Gus Bilirakis

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 1797, the Setting Consumer Standards for Lithium-Ion Batteries Act. It is important that the House pass this legislation because when lithium-ion batteries are poorly made--usually ones that come from China, I might add--lack adequate safety standards, are charged improperly, or are damaged, they are prone to ignite a fire. The associated fires may be accompanied by explosions and the release of toxic gas, causing significant injuries to consumers. We cannot let that happen. As these micromobility devices have risen in popularity, the use of lithium-ion batteries has increased, as has the use of counterfeit or unsafe batteries coming from China, creating the need for a Federal safety standard. H.R. 1797 would require the Consumer Product Safety Commission to issue a consumer product safety standard for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries used in micromobility devices to protect against the risk of fires. Mr. Speaker, I thank Representatives Garbarino and Torres, and others from New York such as Representative Clarke, and all other Members, for leading this important bipartisan effort to protect citizens and first responders. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this necessary piece of legislation, and I reserve the balance of my time.

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

Mr. BILIRAKIS. 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 the bill.

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, in closing, I encourage a ``yes'' vote on this particular bill, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I express my support for H.R. 4814, the Consumer Safety Technology Act led by Representatives Soto, Burgess, Trahan, and Guthrie. It should be no surprise, Mr. Speaker, that the global race for economic dominance today is centered around technology, specifically around emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and blockchain. Throughout this Congress, the Energy and Commerce Committee, led by our chairwoman, Cathy McMorris Rodgers, and our ranking member, Mr. Pallone, has examined ways that the U.S. can continue to lead in the development and deployment of such technologies. In our subcommittee, we have discussed the need to ensure America leads the world and wins this critical competition, particularly against our adversaries, in this case, China, in every field. This legislation will complement other initiatives we are undertaking. If enacted, H.R. 4814 would ensure our consumer protection agencies stay up to date with emerging technologies and would encourage the use of emerging technologies such as AI and blockchain in support of product safety and consumer protection. Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleagues for their work on this particular piece of legislation, and I urge a ``yes'' vote on H.R. 4814. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 4814) to direct the Consumer Product Safety Commission to establish a pilot program to explore the use of artificial intelligence in support of the mission of the Commission and to direct the Secretary of Commerce and the Federal Trade Commission to study and report on the use of blockchain technology and digital tokens, respectively, as amended.

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and insert extraneous material in the Record on this particular bill.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. Bucshon), my good friend.

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, in closing, I again encourage a ``yes'' vote on this particular piece of legislation. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 6572, the Deploying American Blockchains Act. I thank the sponsor and lead on this particular piece of legislation, Representative Bucshon, Dr. Bucshon, for his tireless efforts. He is definitely on a roll here. According to a report from Electric Capital, the United States is at serious risk of losing our global leadership in blockchain technology. The report states that in 2015, 40 percent of all blockchain developers were based in the United States, but today, that number has fallen to just 29 percent, Mr. Speaker, and it is continuing to decline. We can't let that happen. We have to stop that. Our country benefited greatly from our leadership in the development and deployment of the internet decades ago, but we cannot cede leadership over critical technologies like blockchains to others. This important bill will direct the Secretary of Commerce to take actions necessary to promote U.S. competitiveness related to the deployment, use, and new applications of this particular piece of technology. Instead of pushing American innovators abroad, the Secretary of Commerce needs to ensure that American innovators build here in the United States of America. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in voting of H.R. 6572, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. Bucshon).

Mr. BILIRAKIS. 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 in the Record on this particular bill.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. 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 in the Record on this bill.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the unique contributions made to our community by one of my constituents, Catherine Scheland, has exemplified outstanding dedication and selflessness as a volunteer with a local non-profit, One Community Now. Cathy plays a pivotal role in the organization's Veterans program, serving as a team leader for Operation Stand Down. Her commitment is truly commendable, dedicating over 180 hours each year to the event's setup, overseeing the Chaplains' area, and co-directing the transportation area. Beyond the event, Cathy personally delivers bicycles to veterans in need throughout the year, using her own resources to provide locks and lights. She serves as a mentor, offering support and using her own funds to assist homeless veterans with housing. In the organization's Pack A Sack initiative to fight childhood hunger, Cathy is also actively involved, ensuring children have food every weekend of the year. She not only contributes her time but also financially supports the program. Cathy's engagement extends to the agency's annual Pack the Park fundraiser, where she plays a vital role in securing sponsors, donations, and volunteers. Cathy's dedication isn't confined to our One Community Now; she volunteers with other non-profits and actively participates in her church. Her strong faith, character, and compassionate heart make her a hero in our community. Additionally, Cathy's role as a prayer warrior and her unwavering support for those in need further showcase her exceptional qualities. It is clear that Ms. Scheland has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for her service.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the unique contributions made to our community by one of my constituents, James DiNicola, through his volunteerism with local non-profits. As a Korean War veteran approaching his 90th birthday, James embodies the essence of unwavering dedication to community service and a selfless commitment to others. James's years of service in the Army during the Korean War laid the foundation for a lifetime dedicated to volunteering. Currently, he devotes his time to four non-profit organizations: One Community Now, Sleep in Heavenly Peace, Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, and Holy Spirit Episcopal Church. At One Community Now, James is a cornerstone of Operation Stand Down, where he assists with bike transportation for veterans, contributes to maintenance work, and provides invaluable encouragement to younger veterans navigating their challenges. His active involvement in the annual Pack the Park event reflects his dedication to the community, handling pumpkin pickups and managing food donations for hungry children. With over six years of unwavering commitment to One Community Now, James stands as a testament to steadfast volunteerism. For 3 \1/2\ years, James has been an indispensable volunteer at Sleep in Heavenly Peace, assembling beds for children and personally delivering them to their homes. His service extends to his church, where he selflessly aids in setting up for funerals, tends to landscaping, and tackles various maintenance jobs. In his community and family, James serves as a mentor, dog walker, and a source of encouragement to everyone he encounters. Remarkably, Jim still dedicates 20 hours a week as the maintenance person at Blue Jay Estates in Clearwater. James DiNicola's tireless and selfless service, notwithstanding his age, epitomizes the true spirit of heroism and community dedication. His unwavering desire to be a genuine servant for the glory of God resonates in every aspect of his volunteering. James is an inspiration to everyone he serves with, consistently maintaining a supportive and positive attitude. It is clear that Mr. DiNicola has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for his service.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the unique contributions made to our community by one of my constituents, Mike Orlito, who has made an indelible mark as an impactful and influential volunteer for the Community Food Bank. Mike's dedication, passion, and tireless efforts are inspirational. From the moment Mike stepped through the doors of this organization, his commitment to alleviating hunger and supporting those in need has been unwavering. His willingness to go above and beyond in every task he undertakes exemplifies the true spirit of volunteerism and advocacy. One of Mike's most notable contributions is his leadership and promotion of the Community Food Bank within the community. Whether it's rallying local businesses, community groups, or donors, Mike has a remarkable ability to inspire others to join our fight against hunger. His strategic planning and effective communication skills have resulted in record- breaking donations, tremendous organizational growth, and increased awareness of food insecurity issues in our area. Beyond his efforts in advocacy, Mike lends his talents to the organization's Fundraising Committee, ensuring each event is a success. Mike always has a smile on his face and a genuine warmth in his heart, believing that we are all better together. His positive attitude is infectious and genuine. The empathy Mike demonstrates emulates the welcoming and inclusive environment that the Community Food Bank values and bases its mission upon. Mike also actively engages with local policymakers, participates in community forums, and raises awareness about the importance of addressing food insecurity. Through his efforts, Mike has helped to grow the Community Food Bank from a $1.8 million operation to a $5.1 million meal distribution hub for three counties in Florida. It is clear that Mr. Orlito has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for his service.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the unique contributions made to our community by one of my constituents, William Lewis. A distinguished Army veteran, William, also known as Bill, has been an integral part of the Board of Directors for a local non-profit, One Community Now, serving as a dedicated volunteer since 2013. Bill's commitment extends beyond his role at One Community Now; he serves as a deacon at the First United Methodist Church of New Port Richey and is an active member of the American Legion Post 79. As a leader in Operation Stand Down, Bill plays a pivotal role in fundraising and establishing connections with various Veteran organizations throughout the Tampa Bay area, including American Legions, VFWs, Am Vets, Eagles, Elks, and others. His dedication is evident in his weekly support for veterans at our Veteran Support Center, where he provides lunch and assistance to homeless and at-risk veterans. Bill brings his extensive business experience and strong work ethic to One Community Now's Board meetings, contributing to the organization's strategic direction. At his church, Bill assists his wife, Jean Ann, in managing the food pantry, making personal deliveries of food and supplies to shut-ins. He actively participates in the Pack- A-Sack program, leveraging his network to secure donations of food items. Bill's readiness to respond to any call for assistance reflects his heart for Veterans, children, and anyone facing hunger, driven by his commitment to serving the Lord. In addition to his roles at One Community Now, his church, and at the American Legion Post 79, Bill actively engages in various committees and programs, such as The American Legion's Oratorical Contest, the Christmas Wreaths Across America and the Cub Scouts of America. Despite approaching his 80th birthday in April, Bill's shows no sign of slowing down. He continues to demonstrate an unwavering dedication to others. It is clear that Mr. Lewis has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for his service.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the unique contributions that have been made to our community by one of my constituents, Bryan Fisher. Three years ago, his mother was diagnosed with colon cancer and started a non-profit charity with her gastroenterologist and surgeon. Their goal was helping other colon cancer patients. Bryan, who was a Pre-Med student at the University of South Florida in Tampa at the time, volunteered countless hours to help the organization get off the ground. He maintains the non-profit organization's website, updating it regularly with helpful resources for patients and healthcare providers. The Foundation provides pamphlets to endoscopy centers that perform colonoscopies. If a mass is found, the center gives the patient the pamphlet so patients don't have to go through their cancer journey alone. The foundation also provides the public with pamphlets about colon cancer screening and pamphlets for current colon cancer patients. All of the pamphlets have been designed by Bryan. Bryan has also been instrumental in fundraising efforts to ensure the non-profit foundation has the resources it needs to operate. Bryan even formed the ``Green and Gold Committee'' at USF where he and his fellow Pre-Med students met regularly to discuss ways to help the Foundation prosper. They held a ``game night'' at USF to educate college kids about colon cancer and offered screening information for them to share with their family members. They raised a little money and dispensed a lot of information. Bryan is about to start his journey in medical school this summer and plans to practice medicine in Citrus County one day. It is clear that Mr. Fisher has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for his service.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the unique contributions made to our community by one of my constituents, Thomas Snee, who is a member of the Pasco County Senior Leadership Team. In June of 2023, in order to avoid disruption of services for vulnerable seniors in Pasco County, the county stepped up to the plate to provide state and federally funded essential case management and services to seniors via three major programs: Community Care for the Elderly (CCE), Home Care for the Elderly (HCE), and the Alzheimer's Disease Initiative (ADI). When the former lead agency was unable to continue at that capacity, Pasco County Senior Services Leadership Team acted swiftly because they understood the importance of ensuring seamless continuity of services to seniors. As such, the team spent hundreds of hours researching and writing a 750-page grant that they did not have experience writing, preparing services that they had never offered, and standing up a new team to complete the services, whereby, almost doubling the size of its current Division. They did so while continuing their normal services to seniors throughout the county. In the end, the county was awarded the honor of becoming the new ``Lead Agency.'' This ensured that over 500 at-risk seniors in Pasco would not go without critical care. The Pasco County Senior Services Leadership Team also took on new duties and extra challenges during the transition period. All Program Coordinators took specific parts of the new grant or accompanying duties to learn and provide feedback on or they took on extra work to allow other team leaders to do so. This team truly collaborated with each other and several other departments to make this Lead Agency bid a reality. Taking on this new tier of services demonstrates how this team exemplifies the term ``Heroes Among Us.'' It is clear that Mr. Snee and the Pasco County Senior Leadership Team has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for their service.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the service and patriotism of one of my constituents, Ernest Scango. Mr. Scango was born on January 8, 1923 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He was drafted into the United States Army on March 5, 1943. After training at Fort Benning, Ernest joined the 551st Paratroop Infantry Battalion. As a Parachutist and Rifleman, Ernest participated in the major battles taking place in France. He took part in Operation Dragoon which was designed to secure the southern coast of France and the critical Mediterranean ports while forcing the Germans to open a second front while facing the D-Day invasion in Normandy under Operation Overlord. Then, he subsequently redeployed and took part in the Ardennes Offensive and Rhineland campaigns which were critical to ending war in Europe. Today, Mr. Scango lives in Homosassa, Florida where he just celebrated his 102nd birthday. This month, he is receiving the distinguished insignia at ``Chevalier de la Legion d'Honneur'' (``Knight in the Legion of Honor'') from the French government. As a Member of the Greatest Generation, Mr. Scango and his fellow brothers and sisters-in-arms demonstrated incredible bravery and skill as they fought to save the world from the evils of Nazism, hatred and genocide. We all owe this hero a debt of gratitude that can never fully be repaid. Today and always, we remember his patriotism and courageous actions. We must honor his service and sacrifice by continuing to protect the sacred values of freedom he fought so hard to defend.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the unique contributions made to our community by one of my constituents, Josephine Benson, who is a member of the Pasco County Senior Leadership Team. In June of 2023, in order to avoid disruption of services for vulnerable seniors in Pasco County, the county stepped up to the plate to provide state and federally funded essential case management and services to seniors via three major programs: Community Care for the Elderly (CCE), Home Care for the Elderly (HCE), and the Alzheimer's Disease Initiative (ADI). When the former lead agency was unable to continue it that capacity, Pasco County Senior Services Leadership Team acted swiftly because they understood the importance of ensuring seamless continuity of services to seniors. As such, the team spent hundreds of hours researching and writing a 750-page grant that they did not have experience writing, preparing services that they had never offered, and standing up a new team to complete the services, whereby, almost doubling the size of its current Division. They did so while continuing their normal services to seniors throughout the county. In the end, the county was awarded the honor of becoming the new ``Lead Agency.'' This ensured that over 500 at-risk seniors in Pasco would not go without critical care. The Pasco County Senior Services Leadership Team also took on new duties and extra challenges during the transition period. All Program Coordinators took specific parts of the new grant or accompanying duties to learn and provide feedback on or they took on extra work to allow other team leaders to do so. This team truly collaborated with each other and several other departments to make this Lead Agency bid a reality. Taking on this new tier of services demonstrates how this team exemplifies the term ``Heroes Among Us.'' It is clear that Ms. Benson and the Pasco County Senior Leadership Team has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for their service.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the unique contributions made to our community by one of my constituents, Veronica Ignat, who is a member of the Pasco County Senior Leadership Team. In June of 2023, in order to avoid disruption of services for vulnerable seniors in Pasco County, the county stepped up to the plate to provide state and federally funded essential case management and services to seniors via three major programs: Community Care for the Elderly (CCE), Home Care for the Elderly (HCE), and the Alzheimer's Disease Initiative (ADI). When the former lead agency was unable to continue in that capacity, Pasco County Senior Services Leadership Team acted swiftly because they understood the importance of ensuring seamless continuity of services to seniors. As such, the team spent hundreds of hours researching and writing a 750-page grant that they did not have experience writing, preparing services that they had never offered, and standing up a new team to complete the services, whereby, almost doubling the size of its current Division. They did so while continuing their normal service to seniors throughout the county. In the end, the county was awarded the honor of becoming the new ``Lead Agency.'' This ensured that over 500 at-risk seniors in Pasco would not go without critical care. The Pasco County Senior Services Leadership Team also took on new duties and extra challenges during the transition period. All Program Coordinators took specific parts of the new grant or accompanying duties to learn and provide feedback on or they took on extra work to allow other team leaders to do so. This team truly collaborated with each other and several other departments to make this Lead Agency bid a reality. Taking on this new tier of services demonstrates how this team exemplifies the term ``Heroes Among Us.'' It is clear that Ms. Ignat and the Pasco County Senior Leadership Team has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for their service.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the unique contributions of one of my constituents, Monica Gonzalez who serves as a volunteer Board Member for the local non-profit, Brooksville Main Street. These outstanding volunteers put in hundreds of hours while running their businesses and organizations. They have all come together for a common cause--to serve the community by bringing much-loved events to downtown Brooksville. Each of these board members have servant hearts, and their dedication and commitment to our community is impressive. Part of what makes our country so great is the willingness of ordinary Americans to go above and beyond to selflessly give back to others. Volunteerism is one of the cornerstones of our society and part of the fabric that unites us. It is clear that Ms. Gonzalez and her fellow board members have made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for their service.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the unique contributions made to our community by one of my constituents, David Jackson. For nearly 25 years, David has served the clients and staff of Operation PAR in several capacities. David started out as a detention screener for PAR's Pasco Juvenile Assessment Center in August 2000 and worked his way up to Program Supervisor after earning his Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice. In 2008, he transferred to Operation PAR's Medication Assisted Patient Services (MAPS) program in Port Richey, where he worked as a substance abuse counselor, assisting clients to learn the skills necessary to overcome their substance use and mental health issues. David went on to complete his Master's degree in Forensic Psychology and became a Master's Level Certified Addiction Professional through the Florida Certification Board. Soon after, David became Clinic Supervisor at MAPS Pasco where he worked with both clients and counselors to ensure successful treatment outcomes. In November 2015, David was promoted to Program Director at MAPS-Hernando where he has worked tirelessly to increase awareness of the dangers of opioid misuse and educate clients, families, and communities about treatment services through attending meetings, community events, and membership in the Hernando County Community Alliance. As Director, David successfully navigated the COVID-19 public health emergency to prioritize continuity of care for clients while ensuring the health and safety of his team. In 2022, David was named Operation PAR MAPS Program Supervisor of the Year and in 2023 he was named Operation PAR MAPS Clinician of the Year. It is clear that Mr. Jackson has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for his service.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the unique contributions made to our community by one of my constituents, the Honorable Stephen Toner. Judge Toner exemplifies servant leadership through his extensive involvement with the Boy Scouts of America. Beginning his journey in the program as a youth, he attained the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout, a commitment he has sustained into his adult life. Noteworthy is his dedicated service to the Withlacoochee District for more than a decade, holding positions such as District Commissioner, District Vice Chair, and presently, District Chair. Furthermore, he plays an active role on the Council Executive Board for the Greater Tampa Bay Area Council. Engagement in scouting has afforded Judge Toner a constructive avenue to contribute to his community. On numerous weekends, he can be found instructing merit badge classes, engaging in service initiatives at camp, or simply conversing with scouts, serving as a positive role model for them. Judge Toner plays a pivotal role in inspiring the youth involved in the program to strive for excellence. His dedication lies in ensuring their readiness to tackle life's challenges, irrespective of their magnitude. By emphasizing focus on tasks, objectives, and goals, he instills motivation. Notably, he prioritizes the well-being of our youth over personal interests, establishing trustworthiness and fostering a sense of confidence. The Boy Scouts of America's mission is to ``prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Law.'' Judge Toner exemplifies this mission through his dedication to supporting the youth of our community. Leading by example, he remains steadfast in his willingness to contribute in any capacity necessary to further this noble cause. It is clear that Judge Stephen Toner has made a profoundly positive impact on our community, and I am grateful for his service.