitness;
"(5) be established without regard to the provisions of title 5 governing appointments and other personnel actions in the competitive service; and
"(6) give a preference to an individual eligible for a hiring preference in the executive branch of the United States Government in a way and to an extent consistent with the preference given the individual for a position in the executive branch.
"(c)(1) The Director may prescribe regulations about the system only--
"(A) after notice and opportunity for public comment; and
"(B) with the approval of the Joint Committee on Printing.
"(2) An officer or employee of the Government Publishing Office may not make a reprisal or threat of reprisal against another officer or employee of the Government Publishing Office because of comments on a proposed regulation about the system.".
(2) Conforming amendment.--The table of sections for chapter 3 of title 44, United States Code, is amended by inserting after the item relating to section 306 the following:
"306A. Director of the Government Publishing Office; human capital management system.". (c) Savings Clause.--Nothing in this section or the amendments made by this section shall be construed to affect any proceeding or payment of an award or settlement relating to a claim which is pending on the effective date of this section under--
(1) title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (42 U.S.C. Sec. 2000e et seq.);
(2) chapter 71 of title 5, United States Code (relating to Federal service labor-management relations);
(3) an appeal to the Merit Systems Protection Board; or
(4) subchapter II, chapter 12, of title 5, United States Code.
SEC. 9. UPDATE TO PRINT REQUIREMENTS.
(a) In General.--Section 501 of title 44, United States Code, is amended to read as follows:
"Sec. 501. Government printing, binding, blank-book work,
and publishing services by the Government Publishing Office
"The Government Publishing Office may perform printing, binding, blank-book work, and publishing services for Congress, the Executive Office of the President, the Judiciary, and every executive department, independent office, and establishment of the Government.".
(b) Conforming Amendments.--
(1) Section 207(a) of the Legislative Branch Appropriations Act, 1993 (44 U.S.C. 501 note) is repealed.
(2) The table of sections for chapter 501 of title 44, United States Code, is amended by striking the item relating to section 501 and inserting the following:
"501. Government printing, binding, blank-book work, and publishing services by the Government Publishing Office.".
SEC. 10. APPLICABILITY.
(a) In General.--Except as provided in subsection (b), this Act and the amendments made by this Act shall apply on and after the date of enactment of this Act.
(b) Exceptions.--
(1) Librarian.--
(A) Appointment.--Subsection (a) of section 3 of the Librarian of Congress Succession Modernization Act of 2015, as redesignated and amended by this Act, shall apply to any appointment to the position of Librarian of Congress made on or after the date of enactment of this Act.
(B) Removal.--Subsection (d) of section 3 of the Librarian of Congress Succession Modernization Act of 2015, as redesignated and amended by this Act, shall apply with respect to an individual appointed to the position of Librarian of Congress before, on, or after the date of enactment of this Act.
(C) Pay.--Subsection (b) of section 904 of the Supplemental Appropriations Act, 1983 (2 U.S.C.
Text printed in the Record (3,277 characters)
136a-2), as added by this Act, shall apply on and after the first day of the first applicable pay period beginning on or after the date of enactment of this Act.
(2) Deputy librarian appointment.--Subsections (a)(1), (b), and (c) of section 4 of the Librarian of Congress Succession Modernization Act of 2015, as added by this Act, shall apply to any appointment to the position of Deputy Librarian of Congress made on or after the date of enactment of this Act.
(3) Director of gpo.--
(A) Appointment.--Subsection (a)(2) of section 301 of title 44, United States Code, as amended by this Act, shall apply to any appointment to the position of Director of the Government Publishing Office made on or after the date of enactment of this Act.
(B) Removal.--Subsection (d) of section 301 of title 44, United States Code, as added by this Act, shall apply with respect to an individual appointed to the position of Director of the Government Publishing Office before, on, or after the date of enactment of this Act.
(C) Pay.--Subsection (b) of section 303 of title 44, United States Code, as added by this Act, shall apply on and after the first day of the first applicable pay period beginning on or after the date of enactment of this Act.
(4) Deputy director of gpo appointment.--Subsections (b)(1), (c), and (d) of section 302 of title 44, United States Code, as added by this Act, shall apply to any appointment to the position of Deputy Director of the Government Publishing Office made on or after the date of enactment of this Act.
(5) Register of copyrights; subordinate officers and employees generally.--Section 701(a) of title 17, United States Code, as amended by this Act, shall apply to any appointment to the position of Register of Copyrights or to the position of a subordinate officer or employee of the Copyright Office made on or after the date of enactment of this Act.
(6) Associate registers of copyrights.--Section 701(f) of title 17, United States Code, as amended by this Act, shall apply to any appointment to the position of Associate Register of Copyrights made on or after the date of enactment of this Act.
(7) Copyright royalty judges.--Sections 801(a) and 802(d)(1) of title 17, United States Code, as amended by this Act, shall apply to any appointment to the position of Copyright Royalty Judge (including the Chief Copyright Royalty Judge or an interim Copyright Royalty Judge) made on or after the date of enactment of this Act.
(8) Copyright claims officers.--Section 1502(b)(1) of title 17, United States Code, as amended by this Act, shall apply to any appointment to the position of Copyright Claims Officer made on or after the date of enactment of this Act.
(9) Human capital management system for the government publishing office.--Section 9 and the amendments made by section 9 shall take effect on the date that is 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act.
SEC. 11. SEVERABILITY.
If any provision of this Act or any amendment made by this Act, or the application of any such provision or amendment to any person or circumstance, is held to be unconstitutional, the remainder of this Act, and the application of such provision or amendment to any other person or circumstance, shall not be affected by the holding.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Griffith) and the gentleman from New York (Mr. Morelle) each will control 20 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Virginia.
Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include additional extraneous material.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Is there objection to the request of the gentleman from Virginia?
There was no objection.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
I rise today in strong support of my bill, H.R. 6028, the Legislative Branch Agencies Clarification Act, as amended.
I thank Chairman Steil and Ranking Member Morelle for their support and commitment to getting this important Article I bill to the floor.
A lot has been done on this bill. We have been working on it for probably a year or a little bit more, and it would not be in the position it is in today or be as good a bill without the work that was done by committee staff on both sides of the aisle and by Mr. Morelle's input and others who have helped to perfect this bill. I think we have a darned good bill here.
This legislation makes important and long overdue reforms to key institutions that serve Congress and the American people, including the Library of Congress, the Government Publishing Office, and the United States Copyright Office.
At its core, this bill is about ensuring that agencies of the legislative branch are governed in a manner consistent with our constitutional system, improving continuity in leadership and strengthening congressional oversight.
I have long been concerned by the fact that certain functions and agencies that exist to support Congress remain subject to appointment structures rooted in the executive branch.
For many years I have worked to address similar constitutional inconsistencies. I think I am the only one that loves this bill. In fact, since 2016, at various times I have introduced legislation to transfer the Office of the United States Trade Representative from the executive branch back to Congress where I believe it belongs properly under our constitutional framework. That is not this bill.
H.R. 6028 is our bill, and it is guided by that same principle. The bill seeks to promote institutional balance amongst our coequal branches of government and ensure congressional support agencies remain accountable to the branch they serve.
The Library of Congress and the Government Publishing Office play indispensable roles in helping Congress carry out its legislative responsibilities. Yet, the heads of these legislative branch agencies are currently appointed by the executive branch, by the President, and then confirmed by the Senate.
This is an arrangement that came about in the latter part of the 19th century. It is a 19th century construct. I don't know for sure, Mr. Speaker, but I suspect that it had to do with time and distance and the fact that a lot of times Congress was not able to get here to do the oversight that it needed.
Those constraints that existed in the latter part of the 19th century, due to electronic communication and easier travel, no longer make that necessary. I think that is why they did this flip, where they gave up legislative power to the executive branch, and so we have created a new structure. The old structure created an inconsistency in governance, and the new structure helps us with certainty and accountability.
The legislation updates the process by establishing a congressional appointment framework for the Librarian of Congress and the Director of the Government Publishing Office.
Under the bill, bipartisan recommendations would be provided by the leadership of the House Administration Committee and the Senate Rules Committee, with final selections being made by congressional leadership.
This model is not unprecedented. It closely follows the appointment process Congress previously adopted for the Architect of the Capitol, a reform enacted on a bipartisan basis and the one that has helped strengthen congressional control over a key legislative branch institution.
My bill also addresses the governance of the United States Copyright Office. Because the Copyright Office carries out executive-type functions, H.R. 6028 provides that the Register of Copyrights will be appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate.
Some of the improvements that were made just within the last couple of months made sure we had smooth working there because the Copyright Office, while it is in the executive branch, has to work closely with the Librarian of Congress. I believe the language that was ironed out between the parties makes a lot of sense and works well for the American people.
My bill better aligns government responsibilities with the appropriate constitutional framework. Ultimately, the bill is about clarity, accountability, and good governance. By modernizing leadership structures and clarifying lines of authority, we can strengthen the institutions that support Congress and serve the Nation as a whole, and we can ensure that these institutions are positioned to serve both Congress and the American people more effectively for years to come.
Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 6028, and I reserve the balance of my time.
Joseph D. Morelle (D-NY)3:40 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 6028, the Legislative Branch Agencies Clarification Act.
The bill updates the appointment process for the heads of two legislative branch agencies, the Library of Congress and the Government Publishing Office, and creates a new Presidential appointment, subject to Senate confirmation, for the Register of Copyrights.
I thank the sponsor of the bill and my colleague on the Committee on House Administration Mr. Griffith, Chairman Steil, and both their staff for working with us to improve prior versions of the legislation.
For the legislative record, I will probably repeat some of the things that my colleague has said.
The amended bill makes clear that the U.S. Copyright Office, currently part of the Library, remains in the legislative branch. It protects the Copyright Office workforce. All of them will continue to enjoy the same rights, privileges, and protections they hold today as Library employees. That was very important to us.
I have long said that the Librarian of Congress should be appointed by Congress. Still, we must make this change thoughtfully and be mindful of the consequences, particularly, again, for the Copyright Office.
Copyright authority is enshrined in Article I, Section 8, Clause 8 of the Constitution, and the Copyright Office has resided in the legislative branch for well over one century.
I appreciate Mr. Griffith's comments about the 19th century, how different things were and the importance of doing all of this work. This bill is really very important, particularly because so much of the work is legislative and because of the ability for the modern legislature to have responsibility here.
All of that should remain within the legislature and remain within the Congress. That is the intent of this bill.
The copyright economy contributes, and this is somewhat of an astounding figure, more than $2 trillion to our economy each year. It supports more than 11 million American jobs, and only with a stable, reliable, and apolitical copyright system will we continue to have the benefits of that economy.
The bill helps preserve it at a critical moment for copyright stakeholders and the millions of Library users. I particularly point that out in the midst of the emergence of AI, which uses a great many materials for learning that are copyrighted. These issues continue to be in the public eye, and they will continue to be important.
The Library and the Copyright Office have operated in partnership for more than 150 years. The Copyright Office depends on the Library's infrastructure, and the Library builds its collections through copyright deposits. Severing that relationship would harm both institutions, something we clearly do not want to do. The revised bill recognizes that.
It establishes a significant transition period. It allows the Copyright Office to continue using Library support services and requires the Register to consult with the Librarian before taking any action affecting the Library's access to Copyright Office deposits.
It safeguards the rights of Copyright Office employees, as I indicated earlier, and keeps the office in the legislative branch, where it belongs.
Again, I thank Chairman Steil and certainly the sponsor of the bill, Mr. Griffith, for accepting these changes and for working in a cooperative, collaborative, and bipartisan spirit. It has taken a little while, but I think the final product has improved as a result of it.
For too long, Congress has allowed its own authority and capacity to atrophy. The Library, the Copyright Office, and the other support agencies we rely on are funded from a legislative branch budget that amounts to roughly four-tenths of 1 percent of all Federal discretionary spending. If we are serious about legislating on questions as complex, as I mentioned, as AI and copyright, we must be serious about sustaining the institutions that make that work possible.
There are challenges. I think this was the work of compromise, so there are some changes that I think both sides would like to make, but this does ensure that the Librarian of Congress can be hired and fired only by Congress and does so while preserving both the Library and Copyright Office as the preeminent institutions in their fields.
Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote "yes," and I reserve the balance of my time.
H. Morgan Griffith (R-VA)3:40 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the comments of my colleague Mr. Morelle. I agree with everything that he added and said, some of which we overlapped and some of which we didn't.
This was truly a work where we are trying to do the right thing for the right purposes, and both sides worked together to reach what I think is actually a better bill. I know there were compromises, but it is a better bill than what we originally had, and I appreciate that.
Mr. Speaker, I am prepared to close, and I reserve the balance of my time.
Joseph D. Morelle (D-NY)3:40 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, again, let me thank the sponsor of the bill, my friend Mr. Griffith, for his hard work. I thank Chairman Steil for his partnership in working together to protect these important legislative branch agencies and Congress' Article I prerogatives.
Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this very fine piece of legislation, and I yield back the balance of my time.
H. Morgan Griffith (R-VA)3:40 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 6028, and I yield back the balance of my time.
The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Bentz)3:40 p.m.
The question is on the motion offered by the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Griffith) that the House suspend the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 6028, as amended.
The question was taken; and (two-thirds being in the affirmative) the rules were suspended and the bill, as amended, was passed. A motion to reconsider was laid on the table.
Block the Use of Transatlantic Technology in Iranian Made Drones Act
Pages H3943–H3945 · Official textMr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 2505) to require the development of strategies and options to prevent the export to Iran of certain technologies related to unmanned aircraft systems, and for other purposes.
The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows:
Text printed in the Record (8,635 characters)
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the "Block the Use of Transatlantic Technology in Iranian Made Drones Act".
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress finds the following:
(1) The Iranian regime has provided financial and material support, including the provision of unmanned aircraft systems, to United States adversaries, including terrorist organizations such as Hamas, Hezbollah, the Houthis, and Palestinian Islamic Jihad, and the Russian Federation as a part of its illegal war of aggression against Ukraine.
(2) In 2022, the United States established an interagency task force to investigate how United States and Western-made technology has been incorporated into unmanned aircraft systems produced by Iran and take appropriate steps in response.
(3) On June 9, 2023, the Department of State, the Department of Justice, the Department of Commerce, and the Department of the Treasury issued a joint advisory to alert persons and businesses globally to the threat of Iran's unmanned aircraft systems and the need to take appropriate steps to avoid or prevent any activities that would support the further development of Iran's unmanned aircraft program.
(4) In recent years the United States enacted sanctions targeting--
(A) the unmanned aircraft industry and missile industry of Iran;
(B) entities, individuals, and vessels that played a central role in facilitating and financing the clandestine sale of Iranian unmanned aerial vehicles; and
(C) entities associated with the Iranian defense ministry's procurement of critical components for missiles and drones.
SEC. 3. SENSE OF CONGRESS.
It is the sense of Congress that--
(1) controlling the end use of dual use technology and highly ubiquitous parts thereof in the global market is difficult for manufacturers and government regulators alike;
(2) Iranian-made unmanned aircraft systems play a key role in the Russian Federation's illegal war of aggression against Ukraine, including attacks on civilian population centers and critical infrastructure such as power plants and ports; and
(3) the United States, along with the allies and partners of the United States, must ensure that technology designed or produced by United States or using certain United States software, technology, or production equipment, is not used to support the Russian Federation's war of aggression against Ukraine or used by Hamas to attack Israel, particularly in the case of unmanned aircraft systems produced by Iran.
SEC. 4. STRATEGIES TO PREVENT EXPORT TO IRAN OF CERTAIN
TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO UNMANNED AIRCRAFT
SYSTEMS.
(a) Department of Commerce Strategy.--
(1) Strategy required.--The Secretary of Commerce (in consultation with the Secretary of State, the Secretary of Defense, and the Director of National Intelligence) shall develop a strategy to prevent the illegal export to Iran by United States persons regarding technologies used or that may be used in the design, development, production, or operational employment of unmanned aircraft systems by Iran, including the following microelectronics:
(A) Microcontrollers.
(B) Voltage regulators.
(C) Digital signal controllers.
(D) GPS modules.
(E) Microprocessors.
(2) Elements.--The strategy under paragraph (1) shall include, at a minimum, the following elements:
(A) A process for the Secretary of Commerce (in coordination with the Secretaries and heads specified in paragraph (1)) to proactively identify--
(i) current and emerging technologies used or that may be used by Iran in the design, development, production, or operational employment of unmanned aircraft systems (including critical components thereof);
(ii) United States manufacturers of such technologies; and
(iii) foreign manufacturers and proliferators of such technologies.
(B) A process for the Secretary of Commerce (in coordination with the Secretaries and heads specified in paragraph (1)) to proactively identify third-party distributors and resellers of the technologies specified in subparagraph (A)(i) that, through the use of intermediaries with no or nominal operations or assets, or through other mechanisms, contrive to circumvent export controls for such items with respect to Iran.
(C) A methodology for the Secretary of Commerce to proactively engage the United States manufacturers identified pursuant to the process under subparagraph (A)(ii), to provide such manufacturers with timely updates to the list of third-party distributors and resellers identified pursuant to the process under subparagraph (B).
(3) Submission.--Not later than 60 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Commerce shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees the strategy under paragraph (1).
(4) Form.--The report required by subsection (a)(1) shall be submitted in unclassified form, but portions of the report described in paragraphs (1) and (2) may contain a classified annex, so long as such annex is provided separately from the unclassified report.
(b) Department of State Strategy.--
(1) Strategy required.--The Secretary of State (in coordination with the Secretary of Commerce, the Secretary of Defense, and the Director of National Intelligence) shall develop a strategy to prevent the export to Iran of technologies from the United States and allied and partner countries which are used, or may be used, by Iran in the design, development, production, or operational employment of unmanned aircraft systems (including the microelectronics listed in subparagraphs (A) through (F) of subsection (a)(1)).
(2) Elements.--The strategy under paragraph (1) shall include, at a minimum, the following elements:
(A) A process for the Secretary of State (in consultation with the relevant Secretaries and heads specified in paragraph (1)) to proactively identify foreign manufacturers of the technologies referred to in such paragraph.
(B) A process for the Secretary of State to engage with any ally or partner of the United States regarding technologies which have been incorporated into an unmanned aircraft system produced by Iran, for the purpose of synchronizing the export control regime of such ally or partner with the United States export controls developed by the Secretary of Commerce pursuant to the strategy under subsection (a) with respect to such technology.
(3) Submission.--Not later than 90 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees the strategy under paragraph (1).
(4) Form.--The report required by subsection (b)(1) shall be submitted in unclassified form, but portions of the report described in paragraphs (1) and (2) may contain a classified annex, so long as such annex is provided separately from the unclassified report.
(c) Requirement for Secretary of Defense To Develop Range of Options.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 30 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense (in coordination with the Secretary of State and the Director of National Intelligence) shall develop a range of options that may be employed by the Armed Forces of the United States to counter or otherwise deny Iran the ability to acquire technologies used, or that may be used, in the design, development, production, or operational employment of unmanned aircraft systems by Iran, including the following technologies:
(A) Microcontrollers.
(B) Voltage regulators.
(C) Digital signal controllers.
(D) GPS modules.
(E) Microprocessors.
(F) Computer Aided Design (CAD) software.
(G) Computer numerical control machines.
(2) Briefing.--Not later than 45 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Defense shall provide to the appropriate congressional committees a briefing on the options developed under paragraph (1).
SEC. 5. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Appropriate congressional committees.--The term "appropriate congressional committees" means the following:
(A) The Committee on Foreign Affairs, the Committee on Armed Services, and the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence of the House of Representatives.
(B) The Committee on Foreign Relations, the Committee on Armed Services, the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs and the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence of the Senate.
(2) Unmanned aircraft; unmanned aircraft system.--The terms "unmanned aircraft" and "unmanned aircraft system" have the meanings given those terms in section 130i of title 10, United States Code.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Mast) and the gentleman from California (Mr. Bera) each will control 20 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Florida.
Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on H.R. 2505.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Is there objection to the request of the gentleman from Florida?
There was no objection.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 2505, the Block the Use of Transatlantic Technology in Iranian Made Drones Act.
Iranian drones are being used to terrorize civilians and attack Americans and our allies throughout the world. Too often, those drones contain technology that originated in the United States or in Europe.
That should alarm every Member of this body.
Iran has become one of the world's leading exporters of unmanned aerial systems to rogue regimes and terrorist proxies. Its drones have been used by Russia to strike Ukrainian cities, energy infrastructure, and civilians. They have been supplied to Iranian-backed groups across the Middle East, and they are part of Iran's broader strategy to destabilize the region.
Many of the components found in these drones are commercially available dual-use technologies, products that may have legitimate civilian applications but can be repurposed for lethal military use.
Existing sanctions and export controls are clearly not enough. If American and allied technology is still ending up inside Iranian-made drones, then we need to identify the gaps, tighten the enforcement, and work more closely with our partners to stop it.
That is exactly what this bill does.
It requires the Departments of Commerce, State, and Defense to develop coordinated strategies and options to prevent Iran from acquiring U.S. and allied technologies used in unmanned aerial systems.
It strengthens interagency coordination and engagement with our allies to ensure that we block Iran's access to drone technology.
This is not just about Iran. It is about making sure American innovation is not exploited by our adversaries to kill innocent people.
Every Iranian drone that reaches Russia, Hezbollah, the Houthis, or other malign actors strengthens America's enemies, and it puts lives at risk.
Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. Keating for introducing this important piece of legislation, which passed out of the committee with broad bipartisan support, and I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 2505.
Mr. Speaker, I will add this: Iranian drones are not just a regional threat. They are a global threat. They are being used to attack Ukraine, threaten Israel, empower terrorist proxies, and undermine international security. The United States cannot allow American or allied technology to become the backbone of Iran's drone arsenal.
This bill helps to close those gaps. It is a commonsense, low-cost, high-impact measure to protect U.S. technology, support our allies, and counter Iran's malign activities.
I urge my colleagues to vote "yes" on H.R. 2505.
Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
Text printed in the Record (2,666 characters)
Washington, DC, August 28, 2025. Hon. Brian Mast, Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, DC.
Dear Chairman Mast: I write concerning H.R. 2505, the Block the Use of Transatlantic Technology in Iranian Made Drones Act. As a result of your having consulted with us on provisions within H.R. 2505 that fall within the Rule X jurisdiction of the Committee on Armed Services, I agree to forego any further consideration of this resolution so that it may proceed expeditiously to the House floor for consideration.
The Committee on Armed Services takes this action with our mutual understanding that by foregoing consideration of H.R. 2505 at this time, we do not waive any jurisdiction over subject matter contained in this or similar legislation and that our committee will be appropriately consulted and involved as this resolution or similar legislation moves forward so that we may address any remaining issues in our jurisdiction.
This legislation contains provisions that may require further modification prior to final consideration to ensure the support of the House Committee on Armed Services, particularly language related to export matters.
Finally, I ask that a copy of our exchange of letters on this matter be included by House Committee on Foreign Affairs in the Congressional Record during floor consideration, to memorialize our understanding. Thank you for the cooperative spirit in which you have worked regarding this matter and others between our respective committees.
Sincerely,
Michael D. Rogers,
Chairman, House Committee on Armed Services.
____
Washington, DC, June 8, 2026. Hon. Mike Rogers, Chairman, Committee on Armed Services, Washington, DC.
Dear Chairman Rogers: Thank you for consulting with the Foreign Affairs Committee and agreeing to be discharged from further consideration of H.R. 2505, the Block the Use of Transatlantic Technology in Iranian Made Drones Act, so that the measure may proceed expeditiously to the House floor.
I agree that your forgoing further action on this measure does not in any way diminish or alter the jurisdiction of your committee, or prejudice its jurisdictional prerogatives on this measure or similar legislation in the future. I would support your effort to seek appointment of an appropriate number of conferees from your committee to any House-Senate conference on this legislation.
I will seek to place our letters on this bill into the Congressional Record during floor consideration. I appreciate your cooperation regarding this legislation and look forward to continuing to work together as this measure moves through the legislative process.
Sincerely,
Brian Mast,
Chairman.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 2505, the Block the Use of Transatlantic Technology in Iranian Made Drones Act.
I thank my colleague from Massachusetts, Representative Keating, for his leadership in advancing bipartisan efforts to counter Iran's drone program, a threat that continues to hound Ukraine, and now our own forces and allies in the Middle East.
Since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Iran has exported thousands of Shahed drones to the Russian military, fueling attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure and civilians.
Now, Iranian drones continue to threaten and damage critical energy, military, and civilian infrastructure across the Middle East.
Most recently, Iranian drones struck Kuwait International Airport, heavily damaging a passenger terminal, killing one person, wounding dozens more, and briefly closing the airfield.
H.R. 2505 closes critical gaps in enforcement and aligns our intelligence and interdiction policies with our national security interests. I encourage my colleagues to support this bipartisan bill to help ensure that the United States and European technologies smuggled by illicit intermediaries don't fuel Iran's drone program.
Mr. Speaker, this bill closes a critical gap in enforcement to ensure that U.S. and European technologies don't fuel Iran's drone program.
This is a commonsense bill that will defend civilians and protect our allies and partners, and I encourage my colleagues to support this legislation.
Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote "yes" on H.R. 2505, and I yield back the balance of my time.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
The question is on the motion offered by the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Mast) that the House suspend the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 2505.
The question was taken; and (two-thirds being in the affirmative) the rules were suspended and the bill was passed. A motion to reconsider was laid on the table.
Us-Japan-Rok Trilateral Cooperation Act
Pages H3945–H3947 · Official textMr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 3429) to establish an inter-parliamentary dialogue to facilitate closer cooperation between the United States, Japan, and the Republic of Korea on shared interests and values.
The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows:
Text printed in the Record (6,882 characters)
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the "US-Japan-ROK Trilateral Cooperation Act".
SEC. 2. SENSE OF CONGRESS.
It is the sense of Congress that--
(1) the United States should continue to strengthen trilateral cooperation between the United States, Japan, and the Republic of Korea (in this Act referred to as the "ROK") to enhance and implement a shared vision to meet regional challenges and to promote a free, open, inclusive, resilient, and healthy Indo-Pacific region;
(2) the historic Camp David summit on August 18, 2023, marked a new era of trilateral partnership between the United States, Japan, and the ROK, reaffirming their commitment to align collective efforts for regional security and prosperity;
(3) the Spirit of Camp David, as outlined in the joint statement, should guide future trilateral cooperation, emphasizing shared values, strategic alignment, and commitment to regional peace and stability;
(4) the United States, Japan, and the ROK should enhance Trilateral Maritime Security Cooperation to promote stability and freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific region;
(5) the United States, Japan, and the ROK should collaborate on countering foreign information manipulation and interference to protect democratic institutions and promote accurate information sharing;
(6) President Biden's decision to elevate the US-Japan-ROK trilateral partnership to the leaders level was critical to bolstering cooperation, and all three countries should work to ensure that the Trilateral Leaders' Summit continues to take place regularly;
(7) the ambitious framework for ongoing cooperation laid out by the three leaders at the historic Camp David summit on August 18, 2023, should continue and be strengthened; and
(8) the formation of a regular US-Japan-ROK Inter-Parliamentary Dialogue will--
(A) sustain and deepen engagement between senior officials of the three countries on a full spectrum of issues; and
(B) be modeled on the successful and long-standing bilateral inter-parliamentary groups between the United States and other allied nations.
SEC. 3. ESTABLISHMENT OF US-JAPAN-ROK INTER-PARLIAMENTARY
DIALOGUE.
(a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State, in consultation with Congress, shall seek to enter into negotiations with the Governments of Japan and the ROK with the goal of reaching a written agreement to establish a US-Japan-ROK Inter-Parliamentary Dialogue to facilitate closer cooperation on shared interests and values.
(b) United States Group.--
(1) In general.--At such time as the governments of the United States, Japan, and ROK enter into a written agreement described in subsection (a) to establish a US-Japan-ROK Inter-Parliamentary Dialogue, there shall be established a United States Group, which shall represent the United States at the US-Japan-ROK Inter-Parliamentary Dialogue.
(2) Membership.--
(A) In general.--The United States Group shall be comprised of not more than 8 Members of Congress.
(B) Appointment.--Of the Members of Congress appointed to the United States Group under subparagraph (A)--
(i) two shall be appointed by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, from among Members of the House, not fewer than one of whom shall be a member of the Committee on Foreign Affairs;
(ii) two shall be appointed by the House Minority Leader, from among Members of the House, not fewer than one of whom shall be a member of the Committee on Foreign Affairs;
(iii) two shall be appointed by the Senate Majority Leader, from among Members of the Senate, not fewer than one of whom shall be a member of the Committee on Foreign Relations; and
(iv) two shall be appointed by the Senate Minority Leader, from among Members of the Senate, not fewer than one of whom shall be a member of the Committee on Foreign Relations.
(C) Term.--Appointments to the United States Group shall be for the duration of two years.
(3) Meetings.--
(A) In general.--The United States Group shall seek to meet not less frequently than annually with representatives and appropriate staff of the legislatures of Japan and the ROK, and representatives and appropriate staff of any other country invited by mutual agreement of the three countries.
(B) Limitation.--A meeting described in subparagraph (A) may be held--
(i) in the United States;
(ii) in another country during periods when Congress is not in session; or
(iii) virtually.
(4) Chairperson and vice chairperson.--
(A) Rotation.--The positions of Chairperson and Vice Chairperson of the United States Group shall alternate between the House and Senate delegations every two years, coinciding with each new Congress.
(B) House delegation.--
(i) In Congresses with an odd number, the Speaker of the House of Representatives shall designate the Chairperson of the United States Group from among members of the House delegation who are also members of the Committee on Foreign Affairs.
(ii) In Congresses with an even number, the Speaker of the House of Representatives shall designate the Vice Chairperson of the United States Group from among members of the House delegation who are also members of the Committee on Foreign Affairs.
(C) Senate delegation.--
(i) In Congresses with an even number, the President Pro Tempore of the Senate shall designate the Chairperson of the United States Group from among members of the Senate delegation who are also members of the Committee on Foreign Relations.
(ii) In Congresses with an odd number, the President Pro Tempore of the Senate shall designate the Vice Chairperson of the United States Group from among members of the Senate delegation who are also members of the Committee on Foreign Relations.
(D) Term.--The Chairperson and Vice Chairperson shall serve for the duration one each Congress.
(5) Private sources.--The United States Group may accept gifts or donations of services or property, subject to the review and approval, as appropriate, of the Committee on Ethics of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Ethics of the Senate.
(6) Certification of expenditures.--The certificate of the chairperson of the delegation from the House of Representatives or the delegation of the Senate of the United States Group shall be final and conclusive upon the accounting officers in the auditing of the accounts of the United States Group.
(7) Annual report.--The United States Group shall submit to the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate a report for each fiscal year for which an appropriation is made for the United States Group, which shall include its expenditures under such appropriation and a description thereof.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Mast) and the gentleman from California (Mr. Bera) each will control 20 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Florida.
Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on H.R. 3429.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Is there objection to the request of the gentleman from Florida?
There was no objection.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 3429, the U.S.-Japan-ROK Trilateral Cooperation Act, introduced by House Foreign Affairs Committee's East Asia and Pacific Subcommittee Ranking Member Ami Bera to my left.
I have learned during my time as chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee that trust is the ultimate currency in foreign relations. Allies come to the United States with many asks: for arms, for trade, for diplomatic support, and everything in between. Sometimes the United States can only judge these requests based on the trust that they have or have not built with the United States of America.
This legislation is about building that trust with Japan and South Korea, and doing so with these two partners could not be more important. Japan and South Korea are key allies that are working together to resist aggression from the Chinese Communist Party and from North Korea to prevent a Chinese attack on Taiwan, to reindustrialize, and to decouple our economies from China in strategic sectors.
This is not about building lopsided alliances. This is about strengthening relationships that are good for America.
This bill would cultivate these alliances by establishing a parliamentary dialogue program between four Members from the House and four Members from the Senate and selected counterparts from the Parliaments of Japan and South Korea. This is about ensuring that our alliance system in the Indo-Pacific can resist Beijing's aggression.
With this important legislation, we will be one step closer to ensuring that American allies and partners win this century.
Mr. Speaker, Japan and South Korea are two of America's most important treaty allies in the Indo-Pacific. This legislation builds upon our longstanding alliance with these two countries so we can ensure these relationships can survive the struggles to come and to deter aggression from the Chinese Communist Party and North Korea.
Mr. Speaker, I am prepared to close, and I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 3429, the U.S.-Japan-ROK Trilateral Cooperation Act.
Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleagues Representatives Wilson, Kelly, Castro, Smith, and the late Honorable Gerry Connolly, co-chairs of the Korea and Japan caucuses, for introducing this bill with me.
Congressman Connolly was a tireless advocate for America's alliances and a strong believer in the power of trilateral cooperation between the United States, Japan, and the Republic of Korea. I am proud to see the House continuing his important work today.
The Indo-Pacific is at the center of America's economic and strategic future. In the region, the United States faces a complex array of challenges, including authoritarian aggression, economic coercion, and emerging security threats.
Our ability to address these challenges requires strong alliances and close coordination with our partners.
The trilateral relationship between the United States, Japan, and the Republic of Korea is one of the most strategically significant partnerships that we have.
These are two of our closest allies, democracies that share our values, interests, and commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.
The 2023 Camp David Leaders' Summit marked a historic step forward in trilateral cooperation, leading to expanded collaboration on military exercises, ballistic missile defense, cybersecurity development, finance, maritime security, and science and technology.
Strong partnerships need strong institutions. Since the Camp David summit, all three countries have experienced changes in executive leadership. That reality underscores why we must create mechanisms that ensure trilateral cooperation endures beyond any single administration.
This is exactly what H.R. 3429 seeks to accomplish. The bill codifies an annual inter-parliamentarian dialogue among the United States Congress, Japan's National Diet, and South Korea's National Assembly. It creates a formal mechanism for lawmakers from all three countries to meet regularly and coordinate on issues including defense, economic security, public health, and emerging technologies.
The legislation establishes a bipartisan and bicameral congressional delegation to participate in these discussions, ensuring that congressional engagement remains consistent and sustained over time.
Most importantly, this bill helps institutionalize trilateral cooperation so that our partnership continues to grow, regardless of political transitions in any of the three countries.
The bill sends a clear message: The United States is committed to long-term cooperation with our allies in Japan and South Korea. It recognizes that our trilateral partnership is not simply a response to the current challenges but a strategic investment in a more secure, prosperous, and stable Indo-Pacific.
Mr. Speaker, diplomacy is key to peace because we are stronger together with our allies. Whether it is the challenges posed by North Korea or the People's Republic of China, trilateral cooperation is one of the critical ways to ensure that America and our two closest allies in Asia are working hand in hand toward our common interests and advancement of peace and prosperity in the region. Congressional engagement with Japan and Korea will sustain long-term support and resources for trilateral cooperation.
Mr. Speaker, I urge all my colleagues to support this measure. I yield back the balance of my time.
Brian J. Mast (R-FL)4:00 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time to close.
Mr. Speaker, Japan and South Korea are two of America's most important treaty allies in the Indo-Pacific. This legislation builds upon our longstanding alliance with these two countries, so that we can ensure that these relationships can survive the struggles to come.
Mr. Speaker, I urge a "yes" vote on H.R. 3429, and I yield back the balance of my time.
The SPEAKER pro tempore4:00 p.m.
The question is on the motion offered by the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Mast) that the House suspend the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 3429.
The question was taken; and (two-thirds being in the affirmative) the rules were suspended and the bill was passed. A motion to reconsider was laid on the table.
United States Commission on International Religious Freedom Reauthorization Act of 2026
Pages H3947–H3948 · Official textMr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 1744) to extend and authorize annual appropriations for the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom through fiscal year 2028, as amended.
The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows:
Text printed in the Record (798 characters)
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the "United States Commission on International Religious Freedom Reauthorization Act of 2026".
SEC. 2. UNITED STATES COMMISSION ON INTERNATIONAL RELIGIOUS
FREEDOM.
(a) Authorization of Appropriations.--Section 207(a) of the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998 (22 U.S.C. 6435(a)) is amended by striking "2025 and 2026" and inserting "2027 and 2028, and for the period beginning on October 1, 2028, and ending on December 31, 2028".
(b) Extension of Authorization.--Section 209 of the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998 (22 U.S.C. 6436) is amended by striking "September 30, 2026" and inserting "December 31, 2028".
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Mast) and the gentleman from California (Mr. Bera) each will control 20 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Florida.
Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on H.R. 1744.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Is there objection to the request of the gentleman from Florida?
There was no objection.
I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 1744, the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom Reauthorization Act of 2026.
Congress created this commission, otherwise known as USCIRF, in 1998 with a clear statutory mandate to monitor conditions of religious freedom around the world and make recommendations to Congress and to the President to protect this right.
Since then, Congress has reauthorized the commission's operations, appropriations, and mandate numerous times. Under current law, USCIRF terminates on September 30th of this year. This bill reauthorizes the Commission through December of 2028.
America was founded on the principle that all human beings are endowed by our creator with certain unalienable rights. One of these, the very first laid out in the Bill of Rights to the Constitution, is the right to freely exercise one's religion according to one's conscience. Yet, throughout the world, believers suffer extreme persecution. Throughout history, tyrants and radical regimes always target religion first.
In Nigeria, seemingly every week, Christians are massacred by radical Fulani Muslims wielding machetes and crying: "Allahu akbar." Christians in China are forced to worship underground. In Nicaragua, the dictatorship has just forbidden Bibles from being brought into the country. Christians across much of the Middle East and South Asia are relegated to second-class citizens, harassed and discriminated against simply for professing their beliefs.
Even in Europe, nations with freedom of religion enshrined in their constitutions, Christians, who hold traditional biblical views on marriage, gender, and sexuality, have been convicted under so-called hate speech laws.
It is not only Christians who are persecuted globally. The Chinese Communist Party right now is committing a horrific genocide against Uyghurs. Ahmadi Muslims in Pakistan, Rohingya Muslims in Burma, Buddhists in Vietnam, and many more face severe restrictions on their religious freedom.
USCIRF gives Congress tools to confront persecution and protect religious freedom.
As Vice President Vance said last year: Part of this country's moral leadership "means recognizing in our foreign policy the difference between regimes that respect religious freedom and those that do not."
USCIRF is a critical tool to that end.
I thank my colleague, Mr. Smith of New Jersey, as well as Mr. Sherman of California, for leading this bipartisan effort. Mr. Smith has been leading on this for many years.
Mr. Speaker, the bill advanced out of Committee unanimously, and I urge my colleagues to join in advancing it on the floor today.
Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of this bill to reauthorize the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom, or USCIRF, through fiscal year 2028.
Since its establishment 28 years ago, USCIRF has served as an independent, bipartisan watchdog monitoring conditions on the ground and providing policy recommendations to Congress and the administration.
Its work reinforces the principles reflected in Article 18 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and helps ensure that our advocacy for religious freedom is consistent, credible, and universal.
True religious liberty cannot mean protection for only a favored few. It extends to all people.
A consistent defense of freedom of thought, consciousness, religion, and belief, or nonbelief, strengthens our voice globally and advances global stability, security, and prosperity.
When governments suppress religious belief, broader repression often follows. In many parts of the world, severe restrictions on religion are an early warning sign of authoritarian consolidation and instability.
Mr. Speaker, for these reasons, we need to reauthorize this commission so they can continue to do their good work.
Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. Smith), the chairman of the Subcommittee on Africa.
Mr. Speaker, I thank our very distinguished chairman for his strong leadership on religious freedom generally but for this legislation as well. I do appreciate that so much. I want to thank Brad Sherman, who is the Democratic cosponsor, for his leadership in backing this important reauthorization of the United States International Religious Freedom Commission.
As I think Members know, USCIRF was created--the acronym we all use for the commission--by Congress to protect religious freedom through the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998, a historic landmark law authored by Frank Wolf in 1998.
USCIRF's high-quality reporting and high-profile commissioners influence the State Department's work on religious freedom, and also provide Congress with insights with its incisive commentary, making all of the work that all of us do, especially State, more transparent, honest, and effective.
The Commission defends the universal right to freedom of religion abroad. It sponsors hearings, fact-finding trips, reviews reports from all comers, especially NGOs and others, religious communities who are, unfortunately, being repressed in many countries of the world. They make very, very good recommendations that often are followed.
I also point out that I have probably chaired more than 700 hearings on human rights over the years. I have been here since the year 1980. I always want to have somebody from the commission there, always. They come. They give whatever--the name of the country. They give their insights after a great deal of due diligence. And what a difference that makes in terms of our understanding what is actually going on.
USCIRF commissioners are appointed by the President and the congressional leadership. There are nine of them of both parties, so it is totally bipartisan.
Last month, our former colleague, Vicky Hartzler, completed a distinguished term on the commission. None of you would be surprised to know that she was very active as the chair of the commission and did a magnificent job. She was appointed by Speaker Johnson, as was Maureen Ferguson, who also just completed her term and did so with great distinction.
Again, I remind my colleagues, it was our very good friend, Frank Wolf, who, in 1998, with great legislative skill, commitment, and driving passion, drove the adoption of a singularly important human rights law, the International Religious Freedom Act, or IRFA. This law created a system for naming and taking action of what was now called Countries of Particular Concern, or CPCs.
History has shown that when the United States elevates religious freedom and that priority is conveyed to Countries of Particular Concern, conditions often change for the positive. Prisoners of conscience gain their freedom, and progress is made toward the free exercise of religious liberty.
As the author of the Frank Wolf International Religious Freedom Act of 2016, which updated Frank's legislation, I do follow the CPC recommendations very closely. In that law, we created entities of particular concern, like Boko Haram and some of these horrible organizations that kill people simply because of their faith.
The USCIRF acts as a true watchdog, recommending with incisive commentary that the State Department designated countries not leave somebody off because of political considerations. If they are committing human rights abuses against people of faith, they need to be held to account.
CPC is followed by a two-step process: first a designation, followed thereafter by sanctions, more than 18 of them prescribed into law. We are hoping that they won't be used. We want to see real reform and people protected like in China and elsewhere from people who wish them ill.
I again thank our Members, Brad Sherman, Gus Bilirakis, Henry Cuellar, and all the others who have supported this bill and ask my colleagues to support the legislation.
Ami Bera (D-CA)4:10 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time for the purpose of closing.
Mr. Speaker, reauthorizing USCIRF would ensure continuity in its important work. Protecting religious freedoms abroad advances both our values and interests, and it promotes stability and respect for fundamental rights. Join me in supporting this bill.
Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
Brian J. Mast (R-FL)4:10 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, the right to freely exercise your religion without fear of persecution is an unalienable right that belongs to all people.
By passing this bill, the U.S. Congress is recommitting itself to that fundamental truth, that fundamental freedom.
I urge my colleagues to support this bipartisan bill, and I call upon the Senate to take up and pass H.R. 1744 as soon as possible.
Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
The SPEAKER pro tempore4:10 p.m.
The question is on the motion offered by the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Mast) that the House suspend the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 1744, as amended.
The question was taken; and (two-thirds being in the affirmative) the rules were suspended and the bill, as amended, was passed. The title of the bill was amended so as to read: "A bill to extend and authorize annual appropriations for the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom through December 31, 2028.". A motion to reconsider was laid on the table.
Protecting Europe from Antisemitic Crime and Extremism Act
Pages H3948–H3950 · Official textMr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 6297) to require the Department of State to provide briefings on antisemitism in Europe, as amended.
The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows:
Text printed in the Record (1,652 characters)
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the "Protecting Europe from Antisemitic Crime and Extremism Act" or the "PEACE Act".
SEC. 2. CONSULTATIONS ON ANTISEMITISM IN EUROPE.
(a) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that--
(1) the Assistant Secretary for European and Eurasian Affairs, in consultation with other relevant officials of the Department of State, should assess the persistent and growing threat of antisemitism and acts of international terrorism in Europe as a matter of importance to the foreign policy of the United States; and
(2) the Under Secretary for Political Affairs, acting through the Assistant Secretary for European and Eurasian Affairs, should diplomatically engage governments of countries of apparent concern on efforts for transatlantic cooperation to counter and address antisemitism and acts of international terrorism that may threaten transatlantic stability, the safety and security of United States citizens, and institutions abroad.
(b) Consultation.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter for two years, the Assistant Secretary for European and Eurasian Affairs shall consult with the appropriate congressional committees on the matters described in subsection (a).
(c) Appropriate Congressional Committees Defined.--In this section, the term "appropriate congressional committees" means--
(1) the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives; and
(2) the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Mast) and the gentleman from California (Mr. Bera) each will control 20 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Florida.
Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and insert extraneous material on H.R. 6297.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Is there objection to the request of the gentleman from Florida?
There was no objection.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, anti-Semitism and international terrorism in Europe are real threats that undermine regional stability, transatlantic security, and the safety of American citizens living abroad. This threat skyrocketed after Hamas' October 7 terrorist attack. France recorded over 1,000 anti-Semitic incidents in just 1 month alone. Germany experienced a 240 percent increase. More recent incidents further underscore that threat.
On October 2, 2025, a deadly anti-Semitic attack at a Manchester synagogue during Yom Kippur killed two and injured others. In March 2025, a 22-year-old was arrested in Madrid for attempting to set fire to Rimmon Kosher, a busy kosher restaurant. Authorities charged him with anti-Semitic hate crime, attempted murder, and arson.
In March of 2026, two suspects on a motor scooter detonated an explosive device against the outer wall of an Orthodox Jewish school in Amsterdam. Also, in March of 2026, an explosive device detonated in front of a historic synagogue in Belgium during the early morning hours.
Beyond anti-Semitic attacks, Europe continues to face threats from the Islamic extremism. In February of 2025, French authorities classified a deadly knife attack in Mulhouse as an Islamic terrorist act, while German authorities disrupted and investigated multiple suspected Islamist-inspired plots during 2025.
This legislation builds on the Trump administration's effort to combat anti-Semitism and strengthen international counterterrorism cooperation. It ensures continued U.S. diplomatic engagement with European allies, and it requires regular consultations with Congress.
I thank the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Fine), my colleague and the sponsor of this bill, for his leadership on the issue. The bill passed the Committee on Foreign Affairs with broad bipartisan support. I urge my colleagues to join me in advancing it on the floor today.
Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the PEACE Act.
Acts of anti-Semitism are on the rise globally. This is also true in Europe, where increasingly vocal fringe political movements, particularly far-right movements, are emboldened by increased political discourse on both sides of the Atlantic that harkens back to the unacceptable political rhetoric of old.
Combating anti-Semitism has long been a priority for both Democratic and Republican administrations and has been a central element of U.S. foreign policy for years.
This bill expresses the sense of Congress that the State Department should assess and address the threat of anti-Semitism in Europe and requires consultation with Congress on addressing these threats.
Mr. Speaker, I support this bill and urge my colleagues to do the same. I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Fine).
Mr. Speaker, one would have thought after October 7, 2023, the world's worst attack against Jews since the Holocaust, which obviously took place in Europe, there would have been an outpouring of sympathy and less anti-Semitism in the world. In Europe, in particular, that is not what happened.
A study conducted by the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights recorded an increase of up to 400 percent in anti-Semitic activity since October 7. That same study also found that 96 percent of European Jews that were surveyed, almost every single one said that they encounter anti-Semitism in their daily lives--not once a month, not once a year, but every day in their actual existence.
Crimes linked to anti-Semitism are on the rise all throughout Europe. Even our major allies in the region have seen a dramatic increase.
France saw 1,600 anti-Semitic acts in 2024, a 300 percent increase since before October 7. The United Kingdom had over 3,500 anti-Semitic incidents in 2024, up dramatically from the 1,600, which is still too many, that they had before October 7, 2023.
Statistics only show part of the picture. My friend and colleague, the chairman, gave some stories. What is remarkable is we didn't coordinate, and every story that he told is different than one that I am about to tell you.
On February 11 in Paris, a 13-year-old Jewish boy was attacked by five men on his way to synagogue--13 years old, five adult men. During the attack, he was called Jewish slurs by the perpetrators.
On March 23, in London, four ambulances operated by a Jewish charity were destroyed in an arson attack by three men.
Mr. Speaker, these are stories that affect Europeans, but the rise of anti-Semitism in Europe affects Americans, as well, particularly when we visit Europe. This isn't just about protecting European Jews. It is about protecting Americans when we go there.
On April 29 of this year, two Jewish men were stabbed by someone who said that he went out with the intention of stabbing people who looked visibly Jewish. One of the two was an American.
On November 10, 2025, in Milan, a Jewish American was attacked after he was identified based on his "Orthodox Jewish attire." These are Americans being attacked in Europe.
My bill would direct the State Department to assess the growing threat of anti-Semitism in Europe and provide diplomatic channels to make clear to our European allies that this conduct is simply unacceptable. After this assessment, the Assistant Secretary for European and Eurasian Affairs will engage with European countries that are identified as countries of concern to say that they have to cooperate with us to deal with this rising anti-Semitism problem.
This commonsense, bipartisan legislation passed through committee unanimously, 49-0, and I thank the cosponsors of the bill, Republicans Max Miller, Mike Lawler, and Representative Claudia Tenney, but also Democrats Eugene Vindman and Laura Gillen.
I also thank the chairman and the ranking member, both of whom have supported the bill, and I thank the majority leader for putting it on the floor today.
Finally, I would just say this. We said, after the Holocaust, never again, but the facts are that there is a real risk of it happening.
Mr. Speaker, I urge all of my colleagues to vote today to take this one small step to make sure that it doesn't happen ever again.
Ami Bera (D-CA)4:20 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time for the purpose of closing.
Mr. Speaker, I support this measure. I encourage all of my colleagues to do so, as well, and I yield back the balance of my time.
Brian J. Mast (R-FL)4:20 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, the rise of anti-Semitic violence and terrorist attacks across Europe is a stark reminder that radical extremism is not a relic of the past. It is a clear and present danger to freedom, to democracy, and to Western civilization.
The United States has to stand firmly with our allies, with the Jewish people, and with all those who reject terror and defend liberty.
Peace through strength is not just a slogan. It is a necessity. Weakness invites aggression. Strength deters aggression. H.R. 6297 sends a clear message that America will continue to lead in confronting anti-Semitism and strengthening international efforts to combat terrorism.
Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this legislation, and I yield back the balance of my time.
The SPEAKER pro tempore4:20 p.m.
The question is on the motion offered by the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Mast) that the House suspend the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 6297, as amended.
The question was taken; and (two-thirds being in the affirmative) the rules were suspended and the bill, as amended, was passed. The title of the bill was amended so as to read: "A bill To require the Department of State to consult with Congress on antisemitism in Europe.". A motion to reconsider was laid on the table.
Producing Returns and Opportunity for Investment and Trade Act of 2026
Pages H3950–H3954 · Official textPRODUCING RETURNS AND OPPORTUNITY FOR INVESTMENT AND TRADE ACT OF 2026
Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 5248) to ensure the alignment of economic and foreign policies, to position the Department of State to reflect that economic security is national security, and for other purposes.
The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows:
Text printed in the Record (11,901 characters)
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,
SEC. 501. UNDER SECRETARY FOR ECONOMIC AFFAIRS.
(a) Establishment.--There shall be in the Department an Under Secretary for Economic Affairs who shall be responsible to the Secretary for matters pertaining to economic growth, commercial expansion, energy, technology policy and innovation, scientific research, commercial outer space affairs, critical minerals, water and the environment, protection of natural resources, sanctions policies, and such other related duties as the Secretary may from time to time designate.
(b) Responsibilities.--In addition to the responsibilities described under subsection (a), the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs shall maintain continuous observation and coordination of all matters pertaining to economic and business affairs in the conduct of foreign policy, including, as appropriate, the following:
(1) Preparing an annual strategic plan for expanding opportunities for United States private sector companies in international markets, coordinating the use of sanctions to achieve national security objectives, promoting international trade and investment, developing international policies around new and emerging technologies, ensuring United States leadership in science and technology, protecting natural resources, and promoting United States energy interests.
(2) Developing policies for consideration by the Secretary to promote economic growth, facilitate market access, create business enabling environments abroad, expand trade and investment opportunities for United States companies, promote United States energy exports and energy security, conserve and manage economically important ecosystems and resources, expand access to critical minerals abroad, support United States civil and commercial space governance, promote international standards, policies, and best practices for emerging technology that facilitate United States economic growth, and safeguard the preeminence of the United States dollar in international markets.
(3) Promoting United States international economic interests to be addressed in the Biannual National Economic Security Strategy Report, coordinated by the Office of the Chief Economist.
(4) Attending and participating in meetings of the National Security Council, and National Space Council, when applicable, at the direction of the Secretary, for matters related to economic growth, energy, and commercial expansion, commercial outer space affairs, oceans, science and technology developments, natural resource protection, and fulfill the role of Foreign Affairs Sous Sherpa relating to the activities of the Group of Seven Industrial Nations (G-7).
(5) Providing guidance to Department personnel in the United States and overseas who conduct or implement policies, programs, and activities related to economic growth, energy, and commercial expansion, science and technology affairs, natural resource conservation, and civil and commercial activities in outer space.
(6) Coordinating activities related to promoting economic growth, facilitating market access, creating business enabling environments abroad, expanding trade and investment opportunities, promoting of energy exports, conserving and managing economically important ecosystems and resources, expanding access to critical minerals, maintaining United States leadership in science, technology, and outer space, and safeguarding the preeminence of the United States dollar in international markets.
(7) As directed by the Secretary, representing the Department at interdepartmental meetings including the National Economic Council, Homeland Security Council, Council on Environmental Quality, and in providing policy advice to the Secretary on matters under consideration by these groups.
(c) First Appointment.--On the date of the enactment of this Act, the individual serving before such date of enactment as the Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy and the Environment shall be the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs. Any subsequent appointment of an individual to the position of Under Secretary for Economic Affairs shall be subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
SEC. 502. ADMINISTRATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL TECHNOLOGY
SECURITY AND INNOVATION FUND.
Section 102(c) of the CHIPS Act of 2022 (Public Law 117-167; 136 Stat. 1375) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1)--
(A) by inserting ", acting through the Under Secretary of State for Economic Affairs" after "Secretary of State"; and
(B) by adding at the end the following: "Within the Department of State, the Fund shall be overseen and administered by the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs.".
(2) in paragraph (2)(B), by inserting ", acting through the Under Secretary of State for Economic Affairs" after "Secretary of State".
SEC. 503. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS FOR ECONOMIC
AFFAIRS.
(a) Administration of Accounts.--The Under Secretary for Economic Affairs shall direct, oversee, and otherwise exercise responsibility of funds made available for the International Technology Security and Innovation Fund.
(b) Authorization of Appropriations.--Of the funds authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary of State under section 141, the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs shall receive the funds necessary to fulfill the Under Secretary's responsibilities for fiscal years 2026 and 2027.
SEC. 504. CHIEF ECONOMIST.
(a) Establishment.--There is authorized to be in the Department a Chief Economist who shall be responsible to the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs for matters pertaining to analyzing and forecasting the impact of economic trends on diplomatic functions and national security priorities, and such other related duties as the Secretary may from time to time designate.
(b) Responsibilities.--In addition to the responsibilities described under subsection (a), the Chief Economist shall provide research and analysis to inform the Department's strategy for deploying international economic policy to strengthen alliances, deter malign foreign actors, and reduce dependencies on strategic rivals in the conduct of foreign policy, including, as appropriate, the following:
(1) Providing research and analysis to inform the development of the Department's strategy for deploying foreign policy to ensure supply chain resilience, secure access to raw materials and critical minerals, and maximize international market access.
(2) Providing analysis of complex, emerging geoeconomic issues and offer advice to Department leadership on economic diplomacy challenges.
(3) Conducting research and rigorous, data-driven analysis of high priority issues at the intersection of economics and foreign policy to inform decision-making and diplomatic engagements by senior Department officials.
(4) Maintaining analytical products for the Department on international economic issues, including on sanctions evasion and the vulnerabilities of the United States and its partners to economic coercion, as well as the economic opportunities for United States businesses.
(5) Contributing to the expansion of the economic expertise of the Department through collaboration with the Foreign Service Institute, the academic community, international organizations, and other Federal departments and agencies the Chief Economist determines necessary.
(6) Serving as a liaison to technical experts in economics and related fields in partner governments, international institutions, and elsewhere in the United States government and academic community.
(7) Performing such other duties as the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs may from time to time designate.
(c) Report.--Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this section, and every two years for the subsequent four years, the Chief Economist shall transmit to Congress a report on the international economic strategy of the United States and its analytical basis. In preparing the report, the Chief Economist shall coordinate input and analysis from other bureaus within the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs.
SEC. 505. OFFICE OF THE CHIEF ECONOMIST.
(a) Establishment.--The Secretary shall establish an Office of the Chief Economist, which shall perform such functions related to the provision of expert economic advice and analysis, as the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs may prescribe.
(b) Chief Economist.--The Chief Economist shall be the head of the Office of the Chief Economist.
SEC. 506. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS FOR THE CHIEF
ECONOMIST.
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated to the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs under section 503, the Chief Economist shall receive the funds necessary to fulfill Office functions and the Chief Economist's responsibilities for fiscal years 2026 and 2027.
SEC. 507. ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR COMMERCIAL DIPLOMACY.
(a) Establishment.--There is authorized to be in the Department an Assistant Secretary?for Commercial Diplomacy who shall be responsible to the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs for matters pertaining to the trade and investment promotion and policy, international finance and development, transportation affairs, and such other related duties as the Secretary may from time to time designate.
(b) Responsibilities.--In addition to the responsibilities described under subsection (a), the Assistant Secretary for Commercial Diplomacy shall be responsible for leading Department policies and programs, and coordinating with other United States agencies as appropriate, for all matters pertaining to the following:
(1) Trade and investment promotion, such as--
(A) assisting and advocating for United States businesses and commercial interests overseas;
(B) identifying foreign market opportunities for United States businesses and helping United States firms overcome challenges in foreign business climates;
(C) helping United States companies compete for and win contracts in foreign markets;
(D) attracting foreign investment into the United States by identifying high potential businesses in foreign countries;
(E) ensuring United States private sector concerns are integrated into United States foreign policy and economic policy; and
(F) promoting international commercial projects that advance the national security interests of the United States, regardless of domestic content thresholds.
(2) International trade policy, including negotiating and implementing trade agreements, resolving trade disputes, bolstering supply chain resilience, and protecting intellectual property rights.
(3) International investment policy, including monitoring international investment climates, negotiating and implementing investment agreements, representing the Department in the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States, and assisting United States companies involved in investment disputes with foreign governments.
(4) Development finance, including the mobilization of private, bilateral, and multilateral development finance for developing countries, particularly investments focused on infrastructure projects.
(5) The negotiation and extension of debt relief and sovereign loan guarantees for United States allies and partners.
(6) The promotion of sound, transparent, and stable economic policies overseas.
(7) Perform such other duties as the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs may from time to time designate.
(c) First Appointment.--On the date of the enactment of this Act, the individual serving before such date of enactment as the Assistant Secretary for Economic and Business Affairs shall be the Assistant Secretary for Commercial Diplomacy. Any subsequent appointment of an individual to the position of Assistant Secretary for Commercial Diplomacy shall be subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
SEC. 508.
Text printed in the Record (10,592 characters)
BUREAU OF COMMERCIAL DIPLOMACY.
(a) Establishment.--The Secretary shall establish a Bureau of Commercial Diplomacy which shall perform such functions related to trade and investment promotion and policy, international finance and development, and transportation affairs, as the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs may prescribe.
(b) Assistant Secretary.--The Assistant Secretary for Commercial Diplomacy shall be the head of the Bureau of Commercial Diplomacy.
SEC. 510. ENHANCING SUBNATIONAL DIPLOMACY.
(a) Establishment.--There shall be established in the Department an Office of Subnational Diplomacy. The Office shall enable the Department's work with subnational governments (state, county, city, and municipal) within the United States to improve the ability of subnational governments to attract foreign investment, counter foreign malign influence within the United States, and contribute to the foreign policy priorities of the United States.
(b) Coordinator.--The head of the Office shall be the Coordinator for Subnational Diplomacy. The head of the office shall report through the Assistant Secretary for Commercial Diplomacy to the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs.
(c) Responsibilities.--In addition to the responsibilities described under subsection (a), the Coordinator for Subnational Diplomacy shall maintain continuous observation and coordination of all matters pertaining to subnational diplomacy and Department engagements with subnational governments in the conduct of foreign policy, including the following:
(1) Advising the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs on subnational engagements within the United States and serve as the principal official on such matters within the Department.
(2) Coordinating the Department's support for local and municipal governments' engagements with foreign governments.
(3) Advising subnational government officials on the potential risks of engagements with countries of concern and share best practices to build resilience against foreign political interference and malign influence.
(4) Assisting subnational governments in the following areas:
(A) Attracting or bidding to host major international events.
(B) Tracking foreign direct investment at the county and municipal levels to highlight trends and opportunities.
(C) Attracting foreign direct investment and other forms of economic cooperation.
(D) Building the capacity and knowledge of subnational government staff who have responsibility for engaging with foreign countries.
(E) Advancing sports diplomacy with foreign countries and entities.
(F) Implementing programs to cooperate with foreign governments and entities on policy priorities or managing shared resources.
(G) Understanding the local implications of foreign policy developments or policy changes.
(5) Supporting the economic interests of the United States through subnational engagements, in consultation and coordination with other relevant agencies.
(6) Advising and informing local officials as they negotiate agreements and memoranda of understanding with foreign governments related to subnational engagements and priorities.
(7) Coordinating subnational engagements with associations of subnational elected leaders, including the United States Conference of Mayors, National Governors Association, National League of Cities and similar associations.
(8) Performing other such duties as the Assistant Secretary for Commercial Diplomacy and the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs may from time to time designate.
SEC. 511. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS FOR COMMERCIAL
DIPLOMACY.
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated to the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs under section 503, the Assistant Secretary for Commercial Diplomacy shall receive the funds necessary to fulfill Bureau functions and the Assistant Secretary's responsibilities for fiscal years 2026 and 2027.
SEC. 512. ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR WATER, ENVIRONMENT, AND
SPACE AFFAIRS.
(a) Establishment.--There is authorized to be in the Department an Assistant Secretary for Water, Environment, and Space Affairs who shall be responsible to the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs for matters pertaining to space, oceans, polar affairs, environmental quality, freshwater, fisheries, wildlife and wildlife trafficking, conservation, and such other related duties as the Secretary may from time to time designate.
(b) Responsibilities.--In addition to the responsibilities described under subsection (a), the Assistant Secretary for Water, Environment, and Space Affairs shall maintain continuous observation and coordination of all matters pertaining to oceans, fisheries, natural resource conservation, and outer space in the conduct of foreign policy, including, as appropriate, the following:
(1) Developing United States policy on global environmental security issues with respect to oceans, fisheries, Antarctic region, waste and global pollution, and natural resource management and conservation, including water.
(2) Representing the Department in bilateral and multilateral negotiations involving the law of the sea, including freedom of navigation and overflight and other lawful uses of the ocean; maritime security; United States maritime zones, including the United States extended continental shelf; marine science; sustainable management and protection of marine habitats and resources; marine pollution; and maritime claims and boundaries.
(3) Leading United States engagement on Antarctica and in international oceans agreements and conventions with foreign governments and international organizations to promote solutions that advance United States national security, economic, and environmental interests.
(4) Coordinating the development of policies and programs to conserve and manage economically important ecosystems, including, forests, wetlands, drylands, and coral reefs.
(5) Developing policies and programs to address international threats to natural resources including but not limited to illicit trade; illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing; wildlife trafficking; and illegal logging and associated trade.
(6) Developing and implementing United States foreign policy related to air, water and soil pollution and risks to human health and the environment caused by the transboundary movement of hazardous chemicals and waste and other forms of pollution to promote environmental security with trade partners and in multilateral institutions.
(7) Representing the Department in bilateral and multilateral engagements including organizations, institutions, and negotiation of international agreements on related issues.
(8) Developing policies and programs, in coordination with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the Department of Commerce, and other relevant Federal departments and agencies, as appropriate, to support partnerships between the United States and international and private industry partners in the development of infrastructure and policies that expand economic growth in outer space, including--
(A) countering malign efforts by foreign adversaries and other actors that threaten United States interests in civil and commercial space;
(B) expanding access to foreign markets for United States commercial industry, including by encouraging reforms that reduce barriers to trade and cooperation with United States civil and commercial space actors; and
(C) providing assistance to foreign governments and organizations, including national, regional, and international institutions, on such terms and conditions as the Secretary may determine.
(9) Leading bilateral and multilateral engagements related to civil and commercial space activities, resilient space services, burden sharing, and other matters related to international space law and diplomacy and other United States international obligations and commitments.
(10) In accordance with the National Space Policy, leading United States Government engagement with international Global Navigation Satellite Systems providers to ensure compatibility and encourage interoperability of civil global navigation satellite services based on United States-based global positioning systems, including through the International Committee on Global Navigation Satellite Systems.
(11) Leading Department efforts to implement international arrangements and promote cooperation on Earth observation satellite systems.
(12) Leading Department engagement in multilateral and bilateral forums on international space policy, space law, and commercial and civil treaties or agreements.
(13) Leading Department efforts on transparency in space by maintaining the official United States space object registry and promoting best practices for safe operations in space, preservation of the space environment, space traffic coordination, and space situational awareness.
(14) Leading Department efforts to align foreign space law, regulatory, and policy frameworks with United States-endorsed models, approaches, and best practices.
(15) Performing such other duties as the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs may from time to time designate.
(c) First Appointment.--On the date of the enactment of this Act, the individual serving as the Assistant Secretary for Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs on the day before such date of enactment shall be the Assistant Secretary for Water, Environment, and Space Affairs. Any subsequent appointment of an individual to the position of Assistant Secretary for Water, Environment, and Space Affairs shall be subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
SEC. 513. BUREAU OF WATER, ENVIRONMENT, AND SPACE AFFAIRS.
(a) Establishment.--The Secretary shall establish a Bureau of Water, Environment, and Space Affairs, which shall perform such functions related to space, oceans, environmental quality, fisheries, wildlife, and wildlife trafficking, and conservation affairs, as the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs may prescribe.
(b) Assistant Secretary.--The Assistant Secretary for Water, Environment, and Space Affairs shall be the head of the Bureau of Water, Environment, and Space Affairs.
SEC. 514. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS FOR WATER,
ENVIRONMENT, AND SPACE AFFAIRS.
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated to the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs under section 503, the Assistant Secretary for Water, Environment, and Space Affairs shall receive the funds necessary to fulfill Bureau functions and the Assistant Secretary's responsibilities for fiscal years 2026 and 2027.
SEC. 515.
Text printed in the Record (11,146 characters)
ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR ENERGY SECURITY AND
DIPLOMACY.
(a) Establishment.--There is authorized to be in the Department an Assistant Secretary for Energy Security and Diplomacy who shall be responsible to the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs for all matters pertaining to the formulation and implementation of international energy, energy technology, critical minerals, and relevant supply chain policies in the conduct of foreign policy by the Department, including, as appropriate, to protect United States energy security interests, lead the coordination of energy programs carried out by United States Government agencies abroad, and such other related duties as the Secretary may from time to time designate.
(b) Responsibilities.--In addition to the responsibilities described under subsection (a), the Assistant Secretary for Energy Security and Diplomacy shall maintain continuous observation and coordination of all matters pertaining to the development of policies to secure access to international energy markets and diversify critical mineral supply chains in the conduct of foreign policy, including, as appropriate, the following:
(1) Representing the Secretary in interagency efforts to develop the international energy policy of the United States.
(2) Leading the analysis, formulation, and implementation of international policies aimed at protecting and advancing United States energy interests.
(3) Effectively managing United States bilateral and multilateral relations and, as directed by the Secretary, representing the Secretary in relevant international fora and organizations, including the International Energy Agency, to bolster global energy security and advance the interests of the United States.
(4) Ensuring that analyses of the national security and economic security implications of global energy developments are reflected in the decision-making processes within the Department.
(5) Incorporating energy and critical mineral security priorities into the activities of the Department.
(6) Coordinating energy activities of the Department with relevant Federal departments and agencies, including the Departments of Energy, Commerce, Defense, and Interior, and the Development Finance Corporation to promote United States energy security and energy development to support United States national security readiness.
(7) Coordinating with the Bureau of Sanctions Policy on economic sanctions pertaining to the international energy sector.
(8) Coordinating energy security and other relevant functions within the Department currently undertaken by--
(A) the Bureau of Commercial Diplomacy;
(B) the Bureau of Water, Environment, and Space Affairs;
(C) the Bureau of Arms Control and Nonproliferation; and
(D) other bureaus and offices within the Department.
(9) Working internationally to--
(A) support the development of energy technologies, natural resources, critical minerals, and supply chains for the benefit of the United States and United States allies and trading partners for their energy security and economic development needs;
(B) promote secure and diversified energy and critical minerals supply chains, and a well-functioning global market for energy resources, energy technologies, critical minerals;
(C) resolve international disputes regarding the exploration, development, production, or distribution of energy and critical minerals resources where the United States strategic interests are present;
(D) support the economic and commercial interests of United States persons operating in the energy markets of foreign countries; and
(E) support and coordinate international efforts to alleviate energy poverty, enhance energy access and energy efficiency to promote United States strategic interests and offer alternatives to adversary initiatives for United States allies and partners.
(10) Conducting public diplomacy with regard to United States international energy policy to strengthen transparency and governance.
(11) Performing such other duties as the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs may from time to time designate.
(c) Annual Report.--Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this section, and annually thereafter for three years, the Assistant Secretary for Energy Security and Diplomacy shall submit to Congress a report on the United States international energy strategy.
SEC. 516. BUREAU OF ENERGY SECURITY AND DIPLOMACY.
(a) Establishment.--The Secretary shall establish a Bureau of Energy Security and Diplomacy, which shall perform such functions related to the formulation and implementation of international energy, energy technology, critical minerals, and relevant supply chain policies, as the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs may prescribe.
(b) Assistant Secretary.--The Assistant Secretary for Energy Security and Diplomacy shall be the head of the Bureau of Energy Security and Diplomacy.
SEC. 517. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS FOR ENERGY SECURITY
AND DIPLOMACY.
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated to the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs under section 503, the Assistant Secretary for Energy Security and Diplomacy shall receive the funds necessary to fulfill Bureau functions and the Assistant Secretary's responsibilities for fiscal years 2026 and 2027.
SEC. 518. ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR SANCTIONS POLICY.
(a) Establishment.--There is authorized to be in the Department an Assistant Secretary for Sanctions Policy, who shall be responsible to the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs for matters pertaining to the
development of policies governing the imposition of sanctions, in consultation with the Under Secretary for International Security Affairs and the Assistant Secretary for Arms Control and Nonproliferation as appropriate, and such other related duties as the Secretary may from time to time designate.
(b) Responsibilities.--In addition to the responsibilities described under subsection (a), the Assistant Secretary for Sanctions Policy shall maintain continuous observation and coordination of all matters pertaining to the development and implementation of sanctions policies as part of United States diplomatic strategies in the conduct of foreign policy, including, as appropriate, the following:
(1) Developing the foreign policy strategy of United States sanctions programs, including consideration of the use of sanctions in combination with other United States foreign policy tools and the political and economic implications of sanction policies.
(2) Coordinating the effective implementation and enforcement of sanctions, including all activities, policies, and programs pertaining to sanctions within the Department.
(3) Coordinating sanctions policy with foreign partners and allies to ensure the maximum effectiveness of sanctions imposed by the United States and such allies and partners.
(4) Consulting regularly with a broad range of stakeholders on the implications of United States sanctions policy for United States economic interests.
(5) Contributing to the reports to Congress produced by the Chief Economist.
(6) Leading the Department's efforts to identify and designate individuals for visa sanctions related to human rights violations.
(7) Developing policies and programs, in coordination with the Department of the Treasury and other Federal departments and agencies as necessary and with foreign partners, to combat money laundering, terrorist financing, cybercrimes, and other illicit financial activities.
(8) Representing the Department in all interagency groups or organizations within the executive branch that plan, assess, analyze, or review United States sanctions policies, such as interagency groups organized under the auspices of the Department of the Treasury, the Department of Commerce, and the Department of Homeland Security.
(9) Performing such other duties as the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs may from time to time designate.
(c) Redelegation of Authority.--The Secretary may delegate, or authorize successive redelegation of, authority to the Assistant Secretary for Sanctions Policy to act and to render decisions, with respect to all sanctions policies administered by the Department. Within the limitations of such delegations, redelegations, or assignments, all official acts and decisions by the Assistant Secretary for Sanctions Policy shall have the same force and effect as though performed or rendered by the Secretary.
(d) First Appointment.--On the date of the enactment of this Act, the individual serving before such date of enactment as the Coordinator for Sanctions shall be the Assistant Secretary for Sanctions Policy. Any subsequent appointment of an individual to the position of Assistant Secretary for Sanctions Policy shall be subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
SEC. 519. BUREAU OF SANCTIONS POLICY.
(a) Establishment.--The Secretary shall establish a Bureau of Sanctions Policy, which shall perform such functions related to the development of policies governing the imposition of sanctions and sanctions strategies, as the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs may prescribe.
(b) Assistant Secretary.--The Assistant Secretary for Sanctions Policy shall be the head of the Bureau of Sanctions Policy.
SEC. 520. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS FOR SANCTIONS
POLICY.
Of the funds authorized to be appropriated to the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs under section 503, the Assistant Secretary for Sanctions Policy shall receive the funds necessary to fulfill Bureau functions and the Assistant Secretary's responsibilities for fiscal years 2026 and 2027.
SEC. 521. REFERENCES.
Any reference in any statute, reorganization plan, Executive order, regulation, agreement, determination, or other official document or proceeding to--
(1) the Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy and the Environment shall be deemed to refer to the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs;
(2) the Assistant Secretary for Economic and Business Affairs shall be deemed to refer to the Assistant Secretary for Commercial Diplomacy;
(3) the Bureau for Economic and Business Affairs shall be deemed to refer to the Bureau for Commercial Diplomacy;
(4) the Assistant Secretary for Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs shall be deemed to refer to the Assistant Secretary for Water, Environment, and Space Affairs;
(5) the Bureau for Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs shall be deemed to refer to the Bureau for Water, Environment, and Space Affairs;
(6) the Sanctions Coordinator shall be deemed to refer to the Assistant Secretary for Sanctions Policy; and
(7) the Office of the Sanctions Coordinator shall be deemed to refer to the Bureau of Sanctions Policy.
SEC. 522. CLASSIFICATION IN UNITED STATES CODE.
(a) The Office of Law Revision Counsel is directed to--
(1) utilize sections 129-159 of title 22, United States Code, to classify the sections of this title; and
(2) maintain the legislative history, under editorial notes, of repealed law which previously occupied the corresponding sections of United States Code.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Mast) and the gentleman from California (Mr. Bera) each will control 20 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Florida.
Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on H.R. 5248.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Is there objection to the request of the gentleman from Florida?
There was no objection.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 5248, the PROFIT Act, a bill that I am proud to have worked on with my colleague Representative Young Kim, who is to my right.
When I became chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee, more than 80 percent of the State Department was unauthorized, meaning that Congress really hadn't examined it in a long time. It has been decades since the Department was forced to articulate its priorities and identify how it would align its resources.
Programs that had long outlived their purpose had been allowed to continue, wasting taxpayer dollars. Entire offices and bureaus had become redundant.
Mr. Speaker, I am proud to say that today, because of the bills we passed into law last year, in addition to H.R. 5248, we have now authorized more than 55 percent of the State Department. Clearly, there is still more work to be done.
Within the Department, the bureaus and offices that support the Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment are at the tip of the spear for implementing the America First foreign policy. These are the offices charged with leveling the playing field so that American companies can compete and win overseas.
This bill codifies the administration's America First foreign policy agenda by ensuring those offices and bureaus are aligned to advance our economic interests. As the President has repeatedly said, economic security is national security, and economic policy is foreign policy.
Mr. Speaker, I will pause on that and reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 5248, and I thank Representative Young Kim and Chairman Mast for working to move this package of economic diplomacy measures in a bipartisan manner.
This bill highlights the critical importance of the State Department's E family of bureaus, which engage in critical diplomacy related to energy and supply chains around the world. They help enhance America's economic security by engaging in bilateral and multilateral cooperation on issues ranging from critical minerals to space to our oceans and the environment.
The bill codifies economic diplomacy elements and functions at the State Department. The bill establishes a Bureau for Energy Security and Diplomacy and a new Assistant Secretary for Sanctions Policy to coordinate and strengthen sanctions policies at the State Department.
It codifies existing bureaus, such as the Water, Environment, and Space Affairs Bureau, the Economic and Business Affairs Bureau, as well as the Office of the Chief Economist and the Office of Subnational Diplomacy.
Taken together, this bill will make economic statecraft a more central part of the State Department and elevate the importance of economic security and commercial diplomacy as critical elements of U.S. foreign policy.
Mr. Speaker, I support this measure, and I urge all of my colleagues to do the same. I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as she may consume to the gentlewoman from California (Mrs. Kim), chairwoman of the East Asia and Pacific Subcommittee.
(Pursuant to a unanimous-consent request, the remarks of Mrs. Kim were moved to debate on H.R. 5248, as amended, in the Record.)
Brian J. Mast (R-FL)4:30 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I was just alerted that there is a technical error with the version of the bill that was submitted. We are going to enjoy the debate that we just had, but we are going to withdraw the motion.
The SPEAKER pro tempore4:30 p.m.
The motion is withdrawn.
Tehran Incitement to Violence Act
Pages H3954–H3957 · Official textMr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 6230) to designate certain individuals as specially designated global terrorists, as amended.
The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows:
Text printed in the Record (11,607 characters)
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the "Tehran Incitement to Violence Act".
SEC. 2. FINDINGS.
Congress finds the following:
(1) Abdolmajid Kharghani, a hardline cleric and Quranic studies expert, reportedly revealed an online fundraising campaign to the assassination of U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Khargani claimed in a state-television appearance that this could be achieved in Europe with $10-$20 million.
(2) Following Abdolmajid Khargani's remarks, the website THAAR.IR was launched to crowdsource funding to execute the aforementioned assassination attempts, which has since claimed to have raised more than $20 million. This figure and fund have not been independently verified.
(3) During and following the 12-Day War against the Islamic Republic of Iran's nuclear, missile, and military facilities, Iranian clerics and various other political and religious figures have variously described U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as being a "Mohareb" (one who wares against God), a "Mahdur al-Dam" (one whose blood must be spilled), a "Mufsid fil-Arz" (a spreader of corruption on earth), and a "Kafir Harbi" (a waring infidel) all of which under Islamic Law (Sharia) invite violence against the offender.
(4) Ayatollah Hossein Mazaheri has reportedly issued a fatwa against President Trump, Prime Minister Netanyahu, and others charging them with the crime of Moharebeh which under the Islamic penal system has had various punishments throughout which include the death penalty, crucifixion, cross amputation, and exile. Under the laws of the Islamic Republic of Iran, this charge carries the death penalty.
(5) Ayatollah Jafar Sobhani, a senior member of the Assembly of Experts, reportedly issued a fatwa charging President Trump, Prime Minister Netanyahu, and others, with the crime of Moharebeh.
(6) Alireza Panahian, a senior member of the Office of Supreme Leader, is an extremist cleric affiliated with--
(A) the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps;
(B) the IRGC's intelligence-security apparatus, which is involved in gross human rights violations in Iran and proliferating terrorism abroad;
(C) the inner ring of Mojtaba Khamenei's personal network; and
(D) the so-called "Habib Circle", one of the regime's highest informal security-intelligence networks, which has committed human rights violations and is involved in terrorist activities.
(7) Alireza Panahian has publicly endorsed and propagated the fatwas of Ayatollah Naser Makarem-Shirazi, a member of Iran's Assembly of Experts and an illicit profiteer in Iran's sugar market, and Ayatollah Hossein Nouri Hamedani, disciple and former representative in Europe of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, including their characterization of President Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a "Moharebeh"--an offense that, under Iranian law, can carry the death penalty.
(8) Alireza Panahian serves as a leading figure in the IRGC's indoctrination system and is described by analysts as one of the main ideological architects of its militarized, apocalyptic Mahdism doctrine.
(9) Within hardline currents of Iran's post-1979 political-religious establishment--especially IRGC-linked Mahdist ideology--Mahdism is interpreted as requiring the destruction of Israel as a prelude to the return of the Hidden 12th Imam.
(10) Ayatollah Abbas Kaabi, a member of the leadership committee of the Assembly of Experts, an affiliate with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, and is described as a key figure in the establishment of Hezbollah in Lebanon, and who possesses extensive ties to Iran-backed Shia militias in Iraq, has publicly endorsed the charge of Moharebeh against President Donald Trump, Prime Minister Netanyahu, and others.
(11) Ahmad Khatami, a member of the Guardian Council and Assembly of Experts and Interim Friday Prayer Leader of Tehran, has been sanctioned by the European Union for human rights abuses due to his egregious conduct and is reported to have called for the executions of President Donald J. Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
(12) Mohsen Araki, a member of the Assembly of Experts and Expediency Council and the Supreme Leader's former representative to the United Kingdom and head of the Islamic Center of England, has threated President Donald J. Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu by saying "their lives and property are no longer protected".
(13) Mohsen Araki declared the United States Government, including President Donald J. Trump, as a "hostile infidel government by all Muslims".
(14) The Qom Seminary, and including the organization's head Ayatollah Alireza Arafi, has endorsed Moharebeh Fatwas against President Donald J. Trump, Prime Minister Benjamin Netenyahu, and others. Statements released through Qom's Seminary's press office and signed by hundreds to thousands of clerics, professors, and students describe President Donald J. Trump's "blood wealth" as religiously permissible, effectively signaling their willingness to see the fatwa carried out.
(15) These Fatwas and charges of Moharebeh by senior clerical leaders from Iran's state-linked clerical institutions and religious leaders are a clear incitement of violence and consequently endanger the lives of President Donald J. Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, thus imperiling the national security of the United States and Israel.
SEC. 3. DETERMINATION ON CERTAIN ORGANIZATIONS FOR IMPOSITION
OF SANCTIONS.
(a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, not later than 2 years thereafter, the President shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees a determination as to whether the foreign persons described in subsection (b) meet the criteria for sanctions described in subsection (c) based on their role in issuing and amplifying fatwas advocating for violence, including as the fatwas relate to the deaths of President Donald J. Trump, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and other political leaders.
(b) Foreign Persons Described.--The foreign persons described in this subsection include the following:
(1) Ayatollah Naser Makarem-Shirazi.
(2) Ayatollah Hossein Nouri Hamedani.
(3) Ayatollah Hossein Mazaheri.
(4) Ayatollah Ja'far Sobhani.
(5) Alireza Panahian.
(6) Ayatollah Abbas Kaabi.
(7) Abdolmajid Kharghani.
(8) Ahmad Khatami.
(9) Mohsen Araki.
(10) Ayatollah Alireza Arafi.
(11) Qom Seminary (Howzeh Elmieh Qom).
(12) Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB).
(13) Assembly of Experts.
(14) Expediency and Discernment Council.
(15) Guardian Council.
(16) Ayatollah Ahmad Alamolhoda.
(17) Society of Seminary Teachers of Qom (Jaameh Modaresin Howzeh Elmieh Qom).
(18) Hojjat al-Eslam Amin Assadpour.
(c) Sanctions Described.--The sanctions described in this subsection are the following:
(1) Blocking of property.--The President shall exercise all authorities granted under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.) to the extent necessary to block and prohibit all transactions in property and interests in property of foreign persons described in subsection (b) if such property and interests in property are in the United States, come within the United States, or come within the possession or control of a United States person.
(2) Ineligibility for visas, admission, or parole.--
(A) Visas, admission, or parole.--An alien described in subsection (b) shall be--
(i) inadmissible to the United States;
(ii) ineligible to receive a visa or other documentation to enter the United States; and
(iii) otherwise ineligible to be admitted or paroled into the United States or to receive any other benefit under the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101 et seq.).
(B) Current visas revoked.--
(i) In general.--The visa or other entry documentation of any alien described in subsection (b) shall be revoked regardless of the issue date of the visa or other entry documentation.
(ii) Immediate effect.--A revocation under clause (i) shall, in accordance with section 221(i) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1201(i))--
(I) take effect immediately; and
(II) cancel any other valid visa or entry documentation that is in the possession of the alien.
(d) Penalties.--Any person that violates, or attempts to violate, subsection (c) or any regulation, license, or order issued pursuant to that subsection, shall be subject to the penalties set forth in subsections (b) and (c) of section 206 of the International Economic Emergency Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1705) to the
same extent as a person that commits an unlawful act described in subsection (a) of that section.
(e) Waiver.--The President may waive the application of sanctions under this section with respect to a foreign person if, not later than 15 days after the date on which the waiver is to take effect, the President submits to the appropriate congressional committees a written determination and justification that the waiver is in the national security interests of the United States.
(f) Implementation.--The President may exercise all authorities provided under sections 203 and 205 of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1702 and 1704) to carry out any amendments made by this section.
(g) Regulations.--The President shall, not later than 120 days after the date of enactment of this Act, promulgate regulations as necessary for the implementation of this Act.
(h) Exceptions.--
(1) Exception for intelligence activities.--Sanctions under this section shall not apply to any activity subject to the reporting requirements under title V of the National Security Act of 1947 (50 U.S.C. 3091 et seq.) or any authorized intelligence activities of the United States.
(2) Exception to comply with international obligations and for law enforcement activities.--Sanctions under this section shall not apply with respect to an alien if admitting or paroling the alien into the United States is necessary--
(A) to permit the United States to comply with the Agreement regarding the Headquarters of the United Nations, signed at Lake Success June 26, 1947, and entered into force November 21, 1947, between the United Nations and the United States, or other applicable international obligations; or
(B) to carry out or assist authorized law enforcement activity in the United States.
(3) Exception relating to importation of goods.--
(A) In general.--The authorities and requirements to impose sanctions authorized under this section shall not include the authority or requirement to impose sanctions on the importation of goods.
(B) Good defined.--In this paragraph, the term "good" means any article, natural or manmade substance, material, supply or manufactured product, including inspection and test equipment, and excluding technical data.
(i) Termination of Sanctions.--This section shall cease to be effective beginning on the date that is 30 days after the date on which the President certifies to the appropriate congressional committees that the Government of Iran no longer repeatedly provides support for international terrorism as determined by the Secretary of State pursuant to--
(1) section 1754(c)(1)(A) of the Export Control Reform Act of 2018 (50 U.S.C. 4813(c)(1)(A));
(2) section 620A of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2371);
(3) section 40 of the Arms Export Control Act (22 U.S.C.
Text printed in the Record (1,152 characters)
2780); or
(4) any other provision of law.
(j) Definitions.--In this section--
(1) the term "appropriate congressional committees" means--
(A) the Committee on Foreign Affairs, the Committee on Financial Services, and the Committee on the Judiciary of the House of Representatives; and
(B) the Committee on Foreign Relations, the Committee on the Judiciary, and the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs of the Senate;
(2) the term "foreign person"--
(A) means an individual or entity that is not a United States person; and
(B) includes a foreign state (as such term is defined in section 1603 of title 28, United States Code);
(3) the term "Government of Iran" has the meaning given such term in section 560.304 of title 31, Code of Federal Regulations, as such section was in effect on January 1, 2021; and
(4) the term "United States person" means--
(A) a United States citizen;
(B) a permanent resident alien of the United States;
(C) an entity organized under the laws of the United States or of any jurisdiction within the United States, including a foreign branch of such an entity; or
(D) a person in the United States.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Mast) and the gentleman from California (Mr. Bera) each will control 20 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from California.
Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on H.R. 6230.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Is there objection to the request of the gentleman from Florida?
There was no objection.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, this legislation addresses a simple but important question: When senior officials of the Iranian regime call for violence, incite terrorism, or encourage attacks against Americans and our allies, are we using every tool available to hold them accountable?
Iran is the world's leading state sponsor of terrorism. It has armed, funded, and directed terrorist proxies across the Middle East. It has targeted American servicemembers, threatened U.S. officials, and plotted attacks abroad.
In the 30 months prior to Operation Epic Fury, there were over 350 attacks by Iran against the United States of America. Yet many of the individuals and institutions responsible for this conduct continue to operate because of weak sanctions.
H.R. 6230 addresses that problem. This bill requires the Secretary of State and the Secretary of the Treasury to regularly assess whether key Iranian leaders, clerics, and Iran-backed proxies meet the criteria for designation under existing U.S. terrorism, human rights, and sanctions authorities.
This legislation does not create new sanctions programs. It does not mandate designations. Instead, it ensures that the administration conducts regular, transparent reviews and reports its findings to Congress so that we can determine whether the existing authorities are being fully utilized.
I thank the sponsors of this legislation for their leadership in advancing this important measure. I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 6230, and I reserve the balance of my time.
Text printed in the Record (9,327 characters)
Washington, DC, May 28, 2026. Hon. Brian Mast, Chairman, Committee on Foreign Affairs, Washington, DC.
Dear Chairman Mast: The Committee on Oversight and Government Reform agrees to be discharged from further consideration of H.R. 6230, the Tehran Incitement to Violence Act, so that it may proceed expeditiously to the House Floor.
By foregoing consideration of H.R. 6230 at this time, I do not waive any jurisdiction over the subject matter contained in this or similar legislation, and I ask to be appropriately consulted and involved on this or similar legislation as it moves forward. I also would seek appointment of an appropriate number of conferees from my committee to any House-Senate conference on this legislation.
I ask that you place a copy of our exchange of letters on this bill in the bill report filed by the Committee on Foreign Affairs and in the Congressional Record during House floor consideration thereof. I appreciate your cooperation regarding this bill and look forward to future opportunities to work together on matters of shared jurisdiction.
Sincerely,
James Comer, Chairman, Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.
____
Washington, DC, June 8, 2026. Hon. James Comer, Chairman, House Committee on Oversight and Government,
Washington, DC.
Dear Chairman Comer: Thank you for consulting with the Foreign Affairs Committee and agreeing to be discharged from further consideration of H.R. 6230, the Tehran Incitement to Violence Act, so that the measure may proceed expeditiously to the House floor.
I agree that your forgoing further action on this measure does not in any way diminish or alter the jurisdiction of your committee, or prejudice its jurisdictional prerogatives on this measure or similar legislation in the future. I would support your effort to seek appointment of an appropriate number of conferees from your committee to any House-Senate conference on this legislation.
I will seek to place our letters on this bill into the Congressional Record during floor consideration. I appreciate your cooperation regarding this legislation and look forward to continuing to work together as this measure moves through the legislative process.
Sincerely,
Brian Mast, Chairman.
____
Washington, DC, May 29, 2026 Hon. Brian Mast, Chairman, Committee on Foreign Affairs, House of Representatives, Washington, DC.
Dear Chairman Mast: I write regarding H.R. 6230, the Tehran Incitement to Violence Act. Provisions of this bill fall within the Judiciary Committee's Rule X jurisdiction, and I appreciate that you consulted with us on those provisions. The Judiciary Committee agrees that it shall be discharged from further consideration of the bill so that it may proceed expeditiously to the House floor.
The Committee takes this action with the understanding that forgoing further consideration of this measure does not in any way alter the Committee's jurisdiction or waive
any future jurisdictional claim over these provisions or their subject matter. We also reserve the right to seek appointment of an appropriate number of conferees in the event of a conference with the Senate involving this measure or similar legislation.
I ask that you please insert this letter in the Congressional Record during consideration of this measure on the House floor. I appreciate the cooperative manner in which our committees have worked on this matter, and I look forward to working collaboratively in the future on matters of shared jurisdiction. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Jim Jordan, Chairman.
____
Washington, DC, June 8, 2026. Hon. Jim Jordan, Chairman, House Committee on the Judiciary, Washington, DC.
Dear Chairman Jordan: Thank you for consulting with the Foreign Affairs Committee and agreeing to be discharged from further consideration of H.R. 6230, the Tehran Incitement to Violence Act, so that the measure may proceed expeditiously to the House floor.
I agree that your forgoing further action on this measure does not in any way diminish or alter the jurisdiction of your committee, or prejudice its jurisdictional prerogatives on this measure or similar legislation in the future. I would support your effort to seek appointment of an appropriate number of conferees from your committee to any House-Senate conference on this legislation.
I will seek to place our letters on this bill into the Congressional Record during floor consideration. I appreciate your cooperation regarding this legislation and look forward to continuing to work together as this measure moves through the legislative process.
Sincerely,
Brian Mast, Chairman.
____
Washington, DC, June 8, 2026. Hon. Brian Mast, Chairman, Committee on Foreign Affairs, Washington, DC.
Dear Chairman Mast: I am writing to you concerning H.R. 6230, the Tehran Incitement to Violence Act. There are certain provisions in the legislation that fall within the jurisdiction of the Committee on Financial Services.
In the interest of permitting your committee to proceed expeditiously to floor consideration of this important bill, I am willing to waive the Financial Services Committee's consideration of the bill. I do so with the understanding that by waiving consideration of the bill, the Financial Services Committee does not waive any future jurisdictional claim over the subject matters contained in the bill that fall within its jurisdiction. I request that you urge the Speaker to name members of this committee to any conference committee that is named to consider such provisions.
Please include this letter in the committee report on H.R. 6230 or in the Congressional Record during consideration of the bill on the House floor. Thank you for the cooperative spirit in which you have worked regarding this matter and others between our respective committees.
Sincerely,
French Hill, Chairman.
____
Washington, DC, June 8, 2026. Hon. French Hill, Chairman, Committee on Financial Services, Washington, DC.
Dear Chairman Hill: Thank you for consulting with the Foreign Affairs Committee and agreeing to be discharged from further consideration of H.R. 6230, the Tehran Incitement to Violence Act, so that the measure may proceed expeditiously to the House floor.
I agree that your forgoing further action on this measure does not in any way diminish or alter the jurisdiction of your committee, or prejudice its jurisdictional prerogatives on this measure or similar legislation in the future. I would support your effort to seek appointment of an appropriate number of conferees from your committee to any House-Senate conference on this legislation.
I will seek to place our letters on this bill into the Congressional Record during floor consideration. I appreciate your cooperation regarding this legislation and look forward to continuing to work together as this measure moves through the legislative process.
Sincerely,
Brian Mast,
Chairman.
House of Representatives,
Washington, DC, June 8, 2026. Hon. Brian Mast, Chairman, Committee on Foreign Affairs, Washington, DC.
Dear Chairman Mast, I am writing with respect to H.R. 6230, the "Tehran Incitement to Violence Act." As you are aware, the Committee on Ways and Means was granted an additional referral on this bill. I agree to forego action on this bill so that it may proceed expeditiously to the House floor for consideration.
The Committee on Ways and Means takes this action with the mutual understanding that we do not waive any jurisdiction over the subject matter contained in this or similar legislation, and the Committee will be appropriately consulted and involved as the bill or similar legislation moves forward so that w? may address any remaining issues that fall within our jurisdiction. The Committee also reserves the right to seek appointment of an appropriate number of conferees to any House-Senate conference involving this or similar legislation, and requests your support for such request.
Finally, I would appreciate your response to this letter confirming this understanding and would ask that a copy of our exchange of letters on this matter be included in the Congressional Record during floor consideration of H.R. 6230.
Sincerely,
Jason Smith,
Chairman.
Washington, DC, June 8, 2026. Hon. Jason Smith Chairman, House Committee on Ways and Means, Longworth House Office Building, Washington, DC.
Dear Chairman Smith: Thank you for consulting with the Foreign Affairs Committee and agreeing to be discharged from further consideration of H.R. 6230, the Tehran Incitement to Violence Act, so that the measure may proceed expeditiously to the House floor.
I agree that your forgoing further action on this measure does not in any way diminish or alter the jurisdiction of your committee, or prejudice its jurisdictional prerogatives on this measure or similar legislation in the future. I would support your effort to seek appointment of an appropriate number of conferees from your committee to any House-Senate conference on this legislation.
I will seek to place our letters on this bill into the Congressional Record during floor consideration. I appreciate your cooperation regarding this legislation and look forward to continuing to work together as this measure moves through the legislative process.
Sincerely,
Brian Mast,
Chairman.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of passage of H.R. 6230, a bill that seeks to apply standard International Emergency Economic Powers Act, or IEEPA, property-blocking sanctions against a set of Iranian religious and government figures, as well as the institutions they represent, who have publicly threatened the life of the President of the United States and allied leaders.
No matter my disagreement with the President and his policies, these threats are unacceptable.
The bill also includes reasonable waiver authorities that allow the executive branch to scale these sanctions up or down, preserving diplomatic leverage.
To be clear, many of the sanctions' targets, and in some cases their entire networks, are already subject to U.S. sanctions under current authorities. Additional listings may feel satisfying, but they will not on their own cause a meaningful change in Iran's calculus or behavior.
Sanctions by themselves are not a strategy, and they are not a substitute for one.
What we need from the Trump administration is an end to this costly war, followed by a clear articulation on an Iran strategy that protects the American people, supports our partners, and restores credible diplomacy.
Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Self), the chairman of the Subcommittee on Europe.
Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of my bill, H.R. 6230, the Tehran Incitement to Violence Act.
This bill would require a sanctions determination for Iranian clerics, organizations, and regime-linked entities for issuing and amplifying fatwas that explicitly call for the deaths of political leaders.
These sanctions would include property-blocking sanctions and total immigration bans to deter such deadly incitement.
By passing this bill, Congress sends an unmistakable message: The United States will never accept death threats.
I thank Chairman Mast and Ranking Member Meeks for supporting this commonsense, bipartisan bill in markup.
Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bill.
Mr. Speaker, I am prepared to close, and I yield myself the balance of my time for the purpose of closing.
Mr. Speaker, I support this bill because threats made against the United States President and others by those this legislation targets are completely unacceptable.
I encourage my colleagues to support this measure, and I yield back the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time.
The Iranian regime and its affiliates have spent decades spreading terror, exporting instability, and threatening the United States of America and our allies.
H.R. 6230 ensures that those responsible are not overlooked in any way and that the administration continually evaluates whether they should be held accountable under existing U.S. law.
This is a commonsense measure, strengthens oversight, reinforces deterrence, and supports our broader effort to counter Iran's malign activities.
I urge my colleagues to vote "yes" on H.R. 6230, and I yield back the balance of my time.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
The question is on the motion offered by the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Mast) that the House suspend the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 6230, as amended.
The question was taken; and (two-thirds being in the affirmative) the rules were suspended and the bill, as amended, was passed. A motion to reconsider was laid on the table.
Developing Overseas Mineral Investments and New Allied Networks for Critical Energies Act
Pages H3957–H3965 · Official textMr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 7037) to promote United States and allied energy and mineral security, and for other purposes, as amended.
The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows:
Text printed in the Record (6,517 characters)
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.
(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the "Developing Overseas Mineral Investments and New Allied Networks for Critical Energies Act" or the "DOMINANCE Act".
(b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for this Act is as follows:
Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents. Sec. 2. Findings and purpose. Sec. 3. Definitions.
Sec. 101. International cooperation to secure critical minerals supply chains. Sec. 102. Minerals Security Partnership authorization. Sec. 103. United States membership in the International Nickel Study Group. Sec. 104. Diplomatic strategy for securing critical minerals. Sec. 105. Mechanism to support critical mineral projects in foreign countries.
Sec. 201. Energy Security Compacts. Sec. 202. Office of Energy Security Compacts. Sec. 203. Energy security compact structure. Sec. 204. Energy Security Compacts Council. Sec. 205. Congressional notification. Sec. 206. Government Accountability Office.
Sec. 301. Assistant Secretary for Energy Security and Diplomacy. Sec. 302. Bureau of Energy Security and Diplomacy. Sec. 303. Critical Mineral Mining Fellowship Program. Sec. 304. Visiting Mining Scholars Program. Sec. 305. Amendment to the Mutual and Cultural Exchange Act of 1961. Sec. 306. Definitions.
SEC. 2. FINDINGS AND PURPOSE.
(a) Findings.--It is the sense of Congress that--
(1) the United States is heavily dependent on the People's Republic of China for the production, processing, and refinement of many key critical minerals and materials;
(2) the Government of the People's Republic of China has weaponized its dominance of critical mineral production and has intentionally created overcapacity and sold products at below-market rates in order to gain market share and move up the value chain;
(3) it is in the economic and national security interests of the United States to prevent further inroads by strategic competitors into key sectors such as energy infrastructure, critical and rare earth minerals, and other supply chains essential to United States industrial capacity and strategic security;
(4) a reliable, resilient, and diversified supply chain for energy and critical minerals is essential to meet the defense, manufacturing, technological, and energy needs of the United States;
(5) energy security is a fundamental component of United States national security, economic stability, and foreign policy strategy;
(6) the United States must utilize available trade enforcement mechanisms, as well as other appropriate policy tools, to counter coercive economic practices by strategic competitors and complement the growth of a robust domestic critical minerals industry;
(7) United States strategic interests are best served by reducing reliance on adversarial nations for energy and critical minerals, ensuring reliable and affordable electricity for industrial and strategic supply chains, expanding commercial opportunities for United States energy technologies, and securing diversified and reliable access to critical minerals for the United States and allied economies; and
(8) Government financing, development, and diplomatic tools should all be deployed in a manner that maximizes the mobilization of private capital, strengthens cooperation with allies and partners, and advances the statutory objectives of United States foreign policy, economic development, and national security--thereby making the United States safer, stronger, and more prosperous.
(b) Purpose.--The purpose of this Act is to--
(1) reduce the dependence of the United States and partner countries on strategic competitors for energy, critical minerals, and related technologies;
(2) support economic growth and energy-sector modernization in partner countries through responsible and transparent development of domestic energy and mineral resources;
(3) advance United States national security and foreign policy objectives through strategic investments, policy coordination, and expanded cooperation with allies and partners;
(4) establish a coordinated interagency mechanism to align United States diplomatic, development, trade, and financing tools;
(5) strengthen the commercial competitiveness of United States energy and critical mineral companies in global markets; and
(6) secure a diversified and resilient supply and processing capacity for critical minerals necessary for United States industry, energy systems, and defense requirements, as well as those of allied and partner countries.
SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Ally; allied country.--The term "ally" or "allied country" means--
(A) any country described in section 2350a(a)(2) of title 10, United States Code; and
(B) any member country of an organization listed in such section.
(2) Appropriate congressional committees.--The term "appropriate congressional committees" means--
(A) the Committee on Foreign Affairs, the Committee on Ways and Means, and the Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives; and
(B) the Committee on Foreign Relations, the Committee on Finance, and the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate.
(3) Assistant secretary.--The term "Assistant Secretary" means the Assistant Secretary for Energy Security and Diplomacy, as established in section 301.
(4) Country compact team.--The term "Country Compact Team" means a dedicated team formed by the Director for Energy Security Compacts to manage the day-to-day activities related to the development, negotiation, implementation, and monitoring of the Energy Security Compacts.
(5) Critical mineral.--The term "critical mineral" means any mineral on the list of critical minerals required by section 7002(c)(3) of the Energy Act of 2020 (30 U.S.C. 1606(c)(3)) on or after January 1, 2026.
(6) Department.--The term "Department" means the Department of State.
(7) Partner country.--The term "partner country" means any country eligible for an Energy Security Compact under title II.
(8) Processed.--The term "processed", with respect to a critical mineral, means the mineral has undergone the activities that occur after critical mineral ore is extracted from a mine up through its conversion into a metal, metal powder, or a master alloy.
(9) Secretary.--The term "Secretary" means the Secretary of State.
(10) Under secretary.--The term "Under Secretary" means the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs.
SEC. 101.
Text printed in the Record (11,748 characters)
INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION TO SECURE CRITICAL
MINERALS SUPPLY CHAINS.
(a) Statement of Policy on Critical Mineral Supply Chains.--It is the policy of the United States--
(1) to collaborate with allies and partners of the United States to build secure and resilient critical mineral supply chains, including in the mining, processing, reclamation and recycling, and valuation of critical
minerals, as well as with respect to advanced manufacturing that includes critical minerals;
(2) to prioritize the development and production of critical minerals domestically, including both to supply domestic needs and for export to allies and partners that participate in secure and resilient supply chains for critical minerals;
(3) to reduce or eliminate reliance on critical mineral supply chains controlled by the People's Republic of China, the Russian Federation, Iran, or any other strategic competitor to the United States;
(4) to work with allies and partners on enhancing evaluation capability, tracing, and technology in trusted countries that produce critical minerals to avoid the export of mined and processed critical minerals to adversaries of the United States;
(5) to identify and implement market-based incentives for the purposes of facilitating the creation and maintenance of secure and resilient critical mineral supply chains, including for reclamation and recycling of critical mineral resources from waste streams, in collaboration with allies and partners;
(6) to prioritize securing critical mineral supply chains in the United States foreign policy, including through the use of economic tools to invest responsibility in beneficiation and value-adding projects in partner countries in a manner that both benefits local populations and bolsters the supply of critical minerals to the United States;
(7) to work with allies and partners to address the distortive effects of predatory economic, pricing, and market manipulation practices used by the People's Republic of China the Russian Federation, Iran, or any other strategic competitor of the United States;
(8) to coordinate policy tools and investments with allies and partners to accelerate the development of transparent, traceable, diversified, and fair markets for critical minerals and rare earths; and
(9) that collaboration with allies and partners to build secure and resilient critical mineral supply chains shall not replace United States efforts to increase domestic development and production or recycling of critical minerals.
(b) International Negotiations Relating to Protecting Critical Mineral Supply Chains.--
(1) In general.--The President may negotiate an agreement with the governments of foreign countries for the purposes of establishing a coalition to--
(A) facilitate the transparent mining, processing, supply, and procurement of critical minerals;
(B) facilitate advanced manufacturing that includes critical minerals; and
(C) secure an adequate supply of critical minerals and relevant products, manufacturing inputs, and components that are heavily dependent on critical mineral resources for the United States and other members of the coalition (in this title referred to as "member countries").
(2) Negotiating objectives.--The overall objectives for negotiating an agreement described in paragraph (1) shall be--
(A) to establish mechanisms for member countries to build secure, resilient, and transparent supply chains for critical minerals, including in--
(i) the mining, refinement, processing, and valuation of critical minerals; and
(ii) advanced manufacturing of products, components, and materials that are dependent on critical minerals;
(B) to improve economies of scale and joint cooperation with international partners in securing access to and means of production throughout the supply chains of critical minerals and manufacturing processes dependent on critical minerals;
(C) to establish mechanisms, with appropriate market-based disciplines, that provide and maintain opportunities among member countries for creating industry economies of scale to attract joint investment among member countries, including--
(i) cooperation on joint projects, including cost-sharing on building appropriate infrastructure to access deposits of critical minerals; and
(ii) creation or enhancement of national and international programs to support the development of robust industries by providing appropriate sector-specific incentives, such as political risk and other insurance opportunities, financing, and other support, for--
(I) transparent mining and processing of critical minerals;
(II) manufacturing of products, components, and materials that are dependent on critical minerals and are essential to consumer technology products or have important national security implications; and
(III) associated transportation needs that are tailored to the handling, movement, and logistics management of critical minerals and products, components, and materials that are dependent on critical minerals;
(D) to establish market-based rules for member countries regarding adoption of qualifying tax and other incentives to stimulate investment to ensure a fair playing field among member countries;
(E) to establish recommended best practices to protect--
(i) labor rights;
(ii) the natural environment and ecosystems near critical mineral industrial sites;
(iii) the safety of communities near critical mineral industrial activities through consultation; and
(iv) supply chain diversity;
(F) to advance economic growth in developing countries with critical mineral reserves, including for the benefit of the citizens of such countries;
(G) to establish rules allowing for the establishment of a consortium that is resourced and empowered to bid and compete in acquiring and securing potential deposits of critical minerals in countries that are not member countries;
(H) to establish a mechanism for joint resource mapping with procedures for equitable sharing of information on potential deposits of critical minerals not less frequently than annually;
(I) to establish appropriate mechanisms for the recognition and enforcement by a member country of judgements relating to environmental and related harms caused by mining operations within such member country in contravention of the laws of such country; and
(J) to improve supply chain security among member countries by providing for national treatment investment protections among member countries that are equal to, or better than, the standards set forth in the United States model bilateral investment treaty.
(3) Congressional consultation required.-- In the course of negotiations described in paragraph (1), the Secretary shall, not less frequently than annually, consult with the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate, and shall keep such committees fully apprised of such negotiations.
(c) Rule of Construction.--Nothing in this section shall be construed to alter any other provision of United States domestic law or regulation applicable to critical minerals.
SEC. 102. MINERALS SECURITY PARTNERSHIP AUTHORIZATION.
(a) In General.--The Secretary, acting through the Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment, may lead United States participation in a "Minerals Security Partnership", for the following purposes:
(1) To identify and support investment and advocate for commercial and military use critical mineral mining, processing, and refining projects that enable robust, secure, and transparent critical mineral supply chains, in consultation with the other Federal agencies, as appropriate.
(2) To coordinate with relevant regional bureaus to develop regional diplomatic engagement strategies related to critical minerals projects and to identify projects that are priorities.
(3) To coordinate with United States missions abroad on projects, programs, and investments that enable robust and secure critical mineral supply chains.
(4) To coordinate with current and prospective members of the Minerals Security Partnership.
(5) To establish a mechanism for information-sharing with members of the Minerals Security Partnership.
(6) To establish policies and procedures, and if necessary, to provide funding to facilitate cooperation on joint projects with members of the Minerals Security Partnership and any related organizations established by the Minerals Security Partnership (including the Mineral Security Partnership Forum), including those related to cost-sharing agreements, political risk insurance, financing, equity investments, pricing mechanisms, procurement, and other support, in coordination with other Federal agencies, as appropriate.
(7) To coordinate with Development Finance Institutions, Export Credit Agencies, multilateral banks, and private banks headquartered in Minerals Security Partnership member countries to promote information exchange and co-financing through the Minerals Security Partnership Finance Network.
(8) To identify individuals within the Bureau of Energy Security and Diplomacy to monitor and coordinate responses to trade measures or policies that may adversely affect United States and allied country supplies of critical minerals or investments in third-country critical mineral markets, especially investments supported by the Minerals Security Partnership.
(9) To establish procedures to prevent, review, and deter critical mineral asset sales to prohibited foreign entities (as such term is defined in section 7701 of the Internal Revenue Code) by companies within the jurisdiction of Minerals Security Partnership and Minerals Security Partnership Forum member countries.
(10) To establish a framework for the transparent evaluation of member countries' compliance and effectiveness in fulfilling the purposes listed in paragraphs (1) through (9) of this section.
(11) To identify and recommend priority countries for future engagement, including through an Energy Security Compact described in section 201 or any other relevant alliance between the United States and a foreign country related to securing and diversifying critical mineral supply chains.
(b) Database.--As part of the Minerals Security Partnership, the Secretary, acting through the Under Secretary, may establish and maintain a database of critical mineral projects for the purpose of providing high quality and up-to-date information to the
private sector in order to spur greater investment, increase the resilience of global critical minerals supply chains, and boost United States supply of critical minerals.
(c) Exchange of Information With the Minerals Security Partnership.--
(1) Procedure.--The Secretary, acting through the Under Secretary, shall develop a procedure for the collection, handling, and transmission of commercial information or data that is provided by other Federal departments and agencies and transmitted to members of the Minerals Security Partnership.
(2) Limitations.--The procedure required in paragraph (1) shall include the following limitations:
(A) Any information or data which is geological or geophysical information or a trade secret or commercial or financial information shall, prior to transmittal, be aggregated, accumulated, or otherwise reported in such a manner as to avoid, to the fullest extent feasible, identification of any person from whom the United States obtained such information.
(B) The limitations on disclosure described in the following:
(i) section 11(d) of the Energy Supply and Environmental Coordination Act of 1974 (15 U.S.C. 796(d));
(ii) section 14(b) of the Federal Energy Administration Act of 1974 (15 U.S.C.
Text printed in the Record (11,659 characters)
773(b));
(iii) section 9 of title 13, United States Code;
(iv) the first section of the Act of January 27, 1938, entitled "An Act to make confidential certain information furnished to the Bureau of Foreign and Domestic Commerce, and for other purposes" (15 U.S.C. 176a);
(v) section 1905 of title 18, United States Code; and
(vi) section 252 of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975 (42 U.S.C. 6274).
(3) Exceptions.--
(A) International energy emergency.--Notwithstanding paragraph (2), the Secretary may make any information or data available to members of the Minerals Security Partnership during an international energy supply emergency.
(B) Presidential certification.--Notwithstanding paragraph (2), the Secretary may make any information or data available to members of the Minerals Security Partnership if the President certifies, after opportunity for presentation of views by interested persons, that the Minerals Security Partnership has adopted and is implementing security measures such that such information or data will not be disclosed by member countries of the Minerals Security Partnership or the agencies or employees of such countries to any person or foreign country without having been aggregated, accumulated, or otherwise reported in such manner as to avoid identification of any person from whom the United States obtained such information or data.
(d) Mineral Security Partnership Staff.--The Secretary shall prioritize staffing the Mineral Security Partnership with individuals who have the following qualifications:
(1) Substantive knowledge and experience in issues related to critical minerals supply chains and the application of such supply chains to strategic industries, including in the defense, energy, and technology sectors.
(2) Substantive knowledge and experience in large-scale multi-donor project financing and related technical and diplomatic arrangements, international coalition-building, development finance, and project management.
(3) Substantive knowledge and experience in trade and foreign policy, defense-industrial base policy, or national security-sensitive supply chain issues.
(e) Private Sector and Civil Society Coordination.--The Secretary, acting through the Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment, shall ensure close coordination between the Department, the private sector, and relevant civil society groups regarding the implementation of this section.
(f) Project Selection.--
(1) In general.--The United States, through participation in the Minerals Security Partnership, shall prioritize projects that advance the national and economic security interests of the United States and allies and partners of the United States.
(2) Criteria requirements.--The United States shall advocate for the Minerals Security Partnership to use environmental, societal, and governance standards, including as criteria for project selection, that are consistent with United States law or international agreements approved by Congress.
(3) Private sector collaboration.--The Department shall coordinate with the private sector to leverage expertise and ensure projects supported by the Minerals Security Partnership are catalyzed by private sector investments and commercial offtake, with priority to the United States, through the Minerals Investment Network for Vital Energy Security and Transformation (commonly known as "MINVEST").
SEC. 103. UNITED STATES MEMBERSHIP IN THE INTERNATIONAL
NICKEL STUDY GROUP.
(a) United States Membership.--The President may accept the Terms of Reference of and maintain membership of the United States in the International Nickel Study Group.
(b) Payments of Assessed Contributions.--For fiscal year 2026 and each fiscal year thereafter, the United States assessed contributions to the International Nickel Study Group may be paid from amounts authorized to be appropriated under section 8 of the United Nations Participation Act of 1945 (22 U.S.C. 287e).
SEC. 104. DIPLOMATIC STRATEGY FOR SECURING CRITICAL MINERALS.
(a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary, in consultation with the heads of other relevant Federal agencies, shall develop a strategy for securing the supply chains of a diverse set of critical minerals.
(b) Elements.--The strategy required by subsection shall--
(1) include--
(A) a review of the roles and responsibilities of offices and positions within the Department engaged, as of the date of the enactment of this Act, in efforts to secure critical mineral supply chains; and
(B) processes to ensure that such offices coordinate and deconflict such efforts;
(2) leverage use of United States financial, commercial, and development assistance tools and resources to advance the critical mineral policies of the United States;
(3) include targeted engagement plans for both countries that are allies or partners of the United States and countries with significant proven or estimated deposits of critical minerals or processing capacity for minerals critical to national security interests;
(4) provide for coordination with relevant Federal agencies to align trade policies to address both price volatility and incentivize the sourcing of critical minerals from trusted suppliers;
(5) strengthen collaboration with countries that are allies and partners of the United States, and leverage the leadership role of the United States in multilateral institutions engaged on critical mineral issues to shape international standards;
(6) extend the diplomatic and commercial advocacy support of the United States to private sector entities throughout critical mineral supply chains; and
(7) facilitate coordination with countries that are allies and partners of the United States to--
(A) identify best practices and develop coordinated standards for critical mineral projects;
(B) protect against inhumane labor practices; and
(C) minimize adverse environmental and social impacts from the critical minerals supply chain.
(c) Briefing Required.--Not later than 210 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall provide a briefing on the strategy developed under subsection (a) to--
(1) the Committee on Foreign Affairs and the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence of the House of Representatives; and
(2) the Committee on Foreign Relations and the Select Committee on Intelligence of the Senate.
SEC. 105. MECHANISM TO SUPPORT CRITICAL MINERAL PROJECTS IN
FOREIGN COUNTRIES.
(a) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that United States private sector entities competing for critical mineral projects abroad need support from the United States Government.
(b) Support for Critical Mineral Projects.--The Secretary shall direct an appropriate official or office of the Department to establish a mechanism and process for the United States to provide support for critical mineral projects in foreign countries, which may include--
(1) a mechanism for certifying that critical mineral projects uphold labor rights and minimize environmental impacts; and
(2) a process for United States private sector entities to engage with United States embassies in foreign countries for support when pursuing critical mineral projects in such countries.
SEC. 201. ENERGY SECURITY COMPACTS.
(a) Authorization of Transfers.--The Secretary is authorized to transfer funds authorized to be appropriated for the operation of National Security Investment Programs for the purpose of establishing multiyear agreements (to be known as "Energy Security Pacts") with partner countries to enhance the energy and economic security and stability of the United States and such partner countries, including through efforts to counter economic coercion through the diversification of critical mineral and energy supply chains.
(b) Transfers.--Amounts made available pursuant to subsection (a) may be transferred to and merged with amounts authorized to be appropriated for fiscal year 2027 or any fiscal year thereafter for the United States Trade and Development Agency, Millennium Challenge Corporation, United States International Development Finance Corporation, or the Export-Import Bank of the United States.
(c) Consultation and Notification.--The transfer authority provided by this section is in addition to any other transfer authority provided by law, and is subject to--
(1) prior consultation with--
(A) the Committee on Appropriations and the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives; and
(B) the Committee on Appropriations and the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate; and
(2) the regular notification procedures of such committees.
(d) Assistance for the Development and Implementation of Compacts.--The Director for Energy Security Compacts may--
(1) enter into contracts for required technical support related to Energy Security Compacts;
(2) make grants to any partner country for the purpose of building the administrative or technical capacity necessary to facilitate the development and implementation of an Energy Security Compact between the United States and such country; and
(3) form Country Compact Teams with a designated lead, who will regularly engage with the Council, to carry out the implementation of the Compact.
(e) Limitations.--
(1) Prohibition on military assistance and training.--Assistance under this section may not include military assistance or military training for a country.
(2) Prohibition on assistance relating to united states job loss or production displacement.--Assistance under this section may not be provided for any project that is likely to cause a substantial loss of United States jobs or a substantial displacement of United States production.
(3) Prohibition on assistance relating to environmental, health, or safety hazards.--Assistance under this section may not be provided for any project that is likely to cause a significant, unmitigable environmental, health, or safety hazard.
(4) Foreign aid transparency and accountability act compliance.--None of the funds authorized to be appropriated or otherwise made available by this Act may be obligated or expended for an Energy Security Compact unless the compact and all associated activities comply with the monitoring, evaluation, performance measurement, and public reporting requirements of section 4 of the Foreign Aid Transparency and Accountability Act of 2016 (22 U.S.C. 2394c).
(5) Limitation relating to the president and vice president.--None of the funds authorized to be appropriated or otherwise made available by this Act may be obligated or expended to provide any grant, contract, loan, or other financial assistance to an entity in which the President, the Vice President, or an immediate family member (as such term is defined in section 1128(j) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1320a-7(j))) of the President or Vice President holds, directly or indirectly, any ownership interest or serves in any managerial, officer, director, or board capacity.
(f) Report Required.--Not less frequently than annually until the date that is five years after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Director for Energy Security Compacts shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees, the Executive Office of the President, the National Security Council, and the Secretary a report describing--
(1) the current status of activities authorized under this title;
(2) any obstacles to the implementation of such activities; and
(3) any updates to the multiyear financial plan developed pursuant to section 203(c)(6).
SEC. 202.
Text printed in the Record (10,671 characters)
OFFICE OF ENERGY SECURITY COMPACTS.
(a) Establishment.--The Secretary shall establish an Office of Energy Security Compacts, which shall perform such functions related to the administration and implementation of the Energy Security Compacts described in section 201 as the Assistant Secretary may prescribe.
(b) Director for Energy Security Compact.--The Office of Energy Security shall be led by a Director for Energy Security Compacts who shall be responsible to the Assistant Secretary for all matters pertaining to the administration and implementation of the Energy Security Compacts described under section 201 and such other related duties as the Secretary may from time to time designate.
(c) Responsibilities.--In addition to the responsibilities described under subsection (a), the Director for Energy Security Compacts shall be responsible for supporting the Department's participation in and leadership of the Economic Resilience Initiative and the Energy Security Compacts Council, including for all matters pertaining to the following:
(1) Drafting the contribution of the Secretary to the strategy identified in section 7030(d) of the Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024 (Public Law 119-37).
(2) Leading the development, negotiation, and management of all Energy Security Compacts funded through the Economic Resilience Initiative.
(3) Consulting and coordinating with agencies and departments that are members of the Energy Security Council to develop prospective Energy Security Compacts and implement ongoing Energy Security Compacts, as appropriate.
(4) Serving as the recipient for--
(A) solicited proposals under the Energy Security Compact; and
(B) unsolicited proposals for projects to be considered for inclusion in any Energy Security Compact by national, regional, and local governments and private corporations.
(5) Signing joint agency agreements, transferring or receiving appropriated funds with any department, agency, or independent establishment of the United States Government (with the consent of the head of such department, agency, or establishment) for the purpose of developing, implementing, or otherwise participating in an Energy Security Compact described under section 301, including for the use as credit subsidy.
(6) Coordinating with other donor entities, including countries that are allies and partners of the United States, the Minerals Security Partnership, and other multilateral fora, for the purposes of deconflicting, augmenting, and leveraging, where appropriate, Energy Security Compact workplans with the development and financing activities performed by others.
(d) Personnel.--The Director for Energy Security Compacts may--
(1) detail staff to a collaborating agency head with relevant sectoral, financial, or regional expertise for the negotiation or implementation of an Energy Security Compact;
(2) request core agency heads and collaborating agency heads detail personnel to the Office of Energy Security Compacts with relevant sectoral, financial, or regional expertise for the negotiation or implementation of an Energy Security Compact; and
(3) appoint, without regard to the provisions of sections 3309 through 3318 of title 5, United States Code, candidates directly to positions in the competitive service, as defined in section 2102 of that title.
(e) Termination.--The authority provided under this section shall terminate on the date that is 10 years after the date of the enactment of this Act.
(f) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees a report that contains plans to attract and retain diplomatic, policy, legal, and technical expertise for civil service officers in the Office of Energy Security Compacts, including career promotion tracks to supervisory and non-supervisory GS-15 positions.
SEC. 203. ENERGY SECURITY COMPACT STRUCTURE.
(a) In General.--Each Energy Security Compact should increase reliable access to energy, electricity, or critical minerals for both parties to the Energy Security Compact, for the purpose of stimulating economic growth, enabling follow-on private sector investment, supporting the commercial competitiveness of United States companies, or diversifying relevant supply chains.
(b) Prior Analysis Required.--Before establishing an Energy Security Compact, the Office of Energy Security Compacts, in collaboration with the Energy Security Compact Council, shall conduct a constraints analysis of the energy sector and supply-chain segments needed to strengthen the partner country's energy security, consistent with United States energy security risks and commercial opportunities.
(c) Energy Security Compact Elements.--Each Energy Security Compact shall contain--
(1) a constraints analysis of the energy sector which identifies insufficiencies in the energy sector and supply-chain segments needed to ensure the partner country's energy security, consistent with United States energy security risks and commercial opportunities;
(2) specific objectives that the partner country and the United States expect to achieve during the term of the Energy Security Compact, including--
(A) increased energy production, reliability, and affordability in the partner country;
(B) economic growth in the partner country that may reduce the need for foreign assistance;
(C) improved access to energy, in consultation with affected communities and civil society; and
(D) improved infrastructure that enables access to critical minerals mining and processing;
(3) the responsibilities of the partner country and the United States in the achievement of such objectives;
(4) regular quantitative benchmarks to measure, where appropriate, progress toward achieving such objectives;
(5) an identification of the intended impact of the activities carried out in accordance with the Energy Security Compact;
(6) a multiyear financial plan, updated annually until the expiration of the term of the Energy Security Compact, that--
(A) estimates the amount of contributions, commitments, and other participation to be provided by the Department, Core Agencies, Collaborating Agencies, the partner country, and other entities;
(B) ensures compacts with low-income countries incorporate and are complementary to development programs administered by other United States agencies and departments, so that United States funds are used to improve feasibility for private sector investment to further development goals;
(C) identifies proposed mechanisms to implement the plan and provide oversight of the plan; and
(D) describes how the requirements described in paragraphs (1) through (5) will be met, including the role of the private sector in the achievement of such requirements;
(7) as appropriate, a description of the current and potential participation of other donors, including countries that are allies and partners of the United States or collaborating agencies in the achievement of such objectives;
(8) a description of how oversight and transparency of the foreign assistance provided through the Economic Resilience Initiative will be maintained;
(9) as appropriate, a process or processes for considering--
(A) solicited proposals under the Energy Security Compact; and
(B) unsolicited proposals by national, regional, and local units of government and private corporations;
(10) a requirement that open, fair, competitive, and transparent procedures are used in the administration of grants or cooperative agreements or the procurement of goods and services for the accomplishment of objectives under the Energy Security Compact;
(11) the strategy of the partner country to sustain progress made toward achieving such objectives after expiration of the Energy Security Compact;
(12) a description of the role of both core and collaborating agencies in any design, implementation, and monitoring of programs and activities funded through the Energy Security Compact; and
(13) a description of any contribution, as appropriate, from the partner country relative to its national budget and taking into account the prevailing economic conditions, toward meeting the objectives of the Energy Security Compact.
(d) Eligibility.--A country shall be considered eligible for support under this section if--
(1) the per capita income of the country is not greater than the World Bank loan threshold or the country is eligible for support from the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development or the International Development Association graduation process at the beginning of the year in which negotiations are initiated;
(2) the country has been identified as strategically or commercially important for the United States by the Director for Energy Security Compacts, Secretary, a member of the National Security Council, or the President;
(3) the Assistant Secretary determines that the country has the capacity and commitment to implement the Energy Security Compact; and
(4) the country is not a foreign country of concern, as such term is defined in section 10612(a) of Public Law 117-167 (42 U.S.C. 19221(a)).
(e) Prohibition on Taxation.--In addition to the elements described in subsection (c), each Energy Security Compact shall contain a provision stating that assistance provided by the United States under the Energy Security Compact shall be exempt from taxation by the government of the partner country.
(f) Approval.--Each Energy Security Compact shall be recommended by the Director for Energy Security Compacts and approved by the Secretary before the United States enters into such an Energy Security Compact.
(g) Duration.--The duration of each Energy Security Compact may not exceed 10 years.
(h) Subsequent and Concurrent Compacts.--A partner country that has entered into, and has in effect, an Energy Security Compact under this section may enter into, and concurrently have in effect, additional Energy Security Compacts.
(i) Report Regarding Increase or Extension of Assistance.--Not later than 15 days after making a determination to increase or extend assistance under an Energy Security Compact with a partner country, the Secretary, acting through the Director for Energy Security Compacts, shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees a written report that contains--
(1) a justification for such a determination;
(2) a detailed summary of the proposed increase in, or extension of, assistance under the Energy Security Compact; and
(3) a copy of the full text of the amendment to the Energy Security Compact.
SEC. 204.
Text printed in the Record (10,513 characters)
ENERGY SECURITY COMPACTS COUNCIL.
(a) Establishment.--Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the President should establish an Energy Security Compacts Council (in this title referred to as "the Council") to coordinate and implement the Energy Security Compacts identified in this section.
(b) Composition.--The Council shall be chaired by the Secretary and be composed of principal officers of executive departments from the following agencies:
(1) The United States International Development Finance Corporation.
(2) The Department of Energy.
(3) The United States Trade and Development Agency.
(4) The Export-Import Bank of the United States.
(5) The Department of Commerce.
(6) The United States Trade Representative.
(7) The Department of Defense.
(8) The Department.
(9) The Department of the Interior.
(10) Any other Federal agency or organization that the President determines to be appropriate.
(c) Vacancies.--Where there is a vacancy in the office of a principal officer of an executive department, the individual acting in that capacity shall serve as a member of the Council until a new principal officer of the executive department is appointed.
(d) Delegation.--The principal officer of an executive department may delegate a senior official (as described in section 1(d) of the State Department Basic Authorities Act of 1956 (22 U.S.C. 2651a(d))) to serve on the Council, as appropriate.
(e) Duties.--The Council shall--
(1) meet not less frequently than quarterly;
(2) coordinate Energy Security Compact-related activities of the core and collaborating agencies;
(3) make annual recommendations to the Director for Energy Security Compacts, taking into account the stated priorities of the National Security Council and the President, regarding the prioritization of eligible countries for Energy Security Compact negotiation; and
(4) make recommendations to improve interagency collaboration for the purposes of promoting energy security and United States national security interests abroad.
(f) Sunshine Act Compliance.--Meetings of the Council are subject to section 5532b of title 5, United States Code (commonly referred to as the "Government in the Sunshine Act").
SEC. 205. CONGRESSIONAL NOTIFICATION.
Not later than 30 days before entering into an Energy Security Compact, the Director for Energy Security Compacts shall--
(1) notify and consult with the appropriate congressional committees regarding such Compact;
(2) transmit to the appropriate congressional committees the text of such Compact; and
(3) provide to the appropriate congressional committees an in-person briefing regarding such Compact.
SEC. 206. GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTABILITY OFFICE.
The Government Accountability Office shall, not later than 2 years after the date of the enactment of this Act and annually thereafter, submit to Congress an evaluation of the efficiency and development impact of projects supported by an Energy Security Compact.
SEC. 301. ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR ENERGY SECURITY AND
DIPLOMACY.
(a) Establishment.--There is authorized to be in the Department an Assistant Secretary for Energy Security and Diplomacy who shall be responsible to the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs for all matters pertaining to the formulation and implementation of international energy, energy technology, critical minerals, and relevant supply chain policies in the conduct of foreign policy by the Department, including, as appropriate, to protect United States energy security interests, lead the coordination of energy programs carried out by United States Government agencies abroad, and such other related duties as the Secretary may from time to time designate.
(b) Responsibilities.--In addition to the responsibilities described under subsection (a), the Assistant Secretary shall maintain continuous observation and coordination of all matters pertaining to the development of policies to secure access to international energy markets and diversify critical mineral supply chains in the conduct of foreign policy, including, as appropriate, the following:
(1) Representing the Secretary in interagency efforts to develop the international energy policy of the United States.
(2) Leading the analysis, formulation, and implementation of international policies aimed at protecting and advancing United States energy interests.
(3) Effectively managing United States bilateral and multilateral relations and, as directed by the Secretary, representing the Secretary in relevant international fora and organizations, including the International Energy Agency, to bolster global energy security and advance the interests of the United States.
(4) Ensuring that analyses of the national security and economic security implications of global energy developments are reflected in the decision-making processes within the Department.
(5) Incorporating energy and critical mineral security priorities into the activities of the Department.
(6) Coordinating energy activities of the Department with relevant Federal departments and agencies, including the Departments of Energy, Commerce, Defense, and Interior, and the United States International Development Finance Corporation to promote United States energy security and energy development to support United States national security readiness.
(7) Coordinating the Department's engagement with foreign governments regarding protection of onshore and offshore critical energy infrastructure from sabotage or other deliberate interference by malign foreign actors.
(8) Analyzing and developing policies to counter the use of energy and critical minerals infrastructure and supply chain dependencies by adversaries to coerce, influence, or manipulate the United State and allied countries.
(9) Coordinating energy security and other relevant functions within the Department, as appropriate.
(10) Working internationally to--
(A) support the development of energy technologies, natural resources, critical minerals, and supply chains for the benefit of the United States and United States allies and trading partners for their energy security and economic development needs;
(B) promote secure and diversified energy and critical minerals supply chains, and a well-functioning global market for energy resources, energy technologies, critical minerals;
(C) develop new policies and regulatory frameworks, multilateral initiatives, and other tools to protect allied onshore and offshore critical energy infrastructure from sabotage or other deliberate interference by malign foreign actors;
(D) counter the weaponization of energy and critical mineral dependencies by adversaries;
(E) resolve international disputes regarding the exploration, development, production, or distribution of energy and critical minerals resources where United States strategic interests are present;
(F) support the economic and commercial interests of United States persons operating in the energy markets of foreign countries; and
(G) support and coordinate international efforts to alleviate energy poverty, enhance energy access and energy efficiency to promote United States strategic interests, and offer alternatives to adversary initiatives for United States allies and partners.
(11) Conducting public diplomacy with regard to United States international energy policy to strengthen transparency and good governance.
(12) Performing such other duties as the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs may from time to time designate.
(c) Implementation Report.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Assistant Secretary shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees a report on the status of efforts by the Department to establish the Bureau of Energy Security and Diplomacy required in section 302, including a description of current and projected staffing levels and resources deployed to execute the responsibilities described in paragraph (b).
(d) Annual Report.--Not later than one year after the date of the enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter for three years, the Assistant Secretary shall submit to Congress a report on the United States international energy strategy and the actions taken by the Bureau to fulfill such strategy.
SEC. 302. BUREAU OF ENERGY SECURITY AND DIPLOMACY.
(a) Establishment.--The Secretary shall establish a Bureau of Energy Security and Diplomacy, which shall perform such functions related to the formulation and implementation of international energy, energy technology, critical minerals, and relevant supply chain policies, as the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs may prescribe.
(b) Assistant Secretary.--The Assistant Secretary shall be the head of the Bureau.
(c) Bureau Employment.--
(1) Temporary expedited hiring authorities.--For a period of one year beginning on the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary may--
(A) appoint employees to the Bureau whose expertise aligns with the responsibilities listed in section 301(b) without regard to the provisions of title 5, United States Code, regarding appointments in the competitive service; and
(B) fix the basic compensation of such employees without regard to chapter 51 and subchapter III of chapter 53 of such title regarding classification and General Schedule pay rates.
(2) Priority appointments.--The Secretary shall prioritize the appointment of employees to the Bureau--
(A) who were separated from employment with the Bureau of Energy and Natural Resources in 2025 as a result of a reduction in force; and
(B) whose expertise aligns with the responsibilities listed in section 301(b).
(d) Sense of Congress.--It is the sense of Congress that the Assistant Secretary should be a standing participant in the Investment Committee or any other interagency working group established at or chaired by the White House National Security Council or National Economic Dominance Council to coordinate and implement United States policy regarding international critical mineral and energy supply chain diversification.
SEC. 303. CRITICAL MINERAL MINING FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM.
The Mutual Educational and Cultural Exchange Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2451 et seq.) is amended by adding at the end the following:
"SEC. 116. CRITICAL MINERAL MINING FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM.
"(a) Establishment.--There is authorized to be established the Critical Mineral Mining Fellowship Program (referred to in this section as the `Fellowship Program') within the J.
Text printed in the Record (7,496 characters)
William Fulbright Educational Exchange Program.
"(b) Purposes.--The purposes of the Fellowship Program are--
"(1) to advance foreign policy priorities of the United States by promoting studies, research, and international exchange in the mining industry;
"(2) to send United States citizens who are enrolled in or have received a degree from an accredited postsecondary institution in the United States to mining institutions in foreign countries, in order to build the capacity of the United States mining workforce;
"(3) to develop a robust and skilled workforce that can support and fill the gaps within the United States' growing domestic critical mineral supply chain; and
"(4) to reduce dependency on foreign energy and critical mineral supplies and enhance competitiveness of the United States within the global critical mineral marketplace.
"(c) Administration.--The Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the Department of State (referred to in this section as the `Bureau') shall administer the Fellowship Program in accordance with policy guidelines established by the Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board (referred to in this section as the `Board'), in consultation with binational Fulbright Commissions, mining industry leaders, institutions of higher education, governments of foreign countries, and United States Embassies in the foreign countries described in subparagraphs (A) and (B) of subsection (d)(4).
"(d) Selection of Fellows.--
"(1) In general.--The Board shall select qualified individuals to participate in the Fellowship Program and ensure a broad geographic representation in order to develop region-specific specialties.
"(2) Number of fellows.--The Bureau shall determine the number of fellows selected each year.
"(3) Criteria for fellows.--
"(A) Participation requirements.--Each fellow shall--
"(i) have a conferred bachelor's or equivalent degree before the start of the Fellowship Program period;
"(ii) be a student currently enrolled in an institution of higher education in the United States completing an advanced degree in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, or a field relating to the mining industry; or
"(iii) have had a conferred postdoctoral degree for not longer than five years before the start of the Fellowship Program period.
"(B) Post-completion requirement.--Upon completion of the Fellowship Program, demonstrate intent to seek employment in a mining profession that directly benefits the growth, progress, and development of the mining industry in the United States Government, an academic institution, a private sector company, or any organization approved by the Bureau.
"(4) Eligible universities.--United States fellows shall attend universities approved by the Bureau, in consultation with the Committee on Foreign Affairs in the House of Representatives and the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate, that have a mining program and are located in a foreign country. To the extent practicable, the Bureau should prioritize fellow enrollment in higher education mining programs in--
"(A) member countries of the Minerals Security Partnership; or
"(B) any country identified by the Bureau, in consultation with the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate, as containing sufficiently qualified mining programs.
"(5) Outreach.--To the extent practicable, the Bureau shall conduct outreach at United States undergraduate and graduate institutions the Bureau determines are likely to produce a range of qualified applications for the Fellowship Programs.
"(e) Structure.--
"(1) Fellowship requirements.--To achieve the purposes described in subsection (b)--
"(A) each fellow selected pursuant to subsection (d)(1) is encouraged to arrange placement in a mining education program at an eligible university in a foreign country;
"(B) each fellow shall--
"(i) participate in advanced coursework, research projects, and practical training opportunities offered by the host institution;
"(ii) engage with faculty advisors and industry partners to gain hands-on experience through internships, laboratory work, and field studies relevant to the mining industry;
"(iii) serve as a cultural and academic ambassador of the United States, fostering mutual understanding in the academic and professional mining community of the foreign country;
"(iv) participate in professional development activities, such as conferences, workshops, and seminars, to expand knowledge of global best practices in mining engineering and related fields; and
"(v) build and strengthen networks with international peers, faculty, and industry professionals to facilitate ongoing collaboration and knowledge exchange; and
"(C) the Bureau shall, for each fellow, approve a work plan that identifies the target objectives for the fellow, including specific duties and responsibilities relating to those objectives.
"(2) Fellowship period.--
"(A) In general.--Each fellowship under this section shall continue for a period determined by the Bureau, which, whenever feasible, may not be less than one year.
"(B) Renewal.--A renewal for a second year may be granted only with the approval of the Bureau in consultation with a United States embassy or the Fulbright Commission.
"(f) Fellowship Award.--The Bureau shall provide each fellow in the Fellowship Program with an allowance that is equal to the amount needed for the fellow's reasonable costs during the fellowship period, including--
"(1) mandatory university fees, including tuition, associated with graduate study;
"(2) living expenses, including housing, basic food costs, and daily transportation;
"(3) essential textbooks and other academic materials;
"(4) mandatory visa application, immigration fees, and other essential pre-departure requirements;
"(5) relocation expenses, including airline and rail travel;
"(6) research allowance, including essential travel to field sites and laboratory work; and
"(7) other reasonable costs approved by the Bureau.
"(g) Reports.--Not later than one year after the date of completion of the Fellowship Program by the initial cohort of fellows selected under subsection (d), and annually thereafter, the Secretary of State shall submit to the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate a report providing information on the implementation of the Fellowship Program, including--
"(1) the demographics and geographical origins of the fellows who completed a Fellowship Program fellowship during the preceding 1-year period;
"(2) a description of the academic placements of the fellows and the relation of such placements to the development of United States region-specific specialties under the Fellowship Program, including participant feedback on program implementation and feedback on lessons learned; and
"(3) a plan for factoring lessons learned and acquired skills based knowledge into future Fellowship Program programming.".
SEC. 304. VISITING MINING SCHOLARS PROGRAM.
The Mutual Educational and Cultural Exchange Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2451 et seq.), as amended by section 303, is further amended by adding at the end the following:
"SEC. 117. VISITING MINING SCHOLARS PROGRAM.
"(a) Establishment.--There is authorized to be established the Visiting Scholars Mining Program (referred to in this section as the `Visiting Scholars Program') within the J.
Text printed in the Record (11,057 characters)
William Fulbright Educational Exchange Program.
"(b) Purpose.--The purpose of the Visiting Scholars Program is to bring mining academics and professionals to the United States to--
"(1) build and expand the United States mining education programs at institutions of higher education;
"(2) bolster workforce development programs; and
"(3) advance research and development initiatives in the mining industry and adjacent fields.
"(c) Administration.--The Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (referred to in this section as the `Bureau') shall administer the Visiting Scholars Program in accordance with policy guidelines established by the Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board (referred to in this section as the `Board'), in consultation with binational Fulbright Commissions, mining industry leaders, institutions of higher education, foreign governments, and United States Embassies in the foreign countries described in clause (i) or (ii) of subsection (d)(3)(B).
"(d) Selection of Visiting Mining Scholars.--
"(1) In general.--The Board shall select qualified individuals to participate in the Visiting Scholars Program, each of whom is not a citizen of the United States and--
"(A) is employed as a mining professional, practitioner, or operator in a foreign country; or
"(B) is employed as an academic working at an institution of higher education in a foreign country with a mining education program, as approved by a Fulbright Commission or United States embassy, in consultation with the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate.
"(2) Number of fellows.--The Bureau shall determine the number of fellows selected each year, which, whenever feasible, shall be not fewer than 10.
"(3) Eligible visiting mining scholars.--
"(A) Requirements.--Visiting mining scholars may not be citizens of the United States, and shall be--
"(i) a citizen of a country where another Fulbright Foreign Student Program operates; and
"(ii) a citizen of a country that has expertise or specialized knowledge or engages in practices that could benefit the mining industry.
"(B) Preferred countries.--To the extent practicable, the Board should prioritize selection of visiting mining scholars who live or work in--
"(i) a member country of the Minerals Security Partnership; or
"(ii) any country identified by the Bureau, in consultation with the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate, as containing individuals that have academic expertise or specialized knowledge or engage in practices that could benefit the mining industry.
"(4) Outreach.--To the extent practicable, the Bureau shall conduct outreach, in coordination with United States embassies, mining industry leaders, and mining institutions in foreign countries that are likely to produce a range of qualified applicants for the Visiting Scholars Program.
"(e) Structure.--
"(1) Program requirements.--To carry out the purpose described in subsection (b)--
"(A) each individual selected pursuant to subsection (d)(1) who is coming to the United States as a visiting mining scholar shall arrange placement in a United States academic institution approved by the Bureau;
"(B) each visiting mining scholar should--
"(i) consult with faculty members to provide technical assistance on how to develop or expand a mining education program at the host institution of higher education;
"(ii) assist in the development and review of mining education curricula, including course syllabi, laboratory modules, and fieldwork components;
"(iii) participate in collaborative research projects with faculty, students, and third-party research institutions, focusing on innovative mining technologies, sustainable mining practices, and resource management;
"(iv) facilitate partnerships between the host institution and mining organizations, government agencies, and other institutions to foster academic exchange, research collaboration, and workforce development;
"(v) mentor undergraduate and graduate students interested in mining education, offering guidance on academic projects and career development; and
"(vi) contribute to the development of outreach programs aimed at increasing awareness of the mining industry as a career path and to increase awareness of the types of mining professions available; and
"(C) the bureau shall, for each visiting mining scholar, approve a work plan that identifies the target objectives for the scholar, including specific duties and responsibilities relating to those objectives.
"(2) Eligible united states institutions.--Visiting mining scholars shall be placed in a United States institution of higher education approved by the Bureau that--
"(A) demonstrates a commitment to developing or expanding academic programs in the mining industry;
"(B) possesses existing faculty expertise or research activity in the mining industry or related extractive fields;
"(C) provides institutional support and resources, such as laboratory facilities, field sites, or equipment, relevant to mining education and research, including in geology;
"(D) demonstrates a commitment to integrate the visiting scholar into curriculum development, faculty training, or workforce pipeline initiatives in mining;
"(E) demonstrates a plan for sustaining mining or critical mineral resources programs beyond the duration of the visiting scholar's placement;
"(F) can provide evidence of student interest or regional workforce demand for mining education programs or training; and
"(G) agrees to provide mentoring, administrative support, and opportunities for the visiting scholar to engage with students, faculty, and local industry.
"(3) Scholarship period.--
"(A) In general.--The duration of each scholarship period under this section shall be determined by the Bureau and shall, whenever feasible, be not less than three months and not more than one year.
"(B) Exceptions.--Any exception to the duration of the scholarship period described in subparagraph (A) shall be submitted by the visiting mining scholar to and approved by the Bureau before such exception takes effect.
"(f) Scholarship Award.--The Bureau shall provide each visiting mining scholar under this section with an allowance to cover the scholar's reasonable costs of living during the scholarship period.
"(g) Reports.--Not later than one year after the date of completion of the Visiting Mining Scholars Program by the initial cohort of scholars selected under subsection (d), and annually thereafter, the Secretary of State shall submit to the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate a report providing information on the implementation of the Visiting Scholars Program, including--
"(1) the demographics and geographical origins of the cohort of scholars who completed a Visiting Scholars Program during the preceding 1-year period;
"(2) the United States universities that visiting scholars were placed in;
"(3) the foreign universities or other post-graduate institutions that the cohort of scholars were chosen from;
"(4) a description of academic placements selected, under the Visiting Scholars Program, including participant feedback on program implementation and feedback on lessons learned; and
"(5) a plan for factoring lessons learned into future programming.".
SEC. 305. AMENDMENT TO THE MUTUAL AND CULTURAL EXCHANGE ACT
OF 1961.
Section 112(a) of the Mutual Educational and Cultural Exchange Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2460(a)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (9), by striking "; and" and inserting a semicolon;
(2) in the first paragraph designated as paragraph (10), by striking the period at the end and inserting a semicolon;
(3) by redesignating the second paragraph designated as paragraph (10) as paragraph (11);
(4) in paragraph (11), as so redesignated, by striking the period at the end and inserting a semicolon; and
(5) by adding at the end the following:
"(12) the Mining Fellowship Program established under section 116, which provides funding for studies, research, and international exchange for students seeking or completing advanced degrees from United States institutions of higher education in self-arranged placements with universities
with mining education programs in foreign countries; and
"(13) the Visiting Mining Scholars Program established under section 117, which provides funding for international mining academics, practitioners, professionals and operators in self-arranged placements with universities in the United States.".
SEC. 306. DEFINITIONS.
The Mutual Educational and Cultural Exchange Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2451 et seq.), as amended by section 303 and section 304, is further amended by adding at the end the following:
"SEC. 118. DEFINITIONS.
"In this Act:
"(1) Advanced degree.--The term `advanced degree' means a
master's or doctoral degree from an institution of higher
education.
"(2) Critical mineral.--The term `critical mineral'--
"(A) means any mineral on the list of critical minerals
required by section 7002(c)(3) of the Energy Act of 2020 (30
U.S.C. 1606(c)(3)) on or after January 1, 2026; and
"(B) includes gold and copper.
"(3) Institution of higher education.--The term
`institution of higher education', unless otherwise provided
in this Act, has the meaning given such term in section
101(a) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C.
1001(a)).
"(4) Mining education program.--The term `mining education
program' means an academic program related to the mining
industry.
"(5) Mining industry.--The term `mining industry' means
the mining industry of the United States, consisting of
activities related to naturally occurring metal and nonmetal
critical minerals, including the following:
"(A) Geological mapping, geophysical surveying,
geochemical sampling, and management of geological data.
"(B) Mineral system analysis, exploration, and resource
delineation, including exploratory drilling and resource
estimation and classification.
"(C) Project development, feasibility studies, financing,
and permitting.
"(D) Mine construction, extraction, and operational
support activities.
"(E) Mineral processing, beneficiation, smelting,
refining, chemical conversion, and separation.
"(F) Material conversion and advanced materials
manufacturing.
"(G) Transportation, logistics, and handling of
intermediate and finished material products.
"(H) Reclamation, remediation, reuse, recycling, and
recovery of materials from primary and secondary sources,
including mine waste and end-of-life products.
"(6) Mining profession.--The term `mining profession'
means the body of jobs directly relevant to the mining
industry.".
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Mast) and the gentleman from California (Mr. Bera) each will control 20 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Florida.
Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and insert extraneous material.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Is there objection to the request of the gentleman from Florida?
There was no objection.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 7037, the DOMINANCE Act, introduced by Chairwoman Kim and Ranking Member Bera.
Battles are won with the right tools and the right team, often before the first shot is ever fired. Today, America's readiness depends on more than just troops, tanks, and ships. It depends on supply chains that power our economy and power our military.
The minerals used in fighter jets, missile systems, semiconductors, advanced communications technologies, and energy infrastructure are essential to American strength. When those supply chains are vulnerable, the United States of America is, in turn, vulnerable.
For decades, Beijing pursued a deliberate strategy to dominate critical mineral supply chains. Today, China controls much of the world's processing and refining capacity for the minerals that underpin our industrial base and our national defense.
Last year, Beijing reminded the world how easy it can weaponize that dominance when it restricted exports of critical rare earth materials, disrupting global markets without firing a shot.
Congress cannot afford to ignore that warning. That is why I am proud to be a supporter of the DOMINANCE Act. This legislation strengthens America's ability to work with our allies, mobilize investment, and build resilient supply chains for critical minerals and energy technologies our economy and our military depend on.
I commend Chairwoman Kim and Ranking Member Bera for their leadership on this issue.
Mr. Speaker, the readiness of our country cannot be improvised. It has to be protected every day. I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 7037, the Developing Overseas Mineral Investments and New Allied Networks for Critical Energies Act, or the DOMINANCE Act.
Over the past year, through hearings, briefings, and engagement with industry, government, and our international partners, one fact has become increasingly clear: Securing reliable access to critical minerals is not a Democratic or Republican issue, it is an American issue.
Today, the People's Republic of China controls roughly 90 percent of global rare earth processing capacity. That concentration creates a strategic vulnerability for the United States and our allies, and Beijing has demonstrated its willingness to leverage that dominance through export restrictions and other forms of economic coercion.
The United States must continue expanding domestic mining, processing, refining, and recycling capacity. However, building secure and resilient supply chains cannot be accomplished by the United States acting alone. We need stronger partnerships with trusted allies and partners. We need coordinated investment strategies, and we need a whole-of-government approach that aligns our diplomatic, development, and economic tools to reduce dependence on vulnerable supply chains.
This is exactly what the DOMINANCE Act does. The bill establishes a Bureau of Energy Security and Diplomacy at the Department of State, led by a Senate-confirmed Assistant Secretary. This Bureau will serve as the focal point for U.S. international energy and critical minerals policy, ensuring greater coordination across agencies and stronger engagement with allies and partners.
This diplomatic capacity is increasingly important in a world where geopolitical instability, such as the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, can disrupt energy markets with significant economic consequences for our country and our constituents.
Second, the legislation formally authorizes the United States' participation in the Forum on Resource Geostrategic Engagement, or FORGE. FORGE builds upon the successful work of the Biden administration's Minerals Security Partnership by bringing together like-minded countries to coordinate investments, share information, and advance strategic partnerships and projects that strengthen supply chain resilience.
Authorizing U.S. participation ensures that America remains at the table, working with our partners to diversify sources of critical minerals and reduce reliance on strategic competitors.
Third, the bill creates energy security pacts that align the capabilities of the State Department, the Development Finance Corporation, EXIM, USTDA, MCC, the Department of Commerce, and other agencies in support of strategic energy and mineral projects overseas.
These partnerships will help mobilize private sector investment, strengthen economic resilience, support developing economies, and counter efforts by authoritarian governments to use economic dependence as a tool of coercion.
The legislation also invests in the workforce needed to secure our energy future. It expands educational and workforce development opportunities through initiatives such as the Critical Minerals Mining Fellowship Program and the Visiting Mining Scholars Program, helping develop the expertise needed to support secure and sustainable mineral supply chains.
Lastly, the bill strengthens U.S. diplomatic and national security capacity by expanding Foreign Service Institute training on energy and critical minerals issues and by codifying a special adviser for critical minerals and supply chains on the National Security Council to help coordinate a whole-of-government strategy.
Taken together, these provisions represent a comprehensive approach to one of the most important strategic challenges facing our country.
The DOMINANCE Act sends a clear message that the United States is committed to working with allies and partners to build secure, diversified, and resilient critical mineral supply chains. It also provides the certainty that businesses and investors need to make long-term investments in transparent, sustainable, and secure energy and mineral projects around the world.
I thank Chairwoman Young Kim for her partnership on this important bill. I am proud that this bill received a unanimous vote in the House Foreign Affairs Committee. I urge my colleagues to support this bipartisan bill, and I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as she may consume to the gentlewoman from California (Mrs. Kim), the chairwoman of the Subcommittee on East Asia and Pacific.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 7037, the Developing Overseas Mineral Investments and New Allied Networks for Critical Energies, or DOMINANCE Act.
Critical minerals are the foundation of military power, industrial strength, and economic security. They enable fighter jets, semiconductors, batteries, and energy infrastructure. They increasingly determine which nations lead the modern world and which ones fall behind.
Today, far too many of these supply chains are controlled by China, creating a strategic vulnerability the United States cannot afford to ignore.
Over the past year, Congress has taken a serious look at this challenge. Last July, the Foreign Affairs Committee's East Asia and Pacific Subcommittee held a hearing on breaking China's chokehold on critical mineral supply chains. The message was clear: America must boost domestic production while building a coordinated strategy with our allies and trusted partners.
We have also spent the past year listening to the companies, manufacturers, and investors building these supply chains, including Freeport-McMoRan, MP Materials, KoBold Metals, and the National Association of Manufacturers.
Earlier this year, my colleague Congressman Bera and I traveled to Peru to see firsthand the opportunities and challenges facing critical mineral development. Across all of these conversations, one consistent theme emerged--America needs a durable, long-term strategy.
The Trump administration has advanced important initiatives, such as FORGE, Pax Silica, and Project Vault. I recognize administration officials David Copley, Jacob Helberg, and Ben Black for their leadership in advancing America's energy and mineral security interests.
Yet Congress must ensure these efforts endure beyond any single administration. As China executes a decades-long plan, America cannot afford to shift strategies every few years. That is why Representative Bera and I introduced the bipartisan DOMINANCE Act.
This legislation aligns America's diplomatic, financing, and strategic tools to strengthen critical mineral and energy supply chains with our trusted partners.
I thank Congressman Pete Stauber of Minnesota, chairman of the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources, for his leadership on domestic mining. I also thank Congressman Rob Wittman for his leadership on strengthening our defense industrial base, and Congressman John Moolenaar for confronting the challenges posed by the Chinese Communist Party.
The DOMINANCE Act complements their work by ensuring international efforts reinforce, not replace, U.S. domestic production and industrial resilience.
The bill establishes the Bureau of Energy Security and Diplomacy at the State Department. It creates long-term energy security pacts with our allies and partners. It authorizes the Forum on Resource Geostrategic Engagement, FORGE, and improves interagency coordination.
It supports key investments in energy supply chains, launches mining fellowship and exchange programs to build future talent, codifies key White House positions, and requires specialized training for Foreign Service officers in critical posts around the world.
This legislation is about economic security, industrial strength, and national security. The United States must stop depending on China for the materials that power the modern world.
The DOMINANCE Act ensures that America and its allies, not our adversaries, shape the future of global energy and critical mineral supply chains.
Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bill.
Brian J. Mast (R-FL)4:50 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I am prepared to close, and I reserve the balance of my time.
Ami Bera (D-CA)4:50 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time for the purpose of closing.
Mr. Speaker, this legislation will strengthen critical mineral supply chains by bolstering U.S. cooperation with our allies and partners, instituting needed reforms at the State Department, and making our supply chains more resilient and less susceptible to the type of choke holds that the PRC has employed against us.
The DOMINANCE Act is a critical step forward.
Mr. Speaker, I encourage my colleagues to support this bill. I thank the partnership of Chairwoman Kim as well as Chairman Mast and all the others who put this legislation together.
Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
Brian J. Mast (R-FL)4:50 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, critical minerals are the lifeblood of American industry, our military-industrial complex, and so many items or tools that we use in our day-to-day way of life.
This bill is an important step toward reasserting control over what is the American economic destiny.
Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Goldman of Texas)4:50 p.m.
The question is on the motion offered by the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Mast) that the House suspend the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 7037, as amended.
The question was taken; and (two-thirds being in the affirmative) the rules were suspended and the bill, as amended, was passed. A motion to reconsider was laid on the table.
Allied Defense Sales Act
Pages H3965–H3967 · Official textMr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 8665) to require the implementation of a strategy to encourage foreign partners to participate in the foreign military sales and direct commercial sales processes on a multinational basis, and for other purposes.
The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows:
Text printed in the Record (4,026 characters)
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the "Allied Defense Sales Act".
SEC. 2. STRATEGY AND REPORT ON MULTINATIONAL PROCUREMENT FROM
THE UNITED STATES.
(a) Strategy.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State shall implement a strategy to encourage foreign partners to participate in the foreign military sales and direct commercial sales processes on a multinational basis. Such strategy shall incorporate existing efforts by the Department of State to--
(1) survey interest in participating in such multinational procurement processes among potentially eligible countries;
(2) identify countries and partners who may be eligible to serve as the lead purchase coordinator for a multinational procurement process, and potential incentives for their participation as lead coordinator;
(3) review pathways for participation in foreign military sales or direct commercial sales processes for countries determined to be ineligible for foreign military financing loans;
(4) identify challenges and solutions for the Department in carrying out such processes in accordance with the Arms Export Control Act (22 U.S.C. 2751 et seq.), including applicable end-use monitoring, technical assistance agreements, and license filing requirements;
(5) identify ways to provide for expedited license authorizations, sales other than for programs of record, and other potential efforts to increase speed and ease enhanced use of multinational procurement processes;
(6) detailing the benefits of multinational procurement processes to the national security interest, including enhanced military interoperability and strengthening the domestic industrial base; and
(7) identify opportunities to develop and promote exportable defense articles and services, including for purposes of supporting the AUKUS partnership.
(b) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, and every 180 days thereafter for 3 years, the Secretary shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees a report on the strategy required by subsection (a) and its implementation. Such report shall also include--
(1) an update on the development and implementation of the initial strategy during the period following the most recent prior submission of such report (if any);
(2) a description of challenges faced in the implementation of the strategy;
(3) a description of all efforts the Department has undertaken to overcome such challenges;
(4) a list and description of any potential legislative changes necessary to fully implement a multinational procurement process for foreign military sales and direct commercial sales; and
(5) a description of efforts to promote exportable defense articles and services specifically for use in multinational procurement processes, including those supporting the AUKUS partnership.
(c) Form.--The report required by subsection (b) shall be submitted in unclassified form and may include a classified annex.
(d) Definitions.--In this section--
(1) the term "appropriate congressional committees" means the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate;
(2) the term "AUKUS partnership" means the enhanced trilateral security partnership between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States announced in September 2021; and
(3) the term "multinational procurement process" refers to a process by which defense articles or services are sold by the United States to a lead foreign nation, with the intent that the articles or services so sold will subsequently be retransferred to a previously identified group of participating countries, or to countries identified by reference to a qualifying multilateral partnership agreement, such as a cross-servicing agreement described in section 2350 of title 10, United States Code.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Mast) and the gentleman from California (Mr. Bera) each will control 20 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Florida.
Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and insert extraneous material on H.R. 8665.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Is there objection to the request of the gentleman from Florida?
There was no objection.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, it has long been recognized by our partners and allies that the American foreign military sales system is slow, inefficient, and opaque. While the benefits outweigh the costs for many of our closest allies, it takes a real investment of personnel, time, and resources for our foreign partners to be able to successfully participate in our foreign military sales.
American-made defense systems remain the most effective, advanced, and sought-after in the world, but we need to keep expanding our base of foreign partners that purchase American defense systems.
H.R. 8665, the Allied Defense Sales Act, is a bipartisan effort to break down barriers for smaller allies and smaller countries that do not have a longstanding defense sales relationship with the United States.
This bill allows smaller countries to pool resources and participate in the foreign military sales system, expanding America's circle of equipped, interoperable allies without requiring new foreign aid spending.
I thank my colleague Mr. Zinke of Montana, the sponsor of this bill, who led the House Foreign Affairs Committee's Foreign Arms Sales Task Force and has continued the important work of ensuring America remains the partner of choice for foreign defense sales.
This legislation passed the Foreign Affairs Committee with broad bipartisan support, and I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting it on the floor today.
Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of a bill I co-led with Representative Zinke regarding the promotion of multicountry defense article purchases, which can result in lower prices, greater efficiencies, and interoperability for our allies and partners.
While most foreign defense sales are conducted by individual countries as purchasers, multicountry purchases can provide more competitive pricing, coordination, and other benefits, including for smaller countries that are less frequent purchasers, as well as multinational alliances.
This bill directs the Secretary of State to develop and implement a strategy to encourage U.S. foreign partners to participate in the foreign military sales, FMS, and direct commercial sales, DCS, processes on a multinational basis.
The bill also includes reporting requirements providing Congress with details on this strategy and its implementation. While multinational purchases are not currently prohibited by statute, this bill requires a strategy for socializing, promoting, and making available said options for multinational cases to purchasing countries and an accompanying report to Congress.
This will be beneficial to both the U.S. and our partners and allies and provides helpful additional information to Congress as we conduct necessary oversight over this initiative. Therefore, I am pleased to support it, and I encourage my colleagues to do so, as well.
Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as she may consume to the gentlewoman from California (Mrs. Kim), who is the chairwoman of the East Asia and Pacific Subcommittee.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 8665, the Allied Defense Sales Act.
As a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee's Foreign Military Sales Task Force, I am proud to cosponsor this bipartisan bill introduced by our task force chair, Representative Zinke.
H.R. 8665 is a practical step forward to strengthen our defense industrial base while reinforcing partnerships with trusted partners.
America produces the most advanced and reliable defense systems in the world. Our partners across Europe, Asia, and beyond consistently prefer U.S. equipment for its quality, performance, and the security relationships that come with it. Yet, many smaller nations face significant obstacles when pursuing individual purchases. The administrative burden, minimum order sizes, and unpredictable timelines often discourage sales that would otherwise benefit both our allies and American industry.
H.R. 8665 addresses these challenges head-on. The bill directs the State Department to develop a clear strategy for enabling multinational procurement. A partner nation would agree to serve as the lead nation to enable a multinational procurement, ensuring other qualified allies are able to participate in important foreign military sales.
By combining demand, we can achieve more predictable production schedules, lower unit costs, faster deliveries, and greater overall efficiency for manufacturers here at home.
This model also improves interoperability among our partners, allowing them to work more seamlessly alongside U.S. forces and with one another.
This legislation requires the Department to assess allied interest, identify suitable lead coordinators, examine financing options for partners that may not qualify for standard programs, address regulatory hurdles under existing export laws, and highlight opportunities to make more U.S. capabilities available for export. The Department will need to regularly report to Congress on implementation and on its results.
In an era when competitors are aggressively marketing their systems abroad, we must make it easier for allies to choose American. This bill does that without compromising our rigorous oversight or security standards.
It supports good-paying jobs in defense manufacturing hubs nationwide, including in Orange and Riverside Counties in my district, which many aerospace and defense primes, SMEs, and startups call home. It enhances collective deterrence and advances U.S. foreign policy that prioritizes both economic strength and strategic advantage.
Mr. Speaker, H.R. 8665 is a commonsense step forward. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting its passage.
Ami Bera (D-CA)5:00 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, this bill will promote multicountry defense article purchases that will, in practice, lower prices, boost interoperability, and provide other benefits. It will help streamline these purchases, including for multinational alliances and smaller countries. I support this bill and encourage my colleagues to do the same.
Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
Brian J. Mast (R-FL)5:00 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, it is essential that we do everything we can to equip our allies, big and small, with the best U.S. defense technology, ensuring that we remain interoperable with our partners in a conflict. This legislation is a key step forward to strengthening the U.S. defense industrial base and bolstering our allies' defense capabilities with the best equipment anywhere on the globe, the United States of America equipment, which is generations beyond everybody else's.
Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 8665, and I yield back the balance of my time.
The SPEAKER pro tempore5:00 p.m.
The question is on the motion offered by the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Mast) that the House suspend the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 8665.
The question was taken; and (two-thirds being in the affirmative) the rules were suspended and the bill was passed. A motion to reconsider was laid on the table.
Countering China's Control of the Caucasus Act
Pages H3967–H3968 · Official textMr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 7668) to require a report on Russian and Chinese intelligence assets in Georgia, and for other purposes, as amended.
The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows:
Text printed in the Record (2,778 characters)
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the "Countering China's Control of the Caucasus Act".
SEC. 2. REPORTS AND BRIEFINGS.
(a) Report on Russian and Chinese Intelligence Assets in Georgia.--
(1) Defined term.--In this section, the term "relevant congressional committees" means--
(A) the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate;
(B) the Select Committee on Intelligence of the Senate;
(C) the Committee on Armed Services of the Senate;
(D) the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate;
(E) the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives;
(F) the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence of the House of Representatives;
(G) the Committee on Armed Services of the House of Representatives; and
(H) the Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives.
(2) In general.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State, in coordination with the Director of National Intelligence and the Secretary of Defense, shall submit a classified report, as appropriate, to the relevant congressional committees that meets the requirements set forth in paragraph (3).
(3) Contents.--The report required under paragraph (2) shall--
(A) be prepared consistent with the protection of sources and methods;
(B) examine the penetration of Russian and Chinese intelligence elements and their assets in Georgia; and
(C) examine the potential intersection of Russian and Chinese influence and cooperation in Georgia.
(b) 5-Year United States Strategy for Bilateral Relations With Georgia.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State shall submit to the relevant congressional committees a detailed strategy that--
(A) outlines specific objectives for enhancing bilateral ties which reflect the current domestic political environment in Georgia;
(B) includes a determination of the tools, resources, and funding that should be available to achieve the objectives outlined pursuant to subparagraph (A) and an assessment of whether Georgia should remain a top recipient of United States funding in the Europe and Eurasia region;
(C) includes a determination of the extent to which the United States should continue to invest in its partnership with Georgia; and
(D) includes a determination of whether the Government of Georgia remains committed to expanding trade ties with the United States and Europe and whether the United States Government should continue to invest in Georgian projects.
(2) Form.--The report required under paragraph (1) shall be submitted in unclassified form, with a classified annex.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Mast) and the gentleman from California (Mr. Bera) each will control 20 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Florida.
Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on H.R. 7668.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Is there objection to the request of the gentleman from Florida?
There was no objection.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 7668, the Countering China's Control of the Caucasus Act, introduced by my colleague to my right here from South Carolina, Mr. Joe Wilson.
Now, over the last few years, there have been serious questions raised about the status of democracy and the prevalence of malign influence from U.S. adversaries in the Republic of Georgia.
To this day, Russia occupies 20 percent of Georgia's sovereign territory following its 2008 invasion. Despite efforts to militarily resist Russia, concerns remain over Russia's longstanding influence in Georgia.
Equally concerning is the influence of the People's Republic of China within the country. In the last few years, this led to a Chinese consortium being selected over a U.S. company for developing a massive seaport project. Competition is good, but when it comes to critical infrastructure like this, our partners should take into consideration the risks posed by the PRC.
This bill would require an assessment of Russian and Chinese intelligence activities and influence within the Republic of Georgia and identify any areas of cooperation between Russia and China within Georgia.
The bill would also require a strategy for the future relationship between the United States and Georgia and help us assess if Georgia is serious about a path of improved relations.
Mr. Speaker, I again thank my colleague, Mr. Wilson of South Carolina, for introducing this effort, and I urge my colleagues to advance this bill today.
Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 7668, a bipartisan bill designed to make sure the United States is clear-eyed about the threats from Russia and the PRC in Georgia as well as whether Georgia remains committed to a relationship with the United States and Europe centered around shared values and interests.
In this spirit, I thank my good friend Representative Wilson for his tireless work in support of the Georgian people and for bringing forward this legislation which builds on his work on the MEGOBARI Act.
In recent years, the current Georgian Dream Government, as well as foreign malign influence from Russia and China in Georgia, have threatened Georgia's hard-fought democratic gains, corrupted some of its State institutions, and caused a rift in the U.S.-Georgia relations and between the Georgian Government and its people.
This legislation, along with the MEGOBARI Act, that this body passed with overwhelming bipartisan support last year is a response to this deterioration. The goal is to let the Georgian people know that we stand by them in their quest for democracy, respect for their rights, and deeper integration in the Euro-Atlantic community.
This legislation ensures we are clear-eyed about what that continued support from the U.S. to Georgia will require and provides a framework for appropriate cooperation with the Georgian Government going forward.
I am pleased with the bipartisan work on this bill and look forward to its passage.
Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from South Carolina (Mr. Wilson), who I suspect will tell us something about war criminal Putin.
Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman Brian Mast for being so perceptive.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 7668, the Countering China's Control of the Caucasus Act, to reassert, as the speaker expressed earlier, to support freedom and prosperity in the South Caucasus region of Asia.
President Donald Trump has presented a historic opportunity to expand economic prosperity in Central Asia, benefiting the region and America. Georgia has been a courageous, longtime ally of the United States with a population that overwhelmingly supports a strong relationship with the West.
Congressman Bera is correct that the House has already passed the MEGOBARI Act which provides for the strengthening relationship with the people of Georgia 349-42 and to support the people of Georgia.
The illegitimate Georgian Dream regime is in the process of selling out the country to the Chinese Communist Party and, indeed the chairman is correct, war criminal Putin and Iran, against the wishes of the Georgian people and the interests of the United States.
The election was rigged in Georgia. With this, they have peddled the vilest anti-American propaganda and constantly insult President Trump, accusing him of acting as an agent of the "deep state."
In fact, we also note that the legitimate President, Salome Zourabichvili, has been a valued guest for the inauguration of President Donald Trump, and almost daily, there are demonstrations in Tbilisi where people carry giant posters of President Donald Trump, expressing their love and affection for President Trump and the United States.
The puppet Georgian Dream Prime Minister just last week accused our Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, of lying. The behavior of this rogue regime threatens all that President Trump has accomplished in the South Caucasus, and it must change.
The sea route to the Middle Corridor must run through Georgia and the Communist Chinese Party is set, as the chairman has identified, to own and control the strategic deep seaport in the region, the Anaklia Port on the Black Sea.
Congratulations to Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan in neighboring Armenia on his astounding election victory yesterday. Unlike Georgian Dream, Pashinyan is working with the United States and with President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan to remove Russian influence from the region and normalize relations with the very valued and appreciated NATO ally, Turkiye.
This is a once in a 3,000 year opportunity for stability, peace, and prosperity in the region. I am grateful for President Trump orchestrating the peace deal between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The Georgian Dream nightmare regime with fair and free elections must abandon its anti-American course, release political prisoners, end politically motivated prosecutions, ensure a fair election environment, revoke draconian laws that are suffocating U.S. businesses, and seek to end the repression of free speech.
The Countering China's Control of the Caucasus Act ensures that Chinese and Russian covert operations in the country are brought to light and that the United States strongly considers whether Georgia should remain a top recipient of aid while it attacks America in its propaganda on an almost daily basis.
Georgian troops have fought bravely with Americans in Afghanistan and Iraq, along with our chairman. We know that Georgia has been a close partner and ally of the United States.
We must reestablish the strong relationship that has been between the United States and Georgia. It will not be able to normalize unless we have fair and free elections.
Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this legislation.
Mr. Speaker, I thank you for the utmost attention to this issue, and I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, H.R. 7668 does not seek to malign the Georgian government but, rather, demonstrate to the people of Georgia the United States remains committed to its Euro-Atlantic aspirations.
Mr. Speaker, I again thank my good friend Representative Wilson for his steadfast support of the Georgian people and hope my colleagues will join me in supporting this bill. I yield back the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time to close.
Mr. Speaker, it is time for the United States and Georgia to move forward. Doing so requires clarity on what is happening in their country behind the scenes and a responsible strategy for future engagement.
Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this measure, to better inform U.S. policy toward the Republic of Georgia.
Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
The question is on the motion offered by the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Mast) that the House suspend the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 7668, as amended.
The question was taken; and (two-thirds being in the affirmative) the rules were suspended and the bill, as amended, was passed. A motion to reconsider was laid on the table.
Stop Illegal Fishing Act
Pages H3968–H3970 · Official textMr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 6338) to require the imposition of sanctions with respect to foreign persons and foreign vessels that engage in illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, and for other purposes, as amended.
The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows:
Text printed in the Record (8,314 characters)
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE.
This Act may be cited as the "Stop Illegal Fishing Act".
SEC. 2. SENSE OF CONGRESS.
It is the Sense of Congress that--
(1) illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing (referred to in this section as "IUU fishing") is a rising and harmful global trend;
(2) the People's Republic of China is the primary perpetrator of IUU fishing and the largest exploiter of global fisheries;
(3) IUU fishing is a concerning and significant driver of overfishing, thereby threatening fisheries, damaging marine ecosystems, and inhibiting conservation;
(4) IUU fishing in another country's exclusive economic zone violates international law as reflected in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, undermines the rules-based order, ignores sovereign rights, reinforces excessive maritime claims, exploits finite resources, and unfairly seizes economic access at the expense of coastal states;
(5) IUU fishing is often associated with substandard and illicit conditions for crew, including lack of safety controls, illegally low pay, inhumane treatment, and, in some cases, outright forced labor or human trafficking;
(6) IUU fishing has a particularly nefarious impact on coastal communities in poor and developing nations that rely on ocean bounties;
(7) IUU fishing undermines the economic security of the United States and undermines maritime security around the globe; and
(8) the United States Government should utilize sanctions to deter and prevent IUU fishing.
SEC. 3. SANCTIONS.
(a) Sanctions With Respect to Foreign Persons.--The President shall impose the sanctions described in subsection (e) with respect to any foreign person that knowingly--
(1) owns any vessel that engages in IUU fishing;
(2) works as a captain or senior crew member on such a vessel;
(3) operates as an entity primarily engaged in IUU fishing; or
(4) serves as an officer or senior manager in an entity primarily engaged in IUU fishing.
(b) Sanctions With Respect to Foreign Vessels.--The President shall impose the
sanctions described in subsection (e) with respect to any foreign vessel that engages in IUU fishing.
(c) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, and annually thereafter for five years, the President shall submit to the appropriate committees a report that--
(1) describes all efforts to carry out the requirements of subsections (a) and (b); and
(2) lists all foreign persons and foreign vessels sanctioned thereunder.
(d) Sanctions Program Required.--In carrying out subsection (a) and subsection (b), the President shall direct the creation of an IUU fishing sanctions program.
(e) Sanctions Described.--The sanctions described in this subsection are the following:
(1) Asset blocking.--Notwithstanding the requirements of section 202 of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701), the President may exercise of all powers granted to the President by that Act to the extent necessary to block and prohibit all transactions in all property and interests in property of the foreign person or foreign vessel if such property and interests in property are in the United States, come within the United States, or are or come within the possession or control of a United States person.
(2) Visas, admission, or parole.--
(A) In general.--An alien who the Secretary of State or the Secretary of Homeland Security (or a designee of one of such Secretaries) knows, or has reason to believe, is described in subsection (a) is--
(i) inadmissible to the United States;
(ii) ineligible for a visa or other documentation to enter the United States; and
(iii) otherwise ineligible to be admitted or paroled into the United States or to receive any other benefit under the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101 et seq.).
(B) Current visas revoked.--
(i) In general.--The issuing consular officer, the Secretary of State, or the Secretary of Homeland Security (or a designee of one of such Secretaries) shall, in accordance with section 221(i) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1201(i)), revoke any visa or other entry documentation issued to an alien described in subparagraph (A) regardless of when the visa or other entry documentation is issued.
(ii) Effect of revocation.--A revocation under clause (i)--
(I) shall take effect immediately; and
(II) shall automatically cancel any other valid visa or entry documentation that is in the alien's possession.
(f) Exceptions.--
(1) Exception to comply with international obligations.--Sanctions under subsection (e)(2) shall not apply with respect to the admission of an alien if admitting or paroling the alien into the United States is necessary to permit the United States to comply with the Agreement regarding the Headquarters of the United Nations, signed at Lake Success June 26, 1947, and entered into force November 21, 1947, between the United Nations and the United States, or other applicable international obligations.
(2) Exception relating to the provision of humanitarian assistance.--Sanctions under this section may not be imposed with respect to transactions or the facilitation of transactions for--
(A) the sale of agricultural commodities, food, medicine, or medical devices;
(B) the provision of humanitarian assistance;
(C) financial transactions relating to humanitarian assistance; or
(D) transporting goods or services that are necessary to carry out operations relating to humanitarian assistance.
(3) Exception for intelligence, law enforcement, and national security activities.--Sanctions under this section shall not apply to any authorized intelligence, law enforcement, or national security activities of the United States.
(4) Exception for safety of vessels and crew.--Sanctions under this section shall not apply with respect to a person providing provisions to a vessel otherwise subject to sanctions under this section if such provisions are intended for the safety and care of the crew aboard the vessel, the protection of human life aboard the vessel, or the maintenance of the vessel to avoid any environmental or other significant damage.
(g) Implementation; Penalties.--
(1) Implementation.--The President may exercise all authorities provided to the President under sections 203 and 205 of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1702 and 1704) to carry out this section.
(2) Penalties.--The penalties provided for in subsections (b) and (c) of section 206 of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1705) shall apply to a person that violates, attempts to violate, conspires to violate, or causes a violation of regulations promulgated to carry out this section to the same extent that such penalties apply to a person who commits an unlawful act described in section 206(a) of that Act.
(h) Waiver.--The President may waive the application of sanctions imposed with respect to a foreign person or foreign vessel under this section if the President certifies to the appropriate congressional committees, not later than 15 days before such waiver is to take effect, that the waiver is important to the national security interests of the United States.
(i) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Appropriate congressional committees.--The term "appropriate congressional committees" means the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Senate.
(2) Foreign person.--The term "foreign person" means an individual or entity that is not a United States person.
(3) Foreign vessel.--The term "foreign vessel" means a vessel of foreign registry or operated under the authority of a foreign country.
(4) IUU fishing.--The term "IUU fishing" has the meaning given the term in section 3532 of the Maritime SAFE Act (16 U.S.C. 8001).
(5) United states person.--The term "United States person" means--
(A) a United States citizen;
(B) a permanent resident alien of the United States;
(C) an entity organized under the laws of the United States or of any jurisdiction within the United States, including a foreign branch of such an entity; or
(D) a person in the United States.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Mast) and the gentleman from California (Mr. Bera) each will control 20 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Florida.
Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on H.R. 6338.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Is there objection to the request of the gentleman from Florida?
There was no objection.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 6338, the Stop Illegal Fishing Act, led by Chairwoman Kim and Ranking Member Meeks.
Illegal fishing is a national security problem. The Chinese Communist Party uses so-called commercial fishing fleets as an instrument of state power. These vessels violate sovereign waters, undermine local economies, and in the end, they support Beijing's broader campaign of coercion around the globe.
This is not simply about catching fish. It is about the CCP using economic pressure, maritime intimidation, and lawless behavior to expand its influence and weaken the sovereignty of other nations.
For years, China has operated in the world's worst illegal and unreported and unregulated fishing fleet. The United States cannot allow this behavior to continue without consequences.
The Stop Illegal Fishing Act gives our government additional tools to identify, expose, and hold accountable those responsible for illegal fishing and the networks that do enable it.
Just as importantly, it sends a clear message that the United States stands for free and open oceans, governed by rules, not governed by coercion.
Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairwoman Kim and Ranking Member Meeks for their leadership on this bipartisan legislation. I absolutely urge all Members to support the bill, and I reserve the balance of my time. House of Representatives,
Text printed in the Record (2,370 characters)
Washington, DC, May 28, 2026. Hon. Brian Mast, Chairman, Committee on Foreign Affairs, House of Representatives, Washington DC.
Dear Chairman Mast: I write regarding H.R. 6338, the Stop Illegal Fishing Act. Provisions of this bill fall within the Judiciary Committee's Rule X jurisdiction, and I appreciate that you consulted with us on those provisions. The Judiciary Committee agrees that it shall be discharged from further consideration of the bill so that it may proceed expeditiously to the House floor.
The Committee takes this action with the understanding that forgoing further consideration of this measure does not in any way alter the Committee's jurisdiction or waive any future jurisdictional claim over these provisions or their subject matter. We also reserve the right to seek appointment of an appropriate number of conferees in the event of a conference with the Senate involving this measure or similar legislation.
I ask that you please insert this letter in the Congressional Record during consideration of this measure on the House floor. I appreciate the cooperative manner in which our committees have worked on this matter, and I look forward to working collaboratively in the future on matters of shared jurisdiction. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Jim Jordan,
Chairman.
Washington, DC, June 8, 2026. Hon. Jim Jordan, Chairman, Committee on the Judiciary, Washington DC.
Dear Chairman Jordan: Thank you for consulting with the Foreign Affairs Committee and agreeing to be discharged from further consideration of H.R. 6338, the Stop Illegal Fishing Act, so that the measure may proceed expeditiously to the House floor.
I agree that your forgoing further action on this measure does not in any way diminish or alter the jurisdiction of your committee, or prejudice its jurisdictional prerogatives on this measure or similar legislation in the future. I would support your effort to seek appointment of an appropriate number of conferees from your committee to any House-Senate conference on this legislation.
I will seek to place our letters on this bill into the Congressional Record during floor consideration. I appreciate your cooperation regarding this legislation and look forward to continuing to work together as this measure moves through the legislative process.
Sincerely,
Brian Mast,
Chairman.
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of Ranking Member Meeks' legislation, H.R. 6338, the Stop Illegal Fishing Act.
Illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing is a threat to the economic security, environment, and sovereignty of small Island nations, including our partners in the Pacific Islands. For many Pacific Island nations, the ocean is their greatest national resource. Fisheries support livelihoods, government revenues, and the well-being of communities. Yet, too often, foreign vessels engage in illegal fishing practices that deplete fish stocks, undermine local economies, and erode the ability of Pacific nations to manage their own maritime resources.
These activities can also fuel broader instability and coercive behavior in a region that is central to America's strategic interests.
The United States has made a commitment to deepen our partnership with Pacific Island countries and to support a free, open, and resilient Pacific. By strengthening consequences for those who engage in illegal fishing, this legislation helps protect marine resources, supports sustainable fisheries, and stand with our Pacific partners as they defend their economic futures.
Mr. Speaker, illegal fishing is an issue around the world. Countries like China, Iran, and Russia are willfully or, at best, negligently violating international law, undermining human rights, and hurting communities for their own benefit. It is time to put a stop to this.
Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support the Stop Illegal Fishing Act, and I yield back the balance of my time.
I yield myself the balance of my time to close.
Mr. Speaker, the United States will not stand by while China uses economic coercion as an intimidation tactic.
This bill is an important reminder to show our allies and our partners in the Indo-Pacific that we are the United States of America. We do not back down.
Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this measure, and I yield back the balance of my time.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
The question is on the motion offered by the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Mast) that the House suspend the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 6338, as amended.
The question was taken; and (two-thirds being in the affirmative) the rules were suspended and the bill, as amended, was passed. A motion to reconsider was laid on the table.
Producing Returns and Opportunity for Investment and Trade Act of 2026
Pages H3970–H3974 · Official textPRODUCING RETURNS AND OPPORTUNITY FOR INVESTMENT AND TRADE ACT OF 2026
Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 5248) to ensure the alignment of economic and foreign policies, to position the Department of State to reflect that economic security is national security, and for other purposes, as amended.
The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows:
Text printed in the Record (10,487 characters)
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,
SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.
(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the "Producing Returns and Opportunity for Investment and Trade Act of 2026" or the "PROFIT Act of 2026".
(b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for this Act is as follows:
Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents. Sec. 2. Definitions. Sec. 3. Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment. Sec. 4. Administration of the International Technology Security and Innovation Fund. Sec. 5. Assistant Secretary for Sanctions Policy. Sec. 6. Chief Economist. Sec. 7. Assistant Secretary for Economic and Business Affairs. Sec. 8. Enhancing subnational diplomacy. Sec. 9. Energy security and diplomacy. Sec. 10. Assistant Secretary for Water, Environment, and Space Affairs. Sec. 11. Strengthening economic expertise at the Department of State. Sec. 12. References. Sec. 13. Energy diplomacy.
SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS.
In this Act:
(1) Appropriate congressional committees.--The term "appropriate congressional committees" means--
(A) the Committee on Foreign Affairs and the Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives; and
(B) the Committee on Foreign Relations and the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate.
(2) Department; secretary.--The terms "Department" and "Secretary" mean the Department of State and the Secretary of State, respectively.
SEC. 3. UNDER SECRETARY OF STATE FOR ECONOMIC GROWTH, ENERGY,
AND THE ENVIRONMENT.
Section 1(b) of the State Department Basic Authorities Act of 1956 (22 U.S.C. 2651a(b)) is amended by--
(1) redesignating paragraphs (2) through (6) as paragraphs (3) through (7) respectively; and
(2) by inserting after paragraph (1) the following:
"(2) Under secretary of state for economic growth, energy, and the environment.--
"(A) Establishment.--There shall be in the Department an Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment who shall be responsible to the Secretary.
"(B) Responsibilities.--The Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment shall maintain continuous observation and coordination of all matters pertaining to economic and business affairs in the conduct of foreign policy, including, as appropriate, the following:
"(i) Preparing an annual strategic plan for expanding opportunities for United States private sector companies in international markets, coordinating the use of sanctions to achieve national security objectives, promoting international trade and investment, developing international policies around new and emerging technologies, ensuring United States leadership in science and technology, protecting natural resources, and promoting United States energy interests.
"(ii) Developing policies for consideration by the Secretary to promote economic growth, facilitate market access, create business enabling environments abroad, expand trade and investment opportunities for United States companies, promote United States energy exports and energy security, conserve and manage economically important ecosystems and resources, expand access to critical minerals abroad, support United States civil and commercial space governance, promote international standards, policies, and best practices for emerging technology that facilitate United States economic growth, and safeguard the preeminence of the United States dollar in international markets.
"(iii) Promoting United States international economic interests to be addressed in the Biannual National Economic Security Strategy Report, coordinated by the Office of the Chief Economist.
"(iv) Attending and participating in meetings of the National Security Council, and National Space Council, when applicable, at the direction of the Secretary, for matters related to economic growth, energy, and commercial expansion, commercial outer space affairs, oceans, science and technology developments, natural resource protection, and fulfill the role of Foreign Affairs Sous Sherpa relating to the activities of the Group of Seven Industrial Nations (G-7).
"(v) Providing guidance to Department personnel in the United States and overseas who conduct or implement policies, programs, and activities related to economic growth, energy, and commercial expansion, science and technology affairs, natural resource conservation, and civil and commercial activities in outer space.
"(vi) Coordinating activities related to promoting economic growth, facilitating market access, creating business enabling environments abroad, expanding trade and investment opportunities, promoting of energy exports, conserving and managing economically important ecosystems and resources, expanding access to critical minerals, maintaining United States leadership in science, technology, and outer space, and
safeguarding the preeminence of the United States dollar in international markets.
"(vii) As directed by the Secretary, representing the Department at interdepartmental meetings including the National Economic Council, Homeland Security Council, Council on Environmental Quality, and in providing policy advice to the Secretary on matters under consideration by these groups.".
(3) redesignating paragraphs (2) through (6) as paragraphs (3) through (7);
SEC. 4. ADMINISTRATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL TECHNOLOGY
SECURITY AND INNOVATION FUND.
Section 102(c) of the CHIPS Act of 2022 (Public Law 117-167; 136 Stat. 1375) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1)--
(A) by inserting ", acting through the Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment" after "Secretary of State"; and
(B) by adding at the end the following: "Within the Department of State, the Fund shall be overseen and administered by the Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment.".
(2) in paragraph (2)(B), by inserting ", acting through the Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment" after "Secretary of State".
SEC. 5. ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR SANCTIONS POLICY.
Section 1 of the State Department Basic Authorities Act of 1956 (22 U.S.C. 2651a) is amended by striking subsection (l) and inserting the following new subsection:
"(l) Assistant Secretary and Bureau for Sanctions Policy.--
"(1) Establishment.--There is authorized to be in the Department an Assistant Secretary for Sanctions Policy, who shall be responsible to the Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment for matters pertaining to the development of policies governing the imposition of sanctions, in consultation with the Under Secretary of State for International Security Affairs and the Assistant Secretary for Arms Control and Nonproliferation as appropriate, and such other related duties as the Secretary may from time to time designate.
"(2) Responsibilities.--In addition to the responsibilities described under paragraph (1), the Assistant Secretary for Sanctions Policy shall maintain continuous observation and coordination of all matters pertaining to the development and implementation of sanctions policies as part of United States diplomatic strategies in the conduct of foreign policy, including, as appropriate, the following:
"(A) Developing the foreign policy strategy of United States sanctions programs, including consideration of the use of sanctions in combination with other United States foreign policy tools and the political and economic implications of sanction policies.
"(B) Coordinating the effective implementation and enforcement of sanctions, including all activities, policies, and programs pertaining to sanctions within the Department.
"(C) Coordinating sanctions policy with foreign partners and allies to ensure the maximum effectiveness of sanctions imposed by the United States and such allies and partners.
"(D) Consulting regularly with a broad range of stakeholders on the implications of United States sanctions policy for United States economic interests.
"(E) Contributing to the reports to Congress produced by the Chief Economist.
"(F) Leading the Department's efforts to identify and designate individuals for visa sanctions related to human rights violations.
"(G) Developing policies and programs, in coordination with the Department of the Treasury and other Federal departments and agencies as necessary and with foreign partners, to combat money laundering, terrorist financing, cybercrimes, and other illicit financial activities.
"(H) Representing the Department in all interagency groups or organizations within the executive branch that plan, assess, analyze, or review United States sanctions policies, such as interagency groups organized under the auspices of the Department of Treasury, the Department of Commerce, and the Department of Homeland Security.
"(I) Performing such other duties as the Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment may from time to time designate.
"(3) Redelegation of authority.--The Secretary may delegate, or authorize successive redelegation of, authority to the Assistant Secretary for Sanctions Policy to act and to render decisions, with respect to all sanctions policies administered by the Department. Within the limitations of such delegations, redelegations, or assignments, all official acts and decisions by the Assistant Secretary for Sanctions Policy shall have the same force and effect as though performed or rendered by the Secretary.
"(4) First appointment.--On the date of the enactment of this Act, the individual serving before such date of enactment as the Coordinator for Sanctions shall be the Assistant Secretary for Sanctions Policy. Any subsequent appointment of an individual to the position of Assistant Secretary for Sanctions Policy shall be subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
"(5) Establishment.--The Secretary shall establish a Bureau of Sanctions Policy, which shall perform such functions related to the development of policies governing the imposition of sanctions and sanctions strategies, as the Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment may prescribe.
"(6) Assistant secretary.--The Assistant Secretary for Sanctions Policy shall be the head of the Bureau of Sanctions Policy.".
SEC. 6. CHIEF ECONOMIST.
Section 1 of the State Department Basic Authorities Act of 1956 (22 U.S.C.
Text printed in the Record (11,760 characters)
2651a), as amended by section 7, is further amended--
(1) by redesignating subsections (j) through (q) as subsections (l) through (r), respectively; and
(2) by inserting after subsection (i) the following new subsection:
"(j) Office of the Chief Economist Within the Department of State; Chief Economist as Head of the Office; Personnel Within the Office.--
"(1) Establishment.--There is authorized to be in the Department a Chief Economist who shall be responsible to the Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment for matters pertaining to analyzing and forecasting the impact of economic trends on diplomatic functions and national security priorities, and such other related duties as the Secretary may from time to time designate.
"(2) Responsibilities.--In addition to the responsibilities described under paragraph (1), the Chief Economist shall provide research and analysis to inform the Department's strategy for deploying international economic policy to strengthen alliances, deter malign foreign actors, and reduce dependencies on strategic rivals in the conduct of foreign policy, including, as appropriate, the following:
"(A) Providing research and analysis to inform the development of the Department's strategy for deploying foreign policy to ensure supply chain resilience, secure access to raw materials and critical minerals, and maximize international market access.
"(B) Providing analysis of complex, emerging geoeconomic issues and offer advice to Department leadership on economic diplomacy challenges.
"(C) Conducting research and rigorous, data-driven analysis of high priority issues at the intersection of economics and foreign policy to inform decision-making and diplomatic engagements by senior Department officials.
"(D) Maintaining analytical products for the Department on international economic issues, including on sanctions evasion and the vulnerabilities of the United States and its partners to economic coercion, as well as the economic opportunities for United States businesses.
"(E) Contributing to the expansion of the economic expertise of the Department through collaboration with the Foreign Service Institute, the academic community, international organizations, and other Federal departments and agencies the Chief Economist determines necessary.
"(F) Serving as a liaison to technical experts in economics and related fields in partner governments, international institutions, and elsewhere in the United States government and academic community.
"(G) Performing such other duties as the Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment may from time to time designate.
"(3) Report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this subsection, and every 2 years for the subsequent four years, the Chief Economist shall transmit to Congress a report on the international economic strategy of the United States and its analytical basis. In preparing the report, the Chief Economist shall coordinate input and analysis from other bureaus within the Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment .
"(4) Office.--The Secretary shall establish an Office of the Chief Economist, which shall perform such functions related to the provision of expert economic advice and analysis, as the Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment may prescribe.
"(5) Chief economist.--The Chief Economist shall be the head of the Office of the Chief Economist.
"(6) Personnel of the office of the chief economist.--
"(A) In general.--The Office of the Chief Economist shall include--
"(i) the Chief Economist, shall be a member of the Senior Executive Service or its equivalent, should have a doctorate in Economics, and at least 5 years of experience working at the intersection of policy and international economics in the private or public sectors;
"(ii) not fewer than 6 and not more than 12 full-time Civil Service officers, notwithstanding the limitations provided under section 501 of the Foreign Service Act of 1980 (22 U.S.C. 3981), at the GS-15 level or below;
"(iii) one full-time Foreign Service Officer, notwithstanding such limitations, at the FS-01 level or below; and
"(iv) time-limited detailees from other offices of the Department or of other Federal departments or agencies, on a mutually agreeable, non-reimbursable basis.
"(B) Contractors.--The Office of the Chief Economist shall have maximum contracting flexibility, including--
"(i) personal services contracting authority authorized under section 2 of the State Department Basic Authorities Act of 1956 (22 U.S.C. 2669), for domestic positions; and
"(ii) other transaction authority authorized under section 701 of the Foreign Service Act of 1980 (22 U.S.C. 4021), to adopt innovative technology and data analytics in its research.".
SEC. 7. ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR ECONOMIC AND BUSINESS
AFFAIRS.
Section 1(c) of the State Department Basic Authorities Act of 1956 (22 U.S.C. 2651a(c)) is amended by striking paragraph (4) and inserting the following new paragraph:
"(4) Assistant secretary and bureau for economic and business affairs.--
"(A) Establishment.--There is authorized to be in the Department an Assistant Secretary for Economic and Business Affairs who shall be responsible to the Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment for matters pertaining to the trade and investment promotion and policy, international finance and development, transportation affairs, and such other related duties as the Secretary may from time to time designate.
"(B) Responsibilities.--In addition to the responsibilities described under subparagraph (A), the Assistant Secretary for Economic and Business Affairs shall be responsible for leading Department policies and programs, and coordinating with other United States agencies as appropriate, for all matters pertaining to the following:
"(i) Trade and investment promotion, such as--
"(I) assisting and advocating for United States businesses and commercial interests overseas;
"(II) identifying foreign market opportunities for United States businesses and helping United States firms overcome challenges in foreign business climates;
"(III) helping United States companies compete for and win contracts in foreign markets;
"(IV) attracting foreign investment into the United States by identifying high potential businesses in foreign countries;
"(V) ensuring United States private sector concerns are integrated into United States foreign policy and economic policy; and
"(VI) promoting international commercial projects that advance the national security interests of the United States, regardless of domestic content thresholds.
"(ii) International trade policy, including negotiating and implementing trade agreements, resolving trade disputes, bolstering supply chain resilience, and protecting intellectual property rights.
"(iii) International investment policy, including monitoring international investment climates, negotiating and implementing investment agreements, representing the Department in the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States, and assisting United States companies involved in investment disputes with foreign governments.
"(iv) Development finance, including the mobilization of private, bilateral, and multilateral development finance for developing countries, particularly investments focused on infrastructure projects.
"(v) The negotiation and extension of debt relief and sovereign loan guarantees for United States allies and partners.
"(vi) The promotion of sound, transparent, and stable economic policies overseas.
"(vii) Perform such other duties as the Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment may from time to time designate.".
SEC. 8. ENHANCING SUBNATIONAL DIPLOMACY.
Section 1 of the State Department Basic Authorities Act of 1956 (22 U.S.C. 2651a), as amended by section 8, is further amended by inserting the after subsection (j) following new subsection:
"(k) Office of Subnational Diplomacy Within the Department of State; Coordinator as Head of the Office; Location of the Office.--
"(1) Establishment.--There shall be established in the Department an Office of Subnational Diplomacy. The Office shall enable the Department's work with subnational governments (State, county, city, and municipal) within the United States to improve the ability of subnational governments to attract foreign investment, counter foreign malign influence within the United States, and contribute to the foreign policy priorities of the United States.
"(2) Coordinator.--The head of the Office shall be the Coordinator for Subnational Diplomacy. The head of the office shall report through the Assistant Secretary for Economic and Business Affairs to the Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment.
"(3) Responsibilities.--In addition to the responsibilities described under paragraph (1), the Coordinator for Subnational Diplomacy shall maintain continuous observation and coordination of all matters pertaining to subnational diplomacy and Department engagements with subnational governments in the conduct of foreign policy, including the following:
"(A) Advising the Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment on subnational engagements within the United States and serve as the principal official on such matters within the Department.
"(B) Coordinating the Department's support for local and municipal governments' engagements with foreign governments.
"(C) Advising subnational government officials on the potential risks of engagements with countries of concern and share best practices to build resilience against foreign political interference and malign influence.
"(D) Assisting subnational governments in the following areas:
"(i) Attracting or bidding to host major international events.
"(ii) Tracking foreign direct investment at the county and municipal levels to highlight trends and opportunities.
"(iii) Attracting foreign direct investment and other forms of economic cooperation.
"(iv) Building the capacity and knowledge of subnational government staff who have responsibility for engaging with foreign countries.
"(v) Advancing sports diplomacy with foreign countries and entities.
"(vi) Implementing programs to cooperate with foreign governments and entities on policy priorities or managing shared resources.
"(vii) Understanding the local implications of foreign policy developments or policy changes.
"(E) Supporting the economic interests of the United States through subnational engagements, in consultation and coordination with other relevant agencies.
"(F) Advising and informing local officials as they negotiate agreements and memoranda of understanding with foreign governments related to subnational engagements and priorities.
"(G) Coordinating subnational engagements with associations of subnational elected leaders, including the United States Conference of Mayors, National Governors Association, National League of Cities and similar associations.
"(H) Performing other such duties as the Assistant Secretary for Economic and Business Affairs and the Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment may from time to time designate.
"(4) Location.--The Office of Subnational Diplomacy shall be co-located with the Office of Foreign Missions--Los Angeles, authorized under section 203(4) of the State Department Basic Authorities Act of 1956 (22 U.S.C. 4303(4)).".
SEC. 9. ENERGY SECURITY AND DIPLOMACY.
Section 1(c) of the State Department Basic Authorities Act of 1956 (22 U.S.C.
Text printed in the Record (11,924 characters)
2651a(c)), as amended by section 9, is further amended--
(1) by redesignating paragraphs (8) through (17) as (9) through (18), respectively; and
(2) by inserting after paragraph (7) the following:
"(8) Assistant secretary and bureau for energy security and diplomacy.--
"(A) Establishment.--There is authorized to be in the Department an Assistant Secretary for Energy Security and Diplomacy who shall be responsible to the Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment for all matters pertaining to the formulation and implementation of international energy, energy technology, critical minerals, and relevant supply chain policies in the conduct of foreign policy by the Department, including, as appropriate, to protect United States energy security interests, lead the coordination of energy programs carried out by United States Government agencies abroad, and such other related duties as the Secretary may from time to time designate.
"(B) Responsibilities.--In addition to the responsibilities described under subparagraph (A), the Assistant Secretary for Energy Security and Diplomacy shall maintain continuous observation and coordination of all matters pertaining to the development of policies to secure access to international energy markets and diversify critical mineral supply chains in the conduct of foreign policy, including, as appropriate, the following:
"(i) Representing the Secretary in interagency efforts to develop the international energy policy of the United States.
"(ii) Leading the analysis, formulation, and implementation of international policies aimed at protecting and advancing United States energy interests.
"(iii) Effectively managing United States bilateral and multilateral relations and, as directed by the Secretary, representing the Secretary in relevant international fora and organizations, including the International Energy Agency, to bolster global energy security and advance the interests of the United States.
"(iv) Ensuring that analyses of the national security and economic security implications of global energy developments are reflected in the decision-making processes within the Department.
"(v) Incorporating energy and critical mineral security priorities into the activities of the Department.
"(vi) Coordinating energy activities of the Department with relevant Federal departments and agencies, including the Departments of Energy, Commerce, Defense, and Interior, and the Development Finance Corporation to promote United States energy security and energy development to support United States national security readiness.
"(vii) Coordinating with the Bureau of Sanctions Policy on economic sanctions pertaining to the international energy sector.
"(viii) Coordinating energy security and other relevant functions within the Department currently undertaken by--
"(I) the Bureau of Economic and Business Affairs;
"(II) the Bureau of Water, Environment, and Space Affairs;
"(III) the Bureau of Arms Control and Nonproliferation; and
"(IV) other bureaus and offices within the Department.
"(ix) Working internationally to--
"(I) support the development of energy technologies, natural resources, critical minerals, and supply chains for the benefit of the United States and United States allies and trading partners for their energy security and economic development needs;
"(II) promote secure and diversified energy and critical minerals supply chains, and a well-functioning global market for energy resources, energy technologies, critical minerals;
"(III) resolve international disputes regarding the exploration, development, production, or distribution of energy and critical minerals resources where the United States strategic interests are present;
"(IV) support the economic and commercial interests of United States persons operating in the energy markets of foreign countries; and
"(V) support and coordinate international efforts to alleviate energy poverty, enhance energy access and energy efficiency to promote United States strategic interests and offer alternatives to adversary initiatives for United States allies and partners.
"(x) Conducting public diplomacy with regard to United States international energy policy to strengthen transparency and governance.
"(xi) Performing such other duties as the Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment may from time to time designate.
"(C) Annual report.--Not later than 1 year after the date of the enactment of this paragraph, and annually thereafter for three years, the Assistant Secretary for Energy Security and Diplomacy shall submit to Congress a report on the United States international energy strategy.
"(D) Bureau.--The Secretary shall establish a Bureau of Energy Security and Diplomacy, which shall perform such functions related to the formulation and implementation of international energy, energy technology, critical minerals, and relevant supply chain policies, as the Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment may prescribe.
"(E) Assistant secretary.--The Assistant Secretary for Energy Security and Diplomacy shall be the head of the Bureau of Energy Security and Diplomacy.".
SEC. 10. ASSISTANT SECRETARY FOR WATER, ENVIRONMENT, AND
SPACE AFFAIRS.
Section 1(c) of the State Department Basic Authorities Act of 1956 (22 U.S.C. 2651a(c)), as amended by section 11, is further amended by adding at the end the following:
"(19) Bureau of water, environment, and space affairs within department of state; assistant secretary of state as head of bureau.--
"(A) Establishment.--There is authorized to be in the Department an Assistant Secretary for Water, Environment, and Space Affairs who shall be responsible to the Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment for matters pertaining to space, oceans, polar affairs, environmental quality, freshwater, fisheries, wildlife and wildlife trafficking, conservation, and such other related duties as the Secretary may from time to time designate.
"(B) Responsibilities.--In addition to the responsibilities described under subsection (a), the Assistant Secretary for Water, Environment, and Space Affairs shall maintain continuous observation and coordination of all matters pertaining to oceans, fisheries, natural resource conservation, and outer space in the conduct of foreign policy, including, as appropriate, the following:
"(i) Developing United States policy on global environmental security issues with respect to oceans, fisheries, Antarctic region, waste and global pollution, and natural resource management and conservation, including water.
"(ii) Representing the Department in bilateral and multilateral negotiations involving the law of the sea, including freedom of navigation and overflight and other lawful uses of the ocean; maritime security; United States maritime zones, including the United States extended continental shelf; marine science; sustainable management and protection of marine habitats and resources; marine pollution; and maritime claims and boundaries.
"(iii) Leading United States engagement on Antarctica and in international oceans agreements and conventions with foreign governments and international organizations to promote solutions that advance United States national security, economic, and environmental interests.
"(iv) Coordinating the development of policies and programs to conserve and manage economically important ecosystems, including, forests, wetlands, drylands, and coral reefs.
"(v) Developing policies and programs to address international threats to natural resources including but not limited to illicit trade; illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing; wildlife trafficking; and illegal logging and associated trade.
"(vi) Developing and implementing United States foreign policy related to air, water and soil pollution and risks to human health and the environment caused by the transboundary movement of hazardous chemicals and waste and other forms of pollution to promote environmental security with trade partners and in multilateral institutions.
"(vii) Representing the Department in bilateral and multilateral engagements including organizations, institutions, and negotiation of international agreements on related issues.
"(viii) Developing policies and programs, in coordination with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the Department of Commerce, and other relevant Federal departments and agencies, as appropriate, to support partnerships between the United States and international and private industry partners in the development of infrastructure and policies that expand economic growth in outer space, including--
"(I) countering malign efforts by foreign adversaries and other actors that threaten United States interests in civil and commercial space;
"(II) expanding access to foreign markets for United States commercial industry, including by encouraging reforms that reduce barriers to trade and cooperation with United States civil and commercial space actors; and
"(III) providing assistance to foreign governments and organizations, including national, regional, and international institutions, on such terms and conditions as the Secretary may determine.
"(ix) Leading bilateral and multilateral engagements related to civil and commercial space activities, resilient space services, burden sharing, and other matters related to international space law and diplomacy and other United States international obligations and commitments.
"(x) In accordance with the National Space Policy, leading United States Government engagement with international Global Navigation Satellite Systems providers to ensure compatibility and encourage interoperability of civil global navigation satellite services based on United States-based global positioning systems, including through the International Committee on Global Navigation Satellite Systems.
"(xi) Leading Department efforts to implement international arrangements and promote cooperation on Earth observation satellite systems.
"(xii) Leading Department engagement in multilateral and bilateral forums on international space policy, space law, and commercial and civil treaties or agreements.
"(xiii) Leading Department efforts on transparency in space by maintaining the official United States space object registry and promoting best practices for safe operations in space, preservation of the space environment, space traffic coordination, and space situational awareness.
"(xiv) Leading Department efforts to align foreign space law, regulatory, and policy frameworks with United States-endorsed models, approaches, and best practices.
"(xv) Performing such other duties as the Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment may from time to time designate.
"(C) First appointment.--On the date of the enactment of this Act, the individual serving as the Assistant Secretary for Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs on the day before such date of enactment shall be the Assistant Secretary for Water, Environment, and Space Affairs. Any subsequent appointment of an individual to the position of Assistant Secretary for Water, Environment, and Space Affairs shall be subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
"(D) Bureau.--The Secretary shall establish a Bureau of Water, Environment, and Space Affairs, which shall perform such functions related to space, oceans, environmental quality, fisheries, wildlife, and wildlife trafficking, and conservation affairs, as the Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment may prescribe.
"(E) Assistant secretary.--The Assistant Secretary for Water, Environment, and Space Affairs shall be the head of the Bureau of Water, Environment, and Space Affairs.".
SEC. 11.
Text printed in the Record (3,680 characters)
STRENGTHENING ECONOMIC EXPERTISE AT THE DEPARTMENT
OF STATE.
(a) Office Directors and Deputy Directors.--Notwithstanding the requirements of section 501 of the Foreign Service Act of 1980 (22 U.S.C. 3981), the positions of Office Director and Deputy Office Director, as well as special assistant positions, under the purview of the Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment, shall generally be filled by civil service officers.
(b) Implementation.--The Secretary is authorized to take such steps as may be necessary to phase-in the requirement under subsection (a) over the 5-year period beginning on the date of the enactment of this Act.
(c) Exceptions.--The Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment may approve the appointment of a Foreign Service officer to an Office Director or a Deputy Office Director position if--
(1) the individual has the requisite expertise, as determined by the Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment; and
(2) in the 5-year period following the date of the enactment of this Act, not more than one-third of all Office Director and Deputy Office Director positions under the purview of the Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment are filled by Foreign Service officers.
(d) Direct Hire Authority.--
(1) In general.--The Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment may appoint, without regard to the provisions of sections 3309 through 3318 of
title 5, United States Code, candidates directly to positions in the competitive service, as defined in section 2102 of that title.
(2) Termination.--Except with respect to the Office of the Chief Economist, the authority provided under paragraph (1) shall terminate on the date that is 4 years after the date of the enactment of this Act.
(e) Report.--Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment shall submit to the appropriate committees of Congress a report that contains plans to attract and retain economic, policy, legal, and technical expertise for civil service officers in the Under Secretary of State for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment, including career promotion tracks to supervisory and non-supervisory GS-15 positions.
SEC. 12. REFERENCES.
Any reference in any statute, reorganization plan, Executive order, regulation, agreement, determination, or other official document or proceeding to--
(1) the Assistant Secretary for Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs shall be deemed to refer to the Assistant Secretary for Water, Environment, and Space Affairs;
(2) the Bureau for Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs shall be deemed to refer to the Bureau for Water, Environment, and Space Affairs;
(3) the Sanctions Coordinator shall be deemed to refer to the Assistant Secretary for Sanctions Policy; and
(4) the Office of the Sanctions Coordinator shall be deemed to refer to the Bureau of Sanctions Policy.
SEC. 13. ENERGY DIPLOMACY.
Section 931 of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (42 U.S.C. 17371) is amended to read as follows:
"SEC. 931. ENERGY DIPLOMACY AND SECURITY WITHIN THE
DEPARTMENT OF STATE.
"The Secretary of Energy may make appropriate arrangements with the Secretary of State to assign personnel from the Department of Energy or the National Laboratories of the Department of Energy to serve as dedicated advisors on energy matters in embassies of the United States or other United States diplomatic missions.".
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Mast) and the gentleman from California (Mr. Bera) each will control 20 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Florida.
Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on H.R. 5248.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Is there objection to the request of the gentleman from Florida?
There was no objection.
Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as she may consume to the gentlewoman from California (Mrs. Kim), the chairwoman of the East Asia and Pacific Subcommittee.
Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that my remarks on the previous version of this bill be moved to this point in debate in the Congressional Record.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Is there objection to the request of the gentlewoman from California?
There was no objection.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 5248, the Producing Returns and Opportunity for Investment and Trade Act, or PROFIT Act.
I thank Chairman Mast for his leadership on this bill and working with us. This is a bipartisan bill, and it is the result of months of collaborative work by the East Asia and Pacific Subcommittee and my staff.
I thank Chairman Mast for his leadership and getting us this far. His initiative to prioritize State Department reauthorization, as part of a broader all-of-committee effort, is already delivering results.
Before last year's NDAA, nearly 85 percent of the Department was unauthorized. With the passage of H.R. 5248, Chairman Mast will have pushed through legislation to bring that authorization level well above 50 percent. That is truly an amazing achievement.
I also thank Ranking Member Meeks. During the September 2025 committee markup, he rightly called this bill "a distinct bright spot" in the authorizing process due to its strong bipartisan refinement.
I am delighted that we have been able to bring this bill to the House floor under suspension today. Passing H.R. 5248 alongside other State Department authorization legislation fulfills a core responsibility of the Foreign Affairs Committee, producing an annual authorization bill.
Regrettably, the committee has neglected this fundamental duty for over two decades, and the costs of that neglect have grown steadily.
Without regular authorizations, we cede policy direction to other committees and must rely on their vehicles to advance our priorities. Oversight suffers as the Department becomes less responsive, delaying witnesses, ignoring document requests and briefings, and we fall short of our Article I constitutional responsibilities.
Unchecked, the Department, like most government agencies, expands, loses focus, and accumulates bloat. Bureaus and offices created to serve one administration's priorities persist, layering new offices on top of old ones and creating redundancy and inefficiency. The Department of State that this administration inherited was rife with bloat, government waste, and slowed decisionmaking.
The PROFIT Act is a critical step to restoring regular order to the authorization process. It codifies what President Trump has said repeatedly: economic security is national security; economic policy is foreign policy.
This bill realigns bureaus and offices under the Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment, placing commercial diplomacy at the forefront of America First foreign policy. It signals strong support to American companies in critical minerals, energy, and related sectors. The Department will work to open markets, reduce dangerous supply chain dependence on China and other adversaries, and level the playing field so U.S. firms can compete and win abroad.
Mr. Speaker, this bill is a vital piece of the committee's broader effort. At a time of unprecedented challenges to our economic sovereignty, the Department's tools must be fit for purpose. H.R. 5248 equips it to prioritize economic statecraft and deliver results for years to come.
Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bill.
Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
Mr. Speaker, I urge the support of H.R. 5248, and I yield back the balance of my time.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
The question is on the motion offered by the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Mast) that the House suspend the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 5248, as amended.
The question was taken; and (two-thirds being in the affirmative) the rules were suspended and the bill, as amended, was passed.
Recess
Page H3974 · Official textThe SPEAKER pro tempore
Pursuant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair declares the House in recess until approximately 6:30 p.m. today.
Accordingly (at 5 o'clock and 18 minutes p.m.), the House stood in recess.
After Recess
Page H3974 · Official textThe recess having expired, the House was called to order by the Speaker pro tempore (Mr. Murphy) at 6 o'clock and 30 minutes p.m.
Announcement by the Speaker Pro Tempore
Page H3974 · Official textThe SPEAKER pro tempore
Pursuant to clause 8 of rule XX, proceedings will resume on questions previously postponed.
Votes will be taken in the following order:
Motions to suspend the rules and pass:
H.R. 8466; and
H.R. 8428.
The first electronic vote will be conducted as a 15-minute vote. Pursuant to clause 9 of rule XX, the remaining electronic vote will be conducted as a 5-minute vote.
Taxpayer Resources Used in Emergencies Accountability Act
Pages H3974–H3975 · Official textThe SPEAKER pro tempore
Pursuant to clause 8 of rule XX, the unfinished business is the vote on the motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 8466) to require certain agencies to develop plans for internal control in the event of an emergency or crisis, and for other purposes, as amended, on which the yeas and nays were ordered.
The Clerk read the title of the bill.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
The question is on the motion offered by the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Gill) that the House suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended.
The vote was taken by electronic device, and there were--yeas 384, nays 0, not voting 46, as follows:
Text printed in the Record (3,722 characters)
Adams Aderholt Aguilar Alford Allen Amodei (NV) Ansari Arrington Auchincloss Babin Bacon Baird Balderson Barr Barragan Barrett Baumgartner Bean (FL) Beatty Begich Bentz Bera Beyer Bice Biggs (AZ) Biggs (SC) Bilirakis Bishop Boebert Bonamici Bost Boyle (PA) Bresnahan Brown Brownley Budzinski Burchett Burlison Bynum Calvert Cammack Carbajal Carey Carson Carter (GA) Carter (TX) Casar Case Casten Castor (FL) Castro (TX) Chu Ciscomani Cisneros Clark (MA) Clarke (NY) Cleaver Cline Cloud Clyburn Clyde Cohen Cole Collins Comer Correa Courtney Craig Crane Crank Crawford Crenshaw Crow Cuellar Davids (KS) Davidson Davis (IL) Davis (NC) De La Cruz Dean (PA) DeGette DeLauro DelBene Deluzio DeSaulnier Dexter Diaz-Balart Dingell Doggett Donalds Downing Edwards Elfreth Ellzey Emmer Escobar Espaillat Estes Evans (CO) Evans (PA) Ezell Fallon Fedorchak Feenstra Fields Figures Fine Finstad Fischbach Fitzgerald Fitzpatrick Fleischmann Fletcher Flood Fong Foster Foushee Foxx Franklin, Scott Friedman Frost Fry Fuller Garamendi Garbarino Garcia (CA) Garcia (IL) Garcia (TX) Gill (TX) Gillen Gimenez Golden (ME) Goldman (TX) Gomez Gonzalez, V. Gooden Goodlander Gosar Graves Green, Al (TX) Griffith Grothman Guest Guthrie Hageman Hamadeh (AZ) Harder (CA) Haridopolos Harrigan Harris (MD) Harris (NC) Harshbarger Hayes Hern (OK) Higgins (LA) Hill (AR) Himes Horsford Houchin Houlahan Hoyer Hoyle (OR) Hudson Huffman Huizenga Hunt Hurd (CO) Issa Ivey Jack Jackson (TX) Jacobs Jayapal Jeffries Johnson (GA) Johnson (LA) Johnson (SD) Jordan Joyce (OH) Joyce (PA) Kamlager-Dove Kaptur Kelly (IL) Kelly (MS) Kelly (PA) Kennedy (NY) Kennedy (UT) Khanna Kiggans (VA) Kiley (CA) Kim Knott Krishnamoorthi Kustoff LaHood LaLota Landsman Langworthy Larsen (WA) Larson (CT) Latimer Latta Lawler Lee (FL) Lee (NV) Lee (PA) Leger Fernandez Levin Liccardo Lieu Lofgren Loudermilk Lucas Luna Luttrell Lynch Mackenzie Magaziner Malliotakis Maloy Mann Mannion Massie Mast Matsui McBath McBride McClain McClain Delaney McClellan McClintock McCormick McDowell McGarvey McGovern McGuire McIver Mejia Menefee Menendez Meng Messmer Meuser Miller (IL) Miller (OH) Miller (WV) Miller-Meeks Mills Min Moolenaar Moore (AL) Moore (NC) Moore (UT) Moore (WI) Moore (WV) Moran Morelle Morrison Moskowitz Mrvan Murphy Nadler Neguse Nehls Newhouse Norcross Nunn (IA) Obernolte Ocasio-Cortez Ogles Olszewski Omar Onder Pallone Palmer Panetta Pappas Patronis Pelosi Perez Perry Peters Pettersen Pfluger Pingree Pocan Pou Pressley Quigley Ramirez Randall Raskin Reschenthaler Riley (NY) Rivas Rogers (AL) Rogers (KY) Ross Rouzer Roy Ruiz Rulli Rutherford Ryan Salinas Sanchez Scalise Scanlon Schmidt Schneider Scholten Schrier Schweikert Scott (VA) Scott, Austin Self Sessions Sewell Sherman Shreve Simpson Smith (MO) Smith (NE) Smith (NJ) Smith (WA) Smucker Sorensen Soto Spartz Stansbury Stanton Stauber Steil Steube Stevens Strickland Strong Stutzman Subramanyam Sykes Takano Taylor Tenney Thanedar Thompson (CA) Thompson (PA) Timmons Tlaib Tokuda Tonko Torres (CA) Torres (NY) Trahan Tran Turner (OH) Underwood Valadao Van Drew Van Duyne Van Epps Van Orden Vargas Vasquez Veasey Velazquez Vindman Walberg Walkinshaw Wasserman Schultz Waters Watson Coleman Weber (TX) Webster (FL) Westerman Whitesides Wied Williams (GA) Williams (TX) Wilson (FL) Wilson (SC) Wittman Womack Yakym Zinke
Amo Balint Bell Bergman Brecheen Buchanan Carter (LA) Conaway Costa Crockett DesJarlais Dunn (FL) Frankel, Lois Fulcher Goldman (NY) Gottheimer Gray Grijalva Hinson Jackson (IL) James Johnson (TX) Kean Keating Letlow Mace McCaul McCollum McDonald Rivet Meeks Mfume Moulton Mullin Neal Norman Owens Rose Salazar Schakowsky Simon Stefanik Suozzi Thompson (MS) Tiffany Titus Wagner
The SPEAKER pro tempore (during the vote). There are 2 minutes remaining. So (two-thirds being in the affirmative) the rules were suspended and the bill, as amended, was passed. The result of the vote was announced as above recorded. A motion to reconsider was laid on the table. Stated for:
Wesley Bell (D-MO)6:56 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I was absent for a recorded vote today due to travel delays. Had I been present, I would have voted as follows: On Roll Call No. 208, H.R. 8466, Taxpayer Resources Used in Emergencies (TRUE) Accountability Act, as amended, VOTE YEA.
Federal Fraud Prevention Workforce Training Act
Pages H3975–H3976 · Official textThe SPEAKER pro tempore
Pursuant to clause 8 of rule XX, the unfinished business is the vote on the motion to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 8428) to amend title 5, United States Code, to establish a mandatory antifraud and improper payment training program for Federal program administrators, to provide for the availability of such training to State and local entities administering Federally funded programs, and for other purposes, as amended, on which the yeas and nays were ordered.
The Clerk read the title of the bill.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
The question is on the motion offered by the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Gill) that the House suspend the rules and pass the bill, as amended.
This will be a 2-minute vote.
The vote was taken by electronic device, and there were--yeas 393, nays 0, not voting 37, as follows:
Text printed in the Record (3,723 characters)
Adams Aderholt Aguilar Alford Allen Amo Amodei (NV) Ansari Arrington Auchincloss Babin Bacon Baird Balderson Barr Barragan Barrett Baumgartner Bean (FL) Beatty Begich Bell Bentz Bera Beyer Bice Biggs (AZ) Biggs (SC) Bilirakis Bishop Boebert Bonamici Bost Boyle (PA) Brecheen Bresnahan Brown Brownley Budzinski Burchett Burlison Bynum Calvert Cammack Carbajal Carey Carson Carter (GA) Carter (LA) Carter (TX) Casar Case Casten Castor (FL) Castro (TX) Chu Ciscomani Cisneros Clark (MA) Clarke (NY) Cleaver Cline Cloud Clyburn Clyde Cohen Cole Collins Comer Correa Costa Courtney Craig Crane Crank Crawford Crenshaw Crow Cuellar Davids (KS) Davidson Davis (IL) Davis (NC) De La Cruz Dean (PA) DeGette DeLauro DelBene Deluzio DeSaulnier Dexter Diaz-Balart Dingell Doggett Donalds Downing Edwards Elfreth Ellzey Emmer Escobar Espaillat Estes Evans (CO) Evans (PA) Ezell Fallon Fedorchak Feenstra Fields Figures Fine Finstad Fischbach Fitzgerald Fitzpatrick Fleischmann Fletcher Flood Fong Foster Foushee Foxx Franklin, Scott Friedman Frost Fry Fuller Garamendi Garbarino Garcia (CA) Garcia (IL) Garcia (TX) Gill (TX) Gillen Gimenez Golden (ME) Goldman (TX) Gomez Gonzalez, V. Gooden Goodlander Gosar Graves Gray Green, Al (TX) Griffith Grothman Guest Guthrie Hageman Hamadeh (AZ) Harder (CA) Haridopolos Harrigan Harris (MD) Harris (NC) Harshbarger Hayes Hern (OK) Higgins (LA) Hill (AR) Himes Hinson Horsford Houchin Houlahan Hoyer Hoyle (OR) Hudson Huffman Huizenga Hunt Hurd (CO) Issa Ivey Jack Jackson (TX) Jacobs Jayapal Jeffries Johnson (GA) Johnson (LA) Johnson (SD) Jordan Joyce (OH)
Joyce (PA) Kamlager-Dove Kaptur Kelly (IL) Kelly (MS) Kelly (PA) Kennedy (NY) Kennedy (UT) Khanna Kiggans (VA) Kiley (CA) Kim Knott Krishnamoorthi Kustoff LaHood LaLota Landsman Langworthy Larsen (WA) Larson (CT) Latimer Latta Lawler Lee (FL) Lee (NV) Lee (PA) Leger Fernandez Levin Liccardo Lieu Lofgren Loudermilk Lucas Luna Luttrell Lynch Mackenzie Magaziner Malliotakis Maloy Mann Mannion Massie Mast Matsui McBath McBride McClain McClain Delaney McClellan McClintock McCormick McDowell McGarvey McGovern McGuire McIver Meeks Mejia Menefee Menendez Meng Messmer Meuser Miller (OH) Miller (WV) Miller-Meeks Mills Min Moolenaar Moore (AL) Moore (NC) Moore (UT) Moore (WI) Moore (WV) Moran Morelle Morrison Moskowitz Mrvan Murphy Nadler Neguse Nehls Newhouse Norcross Nunn (IA) Obernolte Ocasio-Cortez Ogles Olszewski Omar Onder Pallone Palmer Panetta Pappas Patronis Pelosi Perez Perry Peters Pettersen Pfluger Pingree Pocan Pou Pressley Quigley Ramirez Randall Raskin Reschenthaler Riley (NY) Rivas Rogers (AL) Rogers (KY) Ross Rouzer Roy Ruiz Rulli Rutherford Ryan Salinas Sanchez Scalise Scanlon Schmidt Schneider Scholten Schrier Schweikert Scott (VA) Scott, Austin Self Sessions Sewell Sherman Shreve Simon Simpson Smith (MO) Smith (NE) Smith (NJ) Smith (WA) Smucker Sorensen Soto Spartz Stansbury Stanton Stauber Steil Steube Stevens Strickland Strong Stutzman Subramanyam Suozzi Sykes Takano Taylor Tenney Thanedar Thompson (CA) Thompson (PA) Timmons Tlaib Tokuda Tonko Torres (CA) Torres (NY) Trahan Tran Turner (OH) Underwood Valadao Van Drew Van Duyne Van Epps Van Orden Vargas Vasquez Veasey Velazquez Vindman Walberg Walkinshaw Wasserman Schultz Waters Watson Coleman Weber (TX) Webster (FL) Westerman Whitesides Wied Williams (GA) Williams (TX) Wilson (FL) Wilson (SC) Wittman Womack Yakym Zinke
Balint Bergman Buchanan Conaway Crockett DesJarlais Dunn (FL) Frankel, Lois Fulcher Goldman (NY) Gottheimer Grijalva Jackson (IL) James Johnson (TX) Kean Keating Letlow Mace McCaul McCollum McDonald Rivet Mfume Miller (IL) Moulton Mullin Neal Norman Owens Rose Salazar Schakowsky Stefanik Thompson (MS) Tiffany Titus Wagner
The SPEAKER pro tempore (during the vote). There are 2 minutes remaining. So (two-thirds being in the affirmative) the rules were suspended and the bill, as amended, was passed. The result of the vote was announced as above recorded. The title of the bill was amended so as to read: "A bill to amend title 5, United States Code, to establish an antifraud and improper payment training program for Federal program administrators, to provide for the availability of such training to State and local entities administering Federally funded programs, and for other purposes.". A motion to reconsider was laid on the table.
Dina Titus (D-NV)7:04 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I was absent from the floor and missed roll call votes numbered 208 and 209. Had I been present, I would have voted: YEA on Roll Call No. 208, on the Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. 8466; and YEA on Roll Call No. 209, on the Motion to Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. 8428.
Daniel S. Goldman (D-NY)7:04 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I was unable to vote today due to a commitment in my Congressional district. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 208 and YEA on Roll Call No. 209.
Moment of Silence for Toledo's Old West End Community
Page H3976 · Official text(Mr. KAPTUR asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute.)
Mr. Speaker, I rise tonight because, over this weekend, my beloved hometown of Toledo, Ohio, suffered tragic and senseless gun violence in our storied Old West End community.
As the annual Old West End Festival was underway Saturday evening, shots rang out. Twelve victims were injured and hospitalized. Our community is praying for them and in gratitude for all the officers and first responders who nobly rescued the injured and those medical personnel who treated them onsite and afterward.
What should have been a beautiful early summer evening filled with music, the arts, food, and friendship was interrupted by chaos. Civil authorities are working to identify and locate those responsible for these barbaric offenses against the community and our civic life.
The Toledo Police and Fire Departments and all first responders proved their courage and utter devotion to duty and restored civil order.
Thank you, thank you, thank you.
Under extraordinarily difficult circumstances, because there were thousands of people, they answered the call and saved innocent lives. Much of the courage and valor they displayed may never be fully seen. Our community owes them a profound debt of gratitude for their selfless service.
They were quick to secure the scene while getting those injured the urgent medical care they needed. Mercifully, all have survived, but with varying degrees of serious injuries.
As well, our community is forever grateful for the strength and quiet heroism of Old West End residents and festivalgoers who stepped up in a time of great danger. They applied tourniquets, administered first aid, and protected those in the line of fire.
My prayers remain with the victims and our Old West End community who saw a joyous celebration turn into deep tragedy. It will take time and work to restore comfort, security, and trust, and we all must help. I know our community and our region will endure because I know the people.
Please let me thank those from across our Nation and around the globe who held Toledo in prayer this weekend. The values that define our community, faith, compassion, resilience, hard work, and love of neighbor, are stronger than violence and stronger than fear.
I join our local law enforcement partners in asking anyone who might have footage or firsthand information to share that confidentially so that we can locate those perpetrators by calling Crime Stoppers at 419-255-1111.
Together, we will find answers and a better road forward. Now, let us help our neighbors feel safe again on our streets and in their beautiful neighborhood.
Mr. Speaker, I ask the House to join in a moment of silence.
Recognizing 82nd Anniversary of Allied D-Day Invasion of France
Pages H3976–H3977 · Official text(Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 82nd anniversary of the Allied D-day invasion of France.
On June 6, 1944, thousands of American soldiers stormed the beaches of Normandy to defend the freedoms and liberties that we hold dear. As General Dwight Eisenhower said: "The eyes of the world are upon you."
D-day reflects the courage of the brave men who landed in France and their sense of duty to protect our country. This past Saturday was a solemn reminder of the more than 6,000 U.S. soldiers we lost. Their sacrifice reshaped the course of history.
In 2018, I had the honor of attending the wreath-laying ceremony at the Normandy American Cemetery in France. Standing upon those hallowed grounds was a reminder that freedom is never free.
Mr. Speaker, let us take this moment to remember and honor those who sacrificed so much for so many. May we honor the selflessness and commitment to country. Their impact has been felt for generations and will always be remembered.
God bless our troops and this Nation.
Celebrating 60th Anniversary of Centro Hispano
Page H3977 · Official text(Ms. HOULAHAN asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the 60th anniversary of Centro Hispano, one of the longest-running Latino-serving organizations in Pennsylvania and a cornerstone of Reading and Berks County since 1966.
For six decades, Centro Hispano has supported generations of Latino families as they navigated education, healthcare, immigration, employment, and everyday life in our community.
Today, Reading is home to one of the most vibrant and diverse Latino populations in the Northeast, and Centro Hispano remains a trusted first stop for families seeking help, guidance, and opportunity.
Mr. Speaker, there would be no Centro Hispano without Mike Toledo. Mike has spent decades moving mountains for the people of Reading. When families needed food, he found it. When children needed nutrition, he connected local dairy farmers with Centro's meal programs. When the community needed COVID vaccines, he operated organized clinics. When tragedy struck at the R.M. Palmer factory, Mike was already mobilizing help. When people questioned whether their voices mattered, he organized voter registration drives and reminded the community why democracy does matter.
Mike greets people with two simple words: Hello, family. That spirit of compassion, dignity, and community defines both the man and the institution he helped build.
To Mike Toledo and everyone at Centro Hispano, congratulations on 60 extraordinary years of service.
Berks County is stronger because of them, and we are all grateful.
Honoring the Life and Legacy of Robert L. Burton
Page H3977 · Official text(Mr. LaHOOD asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Robert L. Burton, who passed away on May 1 at the age of 102.
Born in Georgia, Robert lived a remarkable life defined by patriotism, hard work, and devotion to his family and community. As a young man, he served in the Civilian Conservation Corps, answering the call to serve his country during the Great Depression.
At just 18 years old, Robert enlisted in the United States Army Air Forces as a gunner before transferring to the Army, 28th Infantry. He landed on Normandy Beach just 9 days after D-Day and went on to serve throughout the European theater. For his bravery and sacrifice, he earned four battle stars, the Bronze Star, and the Combat Infantryman Badge.
After the war, Robert settled in Peoria, Illinois, in my district, where he built his life and contributed to one of the region's defining corporations, Caterpillar. He spent more than 32 years as a skilled trades welder in East Peoria. He was a proud member of UAW Local 974, serving his fellow workers in several leadership roles.
My heartfelt prayers are with his children, Patricia, Barbara, Pamela, Debra, Sheila, and Mike, and the entire Burton family. His legacy of service, courage, patriotism, and devotion to his community will endure for generations.
Children Falling Behind
Page H3977 · Official text(Ms. BYNUM asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)
Mr. Speaker, if you have kids, the Annie E. Casey Foundation's "2026 KIDS COUNT Data Book" should concern you. It showed that children across the country are falling behind. Fewer children today have insurance than before the pandemic, and that should shake the ground beneath your feet.
I am not talking just about physical health, Mr. Speaker. I am talking about an almost 10-percent increase in deaths among our young people between 2019 and 2024 related to mental health. I am talking about our children carrying the economic problems that we have yet to solve right on their shoulders into adulthood. I am talking about math and reading proficiency declining in 47 States. These are the consequences of our inaction.
Mr. Speaker, I stand before you today committed to action. Lower costs, strong schools, affordable housing, and good opportunities are how we start getting ahead.
Mr. Speaker, my K-30 agenda does exactly that, and supporting our kids means investing in the next generation of this country.
Honoring the Life and Legacy of Anthony Holdampf
Page H3977 · Official text(Mr. LAWLER asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Anthony Holdampf, a longtime firefighter, veteran, and public servant who passed away on May 30 at the age of 88.
Tony was a proud veteran of the 101st Airborne Division and dedicated decades of his life to serving others, first in uniform and then through a distinguished 37-year career with the FDNY.
During the FDNY's war years of the 1960s and 70s, Tony served on the front lines with Engine 43 and Ladder 19 in the south Bronx. He later became a charter member of the Tactical Control Unit 712, an elite unit assigned to some of the city's most dangerous fires.
After retiring from the FDNY, Tony continued serving his community as a life member of the Volunteer Hose Company No. 2 in West Haverstraw and was honored with the Rockland County Fireman of the Year award.
His commitment to the fire service inspired future generations, including his son, David, and his son-in-law, Robert, both FDNY firefighters.
Whether helping a neighbor, supporting his fellow firefighters, or serving his community, Tony always answered the call. He embodied the very best of service, courage, and selflessness. My thoughts and prayers are with his beloved wife, Mary Ellen; his children; grandchildren; and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Recognizing Edgemont Community Council
Page H3977 · Official text(Mr. LATIMER asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the exceptional energy and effort of the Edgemont Community Council, an organization of over 225 families in the Edgemont section of the town of Greenburgh. It brings together that community in ways that strengthen involvement and a host of different activities of interaction.
The council covers the area of 8,500 residents and is comprised of a 23-member board led by its president, Dylan Pyne, and ably assisted by other local leaders, including Paul Wooten, Eliana Weissman, Sharon Bench, Sharyn Lewis, and Anshu Kalhan, among many others.
The council has an extensive annual schedule of events with parades, things that people join together from Lunar New Year celebration, Halloween, holiday tree lighting and Menorah lighting, often activities around Crane's Pond in Edgemont.
The group makes use of the Greenburgh Nature Center, Edgemont High School, and other schools as sites for their ongoing programs.
Substantively, the council advocates for resident issues in the town and county government and has a close working relationship with elected officials and decisionmakers.
From the floor of the House of Representatives, I salute the Edgemont Community Council and the Edgemont neighborhood for their good work.
Modernizing the Labeling Requirements of Pet and Animal Food
Pages H3977–H3978 · Official text(Mr. SCHMIDT asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
Mr. Speaker, I am grateful that the House last week approved the FY27 agriculture appropriations bill, the second FY27 appropriations bill brought to the floor under regular order.
The bill we passed contained the PURR Act, which is a bill I have championed to modernize the labeling requirements of pet and animal food.
The Kansas Second District is the pet and animal food capital of America, employing nearly 20,000 people in all aspects of the industry, from nutrition research and development to production.
Overall, the animal feed and pet food industries annually contribute nearly $100 billion in value to the U.S. economy and more than 750,000 jobs.
Modernizing the labeling requirements on these products will improve efficiency and reduce compliance costs for pet food manufacturers. It will strengthen the industry. This will have a direct benefit for the affordability of pet food for consumers and animal feed for our farmers and ranchers.
Mr. Speaker, I thank the Appropriations Committee for including this important measure from my district in the bill. I look forward to the Senate advancing it and the President signing it into law.
Congratulating Davison Igbinosun
Page H3978 · Official text(Mrs. McIVER asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)
Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate Davison Igbinosun for being selected by the Buffalo Bills with the 62nd pick in the 2026 NFL draft.
Davison is a graduate of Union High School and was New Jersey's top recruit in the 2022 high school football class. Davison began his college football journey at Ole Miss before transferring to Ohio State. There he developed into one of the Big Ten's top defensive backs and a pivotal player on one of America's strongest college football defenses.
In his three seasons at Ohio State, Davison started 42 of 43 games. He was a First-Team All-Big Ten selection in 2025.
Mr. Speaker, on behalf of New Jersey's 10th Congressional District, I congratulate Davison as he continues to represent Union High School and embarks on his professional football career.
House Republicans Are Eliminating Wasteful Spending
Page H3978 · Official text(Mr. WILSON of South Carolina asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
Mr. Speaker, I am grateful that under the leadership of Speaker Mike Johnson, House Republicans are eliminating wasteful spending, exposing fraud, and keeping taxpayer dollars for the American families.
House Republicans are supporting President Donald Trump, passing the Rescissions Act of 2025, cutting wasteful spending, stopping the funding of radical agendas, holding agencies accountable, and implementing congressional oversight.
Being loyal to President Trump, I am here tonight and tomorrow and not present at the South Carolina Republican primary that I have always attended with voters who I so appreciate for their support.
I am here because I am loyal to President Donald Trump, and I request loyalty reciprocal. Attorney General Alan Wilson and the Wilson family, Roxanne and myself, have been loyal to Donald Trump since 2015, and we are urging that there be a coendorsement in the upcoming election, which will be the runoff of June 23 for Governor of South Carolina.
In conclusion, God bless our troops as the global war on terrorism continues. Trump is reinstituting peace through strength, revealing war criminal Putin lies, insulting Trump, mocking Trump, with war criminal Putin murdering children with a tax on civilian population.
Recognizing Eastman Leadership Academy
Page H3978 · Official text(Mr. DAVIS of North Carolina asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
Mr. Speaker, it is a proud history, a new beginning, and a brighter future for eastern North Carolina.
After closing in 2009, the historic Eastman School in Halifax County is reopening its doors as Eastman Leadership Academy. From its humble beginnings in 1894, serving generations of families, to closing due to consolidation, Eastman's story has always been about community.
Soon, students will fill these hallways again: learning, growing, and writing the next chapter of this incredible legacy.
With the dedicated vision of Superintendent Cunningham, the Halifax County Board of Education, and the Board of Commissioners, the school will serve students in kindergarten through eighth grade.
Eastman's reopening is a reminder that when communities invest in education, they are investing in new opportunities, leadership, and the future.
Fighting Islamophobia
Page H3978 · Official text(Mrs. McCLAIN DELANEY asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)
Mrs. McCLAIN DELANEY
Mr. Speaker, I rise today as it was only 18 days ago when two gunmen opened fire at the Islamic Center of San Diego, killing three, injuring one, and inflicting terror on not just a community but to Americans everywhere.
Since taking office, I have met with religious communities across my incredibly diverse Sixth District of Maryland, including many of our Islamic community centers. My Muslim neighbors not only fear this violence spreading to Maryland but are concerned they must prepare for it.
Today, I share their concerns and a request to fight Islamophobia in this body. Sadly, one of my Republican colleagues recently did tweet: Dogs were preferable to Muslims. It was very reprehensible.
I for one believe we must fight all targeted violence or hateful intimidation or religion or classification, be it Islamophobia, anti-Semitism, racist targeting, or anti-LGBTQ.
Curiously, the House GOP leadership has remained silent as some support the Sharia Free Caucus where 66 congressional Members advanced legislation that singles out Muslim communities saying they threaten the U.S. system in our country. It is not only untrue but counters our freedom of religion. Our Muslim communities must feel that they are treated with respect. Hate has no place in our Congress.
Honoring Congressman Bill Posey
Pages H3978–H3982 · Official text(Under the Speaker's announced policy of January 3, 2025, Mr. Haridopolos of Florida was recognized for 60 minutes as the designee of the majority leader. )
Mr. Speaker, with a heavy heart today, we recognize our former colleague of 16 years here in the House of Representatives, Congressman Bill Posey.
Sadly, on May 9th he passed away surrounded by his lovely family, led by his fantastic wife, Katie; and their two children, Cathi and Pam.
We have many Members here tonight who would like to express their not only condolences to the family but, of course, talk about his success serving our country, State, and community.
I yield to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Babin), chairman of the Science Committee.
The first thing I would like to say is I appreciate this Special Order for our good friend, sponsored by my good friend, Mike Haridopolos, who is representing that great district on the Florida Space Coast.
Today, Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life and legacy of our friend and former colleague, Congressman Bill Posey. For more than a decade in Congress, Bill faithfully served the people of Florida's Space Coast with integrity, humility, and a deep love of his country.
Before coming to Washington, he dedicated years to serving his community in local and State government, always guided by the belief that elected officials should answer first and foremost to those that they represent.
Today, I remember Bill not only as a colleague but as a good friend. For eight years, my wife Roxanne and I were neighbors across the hall from Bill and his wife Katie. Bill and Katie were the kind of friends who were always there when you needed them. Roxanne and I used to joke that if you ever needed to borrow a cup of milk or an egg in Washington, we knew exactly where to go, and that was across the hall.
Bill represented one of the most fascinating districts in America: home to Cape Canaveral and Kennedy Space Center. Over the years, I made many trips to Florida's Space Coast, and Bill was always very, very proud to show me around.
We attended launches and events together. We marveled at America's achievements in space exploration. We shared dinners, including Florida rock shrimp. As an east Texan, I wasn't sure what a rock shrimp was. Bill convinced me they were worth trying, and he was right.
Bill's enthusiasm for America's space program was contagious. He understood better than most the importance of innovation, exploration, and maintaining our Nation's leadership in space. He championed the men and the women whose work keeps America at the forefront of discovery and inspired future generations to reach for the stars.
Bill, as a young man, even worked on the Apollo program in the late sixties and early seventies, and he shared those experiences with me.
Many people may not know that Bill was also a race car driver. That adventurous spirit never left him. Whether he was racing down a track or advancing America's space program, Bill approached life with energy and determination. He was a fierce champion of keeping America's science, space, and technology secure from our adversaries' prying eyes as well.
Roxanne and Katie became the closest of friends over the years, and that friendship is something that our family will always cherish.
For those who served alongside Bill, they will remember not only his accomplishments but also his no-nonsense conservatism and his presence.
Mr. Speaker, our thoughts and our prayers are with Katie, his family, his friends, former staff, and countless Floridians whose lives were touched by his long service. Bill Posey was a good man, a faithful public servant, a great friend, and he will be deeply missed. I am jealous of you being able to represent that great district.
Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for the kind words for our good friend.
Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Thompson), the chairman of the Agriculture Committee.
Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for sponsoring this Special Order hour, recognizing my dear friend, Bill Posey. Thank you, Mr. Speaker, for this opportunity.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to share a few words about my dear friend, former Congressman Bill Posey.
Bill was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and a friend to many. He dedicated more than 20 years to public service in this Chamber and as a Florida State legislator.
Bill's reputation as a Florida legislator was one of a changemaker. As the Florida Governor noted: Bill Posey earned a reputation in the Florida legislature as a principled conservative, a problem-solver, and a pioneer in government transparency and accountability, serving in both the Florida House from 1992 to the year 2000, and in the Florida Senate from 2000 to 2008. He was widely respected for constituent service and principled leadership.
Bill and I were first elected to Congress in 2009. It was really during the November orientation after the election that I found my friend, when we were sitting in new Congress Member school, basically. That was also the same time that my wife, Penny, and Katie started a relationship as dear friends that continues to this day. They both quickly became dear friends.
Bill was a mentor, helping me to find my legislative feet, as someone who had never served in the State legislature. He and his wife, Katie, helped Penny and I navigate life in Washington, D.C. He truly was an esteemed colleague who was unwavering in his commitment to American values.
Bill's love for Katie was undeniable. Katie and my wife Penny continue to be the closest of friends.
Bill served on the Committee on Financial Services and the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, fitting for a man who represented Florida's Space Coast and one who spent part of his career working at the Kennedy Space Center.
I remember fondly his personal tour of Cape Canaveral and his pride in sharing the behind-the-scenes tour of the industry, from the launchpad to the rubber room.
During a personal visit to Florida, Penny and I spent time with Bill and Katie at their church camp for a couple's faith retreat. The messages were inspiring, and the fellowship was outstanding.
I was troubled by the fact that they actually swam and canoed in water shared by alligators. I guess that is a Florida thing, definitely not a Pennsylvania thing.
I had the opportunity to experience firsthand Bill's passion for racing, a.k.a., driving fast. I rode with Bill in his muscle car to a local car show, and that is a ride I will not soon forget.
Bill poured his heart into all he did. He served with dignity and humility. His character and his wisdom will be sorely missed. He was a patriot. He was a conservative. He was a family man. He was a man of faith, and he was my friend.
I find comfort in knowing that he was welcomed into the arms of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Penny and I will be attending a memorial and celebrating Bill's life this coming Saturday in Florida.
Mr. Speaker, may God bless Bill's loved ones. I thank the gentleman from Florida.
Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for his kind words. I know they were dear friends.
Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize the Congressman from Arizona (Mr. Biggs). Actually, the first time I had the pleasure of meeting him is because of Bill Posey. I remember that event we did in Vero Beach and I look forward to serving together in years to come.
I remember that well, and I thank you for allowing me to speak a little bit about our friend.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Congressman Bill Posey, who represented Florida's 15th and Eighth Districts for more than 16 years and devoted his career to serving the people he loved.
Bill's public service began in the 1970s on the Rockledge City Council, and he went on to serve in both the Florida House and the Florida State Senate. He earned a reputation as champion of fiscal responsibility, government accountability, and policies that strengthened working families.
He never viewed public office as a platform for himself. He saw it as a responsibility to serve others with integrity and purpose.
Bill's commitment to his district was unmatched. He loved his district. He loved the Space Coast. He understood its history, industries, and people. No one fought harder for America's leadership in space exploration.
Drawing on his own experience working on the Apollo program at Kennedy Space Center, he became one of Congress' strongest advocates for NASA, domestic manufacturing, and the aerospace workforce that defines Florida's Space Coast.
He showed how a Member can fiercely defend a district's core industries without falling into subsidies and cronyism, staying true to his principles of limited government and free market strength. Bill was also a national leader in advancing transparency.
He pushed Congress to read the bills it votes on and was instrumental in securing the rule that requires legislation be publicly available for 72 hours before a vote. Wouldn't it be nice to go back to that? Sure would be nice to go back to that standard that Bill worked so hard to set up.
He worked to reform and strengthen trust in the institution and reminded all of us that accountability begins right here at home in Congress.
I had the privilege of serving with Bill in the House Freedom Caucus, where we fought side by side for limited government, fiscal discipline, and the belief that Washington works best when it works within the Constitution.
Bill lived those principles every day.
Getting back to what we were talking about, he invited me to come down to his district. I was the chairman of the Freedom Caucus, and he said: I need you to come on down to my district. We went, and it was basically a day-and-a-half of real education for me in campaigning because there was not a free moment to sit down.
I will tell you this: I couldn't understand why he thought I needed to be down there, because he was so well loved. It was amazing.
Bill Posey approached public service with humility, steadiness, and a deep love for the people he represented. He will be missed. I miss him.
I wish to express my condolences to his wonderful wife, Katie. What a gracious host she was for me when I was down there. She made sure I had everything I needed and more.
I will say this: Bill leaves behind a legacy of principled leadership, tireless advocacy, love of family, love of country, love of God, and an example of how to be a Member of Congress.
Mike Haridopolos (R-FL)7:40 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I thank Congressman Biggs for his personal visit, as well. It means a lot to us. I thank him for being here tonight.
Next, Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Bilirakis), my colleague from Florida. He and I, of course, served together with Congressman Posey in the Florida Legislature in the early 2000s as part of that memorable election of 2000, as well.
Gus M. Bilirakis (R-FL)7:40 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I did serve with Bill Posey in the legislature, and I remember my first year in 1998. I had made a campaign promise, and I was going to keep that promise.
I am not going to get into the legislation, but the leadership was pushing a particular bill. I had made a promise to my constituents that I would not be for that particular policy. Bill stuck up for me. It is tough when you are a freshman, and he stuck up for me. He said: Just go right ahead and do what you think is right and what is in the best interests of your constituents. I never forgot that.
Also, Bill endorsed me when I first ran for Congress. He was one of the first ones to do that.
Integrity, he kept his word.
Now, I will tell you this: He had a great sense of humor, as well. When I first ran in 1998, my opponent, I guess because of my stature, called me Danny DeVito. So Bill, on the floor of the House of Representatives for 16 years, called me Danny. When he did it publicly, other Members would whisper in his ear and say: Bill, that is not his name. His name is Gus. He would say: I know that. It is a joke between the two of us.
He was just a genuine great guy and cared about this country so very much.
I rise to honor the life and legacy of my dear friend and former colleague, Congressman Bill Posey, whose decades of public service left an indelible mark on the State of Florida and, of course, our Nation.
Bill was a dedicated public servant. Again, he never deviated from his principles. He was a conservative and, above all, a man of integrity.
Long before we served together in the House of Representatives, as I said, Bill and I had the privilege of serving alongside one another in the Florida Legislature. He was a senior member, and I was a junior member; but he never treated me differently.
During those years, I came to know him as a thoughtful policymaker, and a tireless advocate for his constituents. He was someone who approached every issue with humility, common sense, and a deep respect for the people he represented.
When Bill was elected to Congress, he carried those same values with him to Washington, D.C. He never lost sight of who sent him here. He worked diligently to ensure that the voices of Florida's families, seniors, veterans, small businesses, again, taxpayers, were heard.
His commitment to fiscal responsibility, government accountability, and public service earned the respect of his colleagues, as we can see here, on both sides of the aisle. Even if the other side didn't agree with him, they certainly respected him.
What I will remember most, however, is not Bill's legislative accomplishments, as impressive as they were, but his character, Mr. Speaker. He was a loyal friend, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and a man of deep faith whose actions reflected his values every single day. He treated everyone with kindness and respect and conducted himself with a level of civility that serves as an example for all who choose a life of public service. He truly was a throwback.
My thoughts and prayers are with his wonderful wife, Katie. What a great individual and what a wonderful person. He loved her so much very much. My thoughts and prayers are with his children, his grandchildren, his friends, his former staff, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.
While he will be greatly missed, his legacy of service, leadership, and dedication to the people of the State of Florida and the United States of America will endure for generations to come. He was a great role model. May his memory be eternal.
Mike Haridopolos (R-FL)7:40 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I thank Congressman Bilirakis for his comments for our good friend, Congressman Posey.
Mr. Speaker, I yield now to the gentlewoman from Maryland (Mrs. McClain Delaney). I thank her for joining us tonight.
Mrs. McCLAIN DELANEY7:40 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory and legacy of Representative Bill Posey and his long legacy in public service to the State of Florida, to our country, and to the field of science and innovation.
My husband, John Delaney, served with him on the Committee on Financial Services and considered him a friend and greatly admired his knowledge of the banking sector, his integrity, his ability to always reach across the aisle and to always be pragmatic.
I admire him now as a current Member, looking back on my long experience on SST, where he had a commitment to aerospace, to NASA, to satellite services, and to innovation generally.
Most especially, I was a friend of Katie Posey for many years while a congressional spouse at the Congressional Club. Both of them served well in terms of their bipartisan relationships, lifting up to know the other congressional families. They were always full of faith, civility, and a deep sense of service to country and to others.
May God bless their family. I send my deepest condolences, and I thank him for his service. I give my best to Katie and family.
Mike Haridopolos (R-FL)7:40 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I thank Congresswoman McClain Delaney for her kind words. I know she is dear friends, especially with Katie, and it means a lot to us that she is here tonight.
I know there are others who are coming in and out tonight, but I wanted to kind of give those who were listening some background, as some had mentioned, about Bill's storied career in Florida politics. It is a memorable one.
I had the opportunity to know Bill for almost 30 years. He was a true mentor of mine as I was elected back to the House of Representatives in 2000 when he had moved over to the State Senate. He always offered a guiding, smart hand to a young member of the legislature. It was that confidence that allowed me to find some success in the legislature because he treated me like a son. It really meant a lot to me that a person who was just such a storied person in our community would take the time for new members to get up to speed on some of the challenges we faced in Tallahassee at that time.
One of the people who really made a difference on me, as well, was one of his former staffers, now my staffer, Valentina Valenta. She is a remarkable person and understands the budget inside and out because Bill focused so much on the transparency angle in the budget. That was his passion.
As Congressman Biggs talked about earlier, this idea of a 72-hour rule is something we have in the State of Florida. We are the Sunshine State, and he really believed that when you are spending other people's money, you should allow time so that it goes into the sunshine. He would like to say: Good ideas in the sunshine prosper and grow. Bad ideas will wither under that powerful sunshine, as well.
That was the vision of what Bill Posey had when he served in not only the United States Congress but before then, the State Senate; before then, the State legislature; and before then, in local government on the city council in Rockledge. Bill was a person who, put simply, when there was a problem, like a good NASCAR or maybe a NASA mechanic, he went out and fixed it.
Bill didn't care about the headlines. In fact, whenever I talked to him, he tried to avoid the press. He wanted to do his work behind the scenes, work with people and just go out and solve problems and then get back to his family and friends, who understood his commitment to his home community, known as Brevard County.
That is what Bill--we already mentioned this--as I think Congressman Babin and others talked about, his heart was always in Brevard. Though he served here in Washington for 16 years, he was always focused on Brevard County and making sure we did not have some of the challenges we faced after the Apollo program.
He did so much to make sure that when the shuttle program was ended in 2011 and 2012, we made a successful transition over to what we now know as the Artemis project that is so successful, which, back in April, found, of course, so much success, going around the Moon for the first time since 1972.
It was his work behind the scenes with so many other Members here in Congress. I am proud to say that, with NASA, as my colleague, Debbie Wasserman Schultz, is here today, it was a bipartisan project to make sure that Florida stayed the epicenter of space flight in America, and we are seeing that success today.
It is, again, that work behind the scenes that no one saw, and no one really thought possible, that we could find the amazing success we are seeing today with new companies along the lines--in fact, one of those being SpaceX, which is being potentially valued at over $1.75 trillion, to show where we are going in space.
Mr. Speaker, I yield to my former senate colleague in the legislature and now congressional colleague, Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz. I recognize her and thank her for joining us tonight.
Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL)7:50 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding and for his leadership and, really, compassion for our dear friend Bill Posey. The term "friend" is thrown around loosely in politics, and Bill was someone who had a wry sense of humor, someone who you knew where you stood with him. He was someone who didn't mince words and someone who didn't take himself or, really, almost anything too seriously.
He always had kind of a joke that was on his lips, but he was, as Congressman Haridopolos mentioned, really someone who lived and breathed the Space Coast. He was really the voice of NASA here in Congress, and he always fiercely stood up for his community and his people.
He was humble. He was someone who did not swing from the rafters. You knew that he cared about the issues that he worked on, but he kept his head down, his nose to the grindstone, and he focused on his core set of priorities.
That is why I am here today to honor our late colleague, Congressman Bill Posey. He was a man who loved his home State of Florida and someone who was willing to put aside partisan politics to make it a better place for all of us.
I can personally vouch for this because he and I worked together since we began our public service work all the way back in 1992, when we were both elected to the Florida House of Representatives, in the legislature. We were also subsequently elected in the same year to the State senate, and it continued well into our time here in Congress.
Congressman Posey was a no-nonsense, principled legislator. Of course, we had our differences. We had many of them, in fact. We used to laugh about how little we agreed on, but when we came together and when we could find an issue on which we could work together, really, it was always incredibly impactful.
Bill Posey was committed to making Florida's coastlines and our children safer. He could drop his partisan flags and cross the aisle even in our most recent times when so many others would waver or refuse.
I saw it immediately, too, when he and I both worked in Tallahassee, Florida's capital. We joined forces to prevent children from drowning by ensuring our pools and spas were safer. That is no small matter in the Sunshine State.
I will tell you that I was working for 3 years to pass the Preston de Ibern/McKenzie Merriam Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act in Florida, and it was tough. There was a lot of Republican opposition. I remember the day like it was yesterday, when Bill came over to me and said: You make a lot of sense. We have to stop the kids from drowning. These are entirely preventable tragedies.
He just got it, so he spent political capital because he knew that it mattered, and he knew it would save lives. He was someone in Congress who just continually kept at the issues that mattered to his constituents. He was a fierce advocate for the Space Coast, as well as Florida's estuaries.
Those are the common bonds, really, that draw all Floridians together. We are a delegation that there is a boatload of things that we don't agree on, but when it comes to fiercely protecting our coastline, whether it is from oil drilling, or whether it is making sure that we can continue to restore the Florida Everglades, or if it is ensuring that we can protect our homeowners, condominium owners, kids in our year-round warm-weather State who really have a much higher likelihood of drowning, Bill was right there on so many issues.
Another example is, after the Nation saw the tragic death of 98 souls in Surfside, Florida--you remember when the Surfside condominium building came crashing down in the middle of the night, 1:30 in the morning. That Champlain Towers South was in my congressional district at the time. I went to Bill, and we knew we had to do something about making sure that those condominium buildings, especially on the coastline, were safe.
I asked him to co-lead the Making Condos Safer and Affordable Act. People all over our State need that help, so we worked together to push legislation that would help maintain their structural integrity and keep residents safe.
There are other bright moments over his long career, as my colleagues have attested to, and for that, he will be truly missed.
My heart is with his beloved wife, Katie, who was always by his side, never far. She was a true life partner. My condolences to their loved ones. May Bill's memory be a blessing.
Mike Haridopolos (R-FL)7:50 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I thank Congresswoman Wasserman Schultz for her kind words. It is great to see her. I know Bill spoke highly of how you all worked together across party lines. I am really grateful that she is here tonight.
Mr. Speaker, I wanted to close tonight by walking through some of the things that Bill did work on, as the Congresswoman just spoke of. Again, it was a passion for him. He saw problems, and he fixed them.
That is what, again, I loved about Bill, as I mentioned earlier. He was a person who stayed out of the limelight. He didn't really care about who got the credit, but he wanted to just go out and solve problems. He was, again, a mechanic at heart.
One of those issues, as Congresswoman Wasserman Schultz talked about, was the Indian River Lagoon. This is a lagoon that historically has had challenges, and Bill was passionate about taking this on. One of the issues that he did, again, work across the aisle on was what he created with Members of the other side of the aisle on the Congressional Estuary Caucus.
That is where we are focused on solving the problem, where it is not happening just in our home State but around the country, how we can clean up our rivers that eventually work into our oceans.
It was mentioned with NASA--again, a champion for NASA, not just because he represented the area, but he literally worked on the Apollo program, and it was something that he knew would bring America together, even in the most partisan of times.
Before entering politics, he was a person who, after leaving his work at the Kennedy Space Center, went into the real estate business and found tremendous success. But he was willing to put aside that incredible economic success for his own family because he wanted to serve this country. That is why he entered public life and left a lot of, candidly, resources on the sideline because he chose to serve in public life.
He was known as Mr. Fix-It. I will be talking about this at his celebration of life on Saturday in Melbourne. But one of the issues that really separated him, as Congresswoman Wasserman Schultz talked about on some fronts, was everybody remembers the election of 2000. That was the year where we had the hanging chads and, of course, that incredibly razor-thin election where Florida would decide the election.
Candidly, we were embarrassed of what happened in the election of 2000. So when people looked around the room in the Florida House and Florida Senate and when Jeb Bush was Governor, they said: Who are we going to bring in to fix the election laws in the State of Florida? They brought on Bill Posey.
If you haven't noticed, guess who is running the best elections right now in the entire country: The State of Florida.
I remember when I was elected last November, in 2024, within 7 minutes we knew not only who won the election, but almost all the results were in after the polls closed at 7 p.m. in Florida. That is how remarkable and that is how efficient we want it to be. We were counting those early votes, counting those absentee ballots, and once those ballots were tabulated, within minutes you knew the verdict, which is very different than what we are seeing right now in some States.
That is who Bill Posey was. He saw a problem, he wanted to fix it, and he never talked about it again. That was the ironic part about it.
Here is a person who should be known around the country for fixing elections in a positive way and getting the tabulations done quickly and correctly. That is what we need more of in America is a problem-solver like him.
Also mentioned was Bill being on the Financial Services Committee. When I was thinking about what committees to serve on as I enter Congress, I went to him and said: Where was your passion? He said: Mike, I held out for one job, and that was to be on Financial Services.
He really felt like some of the banking laws in our country needed commonsense reforms, and he worked all 16 years on the Financial Services Committee. So many people saw his work with NASA, but as French Hill, our current chairman, talks about, Bill Posey was always diligently there pushing for the idea of transparency.
Through the years, we have seen horrible situations, whether it be Enron or the housing market crash. He was making sure that when people put those dollars in banks or in investments, there was more transparency, that the investor actually had the information in front of them. That was the kind of person he was.
I am just so grateful that his colleagues who served with him so long showed up tonight because it was that work behind the scenes that really made a difference.
What I saw firsthand in our 25-year-plus relationship was that it was always remarkable watching Bill, a tried-and-true fiscal conservative, be willing to listen to whoever came before him. He was a person who said you can disagree without being disagreeable. That is what I loved about him. He could be a little cantankerous at times, but he always took the time to listen.
As I mentioned and I will mention again over and over, he never left Brevard County. Whenever he could get out of Washington, he got out of Washington. He and Katie loved to get back home and be around the people they loved most, especially their daughters Pamela and Cathi.
After he left Congress in 2024, after those elections, he spent really the last 18 months being involved in those passion projects. One of those is he was actually involved in a car rally across the country as he and Katie went around the country. I am still amazed they actually did it because it was a challenging race, but he had such a passion for cars.
I remember he even went to New Smyrna racetrack for the Governor's Cup for many years because he just loved stock car racing. That was his passion and it was in his blood.
Most recently, he spent so much time with his grandkids, whether it was out West in California or in Alabama, and spending a ton of time with his daughters, especially those who lived in Brevard County.
He was a guy who put family first. It wasn't a cliche. He was a person who, again, was passionate about things when other people took passion in those same ideas.
I am just so grateful that I had the opportunity to know him for so long as he served our country so ably, and he gave back so much and took on so many financial challenges because he loved this country so much.
Mike Haridopolos (R-FL)8:00 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on the topic of this Special Order.
The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Hamadeh of Arizona.) Is there objection to the request of the gentleman from Florida?
There was no objection.
Mike Haridopolos (R-FL)8:00 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, as I close, before I yield to our friends on the other side of the aisle: Bill Posey will not be forgotten because he never forgot those folks who gave him the opportunity to be here.
I am looking forward to seeing so many friends back home on Saturday as we celebrate his life.
I was with him sadly that Thursday before he passed on that Saturday. To see the love that his family expressed in those days as they knew they were going to leave him for a period of time, it just shows the commitment that his family had for him because he loved his family and he loved this country.
I will try to leave it on a lighter note. I remember he said to me when I got elected to the legislature: Mike, I remember when I first was elected to the legislature, and I couldn't believe I was in the Florida Legislature. Here was a guy from Rockledge, Florida, who grew up loving cars and space and had a beautiful family and a young wife.
Then he said: After about a month or so, I couldn't believe how these other people got here.
That was the thing about Bill Posey. He had that wry sense of humor, as Congresswoman Wasserman Schultz spoke of.
Mr. Speaker, I thank you for the opportunity for us to speak about our good friend Bill Posey. He will be dearly missed. He was a true patriot and friend to our community, and I know I have very big shoes to fill here in the United States Congress.
Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
Commemorating Juneteenth
Pages H3982–H3988 · Official text(Under the Speaker's announced policy of January 3, 2025, Ms. McClellan of Virginia was recognized for 60 minutes as the designee of the minority leader.)
Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on the subject of this Special Order.
The SPEAKER pro tempore
Is there objection to the request of the gentlewoman from Virginia?
There was no objection.
Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor that I rise today to anchor this Congressional Black Caucus Special Order hour commemorating Juneteenth.
Next week, the Nation will pause to celebrate Juneteenth. Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, when Union Major General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and issued General Order No. 3, which finally freed more than 250,000 enslaved people in that State.
For while the Emancipation Proclamation officially went into effect on July 1, 1863, emancipating those enslaved in the rebelling States of the Confederacy, it took over 2\1/2\ years for the news to reach the western-most Confederate State of Texas.
Broadly, Juneteenth marks Freedom Day, Jubilee Day, or Black Independence Day. Juneteenth is considered the longest-running African-American holiday. While communities have celebrated the date since 1866, it was not officially signed into United States law as a Federal holiday until June of 2021.
Juneteenth symbolizes that, unlike what we were taught in our schoolbooks, emancipation was not a moment. It was a movement. It was a movement that included acts of resistance, rebellion, and self-liberation since Africans first arrived on American soil in bondage.
As the first Black woman serving in this body from the Commonwealth of Virginia, I am all too familiar with this story, for the Commonwealth is both the birthplace of American democracy and the birthplace of the American slave trail.
In July of 1619, the House of Burgesses met at Jamestown, bringing the concept of a representative democracy modeled after the English Parliament that evolved into the modern-day bicameral legislature. The House of Burgesses continues to operate today as the Virginia House of Delegates.
A month later, in August of 1619, a Dutch privateer arrived at Point Comfort, Virginia, containing, "20 and odd" Africans that John Rolfe recorded were traded for provisions. They were originally captured by Portuguese slavers in West Central Africa, known today as Angola.
While slavery was not officially acknowledged in the laws of Virginia until 1661, there is no doubt that the first Africans aboard the White Lion were treated as slaves, assigned heavy labor, and treated as property by the colonial elite.
I am quite cognizant that 250 years ago when Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence and said that all men are created equal and endowed by their Creator with the unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, he did not include the nearly half a million enslaved men, women, and children or, indeed, any women at all in the Thirteen Colonies. He did not include those enslaved at his beloved Monticello, including his own children.
I am quite clear that when James Madison wrote the Virginia Plan that formed the foundation for a government by, of, and for we the people in order to form a more perfect Union, he did not include the over 300 enslaved people who lived and labored at his Montpelier estate under three generations of his family.
The U.S. Constitution, adopted in 1789, considered enslaved individuals only three-fifths of a person for the purpose of how many people would serve in this body and for taxation. The States that came together to create that more perfect Union treated those people as property.
Since 1789, the story of America has been one of each generation trying to reconcile the ideals upon which we were founded with the reality and making the ideals true for us all.
Despite what some would have you believe, slavery literally tore this country apart, for as then Abraham Lincoln predicted in 1858, a house divided against itself cannot stand. He said this government could not endure permanently, half slave and half free. While he did not expect the Union to be dissolved, and he did not expect the house to fall, he expected it would cease to be divided. It took a war to do that.
Once Abraham Lincoln was elected President, and South Carolina became the first State to secede from the Union, its 1860 Declaration of the Immediate Causes Which Induce and Justify the Secession of South Carolina explicitly and repeatedly states that the preservation and expansion of slavery was the primary reason for leaving the Union.
Mississippi, Georgia, and Texas likewise formally published Declarations of Causes that explicitly cited the preservation and expansion of slavery as their primary reason for seceding. States like Alabama and Virginia passed shorter ordinances of secession directly citing the hostile attitudes of the Federal Government toward their "domestic institutions" and the election of a sectional party based on antislavery platforms. It was clear they were seceding because of slavery, so that they could keep it.
After the war, Reconstruction sought to bind the country's wounds and expand the promise of its founding to the formerly enslaved, and Congress expanded suffrage to Black citizens, used Federal troops to vigorously defend it in response to a violent backlash across the South.
Congress passed three Reconstruction amendments designed to guarantee equal, civil, and legal rights to formerly enslaved Americans. All three granted Congress the power to enforce their provisions through legislation: the 13th Amendment finally abolishing slavery in the United States; the 14th Amendment guaranteeing citizenship to all persons born or naturalized in the United States and prohibited any State from abridging the privileges or immunities of citizenship, applied due process of laws to the States, and provided equal protection under the law. It also provided for the reduction of representation in the House of Representatives of any State that disenfranchised any male citizens--and they meant male--over 21 years of age in Federal elections, except for participation in a rebellion or other crime; and the 15th Amendment prohibited the denial or abridgement of the right to vote on account of race, color, or previous condition of servitude.
Yet, even with these amendments, Southern States resisted, resorting to paramilitary organizations like the Ku Klux Klan to terrorize Black citizens for daring to seek to vote, run for office, serve on juries, own property, open businesses, live in the wrong neighborhood, go to the wrong school, eventually drink from the wrong water fountain.
In 1870 and 1871, Congress passed the Enforcement Acts to allow the Federal Government to intervene when States or individuals infringed upon the rights provided in the 14th and 15th Amendments, and as a result Black men gained political power across the South.
In 1870, Senator Hiram Rhodes Revels of Mississippi and Representative Joseph H. Rainey of South Carolina became the first Black Members of Congress. A total of 22 Black men served in Congress between 1870 and 1901, including my predecessor, John Mercer Langston of Virginia's Fourth District, in 1890.
The political, social, and economic power gained by Blacks across the South during Reconstruction then faced a violent backlash, as the KKK and other groups began a reign of terror that relied extensively on lynchings.
To resolve the deadlocked Presidential election of 1876, the Compromise of 1877 brought Reconstruction to an end, the Federal Government removed its troops from the South, and widespread violence, propaganda, and voter suppression began.
In the final year of Reconstruction, the unraveling of Federal protection and voting rights began when the Supreme Court issued two opinions that gutted the Enforcement Act--United States v. Cruikshank and the United States v. Reese. Once Democrats regained control and Reconstruction ended in the South, Congress lost interest in Federal intervention and State disenfranchisement efforts.
Then the long arc toward moral justice began again. When President Harry Truman integrated the Army and when the civil rights movement began to gain ground, those Southern Democrats fled the Democratic Party and became Republicans.
Today, we see a very similar backlash to the backlash to progress that came after Reconstruction. With the first Court case gutting the Voting Rights Act, the Shelby decision, and now the Callais decision, we see a rollback of the Federal Government protecting voting rights. We see a weaponization of the very tools used to ensure that life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness was open to all roll back the progress made in civil rights and equal protection under the law. We see an administration that wants to tell one side of the story that I just told that doesn't want anything uncomfortable to be taught in our schools, that doesn't want anything about slavery mentioned in our public spaces, in our museums, or in our curriculum, that doesn't want that backlash taught.
Juneteenth gives us two opportunities: One, to celebrate the extraordinary resilience of Black Americans who came here through the Middle Passage and bondage, and today are at historic high numbers in political leadership and representation. However, it also gives us an opportunity to acknowledge how we got here--the good, the bad, and the ugly; to recognize the pattern, to recognize the backlash to progress that always includes propaganda, whether it is the lie of white supremacy or the lie of stolen elections; violence, whether it is racial terror, lynchings, or insurrectionists showing up trying to stop for the second time in American history the results of an election they didn't like, or voter suppression, like a modern-day poll tax that we see in the SAVE Act.
We see the same backlash now, but we as the Congressional Black Caucus are here to say: We are not going back, we will fight the backlash, and we will continue the progress until when we say in our Pledge of Allegiance "liberty and justice for all," it means all.
Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from Georgia (Mrs. McBath).
Lucy McBath (D-GA)8:10 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman from Virginia, our esteemed colleague and our good friend, Representative McClellan, for her historical context, for telling the truth, and for always, always standing up to defend the democracy and the rights of African Americans.
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Juneteenth and reflect on this enduring significance for Black Americans and, in particular, for this Nation.
On June 19, 1865, more than 2 years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued, enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, finally learned that they were free.
Juneteenth stands as a powerful reminder that freedom, justice, and equality have never ever been guaranteed in the United States. They have been hard-fought and hard-won.
As we prepare to celebrate our Nation's 250th anniversary, Juneteenth calls on us not only to honor the resilience and sacrifices of those who came before us, but also to confront the work that remains unfinished.
While we celebrate progress, we cannot ignore the challenges facing Black communities today. Recent developments, including the Supreme Court's decision in Louisiana v. Callais and the rollback of programs and resources that have helped expand opportunity and representation, remind us that progress is not inevitable. It requires vigilance.
We cannot ignore the urgency of this moment. Many programs that expanded educational access, strengthened healthcare, and supported affordability for working families are being rolled back under this administration's policies. These setbacks deepen inequities and threaten hard-won gains.
That is why we must continue pouring into the programs and community-led efforts that uplift Black families. By uplifting Black families, we are uplifting all families in America.
At every step, we have a responsibility to speak out against policies that undermine opportunity. The pursuit of equal justice demands our continued commitment.
Yet, Juneteenth is ultimately a story of hope. It is a testament to the strength, perseverance, and determination of generations who refused to give up on the promise of America.
As Members of Congress, we have a responsibility to continue to do this work, whether you want to do it or not. I remain committed to working alongside my colleagues of the Congressional Black Caucus and across this Nation to advance policies that promote equity, expand opportunity, and strengthen our democracy for future generations.
I hope that everyone in Congress would be willing to honor the legacy of Juneteenth, not only through remembrance but through action.
I grew up in the civil rights movement. At the tender age of 3, I was in the stroller at the March on Washington, so fighting for civil rights is not just talk because I understand that faith without works is dead.
What I do understand is that, in this body, we profess to be Christians. We profess to be people of faith. Yet, at the same time, on one hand we profess to be Christian, and on the other hand, we want to break down the barriers, break down all the hard-earned work, break down the legislation, and break down the policies, the safety nets, and all the work that has been done through the civil rights movement. We want to break it down. Individuals who have worked and toiled in this country to be free yet again, in 2026, are fighting for their freedom.
In this country, we are under a great assault on our ability to be able to vote. Democracy stands right now in a place where I never ever thought that I would ever see again in my lifetime.
All the civil rights leaders and people who gave their lives, volunteers and foot soldiers, for the ability for African Americans and all people of color in this country to be able to exercise their right to vote is completely under assault. I truly believe that our civil rights leaders would roll over in their graves if they knew the assault on democracy and what we are dealing with in today's Congress.
It is unconscionable what is happening here. It is despicable what is happening here. It is deplorable what is happening here.
The Constitution affords every man and woman the ability to be able to exercise their right to vote, to exercise what is important to them. It gives them the ability to be able to live the American Dream and work for the American Dream to be educated, to be given affordable, quality healthcare, and to live in affordable housing. This Congress and the United States continue to strip away the voting rights of African Americans. That is truly at stake.
Where is the promise? What promise is being kept by this Constitution and by the Declaration of Independence?
The words of the Congressional Black Caucus continue to fall on deaf ears here in these Chambers. Shame on America. Shame on the body.
I pray every single day. I pray over every Member in this body. I pray for wisdom for our colleagues. I pray for the strength to stand and defend democracy and do the right thing. That is because democracy is for everyone in the United States, and we don't get to pick and choose who has access and who doesn't.
They don't get to pick and choose who gets to have a vote and who doesn't. We don't get to pick and choose who has healthcare and who doesn't. We don't get to pick and choose who has access to a good public education and who doesn't.
I, along with the Congressional Black Caucus, will stand and defend our ability to be able to hold dear and hold fast to what was promised to us by the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution.
As the great woman from Virginia just mentioned, we are not backing down.
Jennifer L. McClellan (D-VA)8:20 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Ivey).
Glenn Ivey (D-MD)8:20 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague from Virginia for hosting this Congressional Black Caucus special hour. I also thank my colleague from Georgia, who just finished speaking. I appreciated the powerful statement that she made and the insightful comments that she shared with us tonight.
Juneteenth is just around the corner. Juneteenth was a special day for me. It is one that we celebrated my mother's birthday on frequently, and certainly, as a child of North Carolina and Virginia, had special meaning, as well. I have had a chance to enjoy those days, but the meaning of them has evolved over time for me.
I was a child in North Carolina, Rocky Mount, North Carolina in the late 1960s. It was still segregated. Across the street was Booker T. Washington High School, and I lived on the side of the tracks that the African-American community lived in back then.
The schools were segregated. Stores, many of them, you couldn't try on clothes if you wanted to go get fit. There were a lot of restaurants you couldn't go into and if you did want to go in, they tried to make you go in through the backdoor. That is where we stood as a nation when I was a child.
Then, as you heard from my colleague from Virginia, the movement that came along that grew into the civil rights movement changed all of that for the United States of America. We had gone from a real dark time after the North withdrew from the South, the return of Jim Crow, the growth of the Ku Klux Klan, the return of almost a version of enslavement return to the South in the late 1870s and it got worse over the next decades.
We had lynchings. It was a regular tool of terrorism in the South during those days. It was used to keep people in line if they did something radical or dramatic, like trying to vote or even register to vote. That is what we were in. That is what my grandfather was born into in North Carolina in 1895.
Things changed over time, thank God. We grew as a community, the African-American community. We started schools, historically Black colleges like Howard University and others that gave us a chance to gain an education, even in a segregated environment. We started groups, fraternities, sororities, especially for kids going to college.
The Divine Nine we call them now. I belonged to Kappa Alpha Psi. It was one of those sources of strength for our community. We had to develop our own newspapers since White newspapers wouldn't cover what was going on in the Black community.
We developed alternative structures that allowed us to train people to become doctors and the like. The NAACP grew and became a force for change, fighting against segregation in America and especially against lynching.
All of that grew over the years. We didn't have a lot to work with. Segregation was hard, and the further South you went, the harder it was. But ultimately in the late 1950s in Montgomery, Alabama, there was something called the Montgomery bus boycott that took off.
The Montgomery bus boycott was led by the faith community there, the African-American faith community, because the buses in Montgomery if you were African American, you were supposed to sit in the back. If the front of it filled up and new White people got on to the bus, if you were African American, you were expected to get up and give your seat. That was the nature of the way things were in those days. A woman named Rosa Parks decided she had had enough and she refused to get up and give her seat up.
Now, actually, that wasn't just a coincidence. This is something that people had been preparing for for years. The churches, the NAACP, and the like, and something called the SCLC, Southern Christian Leadership Conference, all were working together to try and figure out how can we push back and fight back against this. How can we try and change this?
The boycott began and just coincidentally, a young pastor almost fresh out of divinity school came down from Boston. His father had been a pastor in Atlanta and he wanted to become a pastor like his father, but he didn't want to try and start in Atlanta, so they sent him to Montgomery. And just at the time that this young man got there, this man named Martin Luther King, Jr., they were looking for new leadership to lead the bus boycott and lead the faith community forward.
This is a man who was still writing his Ph.D. dissertation while he was leading the bus boycott. He was married and beginning a family while he was leading the bus boycott. If that wasn't enough, the hate, the anger, the opposition rolled up against him and his house, for example, was bombed while he was at church one day preparing for the Sunday service.
The house was blown up. He knew that his wife and his child were there and he didn't know if they were dead or not until he was able to run back home and see for himself.
When he got there, he saw a group of people who were angry and they wanted revenge. They wanted to go strike back and retaliate against the people who had bombed his house.
Dr. King said that is not how we do things. That is not the Christian way. That is not the way we are going to lead this movement. We are going to fight hate with love. We are going to fight violence with nonviolence, and we are going to win the hearts of these people and change the course of this Nation.
Now, it took a long time to get there. The bus boycott took a year. People were walking to work day in and day out in the snow and the rain and the cold, but they kept walking. They tried to create ways to ferry each other to and from where they had to go. Many of them were working as domestics, for example. They had tried giving each other rides and they put this whole structure in place to permit that.
The bus boycott was successful. The bus company thought they could hold out, that they could outlast them, but as it turned out, they were wrong. One woman said, "My feets is tired, but my soul is rested."
They came together and won that bus boycott, and it was the first giant step with respect to the civil rights movement. There were other forces that had gathered prior to that, there was the desegregation of the Army.
My father-in-law fought in World War II. There were colored units back then, and he rose up to the level of captain. He left the service, re-enlisted for ground combat during the Korean war and went to fight again. There were many others like him who put their lives on the line. Many of them gave their lives in the fight to protect our country.
One of the things my father-in-law told me was that when they had come back from Europe, he was stationed in Italy--they put a lot of what they called Negro troops then in Italy to fight there--and when they were bringing them back, many of the German soldiers had turned themselves into them because they didn't want to have to turn themselves into the Russians. One of the ironies was that when they got back to the United States, the Black troops who had fought to protect and defend the United States of America, had saved Europe from totalitarianism and in many instances had given their lives and lost their friends and colleagues in this fight still had to ride in the back of the train behind these German soldiers. That is where America was.
Mr. Speaker, when the civil rights movement moved forward and gained momentum and culminated, as you heard from my colleague from Virginia, in the crown jewel of the civil rights movement was the Voting Rights Act. Other pieces came along. The Civil Rights Act was there, too. The Fair Housing Act, all those things came together. But the Voting Rights Act was the key tool to the transformation of the South in this country.
John Lewis was one of the key players in that movement. I saw a play about him. It is called "Young John Lewis." They ran it here in D.C. a couple weeks ago, and I went to see it. The culmination of the "Young John Lewis" play is the passage of the Voting Rights Act.
It was supposed to be a cause for celebration. It is supposed to be the climax, the high-water moment of this play, but a strange thing had happened just a few days before.
The United States Supreme Court, the Trump majority in the United States Supreme Court, had essentially eviscerated the Voting Rights Act that they were supposed to be celebrating.
Instead of there being a big cheer in the audience, there was this sad kind of pall that came over the crowd, including me. The voting rights piece, that first Supreme Court opinion that I mentioned just a few days ago, Callais, Justice Alito said he is not totally gutting it. He is just changing the standard of review, the legal ways to analyze those cases.
So we thought, let's hope and see how it plays out. It just turns out that there was another case in Alabama 3 years before where the Supreme Court had basically supported the Voting Rights Act and affirmed it. A three-judge panel had been appointed, because there were more challenges coming from the State. That three-judge panel consisted of one Clinton appointee, but two Trump appointees. That three-judge panel had said, after weeks of hearings--I think it was like 80 witnesses, 800 exhibits, extensive, detailed, thorough hearings--and that three-judge panel, which including two Trump appointees, concluded that the lines that had been drawn by the Republicans in Alabama constituted intentional racial discrimination. There was an intentional effort to dilute Black Alabamians' voting strength.
They said that the map that the Republicans were trying to put in place--and, remember, this was triggered by President Trump's call to Texas a few months earlier saying: I need five seats. I will come back to that in a minute.
The three-judge panel said: Nope, you still can't put that map in place. There were two seats, one is held by our current colleagues Terri Sewell and Shomari Figures. It is the Shomari Figures' seat they were going after. They were trying to draw it out. The three-judge panel said that seat should stay. Then the United States Supreme Court, in an expedited manner, overturned the decision of that three-judge panel, even though they had just said a few weeks ago that intentional discrimination will not be talented in drawing these lines.
Even though there is something called the Purcell Rule, which the Supreme Court had honored for decades, the Purcell Rule is: You know what? We are not going to be doing these election decisions when we get too close to an election, because it can cause problems in how you implement the election. So we won't do that.
They violated that even though the three-judge panel said one of the reasons they didn't want to overturn the lines at that point was because it would cause chaos in the election. The Supreme Court did it anyway.
The Trump majority on the Supreme Court threw it out. Justice Sotomayor wrote a dissent. In that dissent she says: "Now the Court is squarely faced with a record of the turmoil it has caused and the harm it has wrought. Yet just as Alabama doubled down on racial discrimination, the Court today doubles down on chaos."
So that is where we have come from Juneteenth: The gutting of the Voting Rights Act.
It is not just in Alabama, unfortunately. I was down in North Carolina, back in my home State. I have got a colleague named Don Davis who is running for reelection. North Carolina is playing the exact same game as Alabama is. In fact, they did it a few years ago. This will be the third election that Congressman Davis has to run where they have tried to change the lines to make it harder for him to win.
When they did it in 2024, they knocked off three other Democrats who had been my colleagues when I first served here. The Republican legislature drew out those three Democrats and put them in districts that were predominantly Republican so that they couldn't win. We lost those three seats, but that is not enough. They want to take more.
They went after Don Davis' district and cut the African American voting bloc in half there.
Now, I went down because I want to try and help him win anyway. I know that area a little bit. I know that those voters were angry that there is an attempt to disenfranchise them in that way, but I think they see past the moment and understand the importance of what we need to do right now.
There are challenges coming up this November. One of the main challenges is to show that these, I think, illegal efforts to disenfranchise voters in this way, African American voters who were explicitly protected by the Voting Rights Act--which was explicitly based on the 14th Amendment, which was explicitly written to address all of the challenges and dangers and awful history that we created with slavery and segregation--all of that we have to fight back.
Now, the Trump administration is not going to make it easy. In addition to appointing a Supreme Court that would strike down the Voting Rights Act, they have gutted the part of the Department of Justice that is supposed to be protecting voting rights enforcement.
When Mr. Trump came into office, one of the first things he did was force out all but two of the attorneys in the voting rights section. Only two were left. In addition to that, they threw out all of the voting rights cases under section 2 of the Voting Rights Act. He did that immediately. He did that before the Supreme Court had even ruled. He was telegraphing exactly what he wanted to have happen with this.
He is not done there. Let's keep in mind a couple of things. In addition to gutting the unit at the Department of Justice that is supposed to protect voting rights, he is making aggressive moves on it. Remember, he did that speech where he talked about nationalizing elections? Well, we all know that Federal elections are run by the States. The Constitution says that. He still announced that anyway.
He also sent the FBI to do a raid on the Fulton County Department of Elections to seize the ballots. Now, I have never seen anything like that.
At first he started out, he sent requests--demands, actually, to 47 States saying: Hey, we want all your voting files. The States resisted, and you can imagine why, especially States where Democrats are at risk of the type of gerrymandering that we have seen in Alabama and North Carolina.
He said he needed to do it based on the theft of the 2020 election. Now, he is still acting like he actually won the 2020 election. This would be kind of like if the team that lost the Super Bowl last year was still running around acting like they actually won it. That is what Donald Trump is doing. Six years later, even though all of the statements they have made about this have been discredited, they have lost in over 60 courts all across the country, including courts with Republican appointees, including courts that are managed by the Republicans with Trump appointees on them. Over and over and over again they say: Nope, you actually lost that election. He won't give it up.
I don't think it is really about the 2020 election anymore. I think in his mind it is really about 2026 and what they might do in November.
We need to keep in mind a couple of things, based on the history that you heard from my colleague from Virginia--and we know history can repeat itself--there is a saying that the arc of the universe is long, but it bends toward justice. The thing to remember is it does not bend on its own. It only bends in the right direction when we make it bend in the right direction.
On Juneteenth this year, the Obama library is going to open in Chicago, a long time coming, an exciting moment. I think it was in some ways a crowning achievement for the United States of America. At least it was viewed that way not just around the world but by many here in the United States. I am going to be excited to see what they have done and what they have built.
The legacy is the most important part of what that is about. The legacy of that Obama election, of what we can do and where we can go is something I think we need to focus on.
I watched a little bit of a special about it, and they played some of his speeches back from that era. The thing that is interesting is they are so different from the speeches we get from the White House now. They are not about division. They are not about anger. There is no hostile attacks on reporters, even when he disagreed with them. There is no threats to wipe out an entire civilization. There is no wars started, just because somebody woke up on the wrong side of the bed. There is none of that stuff.
As he said, there is no red States. There is no blue States. There is the United States of America.
There is a call to a certain type of America that he made that reminded me of John Kennedy's in the 1960s. It reminds me of Dr. King's in the civil rights movement in the late 1960s.
Many of our greatest leaders made the statements that pulled us together, that brought us together, despite the divisions we had in our history, realizing that, as they say, we might have come over here on different ships, but we are all on the same boat now. We need to find a way to start working together again, but we can't keep undermining the rights of other people. We can't keep disrespecting the rule of law. We can't keep undermining democracy if we are going to move in that direction again.
For this Juneteenth, my hope is that the America that we aspire to will get back in the front window and that we will start moving in that direction again and that we can start raising ourselves and our Nation up to those high standards again.
To my colleague from Virginia, I thank her for doing this. I appreciate the work that she has done for the Congressional Black Caucus. I thank my colleagues in the caucus for the work that they do day in and day out. Here in the House, I thank my colleagues. Even when I disagree with them, we can find a way to disagree without being disagreeable. We can find a way to remember that we are all supposed to be fighting for the same things, that we can turn to each other and not on each other at this critical moment.
Jennifer L. McClellan (D-VA)8:50 p.m.
Mr. Speaker, may I inquire as to how much time is remaining?
The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Moore of West Virginia)8:50 p.m.
The gentlewoman from Virginia has 15 minutes left.
Jennifer L. McClellan (D-VA)8:50 p.m.
We the people, in order to form a more perfect union, as I mentioned, the history of our country is how we the people includes everyone. It is how to reconcile the ideals upon which this country was founded as articulated so beautifully by Thomas Jefferson, with the reality upon which this country was founded, as we grapple with the fact that Thomas Jefferson in writing that all men were created equal and endowed by their creator with the unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness did not even include in that sentiment the human beings who labored, enslaved by him treated as property, including his own children.
I think of our country as a family, the American people as a family. Like any family, you cannot heal from family trauma if you don't talk about it, if you don't acknowledge it, if you don't acknowledge the pain of it, if you don't forgive and move forward.
Unfortunately, in our country, too often when we get close to that moment, when we get close to that healing moment, when we get close to that ideal becoming true for everyone, there is a backlash.
Every time in American history that we have begun to address the impact of over 300 years of slavery and Jim Crow on African Americans, there is a backlash.
The first one was the backlash to reconstruction. During reconstruction, when formerly enslaved men gained the right to vote after gaining citizenship, after being promised equal protection under the law, after electing members of their community to Congress--over 22--and after electing hundreds from their communities to State legislatures across the country, gaining social, political, and economic power, working together, in some cases, with White communities--like the Readjuster Party in Virginia, which worked together to create what was, at the time considered--with a small p--the most progressive Constitution that Virginia ever had, where it finally promised, for the first time, every child in Virginia the right to a free public education. And the old power structure said: We have got to break that up.
To break up that coalition, the backlash used three things: propaganda, the lie of White supremacy, the lie of the Lost Cause narrative, that began to ignore what was actually said in articles of succession and say: Well, no, the war was about something else. It wasn't about slavery.
It began to use the lie of the Lost Cause narrative in iconography that said we need to put Black people back in their place by putting these gigantic monuments in front of the courthouse that says: Justice for all, except for you.
Then when they didn't get the message from the propaganda, they said: We are going to use violence through racial terror lynching, and 6,500 people, Black people, were murdered by White mobs through racial terror lynchings from 1865 through the 1960s--1968. Because if they don't get the message of the propaganda, we are going to use violence. We are going to use a mob that will start a race riot when people in Louisiana are trying to register to vote. We are going to use voter suppression because in a country--in a government of the people, of the people, for the people, the government will reflect the perspective and, therefore, meet the needs of the people who participate. If we can keep certain people from participating, we don't have to meet their needs.
So whether it was the literacy test that my great-grandfather had to take in Alabama in 1901, the character requirement he had to meet by finding three White men to vouch for his character to register to vote; whether it was the poll tax that my father and my grandfather had to pay in Tennessee; or voter intimidation and threats, the voter suppression is always part of the backlash.
We are in that backlash now, but the difference is the people who lived through Jim Crow are dying off. There is a concerted effort to keep their stories out of our schools, out of our public places, out of our museums through an executive order. Yet, history is a funny thing. Those stories, just like through all the traditions that were handed down generation to generation, we will continue to tell these stories, no matter how many executive orders are written. No matter how many orders the National Park Service is given to erase the names of people enslaved who worked at the President's house in Philadelphia, we will tell their story. We will work to continue to eliminate the impact of over 300 years of slavery and Jim Crow, even though we have an administration that wants to dismantle the progress we made in doing so, because that impact didn't go away with the wave of a magic wand with the Civil Rights Act or the Voting Rights Act. Now that we see efforts to unwind it, we are going to fight back.
I will close with this: I can't help but think of John Lewis. We are also going to come up on the anniversary of his passing. In his final words to us, John Lewis said: "Democracy is not a state. It is an act, and each generation must do its part to build what we call the Beloved Community, a nation and world society at peace with itself."
My parents, my grandparents, and my great-grandparents fought for that beloved community, and they used the ballot to elect people who would help to build that beloved community.
Now, the Supreme Court has basically said that the medicine for the cancer of racism has worked, so let's get rid of the medicine, that we don't need it anymore, but the cancer is still there.
We are going to fight back as the Congressional Black Caucus. We will not let our voices be silenced. We will not let our history be erased. We will not let our votes be suppressed. We will continue to fight until every American has the right, unencumbered by this government, to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. When we say in the Pledge of Allegiance, "liberty and justice for all," it finally becomes true.
Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
Terri A. Sewell (D-AL)9:00 p.m.
Mr. Speaker. I rise today with my colleagues in the Congressional Black Caucus at a moment of profound consequence for our democracy--a moment when Black representation in America is under attack.
What we are witnessing is about more than just a court case. It is about more than just a political disagreement. We are witnessing a coordinated effort to dismantle the hard-fought gains of the Civil Rights Movement and take us back to the Jim Crow era.
Mr. Speaker, this is a five-alarm-fire.
When the Supreme Court gutted the Voting Rights Act in the Callais decision, they told states that it is okay to dilute the voices of Black voters if it means helping Republicans cling to power.
Think about that. They gave states a license to discriminate in the name of partisanship.
Now, unless Congress acts, we could be on the verge of witnessing the largest reduction in Black representation since Reconstruction.
In my home state of Alabama, the consequences are already being felt.
For years, Alabama's congressional maps have been at the center of a legal battle over the rights of Black Alabamians. Federal courts repeatedly found that state leaders intentionally discriminated against Black voters and illegally diluted their political power. In fact, the congressional map Alabama is now seeking to implement was struck down not once, but twice, for intentlonally discriminating against Black voters.
Despite those findings, the Supreme Court has now cleared the way for Alabama officials to put that very map back into place.
Let that sink in.
Alabama now has a congressional map that federal courts determined was drawn with discriminatory intent--a map with only one seat out of seven where Black voters can elect candidates of their choice.
In a state where Black voters make up nearly one-third of the electorate, that is unacceptable.
I want to be clear--This is not just an issue for Black voters. This is an attack on every American. They may be targeting Black voters today, but no one is safe when a handful of extremists can decide whose voices matter and whose do not.
This is about whether every American, regardless of race or zip code, will have an opportunity to make their voice heard. It is about whether we are willing to learn from our Nation's history or repeat our mistakes.
The struggle for voting rights has never been easy. From Selma to Montgomery, brave Americans shed blood, sweat, and tears to secure the right to vote. They marched, they organized, and some gave their lives so that future generations could participate fully in our democracy.
We owe it to them to continue that fight.
That is why I will never stop working to restore the full protections of the Voting Rights Act. It is why we must revise and pass the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act without delay.
Here is what those state legislators need to understand: They can draw unfair maps, but they cannot silence our voices.
Come November, we will send a message that cannot be ignored--that every voice deserves to be heard in our democracy.
We will not give up. And we will not go back.
Honoring Mary Jane Flores
Pages H3988–H3989 · Official text(Under the Speaker's announced policy of January 3, 2025, Ms. Kaptur of Ohio was recognized for 30 minutes.)
Mr. Speaker, I rise this evening to honor the beautiful, generous, faithful, and patriotic life of Mary Jane Flores.
A graduate of Newton-Wellesley Hospital School of Nursing, she commissioned in 1959 and served proudly as a nurse at Bethesda Naval Hospital here in Washington before her honorable discharge in 1961.
While there, she met and cared for her future husband, beloved Judge Joseph Flores, a veteran who rose to serve as lieutenant commander in the U.S. Naval Reserve. He was elected the first Hispanic judge in Ohio--I might say Toledo, Ohio--and first Hispanic elected to both municipal and juvenile courts. Their first date was over Mexican food on the evening of John F. Kennedy's inauguration.
Dedicated to advancing her education and career, Mary Jane attended Toledo's St. Vincent's Hospital School of Nurse Anesthesia, becoming certified in 1970.
Her passion for helping others extended far beyond her profession. She traveled annually to the Dominican Republic with Midwest Medical Mission. She was instrumental in establishing the first mobile migrant health clinic in northwestern Ohio and volunteered with the Farm Labor Organizing Committee's Summer Health Clinic.
Lovingly known as Memere, a name that began with her first grandchild, Memere quickly became what everyone called her.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Judge Joseph Flores, and is survived by her son, Andre; daughters Maria and Judith; three grandchildren; her sisters, Nancy and Barbara; and many loving nieces, nephews, and dear, forever friends.
I saw her most recently quietly attending to many senior citizens in nursing homes across our region. She did it quietly with no public attention, but she was always there.
Mary Jane was a lifelong Catholic who not only practiced her faith, but she lived it. Her legacy lives on in all the thousands of lives she so nobly touched, certainly in her own family but far beyond that.
Mr. Speaker, President John Fitzgerald Kennedy was a World War II hero, the only U.S. President ever to be awarded the Purple Heart.
In 1943, his PT-109 patrol boat was sunk in the Pacific, struck by a Japanese destroyer. Though wounded in action, Kennedy's athletic prowess allowed him to swim miles in dangerous open seas to safety. The physical damage he sustained caused him to be hospitalized and endure severe back pain throughout the rest of his life.
A gifted orator with a precious sense of humor, he was elected U.S. President in 1960.
His sheer eloquence during his inaugural address called the people of our Nation to highest purpose. He inspired and challenged the American people and especially our youth to "ask not what your country can do for you--ask what you can do for your country."
Globally, he successfully proposed the establishment of the United States Peace Corps and called upon Americans to voluntarily aspire to higher purpose and meet the real world beyond our shores.
A valorous war veteran, he envisioned a higher purpose for our Nation as liberty's champion, to serve humanity across the world by building peaceful global relationships and to carry out practical joint projects for community betterment.
Early on, President Kennedy was faced with a chilling nuclear confrontation with Soviet Russia. Russian naval vessels with nuclear warheads were dispatched by Russian dictator Nikita Khrushchev and entered the Gulf of Mexico, headed toward Cuba, which was ruled by a pro-Russian Communist dictator, Fidel Castro. Within 2 weeks, Kennedy was able to diffuse that real threat to U.S. security. That was the first standoff in the nuclear era.
He and his gifted wife, Jacqueline Kennedy, brought intelligence, artistry, beauty, history, poetry, music, and literary excellence to the White House for special occasions. Their partnership inspired a nation that sought excellence from our leaders at the dawn of a new American age.
His wife, Jacqueline Kennedy, planted a living, beautiful rose garden on the south side of the White House. Recently, that was destroyed by President Trump, who paved it over in concrete in favor of a country club-style patio.
JFK, a highly educated man of arts and letters, inspired and challenged our Nation to aspirational new horizons to land a man on the Moon by the end of the decade, but Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas, Texas, on November 22, 1963, by a formerly discharged U.S. marine, Lee Harvey Oswald, who defected to the Soviet Union and returned to the United States shortly before this horrible, horrible incident.
President Kennedy did not live to see that feat on the Moon achieved as the Apollo 11 mission succeeded in July 1969.
Kennedy's Pulitzer Prize-winning book, "Profiles in Courage," records the stories of several U.S. Senators who lost their elections and their political careers for standing up for their principles. All of those he reported on lost their next elections because they actually stood for something worthy.
He proposed path-breaking civil rights legislation, founded the Peace Corps to embrace a struggling world, and inspired a new generation of public servants who were to follow.
A man who understood history, JFK was determined not to repeat it. His soaring rhetoric, coupled with that of his elegant, educated wife, Jacqueline, worked to restore the White House as a center for arts, culture, the environment, and history.
This past December 2025, it truly came as a shock that the current President of our country forced a handpicked board at the John F. Kennedy Memorial Center for the Performing Arts to approve adding the Trump name to precede the Kennedy name at this cherished living memorial to our valorous, fallen, former President.
Understandably, the people of our Nation immediately called out this outrage and backlashed, as did the Kennedy family themselves.
Former Congressman Joe Kennedy, III, said: "The Kennedy Center is a living memorial to a fallen President and named for President Kennedy by Federal law. It can no sooner be renamed than can someone rename the Lincoln Memorial."
Kerry Kennedy, niece to President Kennedy and the daughter of Robert F. Kennedy who, too, was tragically assassinated in 1968 as a Presidential candidate said: "President Trump and his administration have spent the past year repressing free expression, targeting artists, journalists, and comedians, and erasing the history of Americans whose contributions made our Nation better and more just."
Maria Shriver, daughter of President Kennedy's sister Eunice Kennedy Shriver said: "Some things leave you speechless and enraged and in a state of disbelief."
Then, the Federal court properly ordered President Trump's name be removed. The rule of law really means something. That stopped closure and demolition of this living memorial to a great veteran and sacrificial, revered President.
This removal must be done by court order by close of business this Friday, June 12.
Erasing this stain on the sacrificial legacy that inspired this noble cultural institution means it will endure as a living center of culture for the American people, not only an edifice for a very brave, intelligent, historic President.
Restoring its proper name, historical worth, and its heritage of fine, artistic expression across all mediums shall proceed as the Kennedy family would wish and as history requires.
Thank you to those who wrote our Constitution and placed meaning in the rule of law.
No President, no Member of Congress, can avoid the rule of law.
Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
Senate Enrolled Bill Signed
Page H3989 · Official textThe Speaker announced his signature to an enrolled bill of the Senate of the following title:
Text printed in the Record (213 characters)
S. 254--An act to amend the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 to protect the cultural practices and livelihoods of products of Alaska Native handicrafts and marine mammal ivory products, and for other purposes.
Adjournment
Page H3989 · Official textMr. Speaker, I move that the House do now adjourn.
The motion was agreed to; accordingly (at 9 o'clock and 12 minutes p.m.), under its previous order, the House adjourned until tomorrow, Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 10 a.m. for morning-hour debate.
Executive Communications, Etc.
Page H3989 · Official textUnder clause 2 of rule XIV, executive communications were taken from the Speaker's table and referred as follows:
Text printed in the Record (7,928 characters)
EC-3745. A letter from the Chairman, Farm Credit System Insurance Corporation, transmitting the Corporation's annual report for calendar year 2025; to the Committee on Agriculture.
EC-3746. A letter from the Assistant Secretary, Legislative Affairs, Department of War, transmitting legislative proposals that the Department of War requests be enacted during the second session of the 119th Congress; to the Committee on Armed Services.
EC-3747. A letter from the Assistant Secretary, Department of War, transmitting legislative proposals that the Department of War requests be enacted during the second session of the 119th Congress; to the Committee on Armed Services.
EC-3748. A letter from the President and Chairman, Export-Import Bank, transmitting a report on transactions involving U.S. exports to South Korea, pursuant to 12 U.S.C. 635(b)(3); July 31, 1945, ch. 341, Sec. 2 (as added by Public Law 102-266, Sec. 102); (106 Stat. 95); to the Committee on Financial Services.
EC-3749. A letter from the Chairman and President, Export-Import Bank, transmitting a report on transactions involving U.S. exports to South Korea, pursuant to 12 U.S.C. 635(b)(3); July 31, 1945, ch. 341, Sec. 2 (as added by Public Law 102-266, Sec. 102); (106 Stat. 95); to the Committee on Financial Services.
EC-3750. A letter from the President and Chairman, Export-Import Bank, transmitting a report involving U.S. exports to various countries, pursuant to 12 U.S.C. 635(b)(3); July 31, 1945, ch. 341, Sec. 2 (as added by Public Law 102-266, Sec. 102); (106 Stat. 95); to the Committee on Financial Services.
EC-3751. A letter from the Assistant Secretary for Legislation, Department of Health and Human Services, transmitting the Fiscal Year 2025 Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program Parts A and B Supplemental Awards Report to Congress, pursuant to 42 U.S.C. 300ff-13(e); July 1, 1944, ch. 373, title XXVI, Sec. 2603(e) (as amended by Public Law 109-415, Sec. 104(e)); (120 Stat. 2776) and 42 U.S.C. 300ff-29a(d); July 1, 1944, ch. 373, title XXVI, Sec. 2620(d) (as amended by Public Law 109-415, Sec. 205(2)); (120 Stat. 2798); to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
EC-3752. A letter from the Senior Bureau Official, Bureau of Legislative Affairs, Department of State, transmitting Department Report Number: 007176, Determination and Certification of Countries That Are Not Fully Cooperating with U.S. Anti-Terrorism Efforts, pursuant to 22 U.S.C. 2781(a); Public Law 90-629, Sec. 40A (as added Public Law 104-132, Sec. 330); (110 Stat. 1258); to the Committee on Foreign Affairs.
EC-3753. A letter from the Secretary, Department of the Treasury, transmitting a six-month periodic report on the national emergency with respect to Iran that was declared in Executive Order 12170 of November 14, 1979, pursuant to 50 U.S.C. 1641(c); Public Law 94-412, Sec. 401(c); (90 Stat. 1257) and 50 U.S.C. 1703(c); Public Law 95-223, Sec 204(c); (91 Stat. 1627); to the Committee on Foreign Affairs.
EC-3754. A letter from the Senior Bureau Official, Bureau of Legislative Affairs, Department of State, transmitting Department Notification Number: RSAT 26-51, pursuant to Section 36(b)(1) of the Arms Export Control Act; to the Committee on Foreign Affairs.
EC-3755. A letter from the Senior Bureau Official, Bureau of Legislative Affairs, Department of State, transmitting Department Report Number: 007300, Report Title: Protective Services, pursuant to Public Law 118-47, Sec. 7034(k)(5); (138 Stat. 788) and Public Law 118-47, Sec. 7034(k)(5); (138 Stat. 788); to the Committee on Foreign Affairs.
EC-3756. A letter from the Senior Bureau Official, Bureau of Legislative Affairs, Department of State, transmitting Department Notification Number: RSAT 26-42, pursuant to Section 36(b)(1) of the Arms Export Control Act; to the Committee on Foreign Affairs.
EC-3757. A letter from the Senior Bureau Official, Bureau of Legislative Affairs, Department of State, transmitting Department Notification Number: RSAT 26-40, pursuant to Section 36(b)(1) of the Arms Export Control Act; to the Committee on Foreign Affairs.
EC-3758. A letter from the Senior Bureau Official, Bureau of Legislative Affairs, Department of State, transmitting Department Notification Number: RSAT 26-0P, pursuant to Section 36(b)(5)(C) of the Arms Export Control Act; to the Committee on Foreign Affairs.
EC-3759. A letter from the Senior Bureau Official, Bureau of Legislative Affairs, Department of State, transmitting Department Notification Number: RSAT 0A-26, pursuant to Section 36(b)(5)(a) of the Arms Export Control Act; to the Committee on Foreign Affairs.
EC-3760. A letter from the Senior Bureau Official, Bureau of Legislative Affairs, Department of State, transmitting Department Notification Number: RSAT 26-0Q, pursuant to Section 36(b)(5)(C) of the Arms Export Control Act; to the Committee on Foreign Affairs.
EC-3761. A letter from the Senior Bureau Official, Bureau of Legislative Affairs, Department of State, transmitting Department Notification Number: RSAT 26-0M, pursuant to Section 36(b)(5)(C) of the Arms Export Control Act; to the Committee on Foreign Affairs.
EC-3762. A letter from the Office Manager, Office of the District of Columbia Auditor, transmitting a report titled, "Education Budget Brief", pursuant to Public Law 93-198, Sec. 455(d); (87 Stat. 803); to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.
EC-3763. A letter from the Chair Pro Tempore, Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, transmitting the Board's Semiannual Report to Congress prepared by the Office of Inspector General, covering the six-month period ending March 31, 2026; to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.
EC-3764. A letter from the Secretary, Department of Veterans Affairs, transmitting the Department's semiannual report, pursuant to Sec. 405(c) of the Inspector General Act of 1976; to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.
EC-3765. A letter from the Director of Executive Services, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, transmitting a notification of an action on nomination, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 3349(a); Public Law 105-277, Sec. 151(b); (112 Stat. 2681-614); to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.
EC-3766. A letter from the Solicitor General, Department of Justice, transmitting a decision by the Department of Justice to dismiss its pending appeal of United States v. Aranda, No. 26-5218 (6th Cir.), pursuant to 28 U.S.C. 530D(a)(1); Public Law 107-273, Sec. 202(a); (116 Stat. 1771); to the Committee on the Judiciary.
EC-3767. A letter from the Director, Administrative Office of the United States Courts, transmitting the Office's twenty-first annual report to Congress on crime victims' rights, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. 3771 note; Public Law 108-405, Sec. 104(a); (118 Stat. 2265); to the Committee on the Judiciary.
EC-3768. A letter from the Chair, United States Sentencing Commission, transmitting amendments to the federal sentencing guidelines, policy statements, and official commentary, together with the reasons for the amendments; to the Committee on the Judiciary.
EC-3769. A letter from the Vice President, Government Affairs and Corporate Communications, National Railroad Passenger Corporation, transmitting the Corporation's General and Legislative Annual Report, pursuant to 49 U.S.C. 24320(a)(1); Public Law 114-94, Sec. 11203(a)(1); (129 Stat. 1630); to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
EC-3770. A letter from the Assistant Secretary for Legislation, Department of Health and Human Services, transmitting the Department's report entitled, "Medicare National Coverage Determinations for Fiscal Year 2025", pursuant to 42 U.S.C. 1395ff(f)(7)(A); Aug. 14, 1935, ch. 531, title XVIII, Sec. 1869(f)(7) (as amended by Public Law 106-554, Sec. 1(a)(6)); (114 Stat. 2763A-546); jointly to the Committees on Energy and Commerce and Ways and Means.
Reports of Committees on Public Bills and Resolutions
Pages H3989–H3990 · Official textUnder clause 2 of rule XIII, reports of committees were delivered to the Clerk for printing and reference to the proper calendar, as follows:
Text printed in the Record (2,403 characters)
Mr. WOMACK: Committee on Appropriations. H.R. 9170. A bill making appropriations for the Departments of Transportation,
and Housing and Urban Development, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2027, and for other purposes (Rept. 119-686). Referred to the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union.
Mr. SIMPSON: Committee on Appropriations. H.R. 9171. A bill making appropriations for the Department of the Interior, environment, and related agencies for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2027, and for other purposes (Rept. 119-687). Referred to the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union.
Mr. COMER: Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. H.R. 8463. A bill to establish government:wide requirements for pre-payment fraud prevention actions, to provide the U.S. Treasury appropriate data resources, to facilitate participation in governmentwide anti-fraud data sharing, and for other purposes; with an amendment (Rept. 119-688, Pt. 1). Referred to the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union.
Mr. STEIL: Committee on House Administration. H.R. 6028. A bill to modify the appointment and removal process for certain legislative branch officers, and for other purposes; with an amendment (Rept. 119-689, Pt. 1). Ordered to be printed.
Mr. LANGWORTHY: Committee on Rules. House Resolution 1345. Resolution providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 8312) to establish fraud prevention and program integrity functions and data sharing authorities within the Department of Treasury and a permanent governmentwide Inspector General for Fraud, Accountability, and Recovery, and for other purposes; providing for consideration of the bill (H.R. 8464) to amend title 31, United States Code, to authorize pausing and segmenting payments, and for other purposes; providing for consideration of the resolution (H. Res. 1335) condemning actors seeking to defraud the United States Government, and expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that governmentwide fraud and improper payment prevention reforms will meaningfully improve the financial prosperity of the United States, and that Federal program eligibility should be verified before payment; and providing for consideration of the bill (S. 2) to provide for reconciliation pursuant to title II of S. Con. Res. 33 (Rept. 119-690). Referred to the House Calendar.
Pursuant to clause 2 of rule XIII, the Committee on Ways and Means discharged from further consideration. H.R. 8463 referred to the Committee of the Whole House on the state of the Union.
Public Bills and Resolutions
Pages H3990–H3991 · Official textUnder clause 2 of rule XII, public bills and resolutions of the following titles were introduced and severally referred, as follows:
Text printed in the Record (11,979 characters)
By Mr. ARRINGTON:
H.R. 9172. A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to apply the wash sale rules and constructive sale rules to digital assets, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Ways and Means.
By Mr. KELLY of Pennsylvania:
H.R. 9173. A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to except digital assets from the appraisal requirement applicable to certain charitable contributions, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Ways and Means.
By Mr. BEAN of Florida:
H.R. 9174. A bill to establish the Digital Assets Voluntary Disclosure Program; to the Committee on Ways and Means.
By Mr. CAREY:
H.R. 9175. A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide rules for taxation of income relating to the mining and staking of digital assets, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Ways and Means.
By Mr. KUSTOFF:
H.R. 9176. A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to clarify the application of certain rules with respect to the trading of digital assets, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Ways and Means.
By Ms. McCLELLAN (for herself, Mr. Tonko, Mrs. Foushee,
Ms. Norton, and Ms. Ross):
H.R. 9177. A bill to amend the Research and Development, Competition, and Innovation Act to direct the Director of the National Science Foundation to carry out a mentorship demonstration program, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.
By Mr. YAKYM:
H.R. 9178. A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to reduce certain tax compliance burdens with respect to digital asset ownership, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Ways and Means.
By Ms. GILLEN (for herself and Mr. Lawler):
H.R. 9179. A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide for adjustments in the individual income tax rates to reflect regional differences in the cost-of-living; to the Committee on Ways and Means.
By Mr. BELL:
H.R. 9180. A bill to require the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development to access unmet community development-related needs in areas impacted by disasters on an ongoing basis, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Financial Services.
By Mr. BEYER (for himself, Mrs. Foushee, and Mr. Soto):
H.R. 9181. A bill to require the Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration to establish a pilot program relating to integrating the use of multiple power sources into the rail system, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, and in addition to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
By Mr. BEYER (for himself, Mrs. Foushee, Ms. McClellan,
Ms. Wilson of Florida, and Mr. Soto):
H.R. 9182. A bill to require the Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration to study improving rail and integrating new rail power technologies in the southeastern United States, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
By Mr. BEYER (for himself and Ms. Barragan):
H.R. 9183. A bill to require the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to carry out a study on the environmental impacts of artificial intelligence data centers and associated energy infrastructure, to require the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology to convene a consortium on such environmental impacts, and to require the Administrator to develop a reporting system for the reporting of the environmental impacts of artificial intelligence, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, and in addition to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
By Ms. BOEBERT (for herself, Mr. Crank, Mr. Evans of
Colorado, Mr. Kennedy of Utah, Mr. Hurd of Colorado,
and Mr. Downing):
H.R. 9184. A bill to amend the Endangered Species Act of 1973 with respect to the listing of threatened and endangered species, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Natural Resources.
By Mr. CARBAJAL (for himself and Mr. Huffman):
H.R. 9185. A bill to direct the Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to establish a Blue Whales and Blue Skies Program to reduce air pollution and harmful underwater acoustic impacts and the risk of fatal vessel whale strikes by recognizing voluntary reductions in the speed of vessels transiting the western coast of the United States, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
By Mr. COHEN:
H.R. 9186. A bill to amend the Controlled Substances Act to more closely align the Act with modern medical knowledge, terminology, and practices, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on the Judiciary, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
By Mr. COLE (for himself and Mr. Suozzi):
H.R. 9187. A bill to establish the Commission on Long-Term Social Security Solvency, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Ways and Means, and in addition to the Committee on Rules, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
By Ms. ELFRETH (for herself and Mr. Bergman):
H.R. 9188. A bill to amend title 10, United States Code, to authorize interagency agreements to expedite reviews of priority programs and projects of the Department of Defense, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Armed Services.
By Mr. FROST:
H.R. 9189. A bill to establish an express cause of action for violations of the right to record, observe, or peacefully protest law enforcement activities, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Judiciary.
By Mrs. HARSHBARGER (for herself and Mr. Biggs of
Arizona):
H.R. 9190. A bill to amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to authorize the use of investigational individualized medical treatments by patients diagnosed with a life-threatening disease or condition or severely debilitating illness, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
By Mrs. HOUCHIN (for herself, Mrs. Dingell, Mr. Johnson
of South Dakota, Ms. Maloy, Mr. Langworthy, and Mr.
Mann):
H.R. 9191. A bill to amend chapter 3 of title 36, United States Code, to designate the American mastodon as the national fossil mammal and the Tyrannosaurus rex as the national fossil dinosaur of the United States, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Judiciary.
By Ms. JOHNSON of Texas (for herself and Mr. Lawler):
H.R. 9192. A bill to amend the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, title XXVII of the Public Health Service Act, and the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to require health insurance coverage of drugs indicated for the treatment of autoimmune diseases and certain blood disorders; to the
Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committees on Education and Workforce, and Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
By Mr. KENNEDY of Utah (for himself and Mr. Moore of
North Carolina):
H.R. 9193. A bill to advance NASA's use of nuclear propulsion and power systems for deep space exploration, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.
By Mr. MANN (for himself, Mr. Alford, Mr. Correa, Mr.
Finstad, Mr. Olszewski, Mr. Edwards, and Mr.
McGuire):
H.R. 9194. A bill to clarify the evidentiary treatment of documentation generated under a qualifying process standard for purposes of compliance with the Build America, Buy America Act, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Financial Services.
By Mr. McGARVEY (for himself, Mr. Rutherford, Mr.
Casten, Ms. Craig, Mr. Doggett, Mr. Evans of
Pennsylvania, Mr. Fitzpatrick, Mr. Garbarino, Mr.
Gottheimer, Mrs. Hayes, Mr. Johnson of Georgia, Mr.
Krishnamoorthi, Ms. Lee of Pennsylvania, Mr. Lieu,
Ms. Malliotakis, Mr. Mannion, Mrs. McClain Delaney,
Ms. Moore of Wisconsin, Mr. Morelle, Mr. Moulton, Mr.
Mullin, Ms. Ocasio-Cortez, Mr. Peters, Mr. Raskin,
Mr. Riley of New York, Ms. Schakowsky, Ms. Sewell,
Mr. Takano, Mr. Tonko, and Mr. Whitesides):
H.R. 9195. A bill to promote and ensure delivery of high-quality special education and related services to children and youth who are blind or visually impaired, deaf, hard of hearing, deafdisabled, or deafblind through instructional methodologies meeting their unique language and learning needs, to enhance accountability for the provision of such services, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Education and Workforce.
By Mr. McGARVEY (for himself, Mr. Garbarino, and Mr.
Riley of New York):
H.R. 9196. A bill to promote and ensure delivery of high-quality special education and related services to children and youth who deafblind, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Education and Workforce.
By Mr. MOORE of North Carolina (for himself and Mr.
Peters):
H.R. 9197. A bill to require the Secretary of Energy to study new technologies and opportunities for recycling spent nuclear fuel; to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
By Ms. NORTON:
H.R. 9198. A bill to create a national commission to combat workplace sexual harassment, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Education and Workforce.
By Mr. ROY (for himself, Mr. Perry, Mr. Cloud, Mr.
Donalds, Ms. Boebert, Mr. Ogles, and Mr. Higgins of
Louisiana):
H.R. 9199. A bill to secure the borders of the United States, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition to the Committees on Homeland Security, Ways and Means, and Foreign Affairs, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
By Mr. ROY (for himself, Mr. Biggs of Arizona, Mr.
Perry, Mr. Cloud, Mr. Clyde, Mr. Donalds, Ms.
Boebert, Mr. Ogles, and Mr. Higgins of Louisiana):
H.R. 9200. A bill to secure the borders of the United States, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition to the Committees on Homeland Security, Ways and Means, Foreign Affairs, and Education and Workforce, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
By Mr. RYAN (for himself and Mr. Morelle):
H.R. 9201. A bill to authorize the award of the Purple Heart to Daniel Nimham for injuries incurred during the Revolutionary War; to the Committee on Armed Services.
By Mr. SMITH of New Jersey (for himself and Mr.
Bilirakis):
H.R. 9202. A bill to direct the President to submit to Congress a report on fugitives currently residing in other countries whose extradition is sought by the United States and related matters, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Foreign Affairs.
By Ms. STEFANIK (for herself and Ms. Gillen):
H.R. 9203. A bill to increase the transparency of colleges and universities in carrying out their civil rights responsibilities, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Education and Workforce.
By Mr. SUBRAMANYAM (for himself, Ms. Norton, Mr. Lynch,
Mr. Lieu, and Mr. Goldman of New York):
H.R. 9204. A bill to authorize the Attorney General to make grants to support the development of safe firearm storage devices, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Judiciary.
By Mr. SUBRAMANYAM (for himself, Ms.
Text printed in the Record (3,358 characters)
Norton, Mr.
Moulton, Mr. Johnson of Georgia, Mrs. Hayes, Mr.
Beyer, Mr. Frost, and Ms. Craig):
H.R. 9205. A bill to expand the Gun Free School Zones Act, and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Judiciary.
By Mr. THANEDAR (for himself and Mr. Thompson of
Mississippi):
H.R. 9206. A bill to amend the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to require a Department of Homeland Security-wide policy for public communications, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Homeland Security.
By Mr. VAN DREW:
H.R. 9207. A bill to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to exclude pensions of members of the Armed Forces from gross income; to the Committee on Ways and Means.
By Mrs. WATSON COLEMAN (for herself, Ms. Norton, Mr.
Espaillat, Mr. Case, Mrs. Hayes, Mr. Ivey, and Mr.
Casten):
H.R. 9208. A bill to regulate firearm silencers and firearm mufflers; to the Committee on the Judiciary.
By Ms. BONAMICI (for herself and Mr. Carter of
Georgia):
H. Res. 1343. A resolution recognizing World Oceans Day and celebrating the maritime heritage, ocean leadership, fisheries stewardship, and coastal communities of the United States; to the Committee on Natural Resources, and in addition to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
By Mr. YAKYM (for himself, Mr. Garamendi, Mr. Burchett,
Mr. Pappas, and Mr. Carbajal):
H. Res. 1344. A resolution expressing support for the designation of the week of June 7 through June 13, 2026, as "National Trailer Safety Week" in the United States, and supporting the goals and ideals of National Trailer Safety Week to educate American motorists about the importance of proper towing techniques and maintenance; to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
By Mr. FULLER:
H. Res. 1346. A resolution impeaching Eleanor L. Ross, Judge of the United States District Court for the Northern District of Georgia, for high crimes and misdemeanors; to the Committee on the Judiciary.
By Mr. JAMES:
H. Res. 1347. A resolution recognizing the roles and contributions of automotive workers in the United States, with particular recognition of their impact in Michigan, and expressing support for the designation of September 2026 as "American Automotive Worker Recognition Month"; to the Committee on Education and Workforce, and in addition to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
By Ms. LOFGREN (for herself, Mr. Liccardo, Mr. Khanna,
and Mr. Panetta):
H. Res. 1348. A resolution a resolution expressing support for the James Lick Observatory celebrating their 150th anniversary on June 7, 2026, and recognizing its contributions to science and astronomy; to the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.
By Mr. TAYLOR (for himself, Mr. Figures, Mr. Bost, Ms.
Titus, Ms. Hageman, Ms. Kaptur, Mr. Shreve, Mr.
McDowell, and Mrs. Miller of Illinois):
H. Res. 1349. A resolution expressing support for the designation of the week of May 31 through June 6, 2026, as "Our Roads, Our Safety Week"; to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
Constitutional Authority Statement
Page H3991 · Official textPursuant to clause 7 of rule XII of the Rules of the House of Representatives, the following statements are submitted regarding the specific powers granted to Congress in the Constitution to enact the accompanying bill or joint resolution.
Additional Sponsors
Pages H3992–H3993 · Official textUnder clause 7 of rule XII, sponsors were added to public bills and resolutions, as follows:
Text printed in the Record (7,872 characters)
H.R. 139: Mr. Hamadeh of Arizona.
H.R. 381: Mr. Cohen and Ms. Chu.
H.R. 429: Ms. Tokuda.
H.R. 507: Mr. McGuire.
H.R. 515: Ms. Wilson of Florida and Mr. Frost.
H.R. 516: Mr. Joyce of Pennsylvania.
H.R. 539: Mr. Amodei of Nevada.
H.R. 1083: Mr. Wilson of South Carolina.
H.R. 1178: Mr. McGuire.
H.R. 1267: Mr. Sorensen and Mr. Figures.
H.R. 1340: Ms. Wasserman Schultz.
H.R. 1502: Mr. Moran.
H.R. 1548: Mr. Fleischmann.
H.R. 1564: Ms. Mejia.
H.R. 1628: Mr. Luttrell, Mr. Taylor, Mr. Self, Mr. Cline, Mr. Moore of West Virginia, Mr. Smith of Missouri, Mr. Lucas, Mr. Wilson of South Carolina, Mr. Kustoff, and Mr. Hudson.
H.R. 1703: Mr. Van Drew.
H.R. 1970: Mrs. Kiggans of Virginia.
H.R. 2028: Ms. Goodlander, Ms. Sewell, and Mrs. Kiggans of Virginia.
H.R. 2031: Mr. Espaillat.
H.R. 2055: Mr. DeSaulnier.
H.R. 2089: Ms. Budzinski and Mr. Dunn of Florida.
H.R. 2102: Mr. Cisneros.
H.R. 2120: Mr. Evans of Colorado.
H.R. 2145: Ms. Crockett.
H.R. 2314: Mrs. Kiggans of Virginia.
H.R. 2368: Ms. Strickland and Mr. Huffman.
H.R. 2424: Mr. Yakym.
H.R. 2477: Ms. Tenney.
H.R. 2484: Mrs. Kiggans of Virginia.
H.R. 2531: Ms. Strickland.
H.R. 2555: Mr. Schmidt.
H.R. 2586: Mr. Torres of New York.
H.R. 2598: Ms. Pou.
H.R. 2660: Mr. Hamadeh of Arizona.
H.R. 2694: Mr. Carter of Georgia, Mrs. Cammack, and Mr. Harrigan.
H.R. 2729: Mr. Mast.
H.R. 2757: Mr. Steube.
H.R. 2766: Mr. Owens.
H.R. 2790: Mrs. Beatty, Mr. Latimer, and Ms. Ross.
H.R. 2902: Ms. Balint.
H.R. 2911: Mr. Steil.
H.R. 2936: Mr. Rutherford, Ms. Underwood, Ms. Stevens, Mrs. Miller-Meeks, and Ms. Castor of Florida.
H.R. 3054: Mr. Cohen and Mr. Vindman.
H.R. 3164: Mr. Pfluger and Ms. Fedorchak.
H.R. 3199: Ms. Norton.
H.R. 3449: Mr. Larson of Connecticut.
H.R. 3452: Mr. Khanna.
H.R. 3508: Mr. Figures.
H.R. 3512: Mr. Carey.
H.R. 3514: Mr. Whitesides and Ms. Mace.
H.R. 3526: Ms. Wasserman Schultz.
H.R. 3543: Mr. Espaillat.
H.R. 3696: Ms. Wasserman Schultz.
H.R. 3757: Ms. Castor of Florida.
H.R. 3805: Ms. Balint and Ms. Tokuda.
H.R. 3921: Mr. Loudermilk.
H.R. 3954: Mr. Bacon.
H.R. 3978: Mr. McGuire.
H.R. 4045: Mrs. Kiggans of Virginia.
H.R. 4084: Mr. DeSaulnier.
H.R. 4167: Mr. Ciscomani.
H.R. 4253: Mr. Riley of New York.
H.R. 4265: Ms. Clarke of New York.
H.R. 4382: Mr. Min and Mr. Palmer.
H.R. 4477: Ms. Pingree.
H.R. 4509: Mr. Cleaver.
H.R. 4602: Mr. Smith of Nebraska and Mr. Gottheimer.
H.R. 4606: Mr. Evans of Colorado.
H.R. 4642: Ms. Davids of Kansas.
H.R. 4644: Ms. Norton.
H.R. 4721: Mr. Krishnamoorthi.
H.R. 4731: Mr. Espaillat.
H.R. 4733: Mr. Figures.
H.R. 4821: Mr. Davis of Illinois, Mr. Moskowitz, and Ms. Dexter.
H.R. 4888: Mr. Nadler.
H.R. 4921: Ms. DelBene and Mr. Thanedar.
H.R. 4966: Mr. Frost.
H.R. 5035: Mrs. Kiggans of Virginia.
H.R. 5115: Mr. Fitzpatrick.
H.R. 5152: Mr. Neguse.
H.R. 5178: Mr. Aguilar and Mr. Conaway.
H.R. 5206: Mr. Riley of New York.
H.R. 5269: Mr. Shreve.
H.R. 5272: Ms. Hoyle of Oregon.
H.R. 5351: Mr. Van Epps and Mr. Whitesides.
H.R. 5387: Ms. Wasserman Schultz.
H.R. 5408: Mr. Moulton, Mr. McGovern, Ms. Omar, Mr. Bell, and Ms. Meng.
H.R. 5434: Mr. Riley of New York.
H.R. 5439: Mr. Torres of New York and Ms. Bonamici.
H.R. 5658: Mr. Espaillat.
H.R. 5684: Mr. Walkinshaw.
H.R. 5753: Ms. Bonamici.
H.R. 5946: Mrs. Kiggans of Virginia.
H.R. 6056: Mr. Ryan, Ms. Morrison, Mrs. McIver, and Ms. Castor of Florida.
H.R. 6069: Ms. Crockett.
H.R. 6089: Mr. Hernandez.
H.R. 6130: Mr. Shreve, Ms. Strickland, Mr. Pappas, Mr. Hamadeh of Arizona, Ms. Mejia, Mr. Cohen, Ms. Simon, Ms. Stansbury, Mr. Calvert, Mr. Hern of Oklahoma, Ms. Ross, Mr. Bergman, Mr. Webster of Florida, Ms. Wasserman Schultz, Mr. Bost, Mrs. Radewagen, and Ms. Lee of Florida.
H.R. 6138: Ms. Crockett.
H.R. 6251: Mr. Smucker.
H.R. 6527: Mr. Wilson of South Carolina.
H.R. 6635: Ms. Crockett.
H.R. 6688: Ms. Lofgren.
H.R. 6694: Ms. Meng.
H.R. 6718: Mr. Van Orden.
H.R. 6830: Mr. Deluzio.
H.R. 6832: Mr. Thompson of Pennsylvania.
H.R. 7014: Mr. McGovern.
H.R. 7100: Ms. Mejia.
H.R. 7187: Mr. Stutzman.
H.R. 7223: Mr. Smith of Washington.
H.R. 7335: Mr. Frost and Mr. Stanton.
H.R. 7409: Mr. Austin Scott of Georgia.
H.R. 7457: Mr. James.
H.R. 7526: Mr. Mannion.
H.R. 7546: Ms. DelBene.
H.R. 7548: Mr. Moore of North Carolina and Mr. Barr.
H.R. 7622: Mr. Mullin.
H.R. 7657: Ms. Crockett.
H.R. 7730: Mr. Taylor.
H.R. 7745: Mr. Bergman.
H.R. 7769: Ms. Williams of Georgia and Mr. Stutzman.
H.R. 7805: Ms. Salinas.
H.R. 7866: Mr. Vicente Gonzalez of Texas.
H.R. 7868: Ms. McBride.
H.R. 7871: Mr. Kelly of Pennsylvania, Mr. Meuser, and Mr. Balderson.
H.R. 7905: Mrs. Miller of West Virginia, Mr. Harder of California, Mr. Lynch, Mr. Tonko, Mr. Bishop, Mr. Evans of Colorado, Mr. Pfluger, Ms. Balint, and Mr. Smith of Nebraska.
H.R. 7960: Mr. McGovern.
H.R. 7963: Mr. Gill of Texas.
H.R. 7977: Mr. Figures.
H.R. 8023: Ms. Salinas.
H.R. 8041: Mr. Landsman.
H.R. 8101: Mr. Moolenaar.
H.R. 8112: Mr. Gill of Texas.
H.R. 8119: Mr. Van Drew.
H.R. 8195: Mr. James.
H.R. 8210: Mr. James.
H.R. 8239: Mr. Ciscomani and Mr. Panetta.
H.R. 8283: Mr. Begich and Mr. Moran.
H.R. 8291: Ms. Tlaib.
H.R. 8326: Ms. Pou, Mr. Van Drew, and Mr. Norcross.
H.R. 8341: Mrs. Luna.
H.R. 8375: Mr. Davis of North Carolina.
H.R. 8403: Mr. Cline.
H.R. 8414: Mr. Langworthy.
H.R. 8436: Ms. Norton.
H.R. 8437: Mr. Fong.
H.R. 8477: Mrs. Kiggans of Virginia.
H.R. 8523: Ms. DeGette.
H.R. 8555: Ms. Lee of Pennsylvania.
H.R. 8582: Mr. Keating.
H.R. 8592: Mr. Magaziner.
H.R. 8596: Mr. Moore of Alabama.
H.R. 8601: Mr. Schmidt.
H.R. 8630: Mr. Hamadeh of Arizona.
H.R. 8662: Mrs. Houchin.
H.R. 8687: Mr. James.
H.R. 8694: Mr. Kennedy of New York, Mr. Smith of Washington, Ms. Craig, and Mr. Latimer.
H.R. 8697: Mr. Guest.
H.R. 8700: Mr. Calvert.
H.R. 8726: Mr. Austin Scott of Georgia.
H.R. 8730: Mr. James.
H.R. 8733: Mr. Kennedy of New York.
H.R. 8761: Mrs. Miller of Illinois.
H.R. 8780: Mr. Owens, Mr. Fleischmann, and Mr. Barr.
H.R. 8791: Mr. Thompson of Pennsylvania and Ms. Pressley.
H.R. 8794: Ms. Norton.
H.R. 8814: Mr. Latimer.
H.R. 8817: Ms. Lois Frankel of Florida, Ms. Titus, and Mr. Self.
H.R. 8887: Ms. Norton and Ms. Elfreth.
H.R. 8892: Mr. Kelly of Pennsylvania, Mr. Calvert, and Ms. Van Duyne.
H.R. 8909: Mr. Goldman of New York.
H.R. 8925: Mr. Whitesides.
H.R. 8955: Ms. Ross.
H.R. 8982: Ms. Pelosi, Mr. Wilson of South Carolina, and Ms. Norton.
H.R. 9000: Mr. Fleischmann.
H.R. 9009: Mr. Fleischmann.
H.R. 9017: Ms. Lee of Florida.
H.R. 9047: Mr. Pallone.
H.R. 9048: Mr. Van Drew.
H.R. 9062: Mr. Mackenzie.
H.R. 9072: Mr. Fong and Mr. Yakym.
H.R. 9086: Mr. Mackenzie.
H.R. 9094: Mr. Mast.
H.R. 9096: Mr. Self.
H.R. 9099: Ms. Chu and Mrs. Watson Coleman.
H.R. 9103: Mr. Burchett, Mr. Gosar, and Mr. Fine.
H.R. 9124: Mr. Quigley.
H.R. 9131: Mr. Harrigan.
H.R. 9132: Mr. Begich.
H.R. 9147: Mr. Goldman of New York and Ms. Lois Frankel of Florida.
H.R. 9156: Mr. Collins.
H.R. 9160: Mr. Burchett, Mr. Gill of Texas, Mr. Hamadeh of Arizona, and Mr. Self.
H.R. 9167: Mr. Zinke.
H.J. Res. 152: Mr. Self.
H.J. Res. 158: Mrs. Luna.
H.J. Res. 187: Ms. Norton and Mr. Cohen.
H.J. Res. 189: Mr. DeSaulnier, Mr. Scott of Virginia, Ms. Scanlon, and Mr. Gottheimer.
H. Con. Res. 108: Mrs. Ramirez.
H. Res. 475: Mr. Allen.
H. Res. 925: Mr. Boyle of Pennsylvania.
H. Res. 1106: Mr. Lieu, Ms. Velazquez, Ms. Jacobs, Mr. Khanna, and Mr. Mullin.
H. Res. 1168: Mr. Gill of Texas.
H. Res. 1204: Mrs. Luna.
H. Res. 1205: Mrs. Luna.
H. Res. 1261: Mr. James.
H. Res. 1279: Mr. James.
H. Res. 1310: Mr. Hamadeh of Arizona.
H. Res. 1322: Mr. Sherman.
H. Res. 1335: Ms. Boebert.
H. Res. 1338: Mr. Allen, Mr. Gill of Texas, and Mr. Fine.
H. Res. 1342: Mr. Scott of Virginia, Mrs. McBath, Ms. Balint, Mr. Goldman of New York, and Mr. Subramanyam.