Gus Bilirakis

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Brandon Krauter, a BP Lineman with Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative (WREC), for his outstanding service as part of WREC's second mission supporting the Light Up Navajo Project. The Light Up Navajo initiative calls upon skilled utility professionals to volunteer their expertise to help bring electricity to Navajo families who have lived without power for generations. Mr. Krauter answered that call, traveling far from home and putting his specialized skills to work on behalf of families in need. For those of us accustomed to reliable electricity, it can be easy to overlook just how much it affects our daily lives. Power means children can study after dark, food and medicine can be safely refrigerated, and families can enjoy greater safety and comfort in their homes. By participating in this mission, Mr. Krauter demonstrated that his commitment to service extends far beyond the communities WREC traditionally serves. His work exemplifies the cooperative principle of neighbors helping neighbors and shows the tremendous difference skilled professionals can make when they choose to use their talents to help others. I commend Mr. Brandon Krauter for his professionalism, dedication, and selfless service. His contribution to Light Up Navajo reflects great credit upon WREC and our community.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Jesse Diaz, a WH Lineman with Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative (WREC), for his dedicated service as part of WREC's second mission supporting the Light Up Navajo Project. The Light Up Navajo initiative brings skilled utility professionals together in service to Navajo families who have lived without electricity for generations. Mr. Diaz volunteered his expertise as a lineman and helped undertake the challenging work required to extend electrical service to families in need. The results of this work can transform everyday life. Electricity means children can study after dark, families can safely preserve food and medicine, and elders can live with greater comfort and security. It brings connection, opportunity, and greater independence to the families who receive it. Mr. Diaz's willingness to use his professional skills in service to people far from his own community reflects tremendous character. His contribution exemplifies WREC's commitment to service and the cooperative principle that neighbors help neighbors wherever the need may be. I commend Mr. Jesse Diaz for his skill, dedication, and compassion. His service to the Light Up Navajo mission reflects great credit upon WREC and our entire community.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, rise today to recognize Mr. Brett Towns, an OPC Lineman with Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative (WREC), for his dedicated service as part of WREC's second mission supporting the Light Up Navajo Project. Through this important initiative, skilled utility professionals volunteer their time and expertise to help bring electricity to Navajo families who have lived without power for generations. Mr. Towns used his specialized skills as a lineman to help carry out the demanding work necessary to extend electrical service to families in need. Electricity is something many of us rarely have to think about, but for those who have lived without it, access to reliable power can transform daily life. It provides light after dark, allows families to safely refrigerate food and medicine, and brings greater safety, comfort, and opportunity. Mr. Towns' willingness to put his skills to work for families far from his own community is a testament to his character and the spirit of service found throughout WREC. His work demonstrates that the cooperative tradition of neighbors helping neighbors extends well beyond geographic boundaries. I commend Mr. Brett Towns for his professionalism, hard work, and commitment to this life-changing mission. His service reflects great credit upon WREC and our entire community.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Brian Allen, an SO Lineman with Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative (WREC), for his exceptional service as part of WREC's second mission supporting the Light Up Navajo Project. The Light Up Navajo initiative brings skilled utility professionals together to help extend electrical service to Navajo families who have lived without power for generations. Mr. Allen volunteered his expertise as a lineman and helped undertake the challenging, hands-on work required to bring this essential service to families in need. The importance of this mission cannot be measured simply in poles, wires, or electrical connections. Electricity gives children the ability to study after dark, helps families safely preserve food and medicine, and provides greater safety and comfort for elders. It brings new possibilities to homes and communities. Mr. Allen's willingness to put his professional skills to work on behalf of others demonstrates tremendous character and embodies the cooperative tradition of neighbors helping neighbors. I commend Mr. Brian Allen for his hard work, professionalism, and dedication to this worthwhile mission. His contribution to Light Up Navajo reflects great credit upon WREC and our entire community.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Cole Morgan, a CR Lineman with Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative (WREC), for his dedicated service as part of WREC's second mission supporting the Light Up Navajo Project. Light Up Navajo brings together skilled utility professionals who volunteer their expertise to help extend electricity to Navajo families who have lived without power for generations. Mr. Morgan answered this call to service, using his specialized training and experience as a lineman to help make reliable electrical service a reality for families in need. The impact of this work reaches well beyond the electrical infrastructure itself. Reliable power gives children light to study, allows families to safely preserve food and medicine, and provides greater comfort and security in the home. Mr. Morgan's willingness to put his skills to work far beyond WREC's traditional service territory demonstrates both compassion and an extraordinary commitment to service. His efforts are a powerful example of the cooperative principle of neighbors helping neighbors. I commend Mr. Cole Morgan for his professionalism, dedication, and willingness to use his talents to improve the lives of others. His service reflects great credit upon WREC and our entire community.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Dyllon Leab, an OPC Lineman with Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative (WREC), for his exceptional service as part of WREC's second mission supporting the Light Up Navajo Project. The Light Up Navajo initiative relies on skilled utility professionals who volunteer their expertise to help extend electrical service to Navajo families who have lived without power for generations. Mr. Leab answered that call, using his training and experience as a lineman to help perform the difficult work necessary to bring reliable electricity to families in need. The impact of this work extends far beyond electrical infrastructure. Reliable power allows children to study after dark, enables families to safely store food and medicine, and gives elders greater comfort and security in their homes. It brings greater opportunity and improves quality of life. Mr. Leab's participation in this mission demonstrates both technical skill and a genuine commitment to helping others. His willingness to put his abilities to work far from home embodies the cooperative tradition of neighbors helping neighbors. I commend Mr. Dyllon Leab for his dedication, professionalism, and spirit of service. His contribution to Light Up Navajo reflects great credit upon WREC and the community we are proud to call home.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Fred Archibald, an SO Lineman with Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative (WREC), for his outstanding service as part of WREC's second mission supporting the Light Up Navajo Project. Through this initiative, skilled utility professionals volunteer their time and expertise to help bring electricity to Navajo families who have lived without power for generations. Mr. Archibald brought his technical knowledge, experience, and strong work ethic to this important effort, helping provide the infrastructure necessary to connect families to reliable power. For the families served, electricity means far more than convenience. It provides light after dark, refrigeration for food and medicine, and greater safety and comfort at home. These basic necessities can open the door to greater opportunity and a better quality of life. Mr. Archibald's willingness to use his specialized skills to serve people far beyond his own community reflects the very best of the cooperative tradition. His participation demonstrates professionalism, compassion, and a genuine commitment to helping others. I commend Mr. Fred Archibald for his technical expertise and selfless service to this important mission. His efforts reflect great credit upon WREC and our community.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Mr. Gary Steele of Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative (WREC) for his continued dedication to the Light Up Navajo Project and his service as a Multimedia Contact during WREC's second mission supporting this worthwhile initiative. Mr. Steele previously helped share the story of WREC employees who answered the call to bring electricity to Navajo families who had lived without power for generations. His continued participation in this second mission demonstrates an enduring commitment to ensuring that both the work and the people behind this remarkable effort are recognized. Documenting the Light Up Navajo mission helps tell a story that goes far beyond electrical infrastructure. It shows what electricity means in the daily lives of families--children having light to study after dark, parents being able to safely preserve food and medicine, and elders enjoying greater safety and comfort. It also captures the compassion, teamwork, and commitment of the men and women who volunteer their skills to make those moments possible. By helping share these stories, Mr. Steele helps others understand both the need that remains and the tremendous difference this initiative is making. I commend Mr. Gary Steele for his continued commitment to Light Up Navajo and for helping tell this powerful story of service, compassion, and community. His efforts reflect great credit upon WREC and our community.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Jamen Monbarren, District Manager with Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative (WREC), for his outstanding leadership and service as part of WREC's second mission supporting the Light Up Navajo Project. Through this important initiative, utility professionals volunteer their time and expertise to help bring electricity to Navajo families who have lived without power for generations. As a District Manager and supervisor, Mr. Monbarren demonstrated leadership by example, joining his colleagues in this important mission and helping ensure their work was completed with professionalism, teamwork, and respect for the families they served. Access to reliable electricity is something most of us take for granted, but its impact is profound. Electricity allows children to study after dark, families to safely preserve food and medicine, and elders to live with greater safety and comfort. By participating in Light Up Navajo, Mr. Monbarren helped extend these basic opportunities to families far beyond WREC's traditional service territory. This mission reflects the very best of the cooperative spirit-- neighbors helping neighbors and skilled professionals using their talents to improve the lives of others. I commend Mr. Jamen Monbarren for his leadership, compassion, and commitment to service. His willingness to answer this call reflects great credit upon WREC and our entire community.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Jay Blommel, an OPC Lineman with Withlacoochee River Electric Cooperative (WREC), for his outstanding service as part of WREC's second mission supporting the Light Up Navajo Project. Through Light Up Navajo, skilled utility professionals volunteer their time and expertise to help bring electricity to Navajo families who have lived without power for generations. As a lineman, Mr. Blommel put his specialized skills to work performing the challenging, hands-on work necessary to help extend electrical service to families in need. For most Americans, reliable electricity is part of everyday life. For families who have gone without it, however, turning on the power can be transformational. Electricity provides light after dark, allows food and medicine to be safely refrigerated, and provides greater safety, comfort, and opportunity. Mr. Blommel's willingness to leave his own community and use his professional skills in service to others embodies the cooperative spirit at its very best. His hard work helped advance a mission that is not simply about connecting electrical lines--it is about connecting families to greater opportunity and a better quality of life. I commend Mr. Jay Blommel for his professionalism, hard work, and commitment to serving others. His efforts reflect great credit upon WREC and our entire community.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Madam Speaker, AM broadcast radio is a critical public safety resource and our emergency alert system is based around those signals. AM radio is also used for communications between public safety officials and for information sharing to the public during national and local emergencies. During a natural disaster, many people find their electricity out, cell service out, and have a limited ability to get information, unfortunately. In many instances, people end up listening to the radio in their car for their only source of information. People in States like Florida know all too well that evacuation routes during emergencies require constant information sharing, and AM radio is the go-to. Just imagine if in that critical moment you find that your vehicle is not receiving those AM alert transmissions. If a vehicle does not have AM broadcasting abilities, it takes away the last resort of communication and leaves people vulnerable during moments when seconds matter. This is what makes the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act so very important. By ensuring automakers include AM broadcast radio in their cars, we can protect Americans and ensure this critical service remains available. It is that simple, Madam Speaker. I thank Ranking Member Pallone for working with me on this particular bill and, of course, the chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee, Mr. Guthrie, my good friend. We need to pass this critical piece of legislation as soon as possible. Madam Speaker, I urge a ``yes'' vote.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of an extraordinary public servant, community leader, affordable housing advocate, and Scouter, George Romagnoli. George devoted his life and career to serving others and strengthening the communities he called home. For decades, his leadership made a meaningful difference throughout Pasco County and across the State of Florida, particularly for families seeking the stability and opportunity that come with having a safe, affordable place to call home. George spent many years serving Pasco County, including 16 years as Director of the Pasco County Community Development Department. In that role, he helped shape the County's approach to affordable housing, community development, homelessness, and neighborhood revitalization. His work was not simply about programs and policies; George understood that behind every housing initiative was a family, a senior, a Veteran, or an individual who deserved the opportunity to live with dignity and security. His expertise and commitment earned him recognition well beyond Pasco County. George served six years as Chairman of the Florida Housing Coalition, helping provide statewide leadership on affordable and workforce housing issues. He was also appointed by both Governor Jeb Bush and Governor Charlie Crist to Florida's Affordable Housing Study Commission. George carried that same commitment into the private and nonprofit sectors. Most recently, he served as Senior Vice President and Senior Credit Underwriter for Neighborhood Lending Partners, where he continued working to advance affordable housing and equitable community development. Even after leaving county government, George never stopped looking for ways to strengthen communities and expand opportunity for others. That spirit of service extended far beyond his professional career. George was deeply committed to the Boy Scouts of America, serving as a Council Vice President with the Greater Tampa Bay Area Council. He believed deeply in Scouting's mission of building character, responsibility, leadership, and service in young people. He gave generously of his time and talents because he understood that investing in the next generation is one of the most meaningful ways we can strengthen our communities. Perhaps the greatest measure of George's life, however, is not found in the positions he held or the projects he helped complete. It is found in the people and communities he impacted. Whether he was helping a family find an affordable home, advocating for stronger housing policies, mentoring a young Scout, or volunteering his leadership to a community organization, George lived by the principle that our greatest responsibility is to use our talents in service to others. That is a legacy that does not end with his passing. It lives on in the families and neighborhoods strengthened by his work, in the housing professionals and public servants who benefited from his leadership, and in the Scouts and community leaders he inspired to serve others. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring George Romagnoli for his decades of distinguished service to Pasco County, the State of Florida, and the countless people whose lives were made better because of his work. I also extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and fellow Scouts. May his memory be a blessing, and may his example of service continue to inspire us all.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life, service, and enduring legacy of Robert P. Gause, a proud World War II Navy Veteran, survivor of the USS Indianapolis, and lifelong resident of the Tarpon Springs community. Robert P. Gause was a member of a generation of Americans whose courage, sacrifice, and devotion to country helped preserve the freedoms we enjoy today. A 1938 graduate of Tarpon Springs High School, Robert answered our Nation's call to service during World War II and served honorably in the United States Navy. His service placed him aboard the USS Indianapolis, and his survival of one of the most tragic events in the history of the United States Navy forever made him part of an extraordinary brotherhood. In July of 1945, after completing a secret mission that played an important role in bringing World War II to an end, the USS Indianapolis was struck by Japanese torpedoes and sank in the Philippine Sea. Robert was among those who survived the sinking and the harrowing days that followed. The courage required to endure such an unimaginable ordeal is difficult for those of us who were not there to fully comprehend. Yet, like so many members of the Greatest Generation, Robert returned home and devoted himself not to seeking recognition, but to building a family, strengthening his community, and helping others. Robert spent his life in the Tarpon Springs area, where he became known not simply for what he had survived, but for the kind of man he chose to be. He was a man of deep faith, a longtime member of First United Methodist Church, and someone whose generosity left a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to know him. He was also a member of the Old Timers Club and remained connected to his fellow USS Indianapolis survivors. The memories shared following Robert's passing paint the picture of a man who quietly made his community better. Friends remembered a welcoming home, his kindness toward families who needed help, and his willingness to encourage young people as they pursued their futures. One particularly powerful story came from a young Navy Veteran who approached Robert in 1968 seeking help financing his college education. Robert provided him with a $600 loan and never charged him a penny of interest. That young Veteran went on to graduate from the University of South Florida and never forgot the generosity Robert showed him. That story tells us a great deal about Robert Gauge. His service to others did not end when he took off his Navy uniform. It continued throughout his life, through his family, his faith, his friendships, and the countless acts of kindness that often occurred without fanfare or recognition. Robert and his beloved wife, Norma Neal, shared 67 years of marriage and raised a wonderful family. At the time of his passing in 2008 at the age of 88, his legacy extended to four children, 12 grandchildren, and 19 great-grandchildren, As someone who had been blessed to represent the Tarpon Springs community and who considers serving our Nation's Veterans one of the greatest honors of my life, I believe we have a solemn responsibility to ensure that stories like Robert's are never forgotten. The history of the USS Indianapolis is not simply a chapter in a history book. It is the story of real Americans who answered the call of duty, endured unimaginable hardship, and demonstrated extraordinary courage in defense of our Nation. Robert P. Gause was one of those Americans. His life reminds us that the legacy of the Greatest Generation was not built only on what its members accomplished on battlefields and at sea. It was also built in the decades that followed, as they returned home, raised families, built businesses, strengthened churches and civic organizations, mentored younger generations, and quietly made their communities better places to live. Robert did all of those things. Although he has been gone for many years, his legacy remains alive in his family, in the Tarpon Springs community he loved, and in the history of the USS Indianapolis and the United States Navy. We owe Robert and his fellow Veterans a debt that can never fully be repaid. But we can honor that debt by remembering their names, telling their stories, caring for their fellow Veterans, and ensuring future generations understand the tremendous price that has been paid for our freedom. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life and legacy of World War II Navy Veteran and USS Indianapolis survivor Robert P. Gause. May his service and sacrifice never be forgotten, and may God continue to bless his family, our Veterans, and the United States of America.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize something that brings people together across every generation, every background, and every community--pizza. Before I speak about Florida, I want to acknowledge the communities that have built America's remarkable pizza heritage. Places like New York, New Haven, Chicago, Detroit, Old Forge, and many others have shaped the history of pizza in the United States. Their traditions are woven into our Nation's culinary identity and deserve to be celebrated. Florida's story, however, is different. Our state is not seeking to replace these legendary pizza destinations or claim their rich history. Instead, Florida has become something uniquely American--a place where many of our Nation's greatest pizza traditions come together. From Pensacola to Key West, Jacksonville to Tampa Bay, Orlando, Miami, and communities throughout the Sunshine State, talented pizza makers are serving extraordinary New York-style pizza, New Haven apizza, Neapolitan, Detroit-style, Sicilian, Roman, Grandma pies, bar pies, and countless other regional favorites. Many of these artisans trained in America's historic pizza cities before bringing their expertise to Florida. Others have immigrated from Italy and around the world, enriching our state's culinary landscape. Still others are homegrown entrepreneurs who have developed their own distinctive approaches, earning national and international recognition for their craftsmanship. Together, they have created one of the most diverse pizza cultures anywhere in the country. Florida is also one of the world's premier travel destinations. Every year, millions of visitors come to our state to enjoy our beautiful beaches, world-class attractions, outdoor recreation, vibrant downtowns, and welcoming communities. Increasingly, they are also discovering Florida's outstanding independent pizzerias. These family- owned businesses are more than restaurants. They are small businesses that create jobs, strengthen neighborhoods, support local charities, and contribute to the economic vitality of communities across our state. Congress has previously recognized the cultural significance of regional pizza traditions. In 2024, our colleague, Representative Rosa DeLauro, proudly celebrated New Haven's extraordinary pizza heritage on the House floor. Today, I rise to celebrate a different but complementary story. Florida is not one pizza style. Florida is where many of America's great pizza traditions can be experienced together. It is where innovation meets tradition, where entrepreneurs continue to raise the standard of excellence, and where residents and visitors alike can experience an incredible diversity of flavors, techniques, and cultures. I believe it is appropriate to recognize the State of Florida as ``A Pizza Destination.'' This recognition honors the thousands of independent pizzeria owners, pizza makers, employees, and families whose hard work has helped make Florida one of the Nation's most exciting culinary destinations. It celebrates craftsmanship, entrepreneurship, tourism, and the small businesses that help define our communities. I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Florida's growing reputation as ``A Pizza Destination'' and in celebrating the people whose passion and dedication continue to make the Sunshine State a place where great pizza--and great American small businesses--can thrive.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an extraordinary American patriot, Specialist Larisa Dickerson (Ret.), whose courage, resilience, and unwavering devotion to our Nation embody the very best of the United States Army and the American spirit. Born in Chicago, Illinois, and raised in Tampa, Florida, Larisa answered our Nation's call to service immediately after graduating from high school. At just nineteen years old, she enlisted in the United States Army in 2002 and completed Basic Combat Training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, before being assigned to the 410th Military Police Company of the 89th Military Police Brigade at Fort Hood, Texas. In April 2004, Specialist Dickerson deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. During that deployment, she and her fellow Military Police Soldiers carded out some of the most demanding and dangerous missions of the war. They protected U.S. government dignitaries, secured vital supply convoys, established checkpoints to safeguard Coalition Forces, and trained Iraqi police officers, helping to lay the foundation for stability and security in a volatile region. Their professionalism and determination contributed to hundreds of successful missions under extraordinarily difficult conditions. Specialist Dickerson also made history while deployed. She became the first female service member in the United States Armed Forces to train on the Common Remotely Operated Weapon System (CROWS), an innovative weapons platform that allowed operators to engage threats from within the protection of an armored vehicle. Her willingness to embrace new technology and break barriers demonstrated not only exceptional skill but also remarkable leadership and courage, paving the way for countless women who would follow in her footsteps. On November 7, 2004, while returning to Forward Operating Base Falcon in southern Baghdad, Specialist Dickerson's convoy was struck by a devastating roadside bomb. She suffered severe injuries as a result of enemy action and was evacuated first to the 31st Combat Support Hospital in Baghdad's Green Zone before being transferred to Germany for advanced medical treatment. Just four days later, on November 11--Veterans Day--she spent her twenty-first birthday recovering in a military hospital, surrounded by the sacrifices that define the true cost of freedom. For the wounds she sustained in combat, she was awarded the Purple Heart, one of our Nation's most revered military decorations. Although her injuries forever changed the course of her life, they never diminished her spirit. Instead, they strengthened her resolve to continue serving others. Larisa often reflects that her military service taught her to appreciate life's simplest blessings and to never be ashamed of the scars she carries, because they are lasting reminders that she was stronger than the adversity she faced. Those words speak not only to her own journey but also to the resilience demonstrated by so many of our wounded warriors. Following her military service, Specialist Dickerson continued her commitment to public service by pursuing higher education, earning an Associate's Degree in Criminal Justice and a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting. Today, she serves the citizens of Hillsborough County as a Senior Accounting Manager with the Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller's Office, where she continues to exemplify integrity, professionalism, and dedication to her community. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Larisa's greatest pride is her family. She is the devoted mother of two sons, David Jr. and Daniel, and has instilled in them the same values of courage, perseverance, and love of country that guided her own life. Mr. Speaker, the Purple Heart is far more than a medal, it is a solemn symbol of sacrifice, valor, and unwavering devotion to duty. Specialist Larisa Dickerson's service reminds us that the freedoms we enjoy every day have been secured by brave Americans willing to place themselves in harm's way for a cause greater than themselves. It is my distinct privilege to recognize Specialist Larisa Dickerson (Ret.) for her extraordinary service, her historic contributions to our Armed Forces, and her continued dedication to her community. On behalf of a grateful Nation, I thank her for her sacrifice, honor her remarkable legacy, and offer my deepest gratitude for all she has done--and continues to do--in service to others.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for yielding. I rise today in strong support of the Stem Cell Therapeutic and Research Reauthorization Act, bipartisan legislation that will save lives by ensuring continued access to stem cell, bone marrow, and cord blood transplants for patients across our Nation. Every year, thousands of Americans battling leukemia, lymphoma, sickle cell disease, and other blood disorders rely on the C.W. Bill Young program to help find a compatible donor. For many patients, that match is their only chance at survival, Mr. Speaker. This legislation reauthorizes the program, modernizes the National Cord Blood Inventory, and strengthens our Nation's transplant system to help ensure patients continue to have access to these lifesaving transplants. I am grateful to my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for working together to advance this important piece of legislation. Mr. Speaker, Representative Smith of New Jersey has done an outstanding job over the years. He has done a great job leading this particular bill. He works on bills, Mr. Speaker, that positively directly affect our constituents. We appreciate him and the great chairman and, of course, Ranking Member Pallone. I urge my colleagues to pass this good piece of legislation.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Most importantly, this bill honors the legacy of Major Richard Star, who fought tirelessly to correct this injustice before his passing. His determination has brought us to this moment, and today, we have the opportunity to continue that fight on behalf of thousands of deserving veterans.

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for his leadership and thank him for this great package that will support our veterans. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the Take Care of America's Veterans Act. First and foremost, this legislation delivers long-overdue justice by including key provisions of my Major Richard Star Act. I promised Richard Star that we would get this done, and we are in the process of doing it, again, on behalf of our true American heroes, which I remain committed to achieving full concurrent receipt. Anything that is not included in this bill, we are going to pursue for the benefit of our veterans. This package takes a major step forward by providing immediate relief to nearly 60,000 combat-injured veterans, Mr. Speaker. For far too long, medically retired servicemembers wounded in combat have been forced to forfeit a portion of the retirement pay they earned simply because they also receive VA disability compensation, and that is wrong. That is the so-called wounded veteran tax, and it is fundamentally unjust. These men and women sacrificed their health in defense of our Nation. They earned both benefits, and they deserve to receive both. This legislation also strengthens veterans' access to healthcare by expanding choice, improves the VA claims and appeals process, and increases support for catastrophically disabled veterans, caregivers, and surviving spouses. Republicans have been working on these issues for many years, Mr. Speaker, and it looks like it is going to come to fruition. I appreciate it so very much, and I thank the chairman for his leadership. It enhances mental health services, expands care in rural communities, improves transition assistance for servicemembers entering civilian life, and modernizes VA facilities to better serve future generations.

Mr. BILIRAKIS

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time to close. I just want to read off some of the 19 States that proactively passed laws to lock the clock: The great State of Texas, Oklahoma, Colorado, Alabama, Georgia, Minnesota, Mississippi, Montana, Idaho, Louisiana, South Carolina, Utah, Wyoming, Delaware, Maine, Oregon, Tennessee, Washington, and of course, the great State of Florida, so it is not a Florida conspiracy. Mr. Speaker, we want to give people an opportunity to go out in the sunshine, an extra hour a day. I am thinking, first of all, safety for our seniors, but also for our children. Our children are on these devices constantly, unfortunately. They should be given an opportunity to go out, and they should be encouraged to go out and play ball or whatever they would like to do with their friends. Mr. Speaker, I urge a strong, very strong vote in favor of this bill. I will tell you that it is very, very important that we get this done as soon as possible. In closing, I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on H.R. 139, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Kentucky (Mr. Guthrie), our good chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee, who led this through the committee. We appreciate him so very much.

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I want to add that the substance of this bill was heard in the Energy and Commerce Committee recently and placed into the surface transportation bill. It does have bipartisan support. Also, if you want your standard time under this bill, you can keep your standard time. Mr. Speaker, 19 States, again, have passed legislation for permanent daylight saving time. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Sessions), my good friend.

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Steube), a fellow Florida Gator.

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Buchanan), the original sponsor of the bill here in the House of Representatives and my good friend. I thank the gentleman for his persistency all these years, along with the former Senator Rubio, who is now our Secretary of State. This has always been a priority for both of them.

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as she may consume to the gentlewoman from Florida (Mrs. Cammack), my good friend and fellow Florida Gator.

Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the Sunshine Protection Act. This important legislation will finally end the outdated practice of changing our clocks twice a year and establish permanent daylight saving time. For decades, Mr. Speaker, Americans have been asking a simple question: Why are we forcing families, businesses, and communities to adjust their schedules every spring and fall? The twice-yearly clock change is a relic of the past that no longer reflects the way Americans live, work, and conduct business in the 21st century. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Buchanan), the lead sponsor and my good friend, for working so hard on this legislation for quite a few years. It is finally coming to fruition. I know it is very important that we pass this bill. In Florida, Mr. Speaker, this issue is especially important. Our State is home to families, retirees, small businesses, and industries that depend on predictable schedules and the ability to make the most of every single day. Floridians have made it clear that they are ready to ditch the switch. Mr. Speaker, I thank the President of the United States, Donald J. Trump, for his strong support of this bill. Changing the clocks twice a year creates unnecessary disruption. I know you agree, Mr. Speaker. It affects sleep patterns, impacts family routines, creates confusion for businesses, and requires everyone--from parents and students to employers and employees and even our pets--to adjust their schedules for no meaningful benefit. After years of study and discussion, it is clear that Americans value consistency and certainty. Establishing permanent daylight saving time would provide families with more usable daylight hours in the evening, giving people additional opportunities to spend time outdoors, support local businesses, participate in community activities, and enjoy the quality of life that makes our communities so special. Mr. Speaker, I will add this: This is great for our kids. I want, and I know most parents want, kids to be outdoors now more than ever. The physical activity means so very much. For small businesses, particularly those in tourism, hospitality, and recreation, as I said, additional evening daylight can help drive economic activity and create more opportunities to serve customers. In a State like Florida, my home State of Florida, where tourism is a cornerstone of our economy, having more predictable daylight hours is a practical improvement that benefits workers, businesses, and visitors alike. This legislation is also about listening to the American people. Year after year, Mr. Speaker, polls show strong support for ending the outdated clock change. Families do not want another disruption to their routines. Businesses do not want unnecessary uncertainty. Americans want a commonsense solution. That is exactly what this bill provides, and I have spoken to thousands of constituents on this particular bill, Mr. Speaker, and they agree. They want permanent daylight saving time. I am proud that this effort has received bipartisan support because this is not about politics. It is about practicality. Again, the ranking member of the full committee, Mr. Pallone, I know strongly supports this bill, and he will have time to say that. It is about recognizing, Mr. Speaker, that our laws should keep pace with the needs of the people who we represent. Today, we have an opportunity to take a meaningful step toward delivering something Americans have been asking for: consistency, convenience, and a better way to manage their time. The American people are long past ready to ditch the switch. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this critical piece of legislation and sending it over to the Senate, and I know the President will sign it. I know he is a strong backer, and I appreciate his support again. Finally, Congress needs to bring an end to the twice-yearly clock change. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.