Vern Buchanan

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor former State Senator H. Lee Moffitt and to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Moffitt Cancer Center, an institution born from one man's vision. I congratulate former State Senator Lee Moffitt for bringing this vision to life and hope he has a good 85th birthday in November. Moffitt Cancer Center began with the belief that one person can make a difference. More than four decades ago, H. Lee Moffitt envisioned a place where patients could access world class cancer care and research without leaving Tampa Bay or the state of Florida. After losing two friends to cancer and surviving cancer himself, he understood firsthand the fear of a diagnosis and was struck that those he knew had to seek care outside the state. He made it his mission to change that. Entering the Florida Legislature, he developed a reputation for being issue-oriented and persistent, qualities that would define his effort to bring a cancer center to Tampa. What began as one person's vision has grown into a nationally recognized cancer center where oncologists, researchers, and team members work together to advance the prevention and cure of cancer. Because of Lee's vision, countless patients now have access to exceptional care and the latest research, closer to home. As Moffitt looks toward its next 40 years, the foundation Lee built remains at its center. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring H. Lee Moffitt's legacy and wishing him a happy 85th birthday this November.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of my bill, the Sunshine Protection Act, which would make daylight saving time permanent and finally end the biannual clock switch. Twice a year, Americans are forced to change their clocks. These changes disrupt their schedule for no good reason. The outdated practice is frustrating for families, workers, schools, and small businesses across the country. Let me just tell you, as someone who has been in business for 30 years, this is gigantic, especially for the small business person. That additional hour a day, at least in Florida but across the country, makes a big difference in terms of doing business. Ideally, it helps not just small businesses, but small businesses create most of the jobs in Florida, as well. It is key to both. Polling shows that two-thirds of Americans want to unlock the clock. My bill is simply a solution to make daylight saving time permanent. Allowing an extra hour of sunlight in the evening gives families more time for outside sports, activities, and school. It stimulates small business and, as I said, job creation; retail tourism; and provides more time for youth sports and outside recreation. Let me just tell you: You see a lot of kids today. The number is 20 percent of children who are obese. They need to be out more. This will make a difference for them. There are also significant health benefits associated with DST that would prevent over 200,000 cases of stroke per year. It would make a big difference, as well, for nearly 2 million people in terms of obesity. Importantly, this bill allows States to opt out in favor of standard time if that is important to them. Nineteen States have passed the deadline for this. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this legislation.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman Smith for his incredible leadership over the years. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of my bill, the Health Care Efficiency Through Flexibility Act, which helps minimize burdens on value-based care organizations. We must move away from fee-for-service. As someone who has been in business for a long time, the incentives are wrong. That is part of the problem. The more you do, the more you make. The sicker you are, the more you make, and I just don't like it. Not to say that doctors take advantage of it, but the incentives are wrong, and we need to fix that. That is why I am in strong support of accountable care organizations. Americans are served better, and the focus needs to be on quality of care, not quantity. As our health system continues shifting toward value-based care, we need to do everything we can to make healthcare more supportive, especially in ACOs. ACOs and Medicare share a portion of it in terms of the program. They save approximately $2 billion annually. My bill ensures a smooth transition to digital reporting so physicians can be more focused on their patients themselves. I thank Mr. Panetta for his bipartisan leadership and for helping me, working together on this. I thank Leader Scalise and the whip for letting me bring this to the floor today. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support the Health Care Efficiency Through Flexibility Act.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the outstanding school employees in Florida's 16th Congressional District. School employees work tirelessly because they understand that their efforts are not just about fulfilling a job description, but about shaping the future. They deserve recognition because they are the architects of knowledge, the mentors of tomorrow's leaders, and the unsung heroes who work behind the scenes to ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive. Twelve years ago, I established the Congressional Education Awards program with the aim of providing special acknowledgment to administrators, educators, and support staff within Florida's 16th Congressional District for their outstanding achievements in both teaching and inspiring students. I include in the Record the names of the school employees who were nominated and selected to receive Florida's 16th District's 2026 Congressional Education Award for their accomplishments: Barbara Harvey K-8 at North River Ranch: Lisa Peterson; Braden River High School: Toni Garrett; Braden River Middle School: Jane Beach, Christopher Brown, Andre Bryant, Kiera Gallon, Erin Lamaitis, Michele McClellan, and Kathleen Stewart-Arande; Buffalo Creek Middle School: Ken Huston, Michael Kawalya, Mandy Kersey, and Courtney O'Leary; Daughtrey Elementary School: Albana Balatoni, Evelyn Collado, and Ashley Roberts; Dorothy C York Innovation Academy: Jerry Turner and Kimberly Wheeler; Dr. Mona Jain Middle School: David Moore; Electa Lee Middle School: Elizabeth Ballate, Larry Benton, Melissa Causey, Joannie Cruz, Rebecca Farrell, Jacob Grimes, Luisa Jimenez, Ann McDonald, Tammila Smith, Sheree Thomas, and Rodney Thompson; Gene Witt Elementary School: Jennifer Alcantara, Charity Applegate, Brenda Arnold, Debra Barnard, Karen Barrett, Keary Bartless, Rina Becker, Brian Beverly, Cheryl Rice, Lisa Blakemore, Jennie Boone, Lisa Boyer, Beth Brack, Josiah Brooks, Megan Brown, Tom Brugos, Cheryl Bulfin, Catherine Burke, Amanda Cannon, Angela Cannon, Darren Carnes, Lauren Collins, Dawn Contes, Bill Culbreath, Olivia Danko, Cynthia Deras, Michelle Figueroa, Maddie Flinkman, Cindy Fosbenner, Tracylyn Frisch, Sharon Gagne, Susan Gallagher, Genda Garner, Amie Golden, Mary Green, Danielle Guida, Sarah Hammond, Erica Harris, Jenna Holden, Amy Holland, Amanda Houston, Kim Roberson Hoy, Ana Ibarra, Colleen Inners, Beverly Jackson, Susan Johnson, Peggy Linder, Amy Lindsey, Eileen McCourt, Lauren McDaniel, TayLor McLaughlin, Kristen Nunn, April Pellegrino, Lliana Perez, Debra Pope, Ali Pumphrey, Aniris Rivera, Jill Rubin, Laura Schuneman, Karrin Scully, Tracy Seller, Machelle Sharp, Danielle Shaw, Michelle Shilling, NicoLe Smith, Natasha Smith, Joanne Sollazzo, Cami Tabor, Brooke Tovar, Palak Trivedi, Stacey Vedder, Kelly Walker, Dave Walker, Susan Wheeler, Susan Whiddon, Lisa Wilkes, Katie Wilson, Nancy Wittner, and Allison Wykes; Haile Middle School: Amie Poole and Anthony Vasile; Hillsborough County Schools: Johan Von Ancken; Johnson K-8 School: Karen Gardiner; Lakewood Ranch High School: Joseph Tommy Cuervo, Rennie Fink, Kristen Martin, Yesika Salcido, Meghan Sugalski, Donna Thomas, Bryan Thomas, and Julie Young; Lennard High School: Denise Savino; Lincoln Middle School: Lisandra Tayloe; Manatee High School: Aaron Bokelman and Jennifer Reynolds; McNeal Elementary School: Andrea Berninger, Jorge Cabrera Espinosa, Michelle Dubendorf, Martha Ferra, Kathryn Flesche, Sarah Ford, Jeanine Germer, Amy Jendro, Vyacheslav Kolomiychenko, Dr. Shawn Mandel, Lillian Matazinski, Donna McCrane, Emma Mileham, Alex Padgett, Tina Peters, Adrienne Robotham, Beatrix Schaeffar, and Catherine Sykes; Miller Elementary School: Cynthia Bigelow, Debbie Brady, Sandra Hoffman, Amy Morris, Jennifer Pettas, Katelyn Potter, and Michelle Westendorf; Mills Elementary School: Trisha Roth; Morgan High School: Rebecca Dougherty, Adria Reyes, Ebony Robinson and Brittney Wilhelm; Mulrennan Middle School: Jennifer Stout-Ihland; Myakka City E]ementary School: Angelica Guerra-Guerra, Leslie Jones, Debbie Veldkamp, and Karen Washington; Newsome High School: Brittany Avery, Katie Best, John Feely, Carin Galimore, Aaron Haygood, Erich Herrmann, Jessica Lincoln, Lisa Maiello, April McGinley, Sardis Mercado, Vernessa Neu, Nancy Ohme, Nikki Pennington, Amanda Ryan, Carolyn Sims, Kimberly Tyll, and Richard Unis; Palm View K-8 School: Cindy Hutchinson and Brenda Van Horn; Palmetto Elementary School: Kelly Howard; Palmetto High School: Kathleen Brown; Parrish Community High School: Amanda Hedman; Manatee County Schools: Erin Chapman and Sheri Goodwin; Reddick Elementary School: Analiese Cook, Kimberly Cooke, and Julie Holubetz; Riverview High School: Brian Adams, Taquanda Carlton, Ashley Clark, Ann Cruz, Lisa Feroben, Wancarlie Garnier, Carol Huftalen, Jeremy Murrell, Suzie Ratliff, Jessica Rodrigues, Pamela Smith, Rachal Stewart, and Danielle Weigand; Rogers Garden-Bullock Elementary School: Christine Averitt, Rebecca Britto, Amy Cosens, Cassie D'Addeo, Michael Escorcia, Derek Hernandez, Julia Huffman, Albina Lopez, Barbara Marinaro, and Jamie Rozek-Potter; Samoset Elementary School: Rosaih Alvarez, Nicole Candelora Baker, Jennifer Bue, Hailey Cosby, Susan Crowley, Nuris Fanning, Katie Fleck, Yalimary Gonzalez, Rachel Griggs, Michelle Halbman, Sabra HatLey, Dottie Hodges, Teairra Horne, Rebecca Humphrey, Deelah Jackson, Rosa Johnson, Krista Keats, Keala Keiper, Yumi Kondo, Jamie Lavigne, Blue Lovell, Tawanda Means, Pattie Mike, Lorraine Miller, Ariana Morales, Lakieffa Nickens, Peggy O'Connor, Stephanie O'Kelly, Andrea Padron, Andrea Perez, Tricia Pez, Tess Priest, Bonnie Raad, Donna Stoddart, Randy Taylor, Brittany Thigpen, Judith Vierra, Maddy Walter, Kelly Smith Williams, and Lisa Wood; School District: of Manatee Transportation: Titinysha Holmes, Charlene Love, Carlos Lux Montano, and Blanca Riojas; Sea Breeze Elementary School: Jeff Bailey; South County Career Acceleration Academy: Julia Boyett, Josephine Byers, Thomas Chapman, Emily Johnson-Lerch, and Jennifer Woods; Southeast High School: Rochelle Banach; St. Stephen's Episcopal School: Tyler Cotton; State College of Florida Collegiate School: Julia Hathaway, Gulnaz Kalimullina, Ashley MacMunn, and Thomas Shanafelt; Sugg Middle School: Erin Craig and Dr. Terrance Marshall; Sumner High School: Catherine Leon Gonzalez, Leah Henson, Autumn Hernandez, Juan Hernandez, Mike Layfield, Amanda Morehouse, Amber Pirotta, Jason Talley, and Christine Wasylkiw; Tara Elementary School: Linda Haluska; Williams Elementary School: Kathy Bixler, Ashley Garner and Karen Haacke; Willis Elementary School: Kelley Carpenter, Hanna Cuervo, Jennifer Hubley, Kristin Keclik, and Karl Sidnam. On behalf of the people of Florida's 16th District, I congratulate each of these outstanding educators and offer my sincere appreciation for their service and dedication.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize fire, rescue and EMS personnel who have provided distinguished service to the people of Florida's 16th Congressional District. First responders, fire departments and emergency medical service teams are summoned on short notice to serve their respective communities. Often, they arrive at scenes of great adversity and trauma, to which they reliably bring strength and composure. These brave men and women spend hundreds of hours in training so that they are prepared when they get ``the call.'' Thirteen years ago, I established the 16th District Congressional Fire and Rescue and EMS Awards to honor officers, departments, and units for outstanding achievement. On behalf of the people of Florida's 16th District, it is my privilege to congratulate and include in the Record the following honorees, who were selected this year by an independent committee comprised of a cross section of current and retired fire and rescue personnel living in the district: Associate Service Award: Adam Nover of Manatee County Department of Public Safety. Dedication and Professionalism Award: Firefighter Rob Day of East Manatee Fire Rescue, Firefighter/Paramedic--Company Fire Captain Ralph Mascaro of Hillsborough County Fire Rescue, and the Sun City Center Emergency Squad. Preservation of Life Award: Firefighter/Paramedic Jacob Campbell, Fire Captain Clifford Davis, Firefighter/Paramedic Anna Inman, and Firefighter Maurice Swan of Hillsborough County Fire Rescue, Charge Paramedic Peterson Gustave, District Chief William Thayer, and District Chief Beth Tucciarone of Manatee County EMS. Unit Citation Award: Engineer Joshua Eriksen, Engineer Zachary Gilbert, Firefighter Bo Gurskis, Lieutenant Jared Manning, Engineer Louis Chiocchio, Firefighter George Norris, Captain Jonathan Turpin, Battalion Chief Barry Cornelison, Lieutenant Matthew McCabe, Engineer Brandon Beals, Firefighter Ricardo Rivera, Firefighter Luke Marvin, Lieutenant Scott Viehman, Lieutenant Thomas Ferrett, Lieutenant Robert Hinton, Firefighter Shawn Heinlein, Engineer Michael King, Firefighter Christopher Mundell, Firefighter Isaiah Cress, Lieutenant Lionel Harrison, Firefighter Jordan DeSear, Firefighter Brendan Lewellen, and Firefighter Aaron Wright of the Bradenton Fire Department, Firefighter Jacob Dillard (2), Lieutenant Daniel Dunkum (2), Battalion Chief Craig Madsen, Captain Steven Baker, Engineer Ben Stasurak, Engineer Bret Kanapaux, Firefighter Chad Strauser (2), Firefighter Maciej Borawski, Deputy Chief Paul Wren, Battalion Chief Casey Lambert, Lieutenant Mike Hamilton, Engineer Derek Parker, Firefighter Jared Hoopingarner, Lieutenant Timothy Bedell, Firefighter Tony Mroz, Firefighter Nicholas Miller, Lieutenant Steve Ryckman, Firefighter Kyle Lamson (2), Firefighter Jason Burnside, and Engineer Jesse Reasoner of East Manatee Fire Rescue, District Chief Beth Tucciarone, Paramedic James Bryant, EMT Rachel Swim (2), Charge Paramedic Michael Gorman, EMT Zachary Tocco, District Chief William Thayer, Specialty Charge Paramedic Sasha DeAngelis, Charge Paramedic Caitlyn Roskovich, EMT Simon Klimov, Specialty Charge Paramedic Kevin Guido, Charge Paramedic Anthony Tino, EMT Germaine Bolanos, EMT Robert Anderson, District Chief Troy Dufrane, and District Chief Keith Lock of Manatee County EMS, Lieutenant Casey Schue, Engineer Wade Hoopingarner, Engineer Joe Jago, and Firefighter Anzzonni Hause of Parrish Fire Rescue, Captain Andrew Clark, Firefighter Charlie Childress, and Engineer Justin White of North River Fire District, Telecommunicator Derek Turner, Telecommunicator Adam Bruner, ECC Supervisor Tracey Haas, and Telecommunicator Brady Trott of Manatee County Emergency Communication Center, Pilot Stu O'Shannon, Flight Nurse Alisha Burnett, Flight Paramedic Chuck Nelson, Flight Paramedic Orientee Luis Vazquez, Pilot Mark Boudreau, Flight Nurse Rob Freas and Flight Paramedic Kelly Curren of Tampa General Hospital Aeromed, Firefighter Jerrod Apple, Firefighter Tyler Snyder, Captain James Leigh, Firefighter Dane Miller, Firefighter Christopher O'Kelly, Fire Marshall Rodney Kwiatkowski, Training Chief Mark Tuttle, Battalion Chief Ryan Moore, Battalion Chief Derek Bill, Captain Tyler MacDonald, Firefighter William Bowen, Firefighter Clayton Lease, Firefighter David Miller, Firefighter Zack Misiura, Firefighter Aaron Reese, Lieutenant Inspector Keith Miller, Inspector Josh Adkins, Inspector Lisa Brooks, and Inspector Nicholas Riffe of West Manatee Fire Rescue District, Captain Marshall Greene, Lieutenant David Snyder, Lieutenant Luke Hitchins, Lieutenant JC Rapier, Lieutenant Jose Garcia Santos, Lieutenant Michael Patterson, Lifeguard Jack Bratcher, Lifeguard Josh McCarthy, Lifeguard Nate Hilbrands, Lifeguard Shannon Cielinski, Lifeguard Marek Drastich, Lifeguard Mark Mol, Lifeguard Patrick Curran, Lifeguard Kaylin Weiskopf, Lifeguard Allie Updike, Lifeguard Owen Munday, Lifeguard AJ Nelson, and Lifeguard Isabelle Pellegrin of Manatee County Beach Patrol. Career Service Award: Battalion Chief Jeff Martin of Hillsborough County Fire Rescue.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize a group of veterans for their military and community service. Our veterans have sacrificed much in the defense of our Nation. Many of them retired their uniforms but continue their service by helping others in their community. Four years ago, I established the 16th District Congressional Veteran Commendation to recognize the heroic wartime sacrifices and admirable peacetime community involvement of my constituents. These are exceptional Americans. I appreciate the opportunity to honor them for their service to the Nation and community. An independent panel reviewed several nominations and chose the following nineteen veterans for their wartime and post-military service. I include in the Record their names: Nelson Betancourt of Valrico who served in the U.S. Army outside of war time. Benny Blackshire of Sun City Center who served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. Jeffery Camp of Parrish who served in the U.S. Army and Army National Guard during the Iraq and Afghanistan Wars. Jack Carter of Lakewood Ranch who served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam and Gulf Wars. Charles Conover, Jr. of Sun City Center who served in the U.S. Army outside of war time. Ronald Cousineau of Sun City Center who served in the U.S. Air Force outside of war time. Emily Farkas of Brandon who served in the U.S. Air Force during the Iraq and Afghanistan Wars. Ferris Garrett, Jr. of Sun City Center who served in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War. William Greer of Wimauma who served in the U.S. Air Force outside of war time. Brian Hammer of Sun City Center who served in the U.S. Army during the Iraq and Afghanistan Wars. Nathaniel Hawthorne of Sun City Center who served in the U.S. Navy during the Iraq War. Roberta Jordan of Riverview who served in the U.S. Army outside of war time. Robert Lucas, II of Sun City Center who served in the U.S. Army outside of war time. Danny Melton of Riverview who served in the U.S. Marine Corps outside of war time. MaryAnn Rowe of Sun City Center who served in the Michigan Army National Guard during the Iraq War. Richard Steinestel of Valrico who served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War. Roland Tiso, Jr. of Valrico who served in the U.S. Army durIng the Iraq and Afghanistan Wars. Paul Wheat, Jr. of Sun City Center who served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. Edward Wudarsky, Jr. of Sun City Center who served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for his leadership on this topic. It has been key to what we have accomplished today. I rise today in strong support of my bill, the Hospital Inpatient Services Modernization Act, which would allow hospitals to treat Medicare patients safely at home. During the pandemic, CMS established the hospital at home waiver to provide hospitals with the flexibility to care for patients from the comfort and convenience of their homes. The hospital at home program has been very successful, being treated in many homes across the country. It has also made a big difference in reducing the risk of infections and falls. I am thrilled to say that my bill extends the successful hospital at home program for an additional 5 years. I know a lot of people being in Florida where their parents will talk about the importance of if they could stay at home, and I know this is critical. An extension of this program would ensure more than 200 hospitals across 34 States--including 20 hospitals in Florida--can continue to provide quality care to patients at home. More than 140 leading healthcare organizations, including hospitals, healthcare providers, and patients support this legislation. I thank Mr. Smucker, Mr. Evans, and Ms. Moore for their friendship and bipartisanship on this bill. I thank Leader Scalise and Whip Emmer for bringing this to the floor tonight. I urge my colleagues to support the hospital at home program extension for hospitals, providers, and patients.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Mr. Speaker, today I pay tribute to Jan Setnor, MSN, CRNA, Col. (Ret), USAFR, NC. Ms. Setnor will soon complete her year as national president of the American Association of Nurse Anesthesiology (AANA). I am proud that Ms. Setnor was elected as the 2024 to 2025 president of this prestigious healthcare organization. Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) are advanced practice registered nurses who administer more than 50 million anesthetics to patients each year. They work in every setting in which anesthesia is delivered including hospital surgical suites, obstetrical delivery rooms, ambulatory surgical centers, and the offices of dentists, podiatrists, and specialty surgeons. They also provide acute and chronic pain management services to patients in need of such care. CRNAs provide anesthesia for all types of surgical cases and are the sole anesthesia providers in many rural hospitals. CRNAs have full practice authority in the Army, Navy, and Air Force and are the predominant provider of anesthesia on forward surgical teams and in combat support hospitals. As an AANA member since 1996, Ms. Setnor has contributed greatly to the healthcare community nationwide. She has held numerous state and national nurse anesthesiology leadership positions, including previous service on the AANA Board of Directors as President-Elect, Vice- President and, Director (as well as two terms as president of the Virginia Association of Nurse Anesthetists (VANA)). Her extensive involvement with the AANA includes roles as the Association of Veterans Affairs Nurse Anesthetists AANA Liaison, Professional Development Chair, and participation in various committees, including Political Action and Communications. She served in the United States Air Force Reserve, retiring with 26 years of honorable service. Setnor's roles included Flight Nurse Instructor/Evaluator, CRNA, and senior staff member for the Air Force Surgeon General. Notably, she served in Afghanistan as both the Anesthesia Team Lead in the largest in-country medical facility and as the sole anesthesia provider at a Special Forces Forward Operating Base. In addition to her work with the AANA and VANA, Setnor has contributed to the Accreditation Association of Ambulatory Health Care as a member of the Governance Unit-Standards Development Committee and served as the CRNA Advisor to the Virginia Board of Nursing's Committee of the Joint Board of Medicine and Nursing. Ms. Setnor earned her Master of Science in Nursing from Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia. During her AANA presidency, Ms, Setnor has been a prominent advocate for the patients and practice of nurse anesthesia before federal agencies and members of Congress. She has worked tirelessly to promote anesthesia patient safety and the value of CRNAs to our healthcare system. Ms. Setnor has advocated to eliminate burdensome regulations for CRNAs, to have CRNAs recognized as full practice providers in the Veterans Health Administration, and to address underlying causes of surprise billing such as provider discrimination. I extend my sincere congratulations to Ms. Setnor today on a job well done. Her service to AANA and her commitment to safe, quality anesthesia care nationwide, are highly commendable. I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Ms. Setnor's notable career and outstanding achievements.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to law enforcement men and women who have provided distinguished service to the people of Florida's 16th Congressional District. Law enforcement is a demanding profession that requires sacrifice, courage, and dedication to serve others. Every day, brave men and women put themselves in harm's way to enforce the laws of our society and protect public safety. They deserve our gratitude and respect. Fifteen years ago, I established the 16th District Congressional Law Enforcement Awards to give special recognition to law enforcement officers, departments, or units for exceptional achievement. This year, I will present Congressional law enforcement awards and include in the Record the following recipients chosen by an independent panel comprised of current and retired law enforcement personnel representing a cross-section of the district's law enforcement community: Above and Beyond the Call of Duty Award: Special Agent Matthew Murray of ATF, Deputy John Howes III of the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office, Officer Chris Bennett of the Holmes Beach Police Department, Deputy Leonel Barboza, Deputy Stephen Cook, Deputy Michael Davis, Deputy Jackson Dugmore, Deputy Robert Pereyra, Jr., and Detective Randall Walker of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office; Dedication and Professionalism Award: Deputy Jeffery Merry of the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office, Captain Mark Morie of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, Corporal Quinn Moriarty of the Palmetto Police Department; Gary Tibbetts Career Service Award: Chief Melanie Bevan and Sergeant Michael Kriebel of the Bradenton Police Department, Captain Araseli Stanley of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office; Preservation of Life Award: Deputy Judd Beckwith, Deputy Lashonda Bowden, Deputy Colin Caldwell, Deputy Brian Fullbright, Deputy Adrian Harrison, Deputy Micah Osornio, Deputy Erika Perez-Ramos, Deputy Luis Rivera-Lopez, Deputy James Workman, and Deputy Javier Zuniga-Mejia of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office; Unit Citation Award: Bradenton Police Department Crime Reduction Team: Sergeant Todd Freed, K-9 Officer Michael Wall, Officer Steven Bembry, Officer Jordan Miller, Officer Aaron Smith, Officer Connor Horsley, Acting Sergeant Jeff Beckley, K-9 Officer Nicolas Leeman, Officer Enzo Rovira, Officer Brett Heagney-Sciamatore, Officer Marisol Valente, and Officer Maddie Johnson, Bradenton Police Department Elder Fraud Unit: Detective James Curulla and Officer Deana McNeal, Manatee County Sheriff's Office Homicide Unit: Major Anthony Williams, Captain Darin Bankert, Sergeant Salvatore Levita, Detective Charles Butler, Detective Darryl Davis, Detective Mark Pearson, Detective Garrick Plonczynski, Detective Michael Smith, Detective Justin Warren and Sergeant Jeremy Liddell, Manatee County Sheriff's Office Resource Assistance Program (RAP Unit).

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Dr. John Cross, who just delivered this morning's opening prayer. John is the senior pastor of First Baptist Church of Sarasota and has been the pastor for many, many years. John committed his life to Christ in his childhood and ultimately decided to pursue a career in the ministry. He is a proud graduate of Mercy University and Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, where he earned his master of divinity degree and his doctor of ministry. His leadership has extended beyond the local church, having served as the president of the Florida Baptist Convention Pastors' Conference and president of the Florida Baptist State Convention. John is married to Dawn, and together they have been blessed with 5 children, 3 sons-in-law, a daughter-in-law, and 10 grandkids. I deeply value his faith leadership in my life, my family's life, and our community. I am grateful for his presence here today.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of outstanding school employees in Florida's 16th Congressional District. School employees work tirelessly because they understand that their efforts are not just about fulfilling a job description, but about shaping the future. They deserve recognition because they are the architects of knowledge, the mentors of tomorrow's leaders, and the unsung heroes who work behind the scenes to ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive. Eleven years ago, I established the Congressional Education Awards program with the aim of providing special acknowledgment to administrators, educators, and support staff within Florida's 16th Congressional District for their outstanding achievements in both teaching and inspiring students. The following school employees were nominated and selected to receive Florida's 16th District's 2025 Congressional Education Award for their accomplishments: Leadership Award: Joseph Hougland, Stewart Elementary School. Hurricane Shelter Award: Laura Roark, Sylvia Sorto and Andrea Keezer, Williams Elementary School; Joanne Gushue and Hayley Rio, Harvey Elementary School; Angelia Thompson, Lillian Parsons and Deanna Fisher, Shields Middle School; Miriam Jordan, Scott Samsoe and Bradley Scarbrough, Buffalo Creek Middle School; Kimberly Coulson, George Coulson and Rebecca Sargable, Collins PK-8 School; Tiffany Staton, Flor Pardo and Melissa McCullough, Daugherty Elementary School; Maricely Mendez, Olga Castillo and Aliya Norman, Reddick Elementary School; Ginger Thomas, Ana Miranda and Kate Barlaug, Mona Jain Middle School; Brenda Rau, Charles Parsons and Gary Graham, Durant High School; Kristen Bowden, Anissa McDuffy and Kimone Cooper, Lee Middle School; Sara Walker, Patti Heffner, Juliette Gjini, Michelle Liemann and Carol Pope, Freedom Elementary School; Carmen Palacios, Lenny Draper and Connie Dixon, Gene Witt Elementary School; Kevin Harrington, Tracey Shank and Sheila Waid, McNeal Elementary School; Leslie Bothke, Mike Brabrandt and Todd Richardson, Gullett Elementary School; Annie Mousseau, Jennifer Pettas, Cristal Garcia and Debra Riley, Miller Elementary School; Crystal Pagan, Joshua Fuentes and Christine Wasylkiw, Sumner High School; Premdai Hansraj, Mohammad Hammad and Tamara Brooks, Mulrennan Middle School; Michelle Bailey, Lisa McLeod and Carol Ricks, Myakka City Elementary School; Mary Cardarelle-Hermans, Robert Greer and Carl Auckerman, Nolan Middle School; Aaron Depaola, Antonio Da Silva and Kathy Price, Willis Elementary School; Tania Vidal, Laura Sanchez and Greg Sander, Prine Elementary School; Roxie Blackwelder and Richard Greene, Sugg Middle School; Deanna Sabatino, German Pena-Garcia and James Mennes, Mills Elementary School. Relief After the Storm Award: Hillsborough Education Foundation; Manatee Education Foundation. Support Staff Award: Eric Cooke, Williams Elementary School; Emanuel Harris, Braden River Middle School; Kelly Taillefer, Braden River Middle School; Steven Vance, Braden River Middle School; Brooke Whalen, Dorothy C. York Innovation Academy; Fay Pollack Servoss, Rogers Garden- Bullock Elementary School; Angela Nowakowski, Gene Witt Elementary School; Sherriann Johnson, Gibsonton Elementary School; Lora Sevarino, McNeal Elementary School; Nicole Yancey, Myakka City Elementary School; Kimberly Thomas, Willis Elementary School; Suzanne Theiss, Southeast High School; Dilcia Navarro, State College of Florida Collegiate school. Teacher Award: Laura Redeker, Anna Maria Elementary School; Susan Nova, Harvey Elementary School; Katharine Kimbrell, Braden River Middle School; Jessica Mynatt, Braden River Middle School; Tasheta Riley, Braden River Middle School; Joseph Gibson, Haile Middle School; Kim Wilder, Gene Witt Elementary School; Stacy Freeman, McNeal Elementary School; Julie Read, McNeal Elementary School; Sarah Tateosian, McNeal Elementary School; Stephanie Tretolo, McNeal Elementary School; Natalie Hutchings, Newsome High School; Christiana Miller, Newsome High School; Montine Vona-Pergola, Newsome High School; Kathleen Yates, Newsome High School; Leslie Windheuser, Sumner High School; Felicia Chasey, Lakewood Ranch High School; McKenzie Gorskey, Lakewood Ranch High School; Jennifer Grant, Lakewood Ranch High School; John Wilkerson, Lakewood Ranch High School; Linda Chamberlain, Manatee Technical College; Hannah Hunter, Willis Elementary School; Noelle Kourakos, Willis Elementary School; Kathleen Bayliss, Sea Breeze Elementary School; Andrew Angelo, St. Stephen's Episcopal School; Geoff Revard, St. Stephen's Episcopal School; Emily Vargas, State College of Florida Collegiate School. Administrator Award: Rudy Keezer, Ballard Elementary School; Marcos Rodriguez, Bloomingdale High School; Kimberlain Zenon, Braden River Middle School; Samantha Webb, Able Elementary School; Sheila Waid, McNeal Elementary School; Marla Massi-Blackmore, Tillman Elementary School; Jeannie Galindo, Lakewood Ranch High School; Jennifer Canady, Riverview High School; Craig Page, Southeast High School. On behalf of the people of Florida's 16th District, I congratulate each of these outstanding educators and offer my sincere appreciation for their service and dedication.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for his leadership, as well. I rise today in strong support of my bill, the Chronic Disease Flexible Coverage Act. This important legislation will expand treatment options for Americans living with chronic diseases provided through their employer's healthcare coverage. My bill allows employers to offer predeductibility on 14 different chronic diseases, especially for those who are on high deductible health plans. With 6 in 10 Americans living with at least one chronic disease, it is clear to me that we need to have many more options. The cost for chronic diseases in the American economy is enormous, accounting for over $1 trillion a year, if you can imagine that. Chronic disease also accounts for the overwhelming percentages of preventable deaths in the United States. I believe this initiative will improve patients' health, also reducing costly hospitalizations. Mr. Speaker, I thank my good friend, Congressman Panetta, for his leadership and friendship. I really appreciate his working with me on this. I also thank Leader Scalise and Whip Emmer for bringing this to the floor today. I urge my colleagues to support this commonsense bill to help give Americans the tools they need for a longer, healthier, and happier life.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize a group of veterans for their military and community service. Our veterans have sacrificed much in the defense of our Nation. Many of them retired their uniforms but continue their service by helping others in their community. Three years ago, I established the 16th District Congressional Veteran Commendation to recognize the heroic wartime sacrifices and admirable peacetime community involvement of my constituents. These are exceptional Americans. I appreciate the opportunity to honor them for their service to the Nation and community. An independent panel reviewed several nominations and chose the following thirty veterans for their wartime and post-military service: Angel Alvarez of Riverview who served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam and Gulf Wars Angelo Barnello Sr. of Riverview who served in the U.S. Marine Corps during World War II Stephen Browning of Apollo Beach who served in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War Delford Connell of Sun City Center who served in the U.S. Navy during World War II Geoffrey Cordes of Bradenton who served in the U.S. Army during the Gulf War Angel Davila Lopez of Lithia who served in the U.S. Army during the Gulf War Harry Demeza of Sun City Center who served in the U.S. Army during World War II Jerry Estes of Wimauma who served in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War Brenda Gaines of Bradenton who served in the U.S. Army outside of war times Jeffrey Gaines of Bradenton who served in the U.S. Army during the Gulf War Lloyd Grable of Sun City Center who served in the U.S. Army during World War II Dwain Hannah of Brandon who served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War William Hodges of Sun City Center who served in the U.S. Air Force outside of war times Carl Hunsinger of Palmetto who served in the U.S. Air Force during the Gulf War Bruce Johnson of Valrico who served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War William Kirkpatrick of Sun City Center who served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam and Gulf Wars Jim Klocke of Bradenton who served in the U.S. Coast Guard during the Vietnam War Maurice Lanouette of Sun City Center who served in the U.S. Army during World War II Robert Marasco of Valrico who served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Gulf War Thomas Moncrief of Apollo Beach who served in the U.S. Air Force outside of war times Joseph Muhlberger of Valrico who served in the U.S. Air Force outside of war times Jerry Neff of Bradenton who served in the U.S. Army outside of war times Sean Powers of Bradenton who served in the U.S. Marine Corps outside of war times Robert Putnam of Sun City Center who served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War Thomas Reichard of Valrico who served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Gulf War and outside of war times Gill Ruderman of Bradenton who served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War Milton Shattuck of Bradenton who served in the U.S. Army during the Korean, Vietnam, and Gulf Wars Vincent Spanicciati of Lakewood Ranch who served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Vietnam War George Tamburello of Wimauma who served in the U.S. Army during World War II Lonnie Vona of Valrico who served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam and Gulf Wars and outside of war times

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize fire, rescue and EMS personnel who have provided distinguished service to the people of Florida's 16th Congressional District. First responders, fIre departments and emergency medical service teams are summoned on short notice to serve their respective communities. Often, they arrive at scenes of great adversity and trauma, to which they reliably bring strength and composure. These brave men and women spend hundreds of hours in training so that they are prepared when they get ``the call.'' Twelve years ago, I established the 16th District Congressional Fire and Rescue and EMS Awards to honor officers, departments, and units for outstanding achievement. On behalf of the people of Florida's 16th District, it is my privilege to congratulate the following honorees, who were selected this year by an independent committee comprised of a cross section of current and retired fire and rescue personnel living in the district: Associate Service Award: Private Citizen Jake O'Brien of Hillsborough County Dedication and Professionalism Award: Senior Telecommunicator Lisa Kalmbach of the Manatee County Emergency Communications Center, Deputy Chief Jose Prado, Captain David Raasch, Company Fire Captain Andrew Capeletti, Fire Captain Nico DiNova, Fire Inspector Ryan Gould, Battalion Chief Jeffrey Landis and Captain Scott VanDeBoe of Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Unit Citation Award: Captain Rondalfo Rodriguez and Driver/Engineer Jose Obradovich of Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Battalion 6-C, Charge Paramedic James Bryant, EMT Monica Ramos, and District Chief Robin Thayer of Manatee County EMS, Fire Chief Tim Geer, Lieutenant Lionel Harrison, Engineer Louis Chiocchio, Engineer Jacob Barwick, EMT Thomas Ferrett, EMT Jared Gould; and Firefighter Bo Gurskis of the Bradenton Fire Department, Fire Chief Joe Sicking, Assistant Chief Joel Baker, Battalion Chief Blair Pontious, Captain Donald Bunch, Captain Ben Miller, Engineer Justin White, Engineer Michael Davila, Firefighter John Mueller, and Robert Barber (Logistics) of the North River Fire District, Division Chief Michael Williamson, Lieutenant Payton Edwards, Firefighter James Howard, Firefighter Aaron White, and Firefighter Liz Alvarez of the Parrish Fire District, Deputy Chief Paul Wren, Lieutenant Adam McDaniel, Firefighter Isaac Libby, and Firefighter Connor Reilly of East Manatee Fire Rescue, Chief Angel Herrera, Chief Jeffrey Landis, Captain Jeffrey Hartner, Captain Pete Dzuibinski, Driver/Engineer Freddy Miller, Driver/Engineer Stan Hyatt, Driver/Engineer Jerome Mancillas, Lieutenant Eric Kotala, Fire Medic John Maltby, Fire Medic Lucas Haislop, Fire Medic Vinny Mortellero, Fire Medic Matthew Holubik, Fire Medic Adam Hayward, Fire Medic Scott Shedd, Firefighter Angel Rengifo, Firefighter Jared Ladd of Hillsborough County Fire Rescue, Pilot Alex Myers, Flight Nurse Caitlyn Buell, and Flight Paramedic Kyle Miller of Aeromed Career Service Award: Assistant Chief Jane Herdn of the Longboat Key Fire Department, Chief (retired) Edward Cleveland and Fire Commissioner Derrick Warner of the West Manatee Fire and Rescue District, and Jimmie Hamrick, Jr. of Manatee County EMS.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to law enforcement men and women who have provided distinguished service to the people of Florida's 16th Congressional District. Law enforcement is a demanding profession that requires sacrifice, courage, and dedication to serve others. Every day, brave men and women put themselves in harm's way to enforce the laws of our society and protect public safety. They deserve our gratitude and respect. Fourteen years ago, I established the 16th District Congressional Law Enforcement Awards to give special recognition to law enforcement officers, departments, or units for exceptional achievement. This year, I will present Congressional law enforcement awards to the following winners chosen by an independent panel comprised of current and retired law enforcement personnel representing a cross-section of the district's law enforcement community: Above and Beyond the Call of Duty Award: Lieutenant Nicholas Pruitt, Deputy Michael Ates, Deputy Althavia Brown, Deputy James Forkin, Deputy Christopher Houghton, and Detective Dwight Roberts of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office. Dedication and Professionalism Award: Officer Andrew Adkins of the Holmes Beach Police Department, Officer Kevin Williams of the Bradenton Police Department, Trooper Taylor Ledford of the Florida Highway Patrol, Corporal Benjamin Schlabach of the Palmetto Police Department, Detective Matthew Hostetler, Detective Steven Luke, and Detective Carmine Luper of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office. Gary Tibbetts Career Service Award: Major Todd Shear of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office, Captain (retired) William Knight and Detective Jeff Beckley of the Bradenton Police Department, and Special Agent (retired) Stephen Lieberman of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. Preservation of Life Award: Sergeant Russell Ackerman of the Bradenton Police Department, Officer Specialist Kelsey Dalton of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, Lieutenant Richard Rietz, Sergeant Randy Lamb, Sergeant Laszlo Nagy, Detective Eric Davis, Deputy Jake Essek, Deputy Joshua Groover, Deputy Brian Hart, Deputy Stanley Hartley, Deputy Brandon Howard, Deputy Lauren Jalowiec, Deputy Alexis Lyon, Deputy Robert Macchio, Deputy Paul McCartney, Deputy Humberto Noronha, Deputy Gregory Palso, Deputy Deborah Perry, Deputy Carrie Renninger, Deputy Patti Savageau, Deputy Hurly Smith, and Deputy Arturo Velasquez of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office. Unit Citation Award: Bradenton Police Department Narcotics Unit: Detective Eleazar Garcia and Detective Brandon Kells; Florida Highway Patrol Troop C Criminal Interdiction Unit: Sergeant Joshua Malloy, Trooper Jeremy Fields, Trooper Wesley Kelly, Trooper Deryck Lewis, Trooper Chris Nottingham, Trooper Sergio Pearce, Trooper Eric Schaub, K-9 Flip, K-9 Titan, and K-9 Lobo; Manatee County Sheriff's Office Fraud/Auto/Pawn Unit: Sergeant Jason Farrier, Detective Anthony Begley, Detective Joshua Breitwieser, Detective Gary Cummings III, Detective Samuel Ebeling, Detective Rachael Fossaceca, Detective Daniel Reyna, Detective Antonio Starnes, and Detective Randall Walker.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of outstanding public school employees in Florida's 16th Congressional District. School employees work tirelessly because they understand that their efforts are not just about fulfilling a job description, but about shaping the future. They deserve recognition because they are the architects of knowledge, the mentors of tommorrow's leaders, and the unsung heroes who work behind the scenes to ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive. Ten years ago, I established the Congressional Teacher Awards program with the aim of providing special acknowledgment to educators within Florida's 16th Congressional District for their outstanding achievements. This year, we expanded the event's scope to encompass all school employees, recognizing their invaluable contribution in both teaching and inspiring students. The following public school employees from Manatee and Hillsborough counties were nominated and selected to receive Florida's 16th District's 2024 Congressional Education Award for their accomplishments: Manatee County: Michelle Ayling, State College of Florida Collegiate School; Jensina Barnes, Palm View K-8; Pauline Barnes, Manatee High School; W. Shane Baxley, Manatee Technical College; Amy Bradl, Willis Elementary School; Patrice Cairo, Gene Witt Elementary School; William Cirone, Manatee Technical College; Joadie Durfee, Harvey Elementary School; Rennie Finck, Lakewood Ranch High School; Katie Fradley, Willis Elementary School; Jennifer Harper, Williams Elementary School; Jen Johnson, Sea Breeze Elementary School; Kami Lake, various Manatee County schools; Debra McCarthy, Lakewood Ranch High School; Chelsea McCay, Daughtrey Elementary School; Stefanie Minihan, Braden River High School; Patricia Pearson, Braden River Middle School; Katherine Price, Willis Elementary School; Jodi Samson, McNeal Elementary School; Laura Schuyler, Braden River Middle School; Jessica Spence, McNeal Elementary School. Hillsborough County: Kathy Dodd, Newsome High School; Donna Hart, Newsome High School; Melissa Hart, Winthrop Charter School; Aliya Norman, Reddick Elementary School; Kimberly Opperman, Reddick Elementary School. On behalf of the people of Florida's 16th District, I congratulate each of these outstanding educators and offer my sincere appreciation for their service and dedication.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Mr. Speaker, on Roll Call No. 570 and No. 571, I inadvertently voted Aye. I oppose the Perry Amendments, and both votes should be recorded as Nay.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize fire, rescue and EMS personnel who have provided distinguished service to the people of Florida's 16th Congressional District. First responders, fire departments and emergency medical service teams are summoned on short notice to serve their respective communities. Oftentimes, they arrive at scenes of great adversity and trauma, to which they reliably bring strength and composure. These brave men and women spend hundreds of hours in training so that they are prepared when they get ``the call.'' Eleven years ago, I established the 16th District Congressional Fire and Rescue and EMS Awards to honor our first responders for outstanding achievement. On behalf of the people of Florida's 16th District, it is my privilege to congratulate the following winners, who were selected this year by an independent committee comprised of a cross section of current and retired fire and rescue personnel living in the district. Above and Beyond the Call of Duty Award: Charge Paramedic Jacqueline Wright of Manatee County EMS. Lieutenant Derek Foss of Southern Manatee Fire Rescue. Support Specialist Christopher Underwood and Support Specialist Adam Green of Manatee County Search and Rescue. Dedication & Professionalism Award: Fire Marshall Rodney Kwiatkowski of West Manatee Fire Department. Captain Norman Brown of the Hillsborough County Fire Department. Assistant Chief Sean Dwyer of Manatee County EMS. Lieutenant Lionel Harrison of the City of Bradenton Fire Department. Career Service Award: Battalion Chief David Foxall of the City of Bradenton Fire Department. Chaplin James Martin and Fire Commissioner Ed Stevens of the Parrish Fire District. Preservation of Life Award: Chief Jared Leggett, Deputy Chief John Elwood, Captain Sheena Leggett, Captain Chris Krier, Captain Hollister Robinson, Captain Nicholas Reis, Sergeant Elizabeth Alvarez, Captain Joey Spinks, Corporal Harry White, Rescue Technician Matt Snell, Rescue Technician Nik Martinez, Rescue Technician Ebson Parrish, Rescue Technician Terry Olsen, Rescue Technician Rachel Swim, Rescue Technician Joseph Hoffman, Rescue Technician Ben Watts, Rescue Technician Chiara Simeoni, Rescue Technician Evan Gibbs, Rescue Technician Christopher Rodriguez, Rescue Technician A.J. Kwiatkowski, Civilian Pilot Garrett Mitchell, K9 Kaido, K9 Taz, K9 Alpha and K9 Karma of Manatee County Search and Rescue. Unit Citation Award: District Chief Zach Molnar, Charge Paramedic Brandon Craig, EMT Anthony Tino, Charge Paramedic Jill Kinghorn of Manatee County EMS. Firefighter Aaron Wright, Firefighter/Engineer Brandon Beals of the City of Bradenton Fire Department. Officer Jason Rhind of the Bradenton Police Department. Engineer Daniel Lane, Firefighter Michael Kish, Firefighter Ben Guth, Lieutenant Chad Gamble, Firefighter Jordan Rogers, Firefighter Brian Perdue, Lieutenant Eric Hoying, Firefighter Kyle Powers, Firefighter Bret Kanapux, and Battalion Chief Kyle Taylor of East Manatee Fire Rescue. Medical Director David Nonell, Assistant Chief Sean Dwyer, District Chief Bradley Hughes, Registered Nurse Brie Spuck, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse Shannon Shanks, Social Worker Sonia Shuhart, Outreach Case Manager Angie Sciarrone, Community Health Worker Meghan Carr, Community Paramedic Aaron Fullenwider, Community Paramedic Ashley Robinson and Resource Coordinator Vanessa MargrafBrenn of Manatee County EMS.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to law enforcement men and women who have provided distinguished service to the people of Florida's 16th Congressional District. Law enforcement is a demanding profession that requires sacrifice, courage, and dedication to serve others. Every day, brave men and women put themselves in harm's way to enforce the laws of our society and protect public safety. They deserve our gratitude and respect. Thirteen years ago, I established the 16th District Congressional Law Enforcement Awards to give special recognition to law enforcement officers, departments, or units for exceptional achievement. This year, I will present congressional law enforcement awards to the following winners chosen by an independent panel comprised of current and retired law enforcement personnel representing a cross-section of the district's law enforcement community: Above and Beyond the Call of Duty Award: Lieutenant John Hurd, Lieutenant Nicholas Pruitt, Sergeant Robert Hendrickson, Detective Tyler Ackerman, Detective Imran Din, Detective Christopher Foy, Deputy Michael Davis, Deputy Nicholas DiFilippo, Deputy Amy Dunkum, Deputy Camilo Garcia-Fajardo, Deputy Kevin Gonzalez, Deputy Joshua Groover, Deputy Connor Hartley, Deputy Stephen Hill, Deputy Tristan Knutson, Deputy Alexis Lyon, Deputy Joseph Maggio, Deputy Kelli McLaughlin, Deputy Andrew Rodman, Deputy Hurly Smith, Deputy Adam Spatafora, Deputy Serissa Thompson, Deputy Randall Walker, and Deputy Aaron Winslow of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office. Dedication and Professionalism Award: Special Agent K. Dino Balos of the ATF, Officer Joshua Small of the Bradenton Police Department, Trooper Taylor Ledford of the Florida Highway Patrol, and Master Detective Juan Lazu, Jr. and Detective Michael Fernandes of the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office. Gary Tibbetts Career Service Award: Major William ``B.G.'' Dixon of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office. Preservation of Life Award: Detective William Mulligan of the Bradenton Police Department, Trooper Kevin Tomberlin of the Florida Highway Patrol, Deputy Alexander Maldonado and Deputy Kevin Reich of the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office, Sergeant Thomas Fraser and Officer Alex Hurt of the Holmes Beach Police Department, Detective Grace King, Deputy Ryan Emkey, Deputy Jared Leggett, Deputy Michael Mahoney, Deputy Micah Osornio, Deputy Christian Ruiz, Deputy Monica Ruiz, Deputy Matthew Schwartz, Deputy Reaghn Simandl, and Deputy Ty Simandl of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office. Unit Citation Award: Florida Highway Patrol Troop C Criminal Interdiction Unit: Sergeant Joshua Malloy, Trooper Jeremy Fields, Trooper Wesley Kelly, Trooper Deryck Lewis, Trooper Chris Nottingham, Trooper Sergio Pearce, Trooper Eric Schaub, K-9 Flip, K-9 Titan, and K- 9 Lobo; Manatee County Search and Rescue: Deputy Jared Leggett of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of outstanding public school teachers in Florida's 16th Congressional District. I was once told that children are 25 percent of the population, but they are 100 percent of the future. And it's true. The education of a child is an investment, not only in that student, but in the future of our country. Therefore, I established the Congressional Teacher Awards to honor educators for their ability to teach and inspire students. An independent panel has chosen the following teachers from Manatee and Hillsborough counties to receive Florida's 16th District's 2023 Congressional Teacher Award for their accomplishments as educators: Lori Catalani for her accomplishments as a third-grade teacher at Sea Breeze Elementary School in Bradenton Stephanie Wajszczuk for her accomplishments as an ESE teacher at Ballard Elementary in Bradenton Kathleen Brown for her accomplishments as a math teacher at Braden River Middle School in Bradenton Kendall Carrier for his accomplishments as a music teacher at Parrish Community High School in Parrish Ann Fleury for her accomplishments as a math teacher at Lakewood Ranch High School in Bradenton Nicole Seace for her accomplishments as a science teacher at Winthrop Charter School in Riverview Thomas Waistell for his accomplishments as an English teacher at Rodgers Middle Magnet School in Riverview Lori Haley for her accomplishments as a Spanish teacher at Joe E. Newsome High School in Lithia On behalf of the people of Florida's 16th District, I congratulate each of these outstanding teachers and offer my sincere appreciation for their service and dedication.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize the Bradenton Kiwanis Club for 100 years of service to children and the community as a whole. Originally chartered as the Manatee River Kiwanis Club on August 22, 1922, by Kiwanis International, the club later changed its name to the Bradenton Kiwanis Club. For the past century, the club's members have been community leaders working together to make a positive difference by identifying and meeting the needs of local youth and Manatee County. In the early years, the club established a Christmas Charity Fund for underprivileged children and began supporting Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, and other programs for children. The Club also brought the Manatee County and DeSoto County Commissions together to build a paved, 50-mile road between Bradenton and Arcadia. During the Great Depression, the Club established, funded, and operated a Health Camp for underprivileged children. During the height of the depression, to promote tourism and improve the local economy, the Club worked with the City of Bradenton to establish, fund, and operate the Bradenton Trailer Park, which was one of the largest trailer parks in the world until it was sold in 1997. In 1947, the Club established and funded the Boys Club of Manatee County and continues to support it. In 1990, the Bradenton Kiwanis Foundation was established, and when it received the net proceeds from the sale of the trailer park, it continued to use the interest income to donate to local nonprofit organizations who provide for children and the disadvantaged. The foundation has contributed nearly $7 million to improve the lives of Bradenton's young people, including the Boys and Girls Clubs of Manatee, K-Kids, Builders Clubs, the Boy Scouts, the Girl Scouts, the YMCA, Kids Against Hunger, Salvation Army, Headstart, Meals on Wheels, the Salvation Army and others. The Club has further demonstrated its commitment to children and the community by building parks, partnering with Habitat for Humanity to build houses, supporting the Bishop Museum, partnering with the Manatee County Chamber of Commerce to establish a leadership program, launching the College & Career Resource Center at Manatee Memorial High School, participating in Big Brothers Big Sisters' student mentoring program and funding numerous scholarship programs. The club has also contributed to capital campaigns to support the construction of a new Bradenton Civic Center, a Girl Scout House, the Anna Maria Island Community center, Manatee Performing Arts Center and to purchase land for the Boys Club, United Way, and YMCA. On behalf of the people of Florida's 16th District, I congratulate the Bradenton Kiwanis Club on their 100th anniversary and applaud its members for the positive impact they have had on the community.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize a group of veterans for their military and community service. Our veterans have sacrificed much in the defense of our nation. Many of them retired their uniforms but continued their service by helping others in their community. I recently established the 16th District Congressional Veteran Commendation program to recognize the heroic wartime sacrifices and admirable peacetime community involvement of my constituents. An independent panel reviewed several nominations and chose the following six veterans for their wartime and post-military service: Edward J. Mahoney of Sun City Center who served in the U.S. Marine Corps during World War II John V. Skeen of Bradenton who served in the U.S. Army during World War II John J. Brill of Longboat Key who served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War Richard J. Petrucci of Lakewood Ranch who served in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War Richard M. Swier of Sarasota who served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War David W. Daily of Bradenton who served in the U.S. Army during the Gulf War These are exceptional Americans. I appreciate the opportunity to honor them for their service to the Nation and community.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 4358, bipartisan legislation I introduced last July with my fellow Floridian Rep. Darren Soto, regarding the Little Manatee River. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to join with us in voting in support of this bill. The Little Manatee Wild and Scenic River Act authorizes the National Park Service (NPS) to study whether it's appropriate to add an approximately 51-mile-long segment of the Little Manatee River, from its source in southeastern Hillsborough County to the point at which the river enters Tampa Bay, to its Wild and Scenic River System. For my part, I strongly support both passage of this bill today and of subsequently adding the Little Manatee River to the NPS' Wild and Scenic River program in the future. Passage of the bill before us today begins that journey and I have been very pleased to work with my colleagues on the Natural Resources Committee toward realizing that goal. Adding this river to the Wild and Scenic River program in the future will help ensure the Little Manatee will remain available for a full range of recreational activities for Floridians, like canoeing, kayaking, boating and fishing. In Florida, protecting our precious natural resources has always been a top priority. Florida's Suncoast is blessed with an abundance of natural treasures like Sarasota Bay, Emerson Point Preserve and Myakka River State Park. I want all of my colleagues to know that adding the Little Manatee River to the Wild and Scenic River program enjoys strong local support as well. Both the Hillsborough County Commission and the Manatee County Commission have approved resolutions supporting this designation. Of particular note, Hillsborough County Commission Chairman Stacy White has been a leader in the effort to add the Little Manatee River to the Wild and Scenic River program. He has been a champion of this effort from day one and an invaluable partner for me in my efforts at the federal level. Protecting and enhancing water quality for all of Southwest Florida has always been one of my highest priorities in Congress. Approving this bill today will move us forward in our efforts to help ensure a vibrant, clean and healthy environment in my home state of Florida. It's both an important element in our quality of life and a vital part of our economic well-being because millions of people visit Florida every year. Madam Speaker, I want to thank the bipartisan leadership of the Natural Resources Committee for working with me to bring H.R. 4358 to the floor today. Again, I urge all of my colleagues in the House to join with me in voting for this bill.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize fire, rescue and EMS personnel who have provided distinguished service to the people of Florida's 16th Congressional District. First responders, fire departments and emergency medical service teams are summoned on short notice to serve their respective communities. Often times, they arrive at scenes of great adversity and trauma, to which they reliably bring strength and composure. These brave men and women spend hundreds of hours in training so that they are prepared when they get ``the call.'' Ten years ago, I established the 16th District Congressional Fire and Rescue and EMS Awards to honor officers, departments, and units for outstanding achievement. On behalf of the people of Florida's 16th District, it is my privilege to congratulate the following winners, who were selected this year by an independent committee comprised of a cross section of current and retired fire and rescue personnel living in the district: Manatee County EMS Paramedic Lydia Wilkinson for the Preservation of Life Award. Manatee County EMS Charge Paramedic Karleigh Alday for the Preservation of Life Award. Manatee County EMS District Chief Jason Evans for the Dedication and Professionalism Award. Manatee County EMS Charge Paramedic Joe Savasta for the Preservation of Life Award and the Above & Beyond the Call of Duty Award. Manatee County EMS Paramedic Carlos Santos for the Preservation of Life Award and the Above & Beyond the Call of Duty Award. Parrish Assistant Fire Chief Wayne Ownbey for the Career Service Award. Cedar Hammock Fire Inspector Adam Chrisman for the Dedication and Professionalism Award. Hillsborough County Fire Captain Kevin Kahmeyer for the Dedication and Professionalism Award. Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Shift Commander Gil Reyes for the Career Service Award. Manatee County EMS Operations Chief Larry Luh for the Career Service Award. Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Deputy Fire Marshall Ray Hansen for the Career Service Award. East Manatee Fire Lieutenant Steve Baker, Firefighter Larry White and Firefighter Michael Guard for the Unit Citation Award.

Mr. BUCHANAN

Mr. BUCHANAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to law enforcement men and women who have provided distinguished service to the people of Florida's 16th Congressional District. Law enforcement is a demanding profession that requires sacrifice, courage, and dedication to serve others. Every day, brave men and women put themselves in harm's way to enforce the laws of our society and protect public safety. They deserve our gratitude and respect. Twelve years ago, I established the 16th District Congressional Law Enforcement Awards, CLEA, to give special recognition to law enforcement officers, departments, or units for exceptional achievement. This year, I will present congressional law enforcement awards to the following winners chosen by an independent panel comprised of current and retired law enforcement personnel representing a cross-section of the district's law enforcement community: Above and Beyond the Call of Duty Award: Lt. Sean Felton, Deputies Kelsey Belloise, Timothy Downey, Hugo Garcia, Grace King, Alexander Nikias, Monica Ruiz, Todd Sellitto, Logan Wilson and Robert Wildt of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office. Dedication and Professionalism Award: Lt. Phillip Waller and Sgt. Aaron Pilant of the Bradenton Police Department; Officer Chris Bennett of the Holmes Beach Police Department; Deputies Maria Gillum and Rafael Ortegon, and Detective Derek Pollock of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office. Gary Tibbetts Career Service Award: Assistant Chief Josh Cramer and Detective James Curulla of the Bradenton Police Department; Barbara Ehrhart of the Florida Highway Patrol; Detective John Lake of the Sarasota Police Department; Lt. Christopher Montalbano of the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office. Preservation of Life Award: Deputies Ryan Banning, Michael Beers, Leonel Garcia, Zameul Sanchez Garcia, Kyle Kaskiw, Joshua Langieri, Micah Osornio, Benjamin Quick, Grant Weisman, and Detective Scott Williamson of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office; Detective Vincent Diorio of the Palmetto Police Department; Officers Adam Bearden, Whitney Bentz, Ridge Collins, Terry Crenshaw, Timothy Dederick, Julius Gonzalez, Nathan Lynn, Molly Spencer, and Officer Eric Urbain of the Sarasota Police Department. Unit Citation Award: Lt. Mark Morie, Sergeants Seamus Dwyer, Stephen Ives, Brian Quiles, and Theron Robinson and Detectives Bryan Lake, Carmine Luper, Steven Luke, and James Parrish of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office Crimes Against Children Unit, Internet Crimes Against Children Unit, and Technical Services Unit; Sergeants Stephen Barron and Paul Bulso, Detectives Kelsey Belloise, Ernest Bichsel, Keith English, Philip Fellows, Lucas Freitas-Ferreira, Cody Hobbs, Grace King, Jeremy Martin, Matthew Schwartz, and Austyn Shear of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office Special Investigations Division Tactical Unit; Sergeants Sean Carter and Jonathan Misiewicz, Officers Nicholas Bernier, Brenton Bieker, Jarrod Chapman, Timothy Dederick, Giovanni Gonzalez, Julius Gonzalez, Nicholas Laquidara, Nathan Lynn, Aaron Modrow, Jordan Osinga, Elise Schanley, Lauren Stevens, Eric Urbain, Becky Worthington, and Alfonso Varlaro of the Sarasota Police Department Patrol Shift 2A Unit.