Robert Bresnahan

Mr. BRESNAHAN

Mr. BRESNAHAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life and legacy of Mr. Robert Tambur, a resident of Shavertown, Pennsylvania, and a dedicated athlete, businessman, family man, and philanthropist. Born in the former Pittston Hospital in 1938, Bob was known for the development of Arena Hub Plaza shopping center, which remains an important economic hub to this day. His successful career also encompassed Tammac Corporation, golf course development, real estate, and horse breeding, among other industries. Throughout his life, Bob took community and civic engagement seriously. He served on the boards of many important institutions in Northeastern Pennsylvania including the Wilkes-Barre Catholic Youth Center, King's College, Hospice of the Sacred Heart, Fox Hill Country Club, the Glenmaura National Golf Club, and the F.M. Kirby Center. He and his wife were repeatedly recognized for their involvement and contributions to local organizations, educational institutions, and charities. I had the pleasure of knowing Bob from a very early age, and he was a dear friend of my grandfather. Bob will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and the entire Wilkes-Barre community. He is remembered and honored by a grateful community for a life committed to service and making Northeastern Pennsylvania a better place.

Mr. BRESNAHAN

Mr. BRESNAHAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Lynette Villano, a cherished member of the Luzerne County community and lifelong northeastern Pennsylvanian who passed away last month. Lynette was born in Wilkes-Barre and spent the majority of her life in West Pittston, where she was an avid member of the community. From the West Pittston Community Pool to West Pittston Little League to local volunteering and fundraising, Lynette was known and loved by many for her loyalty. She was also incredibly involved in the political community, serving as the first female chair of the Luzerne County Republican Committee. You could not be involved in NEPA politics without knowing Lynette. Lynette fought a courageous battle with breast cancer and will be remembered for her strength and kindness. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, the West Pittston community, and all who she knew throughout Luzerne County.

Mr. BRESNAHAN

Mr. BRESNAHAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life and legacy of Mr. Robert Tambour, a resident of Shavertown, Pennsylvania, and a dedicated athlete, businessman, family man, and philanthropist. Born in the former Pittston Hospital in 1938, Bob was known for the development of Arena Hub Plaza shopping center, which remains an important economic hub to this day. His successful career also encompassed Tammac Corporation, golf course development, real estate, and horse breeding, among other industries. Throughout his life, Bob took community and civic engagement seriously. He served on the boards of many important institutions in northeastern Pennsylvania, including the Wilkes-Barre Catholic Youth Center, King's College, Hospice of the Sacred Heart, Fox Hill Country Club, the Glenmaura National Golf Club, and the F.M. Kirby Center. He and his wife were repeatedly recognized for their involvement and contributions to local organizations, educational institutions, and charities. I had the pleasure of knowing Bob from a very early age, and he was a dear friend of my grandfather. Bob will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and the entire Wilkes-Barre community. He is remembered and honored by a grateful community for a life committed to service and making northeastern Pennsylvania a better place.

Mr. BRESNAHAN

Mr. BRESNAHAN. Mr. Speaker, I include in the Record the following proclamation honoring the 40th Anniversary of Steamtown National Historic Site: Whereas, established by Congress on October 30, 1986, Steamtown National Historic Site occupies a portion of the former Delaware, Lackawanna & Western Railroad yard, connecting the site directly to the railroad history that helped build Scranton and shape the industrial heritage of Northeastern Pennsylvania; and Whereas, Steamtown preserves an extraordinary collection of historic locomotives, passenger cars, freight equipment, archives, and railroad artifacts, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to experience the craftsmanship and human stories behind an era that transformed American industry, commerce, transportation, and communities; and Whereas, Steamtown's mission is to further public understanding and appreciation of the role steam railroading played in the development of the United States, and as the only site within the National Park System where the story of steam railroading and the people who made it possible is told, Steamtown serves as an important center for preservation, education, and appreciation of America's industrial heritage; and Whereas, the anniversary provides an opportunity to honor the generations of railroad workers whose skill and dedication powered America's growth, as well as the preservationists, National Park Service employees, volunteers, and community members who have worked to ensure that their stories continue to be shared with future generations; Now therefore, I, Rob Bresnahan, Jr., Member of Congress, do hereby recognize and congratulate Steamtown National Historic Site on the occasion of its 40th Anniversary, honoring four decades of preserving America's railroad heritage, educating visitors, and celebrating the enduring legacy of railroading and the people who helped build our Nation.

Mr. BRESNAHAN

Mr. BRESNAHAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Coach Ed Karpovich, who retired last month from the University of Scranton golf team after an extraordinary 44 years as head coach. He leaves a lasting mark on countless athletes, including myself, who had the privilege of learning from him. Before coaching, Ed was a distinguished golfer for the University of Scranton Royals, and in 1982, he came back to lead the team, transforming the program into a powerhouse. During his coaching career, he led the team to over 400 wins in dual matches, a MAC title, and two landmark conference titles. Ed used his love of golf to cofound the Glenmaura National Collegiate Invitational, which draws talent from all over the country, including watching Chris Shank land a 40-foot putt. Most of all, he understood that above being a coach, he was a teacher and a mentor. He not only invested in his student-athletes as players, he developed them as people, instilling excellence on the course and in all facets of life. I am honored to have played for Coach Karpovich, to have learned from him, and to call him a mentor. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Coach Karpovich on an extraordinary career and thank him for the lasting impact he has had on generations of student-athletes in northeastern Pennsylvania.

Mr. BRESNAHAN

Mr. BRESNAHAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize International Overdose Awareness Day. Today, we remember the hundreds of thousands of Americans who have lost their lives to overdose, and we remember the families, friends, and the communities left behind. However, these aren't statistics. They are our neighbors, our family members, and our friends. No race, gender, ZIP Code, or family is immune from this epidemic. International Overdose Awareness Day is a chance to remember those we have lost, stand with those in recovery, and recognize the people on the front lines who are working to save lives. We have a responsibility to do everything we can to stop these deadly drugs from reaching our communities, hold those who traffic them accountable, and make sure people struggling with addiction can get the help that they need. Today, we remember those who were taken from this world far too soon, and we recommit ourselves to making sure fewer families experience this kind of pain.

Mr. BRESNAHAN

Mr. BRESNAHAN. Mr. Chairman, I rise in strong support of this en bloc, which includes an amendment that calls on the President to award the Medal of Honor to Colonel Bob Graham of Nuangola, Pennsylvania. On May 1, 1966, at the height of Operation Birmingham in the Vietnam war, then-Captain Graham flew his battle-damaged F-100 Super Sabre through monsoon weather to reach American troops surrounded by 4,000 enemy soldiers. He made more than 15 low-level attack passes under heavy artillery fire, knowing full well he may not survive. He not only survived, but destroyed eight enemy gun positions, neutralized over 1,500 enemy troops, and broke the back of that assault, saving hundreds of American lives. Colonel Graham flew over 500 combat missions across four tours in Vietnam and served this country faithfully for 26 years. He already earned the Silver Star for his heroic actions that day. However, it is past time that we recognize his actions went above and beyond the call of duty. I urge my colleagues to support this and finally give Colonel Graham the recognition he has long since earned.

Mr. BRESNAHAN

Mr. BRESNAHAN. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the Small Business Cybersecurity Assistance Evaluation Act which I was proud to introduce with Representative Simon. This bipartisan bill makes sure that the Federal resources designed to help small businesses bolster their cybersecurity defenses are working as intended and are identifying where they are falling short. Small businesses are 210 percent more likely to experience cyber incidents compared to larger companies, yet many lack the resources and the expertise necessary to defend against these threats. As cyber incidents become more common, it is very clear: Congress can no longer afford to overlook this growing issue. By finding the gaps in current programs, this bill will help ensure our small businesses have better access to the tools, training, and resources they need to strengthen their defenses against cyberattacks. As these threats continue to evolve, our support systems for America's small businesses must evolve as well. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this important, bipartisan legislation.

Mr. BRESNAHAN

Mr. BRESNAHAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today alongside Congressman Meuser to honor the life of Dr. Richard Alley, a devoted community member dedicated to education and patient care on a local and global level. Dr. Alley was not only a physician and professor in Wilkes-Barre, where he provided decades of compassionate care for people within his local community, but also participated in international medical mission trips to provide care to people abroad. Dr. Alley also engaged in educational philanthropy through assisting with high school scholarships in the Greater Wyoming Valley, and thus, enhanced educational opportunities for younger generations. His actions in the academic world will continue to live on for many years to come. Dr. Alley not only helped in the spheres of education and medicine, but he also served the armed services. He was a proud U.S. Navy veteran, where he served as a lieutenant in the Medical Corps. Today, we honor Dr. Alley's service to his local community, to his country, and to the world. May we honor his legacy not just with words but by striving to live with the same compassion, care, and devotion he showed every single day.

Mr. BRESNAHAN

Mr. BRESNAHAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Bruce Huttenstine, Sr. I include in the Record the following proclamation: Whereas, Bruce Huttenstine, Sr. of West Hazleton, Pennsylvania honorably served in the United States Navy from 1950 to 1954 during the Korean War, attaining the rank of Second Class Gunner's Mate aboard the USS Wisconsin and earning numerous military honors, including two Korean Service Medals, a Battle Star, and a Good Conduct Medal; and Whereas, throughout his military career, Bruce Huttenstine, Sr. served with courage, integrity, and unwavering commitment, exemplifying the highest traditions of the United States Armed Forces; and Whereas, following his military service, Bruce Huttenstine, Sr. devoted 37 years to Geissler Knitting Mill and applied the leadership, discipline, and values learned in the Navy to both his profession and his community; and Whereas, alongside his devoted wife and family, Bruce Huttenstine, Sr. has led a life defined by service to others, dedicating his time and talents to mentoring local youth through Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts, Soap Box Derby, Little League and Minor League baseball, while also supporting fellow veterans through his involvement with the Veterans of Foreign Wars; and Whereas, Bruce Huttenstine, Sr.'s lifetime of service, leadership, and civic involvement has enriched the Greater Hazleton area and stands as an enduring example of patriotism, dedication, and community spirit; NOW THEREFORE, I, ROB BRESNAHAN, JR., Member of Congress, do hereby recognize and honor Bruce Huttenstine, Sr. for his distinguished military service, his steadfast commitment to his family and community, and his many contributions to the Greater Hazleton area and Northeastern Pennsylvania.

Mr. BRESNAHAN

Mr. BRESNAHAN. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that when the House adjourns today, it adjourn to meet at noon on Tuesday next, May 19, 2026, for morning-hour debate and 2 p.m. for legislative business.

Mr. BRESNAHAN

Mr. BRESNAHAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Michael Crawford, a devoted father, husband, loyal friend, and public servant, who spent his life answering the call when others needed help the most. As a firefighter and EMT with the Wilkes-Barre City Fire Department, he stood on the front lines of emergencies, protecting his neighbors and his community for 25 years. He truly embodied what it means to give to our community, serving not for recognition but because others depended on him. However, if you ask those who knew him best, they will tell you that his favorite role was not in uniform but at home with his family. He was the proud father of 12 children and a loving husband to his wife, Jessica. Over the last year, Michael courageously battled a terminal cancer diagnosis, but before he left this Earth, he had one last wish: to see his children graduate. That wish was fulfilled in three early graduation ceremonies, allowing him to see his two daughters receive their nursing diplomas and, through the support of his community, a special high school graduation ceremony held for his son. Today, we mourn his passing, but we also celebrate the life that reminds us of what truly matters: faith, family, service, and sacrifice. To his wife, his children, his EMT and fire department family, and all who love him, we extend our deepest condolences. To Michael Crawford, we offer our gratitude. May we honor his legacy not just with words but by striving to live with the same strength and unwavering devotion that he showed us every single day.

Mr. BRESNAHAN

Mr. BRESNAHAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Fire Chief Frank Guido on his retirement after 46 years of dedicated service to the Kingston/Forty Fort Fire Department and the surrounding communities. More than four decades ago, Chief Guido answered the call, protecting lives and property through fire response, rescue, and emergency medical services. A native of Luzerne and a graduate of West Side Central Catholic High School, his commitment to service began early. He first served as a firefighter in Laflin and worked as a nurse's aide at Nesbitt Hospital, where he met his wife before joining the Kingston Fire Department in 1980. Before becoming chief, he played a key role in the 2007 regionalization and consolidation of ambulance and fire services, helping bring departments together and strengthening mutual aid across the region. On March 13, 2009, he was promoted to fire chief, where he led with steadiness and professionalism, further enhancing emergency response and earning the respect of colleagues across northeastern Pennsylvania. He and his wife, Ann, raised three children; Paul, Christopher, and Kelly, who share in the appreciation of his extraordinary career. Chief Guido's legacy is one of service, leadership, and commitment to others.

Mr. BRESNAHAN

Mr. BRESNAHAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with pride to recognize the University of Scranton Women's Basketball team, the Holy Redeemer Girls' Basketball team, and the Old Forge Boys' Basketball team for their outstanding achievements. These young men and women represent the very best of Northeastern Pennsylvania, a region built on resilience, hard work, and determination. The University of Scranton women captured the Landmark Conference Championship and made an incredible run to the NCAA National Championship game. While their season ended in a hard-fought battle against Denison, their accomplishments will not be forgotten. I also recognize the Holy Redeemer Royals of Wilkes-Barre, who advanced to the PIAA 3A Championship game, becoming the first Wyoming Valley Conference girls' team to reach a state final since 2000, a testament to their determination and belief in one another. I am proud to honor the Old Forge boys' basketball team, who won the District Two title and advanced to the state final for the first time in nearly 100 years. Their grit and teamwork inspired their entire community. To each of these athletes, I congratulate them. They have achieved excellence on the court and uplifted their communities along the way. Northeastern Pennsylvania stands united in pride and gratitude for all they have accomplished. I have no doubt their best days are still ahead. I thank them for representing NEPA and making us all proud.

Mr. BRESNAHAN

Mr. BRESNAHAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today encouraged by the progress we are making in delivering an aviation safety package that makes our skies safer. I appreciate the hard work we did as a committee to get this bill to the floor today. After what I anticipate will be a strong bipartisan passage on the floor this evening, we must continue working with our Senate counterparts to create a final package. This is an opportunity that we cannot afford to miss because it is not just about policy being at stake. It is people's lives. I strongly believe that any final bill we send to the President's desk must include requirements for ADS-B In. As a pilot myself, I rely on ADS-B every time I fly. It helps me see traffic, avoid conflicts, and, frankly, helps keep me alive. ADS-B provides real-time situational awareness, giving pilots visual and audible alerts about nearby aircraft and their position, speed, direction, and altitude. That early warning allows pilots to take action and prevent a collision. This is not new technology. It is widely available and already being used to train the next generation of pilots. Madam Speaker, we also have to remember why we are here today. The families across the country, including those impacted by Flight 5342 and the tragedy, are counting on us to do everything we can to prevent something like this from ever happening again. We owe it to them and to the American people to pass a bill that delivers the highest level of safety possible while flying.

Mr. BRESNAHAN

Mr. BRESNAHAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the incredible response to the fire at Lehigh Hospital-Dickson City last Wednesday night. Thanks to the quick action of hospital staff and first responders, every patient and staff member was safely evacuated and relocated, many to nearby hospitals, including Regional Hospital of Scranton, Wilkes- Barre General, Geisinger CMC, and Geisinger Wyoming Valley. What could have been a devastating crisis instead showed the best of northeastern Pennsylvania. First responders and hospital teams from across the region stayed calm, worked together, and made sure every patient was safe. Our team monitored the situation from the district and our congressional office throughout the night, staying in constant contact with the White House, CMS, hospital leadership, State officials, and local responders to make sure that everyone had the support they needed. As Lehigh Valley-Dickson City begins to recover, my office will continue working alongside hospital leadership and local partners, providing any help needed to get the facility back on its feet. This is what NEPA does. We look out for our neighbors, and we take care of one another.

Mr. BRESNAHAN

Mr. BRESNAHAN. Mr. Speaker, I include in the Record the following Proclamation honoring the 150th Anniversary of the Borough of Jessup and the Inaugural Jessup Groundhog Day. Whereas, the Borough of Jessup proudly celebrates its 150th anniversary, honoring generations of families, neighbors, and volunteers who have built a strong and close-knit community; and Whereas, community traditions bring people together, strengthen civic pride, and reflect the shared history and character that make Jessup a special place to call home; and Whereas, today the Borough of Jessup celebrates the inaugural Jessup Groundhog Day at Station Park, marking the beginning of a new hometown tradition inspired by Pennsylvania folklore and shaped by local spirit; and Whereas, today's celebration includes music, traditional attire, an official scroll reading, and the annual forecast delivered by Jessup's own prognosticator, Jessup Giuseppe, whose presence adds charm, creativity, and local character to this community gathering; and Whereas, the event highlights the warmth, creativity, and togetherness of the Jessup community, giving neighbors and families of all ages the chance to connect, have fun, and share in the joy of this special anniversary year; and Now therefore, I, Rob Bresnahan, Jr., Member of Congress, do hereby recognize and commend the organizers, volunteers, and community members who made the inaugural Jessup Groundhog Day possible. I am proud to celebrate this new tradition with the people of Jessup and to join in recognizing 150 years of community, history, and shared pride.

Mr. BRESNAHAN

Mr. BRESNAHAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Frank Zardecki, a devoted public servant and proud Pennsylvanian who passed away on January 11, 2026, at the age of 84. Frank dedicated more than six decades of his life to serving our Nation. After proudly serving in the United States Air Force, he spent over 50 years at the Tobyhanna Army Depot, where he rose to the role of deputy commander and helped to lead one of the region's most important defense facilities. Frank's leadership and commitment to excellence at Tobyhanna and his life was exceptional, earning him some of the highest civilian honors in Federal service, including the Department of Defense Medal of Distinguished Civilian Service, the highest DOD civilian service award. Following his retirement in 2022, he was inducted into both the Army Materiel Command Hall of Fame and the U.S. Army Communications- Electronics Command Hall of Fame. Above all, Frank was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who cherished time with his family and his community in northeastern Pennsylvania. I extend my deepest condolences to his loved ones and thank them for sharing Frank with our Nation. His legacy of service will not be forgotten.

Mr. BRESNAHAN

Mr. BRESNAHAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the retirement of Walter S. Mitchell, Jr., a pillar of the Bear Creek Village Borough community and an exemplary public servant. For 32 years, Mayor Mitchell provided extraordinary leadership, guiding the borough through its formative years and decades of growth. As its first and longest serving mayor, he has demonstrated a deep commitment to historic preservation, responsible governance, public safety, and environmental stewardship. Mayor Mitchell's service reflected his understanding that great leadership extends beyond the office to fostering community built on connection, tradition, and shared experiences. He is widely known for his personal contributions to community life through his involvement in theater and a barbershop quartet, as well as his legendary homemade pecan pies. During his tenure as mayor, Bear Creek Village achieved many important milestones, including placement of the Bear Creek Village Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places, major flood mitigation and roadway projects, and the preservation of 139 acres of land surrounding the borough's lake, just to name a few. His conservation efforts were recognized in 2013 with the North Branch Trust Community Stewardship Award. In 2018, Mayor Mitchell received the Carol Sambol Award from the Pennsylvania State Association of Boroughs for his outstanding public service. Mr. Speaker, I thank Mayor Mitchell for his tireless commitment to serving the people of the Bear Creek Village Borough and for setting such an inspiring example of community leadership.

Mr. BRESNAHAN

Mr. BRESNAHAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and remember the life of Donald E. Olsommer, Sr., of Sterling, Pennsylvania. Born and raised in Scranton, Don devoted his life to serving his country, community, and family. He was a U.S. Army veteran and served for 30 years in the Pennsylvania National Guard. He rose to the rank of major, leading the National Guard units in Carbondale, Honesdale, and Scranton, and the Tobyhanna Reserve Unit as a company commander. Don was elected to public service twice as a Wayne County commissioner, served as township supervisor, and was deeply involved in civic and charitable efforts throughout his community. Don owned and operated a local Christmas tree farm, founded a small insurance company, and was the cofounder of the Sterling Little League. Most of all, he cherished the time he spent with his family. It was an honor to know Don, and I know everyone who had the pleasure of meeting him feels the same way. My thoughts and prayers go to Don's family and friends, including his son, Pennsylvania State Representative Jeff Olsommer, as they grieve their loss and remember Don. He will be greatly missed.

Mr. BRESNAHAN

Mr. BRESNAHAN. Mr. Speaker, I move that the House do now adjourn.

Mr. BRESNAHAN

Mr. BRESNAHAN. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that the proceedings during the former Members program be printed in the Congressional Record and that all Members and former Members who spoke during the proceedings have the privilege of revising and extending their remarks.

Mr. BRESNAHAN

Mr. BRESNAHAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today not just in support of H.R. 2550, but in support of the right to collectively bargain. This is not a policy idea. It is a lifeline that ensures fair wages, safe workplaces, and the basic dignity that every worker deserves. Unions like AFGE, Laborers, and IBEW stand on the front lines defending the American Federal workforce. AFGE represents Federal workers and, in my district, there are 10,000 of them. These men and women care for veterans, help seniors receive timely Social Security payments, and serve as correctional officers at Canaan prison, just to name a few. When their collective bargaining rights are stripped, they are left without the stability, fairness, and respect they deserve. Likewise, the Laborers Union, who built and maintained the infrastructure this country runs on; and the IBEW, who work in dangerous conditions at military bases and power plants, depend on these rights to ensure proper training and enforce a safety protocol that prevents accidents and saves lives. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to help bring the Protect America's Workforce Act to the floor today, and I look forward to its passage.

Mr. BRESNAHAN

Mr. BRESNAHAN. Mr. Speaker, this vote closed prior to me being able to vote. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 315 and YEA on Roll Call No. 316.

Mr. BRESNAHAN

Mr. BRESNAHAN. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to introduce H.R. 3428, the Mid-Atlantic River Basin Commissions Review Act. This legislation will bring much-needed oversight and clarity to the activities and funding streams for the Delaware River Basin Commission, Susquehanna River Basin Commission, and the Interstate Commission on the Potomac River Basin. The river basin commissions in the Mid-Atlantic work across State lines to regulate the river systems within a watershed. Since their inceptions after World War II, the rivers they manage have grown in importance as our populations have grown and water usage has increased. Millions of people rely on these rivers for water and wastewater needs, including my constituents in Pennsylvania's Eighth Congressional District. These commissions also play a role in protecting rivers from pollution and ensuring the ecosystems remain vibrant and resilient. As their roles have grown, Congress has not always had insight into the exact responsibility and tasks the river basin commissions are undertaking. My legislation directs the Government Accountability Office to conduct a study and compile recommendations for the Mid-Atlantic river basin commissions to ensure they have proper ethics policies in place, conduct an inventory of their Federal responsibilities, and look to see if any of their responsibilities have become duplicative since their inceptions. My legislation then directs these river basin commissions to report back annually on how they are complying with these recommendations. GAO is the gold standard for Federal reports and has conducted numerous reports and studies of government agencies. In fact, according to the GAO, 75 percent of their recommendations are implemented over a 4-year period. I trust this proper oversight will help these river basin commissions find ways to improve their services to their citizens and the rivers they serve. I urge my colleagues to support this commonsense legislation.