Tom Barrett

Mr. BARRETT

Mr. BARRETT. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. Mr. Speaker, in closing, this legislation will help improve the Federal Government's use of shared space and save taxpayer dollars. By building on the success of the last Congress, we can continue to implement policies that ensure that we are good stewards of our taxpayer resources and hold agencies accountable for the effective and efficient use of our Federal real estate portfolio. Mr. Speaker, I urge support for H.R. 3424, and I yield back the balance of my time.

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

Mr. BARRETT

Mr. BARRETT. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 3425) to direct the Director of the Federal Protective Service to establish processes to strengthen oversight, performance, and accountability of contract security personnel engaged in the protection of certain buildings and grounds, and for other purposes, as amended.

Mr. BARRETT. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material in the Record on H.R. 3425, as amended.

Mr. BARRETT. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 3425, the POST Act of 2025, strengthens the Federal Protective Service, or FPS, and their ability to secure Federal facilities and improve accountability for the contract guards who protect them. The Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure has conducted bipartisan oversight of FPS operations and Federal facility security. Both testimony at hearings and Government Accountability Office reports have reinforced the need for these reforms. The Federal Protective Service is tasked with securing approximately 9,000 GSA-leased and -owned facilities across America. To protect these buildings, FPS oversees over 15,000 contracted guards, known as protective security officers. Despite the size and importance of the FPS' mission, serious vulnerabilities exist in its oversight of contract guards. For example, one GAO investigation found that contracted guards failed to detect concealed weapons, including batons and pepper spray, in half of covert security tests. While FPS uses covert testing to assess security vulnerabilities, they lack a standardized system to track, analyze, and respond to the results. The POST Act addresses this critical gap by requiring the FPS Director to establish and maintain a centralized database to capture covert test data, including why a contract guard failed to detect contraband. The legislation mandates quarterly analyses of this data to identify trends and training needs and requires targeted, corrective training for guards who fail covert tests, which helps to close performance gaps and improve public safety. This is a commonsense reform that turns the tests that FPS is already conducting into data that can drive actionable improvements, making Federal buildings safer for employees and the American people who we serve. The POST Act also tackles another persistent problem: FPS' broken shift tracking system. In 2018, FPS launched the Post Tracking System to modernize its paper-based guard sign-in process. Seven years later, the Post Tracking System remains unreliable, and FPS still relies on paper records. As a result, FPS has been unable to issue timely notifications to tenant agencies about guard shortages. In some cases, this even forced the closure of Federal buildings to the public. The POST Act would require FPS to either fix PTS or replace it with a modern, dependable solution. H.R. 3425 contains practical measures to improve FPS' oversight of contract guards, strengthen accountability, and improve safety at Federal buildings. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Utah (Mr. Kennedy) for his leadership on this legislation and the gentleman from Alabama (Mr. Figures) for working on this bipartisan bill. Mr. Speaker, I urge support of this legislation, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. BARRETT. Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 minutes to the gentleman from Utah (Mr. Kennedy).

Mr. BARRETT. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 3425, as amended, strengthens oversight of the Federal Protective Service's contract guard program and ensures protective security officers are properly trained and accountable. Additionally, and importantly, this legislation modernizes critical systems to make Federal buildings safer for employees and the public. Mr. Speaker, I urge support of H.R. 3425, as amended, and I yield back the balance of my time.

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

Mr. BARRETT

Mr. BARRETT. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 3428) to require the Comptroller General of the United States to conduct a review of the Mid-Atlantic River Basin Commissions, and for other purposes.

Mr. BARRETT. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and insert extraneous material into the Record on H.R. 3428.

Mr. BARRETT. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I commend my colleague, the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Bresnahan), for his hard work on this bill. Mr. Speaker, the Mid-Atlantic River Basin Commissions, for the Susquehanna, Delaware, and Potomac Rivers, came into existence before the creation of the EPA and mandated Federal involvement in the commissions. H.R. 3428 is a good government bill that directs the GAO to review the ethics, practices, funding, and Federal responsibilities of the commissions. Congress has a duty to conduct oversight of these commissions, and I thank Mr. Bresnahan for ensuring that we fulfill that role. Mr. Speaker, I urge support of this legislation, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. BARRETT. Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 minutes to the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Bresnahan).

Mr. BARRETT. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time to close. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 3428, the Mid-Atlantic River Basin Commissions Review Act, is legislation that will ensure important rivers in our communities have proper oversight and utilize taxpayer resources to carry out their missions responsibly. Mr. Speaker, I urge support of this bill and yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. BARRETT

Mr. BARRETT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a true legend in the Michigan veteran community. It is with deep respect and heartfelt appreciation that I get to recognize Commander Leonard Huyck for extraordinary service and steadfast leadership of VFW Post 8964. Since being elected Post Commander in May of 1983, Leonard has dedicated forty-two years of his life to leading his fellow veterans, honoring their service, and strengthening the bonds of community and patriotism that define the VFW. His leadership has not only guided Post 8964 through decades of change, but ensured it remained a place of honor, support, and purpose for all who served. Forty-two years is more than a milestone, it's a testament to Leonard's character, commitment, and love of country. He has given his time, energy, and heart to this mission, building a legacy that will outlast all of us in the process. On behalf of a grateful Nation, I thank Commander Huyck for his service. He has made a difference in the lives of many, and our community is a better place because of him. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me and the people of our mid-Michigan community in recognizing Commander Huyck for his decades of service.

Mr. BARRETT

Mr. BARRETT. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman and the ranking member for their support of my bill, H.R. 1364, the ASSIST Act. During my 22 years in the United States Army, I was fortunate to return home without the need for assistive devices. For too many who serve or have served, that isn't the case. Too many are returning home with wounds that can't be healed, leaving them permanently disabled and in need of assistive technology. Not only does a service-connected disability negatively impact a veteran's quality of life but it can cause barriers as they attempt to transition back to civilian life. My bipartisan bill ensures that disabled veterans, with help from the Department of Veterans Affairs, are empowered to make the vehicle modifications they need to safely and efficiently travel. Right now, the VA is restricted to funding only a limited number of adaptive equipment devices such as wheelchair tie-downs, van lifts, and raised roofs. Unfortunately and unintentionally, this limits and in many cases prevents altogether some veterans from being able to make necessary modifications to their vehicles such as ramp and kneeling systems, mobility device lifts, and ingress and egress accessibility modifications. The ASSIST Act fixes this gap in assistance and would make sure that disabled veterans can continue traveling safely and freely when they return home. Specifically, this will give the VA greater flexibility to offer financial assistance for a wider range of medically necessary vehicle adaptations. This is a commonsense solution that removes bureaucratic red tape and gives veterans the resources they deserve to live life fully after they serve. The bottom line is that our veterans put their bodies on the line for the very freedoms that we cherish and often take for granted. In return, they deserve to be taken care of when they take off the uniform. By passing this bill today, we can ensure that no veteran is denied essential mobility assistance because of an outdated government list that leaves many things left off. Mr. Speaker, I specifically thank my colleague, Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander, for leading this effort with me. I look forward to working with Senator Tuberville to get this to the Senate and onto the President's desk for signature. It is time to give America's heroes the resources they need to live their lives to the fullest, and I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on this bill.

Mr. BARRETT

Mr. BARRETT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a true legend in Michigan broadcasting, Sheri Jones, who is retiring after nearly 37 years as a trusted voice and compassionate presence on WLNS-TV 6 in Lansing. Since 1987, Sheri has been more than a news anchor--she's been a steady, reassuring presence in our homes. Her warm demeanor and unwavering professionalism have made her a beloved figure across mid- Michigan. Whether reporting breaking news or moderating debates. Sheri brought clarity, dignity, and heart to every story she told. Her excellence has not gone unnoticed. Sheri is a proud inductee of both the Michigan Journalism Hall of Fame and the Michigan Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame. She's received multiple Emmy nominations, accolades from the Associated Press, and recognition from the Michigan Association of Broadcasting. Sheri is also a proud member of the Silver Circle of the Michigan chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences--an honor reserved for those who have devoted a quarter-century or more to broadcast excellence. But Sheri's impact goes far beyond the newsroom. She's been a tireless advocate on the frontlines of some of our most pressing issues--raising awareness about the opioid crisis, mental health, and human trafficking. Additionally. she has used her platform not just to inform, but to inspire change. Sheri Jones is more than a journalist--she is a storyteller, a mentor, a community champion, and a true public servant. Her retirement marks the end of an era for Michigan journalism, but her legacy will continue in the lives she's touched, the issues she's illuminated, and the community she's helped build. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me and a grateful mid- Michigan community in recognizing Sheri for her decades of service and wishing her all the best in this well-earned next chapter.

Mr. BARRETT

Mr. BARRETT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a truly extraordinary American, Marjorie Ann Smith Curtiss, who is celebrating her 100th birthday today. Born in 1925, Marjorie has spent the past century as a proud Michigander whose life has been defined by strength, service, and resilience. In 1943, during the Second World War, Marjorie became one of the original ``Rosies,'' embodying the spirit of Rosie the Riveter and stepping up to support her Nation on the home front. Immediately after her high school graduation, Marjorie volunteered at the Chevrolet plant near her home in Flint, Michigan, where she worked on rehabilitating military trucks for the front lines. A few months later, Marjorie became an inspector, where she played a critical role in maintaining records on the Briggs & Stratton airplane engines being rebuilt at the facility until the operation closed in 1945. Marjorie's legacy, however, goes far beyond the factory floor. After marrying her husband John David Curtiss, she raised four children, put herself through nursing school, and achieved a career in the field. Today, she is the proud matriarch of a growing family that includes seven grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren. Her legacy of love, perseverance, and hard work continues to shine through them. Mr. Speaker, Marjorie Curtiss is an exceptional woman who answered the call to support her Nation in its darkest hour. Her story, which is woven into the fabric of our Nation, is nothing short of remarkable. I urge my colleagues to join me and all of Michigan's Seventh Congressional District in wishing her a very happy 100th birthday.

Mr. BARRETT

Mr. BARRETT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding American and true patriot, Mr. Bobby Brite, who was named Veteran of the Year for 2024 by the American Legion. Bobby is a 26-year veteran of the United States Army who served our country with integrity, sacrifice, and quiet leadership. He served on active duty from 1990 to 1996 and again from 2003 to 2005, when his work as an infantry platoon leader during Operation Iraqi Freedom II earned him the Bronze Star Medal and the Combat Infantry Badge. Following his retirement in 2023, Bobby rededicated his life to serving his brothers and sisters who also hung up the uniform. Today, he is Post Historian for American Legion Post 141 in Howell, Michigan, where he previously served as Post Commander, 1st Vice Commander, and Finance Officer. He is also Secretary for the VFW Post 6464, President of the Howell Veterans Society, American Legion Department of Michigan Membership Committee Member, and a Post 141 Past Commanders Committee Member. To put it simply, Bobby Brite is a pillar in the veteran community-- offering support, building friendships, and fighting to ensure that no veteran is left behind. Whether it's helping a fellow veteran navigate the VA system, organizing community events, or just being someone to lean on, Bobby is always there. His efforts exemplify the very spirit of the American Legion--``For God and Country''--and I could think of no one more deserving of this tremendous honor. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating my good friend, Bobby Brite, on this incredible achievement. Our community, the state of Michigan, and the United States of America are grateful for his continued service to our Nation and its heroes.

Mr. BARRETT

Mr. BARRETT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of my very first piece of legislation that I introduced as a Member of Congress, H.R. 1039, the Clear Communication for Veterans Claims Act. This bipartisan bill, which I am proud to lead with Chairman Bost and Representative Budzinski, the ranking member of the subcommittee that I lead on Chairman Bost's committee, will make it easier for veterans to access the care and benefits they have earned by making significant improvements to our overly complicated claims process. Mr. Speaker, you have already heard from other Members today about issues with veterans filing claims and running into problems with forms, legalese, bureaucratic speak, and things that are not easily understood. I can tell you, I personally have seen this myself in applications and interfacing I have had with the VA and challenges you get when you receive things in the mail. It is hard to determine whether this is an update on the claim that I have filed, a resolution to that claim, or seeking more information, or is it simply a delay saying that they don't have a resolution to the claim yet? It can be very difficult to figure that out, especially if you have multiple claims within the same packet. When a veteran files a claim, it means they need help, yet too often they receive long, confusing letters full of legal jargon that leaves them with more questions than answers, ultimately leading them to call into a claims center or a helpline, which overburdens that and slows down the overall claims process. This is unacceptable. Claims letters should be the catalyst to care and benefits and not the obstacle. That is where my bill comes in. H.R. 1039 requires the VA to make these notices clear, concise, and easy to understand while also streamlining the Department's overall communication with our veterans. As you heard already, it requires the VA to partner with an outside agency, not the bureaucrats within the VA, to make these communications easier and more streamlined for veterans to understand. Often, when you are working within the industry, it can be very difficult to put yourself in the position of those receiving these letters to understand what would be best absorbed by them. Our veterans serve the United States military with honor. They shouldn't need a lawyer or specially trained advocate to explain a claims letter to them. When I was elected to the State legislature in Michigan 10 years ago, I became the only Iraq war veteran in the entire Michigan House of Representatives. I worked closely with my Federal Members of Congress to help veterans obtain their benefits. I maintained then that if I were ever in a position to make the process more streamlined and easier to understand, I would commit to doing that. This very first bill in Congress makes good on that commitment. I am proud to offer that today. Mr. Speaker, I thank you and the rest of the Chamber for taking up this bill for consideration. It is time to give America's heroes and their families a clear and efficient claims process that actually works for them. I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on this bill that would do just that.

Mr. BARRETT

Mr. BARRETT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Fowler Eagles girls' basketball team, who captured the State championship this past weekend with a commanding 53-29 victory. I was at the Breslin Center to watch the game with two of my daughters: Eleanora, who just finished her first season of basketball, and Gwen, who is excited to start playing next year. These young ladies on the basketball court really served as a great example for my own daughters and so many others across our State. What we saw was more than just great basketball. We saw poise, teamwork, and excellence, especially for young girls like my daughters who could watch that in action. I thank the Fowler Eagles for inspiring the next generation and making our community proud. Gwen, my 7-year-old, wants autographs from each team member, so I hope we can catch up with them sometime for that. Congratulations to the team on an incredible season. Our city is so proud of them.

Mr. BARRETT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the East Lansing Trojans on an incredible achievement, winning the State championship with a hard-fought 66-46 victory just a couple of weeks ago. While the Michigan State Spartans are making a deep run in the tournament in the men's college basketball tournament this month, they need to look no further than across town at the East Lansing boys' basketball team to see another championship team in East Lansing. This championship is the result of countless hours of practice and years of hard work, and it serves as a capstone to all of the time spent perfecting their craft, playing as a team, and working under the leadership of head coach Ray Mitchell. A sincere congratulations to each and every one of them. This is a wonderful achievement, and our city is very proud of them. Congratulating Fowler Eagles Girls Basketball