Gerald Connolly

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to oppose H.R. 2, the ``Child Deportation Act.'' I remind my colleagues that seeking asylum is not a privilege, it's a basic human right, enshrined in Article 14 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. I cannot support a bill that will deport unaccompanied children, end asylum, restart the disastrous ``Remain in Mexico'' policy, jail immigrant families, and impose restrictions on NGOs, including faith- based organizations that provide shelter, transportation, food or legal assistance to vulnerable immigrants and asylum seekers. I have to tell you Mr. Speaker, I couldn't believe my eyes when I read that in the very first part of this bill, Section 102 of Division A, Republicans would actually seek to restart border wall construction with U.S. taxpayer dollars. I don't know about my friends on the other side of the aisle, but I was under the impression that not only had Trump finished the wall, but that Mexico had paid for it. The truth of the matter is that Trump only built 80 miles of his wall in places where no kind of barrier existed previously. That's not even 5 percent of the total southern border. But that's not all. The Trump administration eviscerated our asylum and refugee admission program, and effectively denied those fleeing violence the right to seek asylum. Mr. Speaker, no one chooses to be a refugee, and in the face of nearly 100 million people forcibly displaced worldwide, the highest level ever recorded, America must reclaim its status as a safe haven for the downtrodden and once again open its door to refugees. But opening our doors to refugees and immigrants is not just about our compassion and humanity. It is estimated that draconian Trump-era restrictions on asylum seekers, many of which are included in H.R. 2, permanently shrank the United States economy by $9.1 billion each year of his administration. The Trump party claims they want to grow the economy, but not at the expense of their own xenophobia. Mr. Speaker, it's difficult to imagine that this Republican conference could offer a serious bill that would address the situation at the border. This is the same Republican conference who had prominent members calling for defunding the Department of Homeland Security just months ago. This is the same Republican party that voted against $7.2 billion for Border Patrol operations, which included the hiring of 300 more border patrol agents. Mr. Speaker, Emma Lazarus's poem, ``the new colossus,'' written just 18 years after Lee's surrender at Appomattox Courthouse, cast into bronze at the turn of the 20th century inside the pedestal of the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor, provides the instructive message that Lady Liberty herself represents. ``Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.'' The only thing Republicans have forgotten to do in this bill is amend Emma Lazarus' poem to say, ``Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free and send them back to face the violence they are fleeing.'' Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to oppose this inhumane, wasteful, dogmatic legislation. The priorities of this body must include passing comprehensive immigration reform, protecting dreamers, rebuilding the asylum system, and meeting our labor shortage needs. This bill falls remarkably short.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H. Res. 363, a resolution memorializing law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty. Before leaving their homes, our public safety officers put on their uniforms and say goodbye to their family every day, as they knowingly put their lives on the line to serve their communities and make our country a better place. In 1962, President John Fitzgerald Kennedy signed into law a proclamation that made May 15 of every year ``Peace Officers Memorial Day'' in honor of the Federal, State, and local officers who have been killed, disabled, or otherwise injured in the line of duty. Mr. Speaker, it is with great sorrow that I rise to recognize the life of John Joseph Donohue, a Sergeant in the Fairfax County Police Department who gave his life to serving his community. Sergeant Donohue served the people of Virginia's 11th District for 18 and a half years, assigned to the Fair Oaks District, answering the call time and time again from constituents in need. Before his long service to Fairfax County, Sergeant Donohue previously served as an auxiliary police officer with the Dumon Police Department in New Jersey. I join the entirety of Virginia's 11th District in sending our deepest condolences to his wife, family, and fellow officers at the Fair Oaks District Station and with Fairfax County Police Department.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize May 16th as Hereditary Angioedema Awareness Day and to call attention to challenges and opportunities faced by this patient community. Angioedema (HAE) is a rare, severe, and potentially life-threatening genetic condition in about 1 in 10,000 to 1 in 50,000 people. HAE symptoms include painful and disabling episodes of edema, or swelling, in all body parts including the abdomen. Throat swelling can close the airway and cause death by asphyxiation. While minor trauma or stress may trigger an attack, swelling often occurs without a known trigger. Symptoms of hereditary angioedema typically begin in childhood and worsen during puberty. Untreated individuals may have an attack every 1 to 2 weeks with most episodes lasting 3 to 4 days. HAE used to be associated with an incredibly high mortality rate, but recent breakthroughs in medical science have taken the condition from a death sentence to a manageable chronic illness. With the advent of innovative therapies, HAE patients no longer experience disability and dependency, but rather live full, productive, and largely suffering- free lives. HAE affected individuals require near constant access to life-saving care and medication and additional research advancements are needed to sustain progress toward an elusive cure. Loss of productivity at work and school is one of the many side effects of those suffering from HAE, particularly when it is not managed correctly and comprehensively. In an earlier survey conducted by the U.S. Hereditary Angioedema Association, 57 percent of patients reported as not having equal advancement in career pathways and 48 percent stated they did not achieve the educational level that they wanted. With significant improvements in care and outcomes, HAE patients now sometimes face arbitrary barriers to accessing care and therapies. Some of these barriers are related to a lack of information and awareness about rare disease experiences in general. Other barriers are related to problematic coverage policies, such as fail first protocols, access to copayment and charitable assistance, and prior authorization requirements. I look forward to working with my colleagues to continue to improve coverage and access and lowering out-of-pocket costs for patients with rare and chronic illnesses. I call on my colleagues to continue to support efforts to advance medical research, improve coverage and access, enhance patient care, and join me in recognizing May 16th as Hereditary Angioedema Awareness Day.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the recipients of the 2021 and 2022 Fairfax Federation of Citizens' Associations Citizen of the Year Awards. The Federation is a coalition of civic and homeowners' associations who work together to promote and support initiatives that will benefit all. Each year, the Federation honors individuals for their extraordinary contributions to our community. It is my honor to include in the Record the following individuals. Marco Johnson has been an expert in emergency preparedness for Fairfax County. Marco has worked with County government leaders and citizens across the county leading county teams, multi-county teams and integrated state teams for the Emergency Management Volunteer Corps, Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and the American Red Cross in developing and implementing disaster preparedness programs. Mr. Johnson has represented the county public health department, the Fairfax County Citizen Corp Council, and public health leaders at all levels in designing and implementing County emergency awareness programs and projects to respond to emergency vulnerabilities. John Litzenberger sets an outstanding example of civic participation. John served on the Fairfax County Planning Commission from 2007 to 2015 as the Sully District commissioner, and a member of its Housing Committee and Capital Improvement Committee. He previously served on the Fairfax County Redevelopment and Housing Authority for four years. John has been active in local land use committees and task forces for over 40 years, going back to the Centreville Core Study in 1982. Commissioner Peter F. ``Pete'' Murphy has been an active member of the community for many decades. In 1982, Pete was appointed to the Planning Commission by the Board of Supervisors, serving as its Chairman since 1989. During this time, he played a critical role in transforming the County from a sleepy bedroom community to the economic powerhouse it is today. He has been a leader in land use policy in Fairfax County as we know it from Springfield District cases like Fairfax Corner and Fair Lakes to countywide cases like the Tysons Plan. Michele Menapace has been serving Fairfax communities for over a dozen years. She has served on the Human Services Council advising the Board of Supervisors on budgetary matters. As well, she helps ensure that federal Community Service Block Grants are efficiently spent on the needs of people living in poverty via her appointment to the Community Action Advisory Board. Over the years, Michele has served on numerous other county boards. Linda Moore has dedicated years of time to the service of the elderly, emotionally and socially challenged adults, domestic and sexual violence. She has been very involved with the Medical Reserve Corps & Fairfax County Department of transportation events as a volunteer. She also has worked for four years with another group within the Department of Family Services, DSVS, helping them bring attention and awareness to the issues of domestic and sexual violence, stalking, and human trafficking. Linda Moore exemplifies courage in volunteering and serves as a role model for others. Paula Lettice has been a dedicated volunteer and board member of several organizations here in Fairfax County for over two decades and is a role model for her community. Since 2020, Paula has served as the President of the Board of Directors for Mount Vernon at Home, a local organization that serves residents aged 55 and over who are choosing to remain in their homes in Mount Vernon as they age and is a part of a national movement of senior Villages. During the pandemic, Ms. Lettice has been a true leader for the organization, helping shift their fundraising efforts to virtual events, while still utilizing local businesses. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in thanking these incredible individuals and in congratulating them on being honored by the Fairfax County Federation of Citizens' Associations. Civic engagement is the foundation of a healthy community, and Fairfax County residents enjoy an exceptional quality of life due in part to the efforts of these individuals.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) and to congratulate the recipients of its Annual Awards of Excellence. Founded in 1989, the mission of GOPIO is battling human rights violations committed against persons of Indian origin. Today, while that mission continues, GOPIO has also broadened its mission to include bringing together persons of Indian origin for the benefit of not only themselves and their Indian homeland, but also the communities in which they currently reside. Indian-Americans have made countless contributions to the United States in the fields of business, education, medicine, science, technology, and public service while preserving and sharing their culture in a manner that promotes tolerance and mutual understanding. Many of our awardees tonight have been at the forefront of those efforts. It is my honor to include in the Record the names of the following individuals: Education--Dr. Michael Rao, President of Virginia Commonwealth University. Medicine--Dr. Siva Subramaniam, Emeritus Professor George Washington University and Hospital. Philanthropy & Community Service--Mayur Shah. Journalism--Dr. Rajeev Bhambri, Chief Executive Officer of New India Abroad Newspaper Journalism. Public Service--Dr. Rahul Gupta, Director of National Drug Control Policy and leader of the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP). Arts & Culture--Vatsala Mehra, Vocal artist. Arts & Culture--Navin K KC, Choreographer. Social Services--Mayur Mody. Science & Technology--Sant Gupta. Northern Virginia, which I am proud to represent in Congress, is blessed by its diversity. We are home to more than 40,000 people of Indian descent as well as many Indian-American owned small businesses. This diversity enriches our entire community and contributes to our region being considered one of the best places in the country in which to live, work, raise a family, and start a business. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the recipients of the GOPIO Awards of Excellence on their accomplishments. I commend them for their service to their communities and to our Nation, and I wish them success in all their future endeavors.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Volunteer Fairfax and express my sincere appreciation to recipients of the 2023 Annual Fairfax County Volunteer Service Awards. Established more than 45 years ago, Volunteer Fairfax matches the skills and interests of thousands of volunteers with the needs of local non-profit organizations. The success of this model and its impact on delivery of needed services is beyond question; Volunteer Fairfax has been rated as one of the most effective community service organizations in the Nation. Last year alone, over 9,500 individuals contributed more than 20,865 volunteer hours totaling $642,642 in value-added service to the greater community. These staggering numbers are a testament to the strong ethos of public service and of volunteerism that exists in Fairfax County and is one of the many reasons why this community is such a wonderful place to live. Each year, Volunteer Fairfax selects a few exceptional individuals, groups, or organizations to receive special recognition. It is my great pleasure to include in the Record the following names of the 2023 Fairfax County Volunteer Service Awards honorees: Ellicia Seard-McCormick--VF Amplify Award Tanja Majca--Chairman's Champion Mark E. Tonkovic--Mason District Champion Charlotte Hannagan--Braddock District Champion Elaine Tholen--Dranesville Community Champion Carl Sell--Franconia District Champion William G. Bouie--Hunter Mill District Champion Machand Family--Mount Vernon District Champion Cathy Jaquette--Providence District Champion Sal Speziale--Springfield District Champion Ellanor C Lawrence Park Friends--Sully District Champion Wayne Vick--Fairfax County Champion, Individual Fairfax County Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)--Fairfax County Champion, Group In addition, Benchmark Honors will be awarded in four different categories to commend those who have contributed 100, 250, 500, or 1,000 hours of volunteer time to our community. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in commending Volunteer Fairfax for its decades of outstanding community service. I congratulate the recipients of the 2023 Fairfax County Volunteer Service Awards and thank them and the thousands of other local volunteers for their incredible contributions to our community. Their selfless dedication is worthy of our highest praise and is one of the main reasons that our community is often ranked as one of the best places in the country to live, work, and raise a family.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Michael O'Reilly as the Rotary Club of Herndon-Reston's Citizen of the Year. Mr. O'Reilly is the 54th recipient of this highest honor, presented annually by the club. Mike was selected for his many years of tireless service to the town. A former Herndon Mayor and Town Council member, he was committed to using his position as an elected official to better the lives of the people of Herndon. During his term he was able to maintain a high level of service while also accomplishing such things as opening a new Police Station, opening a well-regulated day labor site, and opening a new Senior Center. After he left elected office, Mr. O'Reilly continued his service to the community. He served five years as a member of the Board of Directors of the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA). At the time he joined the MWAA Board, Dulles was undergoing major renovations and upgrades, spending roughly two million dollars a day, building a new runway, building an underground rail system, expanding the main terminal, and reconfiguring the entrance and approach roadways to accommodate expected growth. During his time with MWAA, he was involved in the negotiations for the design, financing, and construction of Phase 1 of the Silver Line Metrorail Project and the procurement and contract award for Phase 2 of that project. The opening of the Herndon Station and the Innovation Station would not have been possible without his tenacity and commitment to his vision of extending rail to Dulles. In his professional life, Mike is the owner of the O'Reilly Law Firm in Herndon and serves on the Board of Directors of the Dulles Regional Chamber of Commerce. As a leader in the Chamber, he chairs the Herndon Committee, which engages and supports Herndon businesses. Among his many contributions to the greater community, Mike has worked to prevent and end homelessness in his position as Chairman of the Governing Board of the Fairfax Falls Church Partnership. Under his leadership, Fairfax County was able to reduce the homeless population by 46 percent through collaboration between faith-based groups, service providers, and community volunteers. Mr. O'Reilly now serves as the Chairman of the Board for Arts Herndon. In this role, he is working to bring a new Art Center to downtown Herndon, aided by a 1.2-million-dollar Fairfax County construction grant that he, in conjunction with the Mayor and Town representatives, worked to obtain. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating Michael O'Reilly on this award and thanking him for his committed and selfless service to our community.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Jeffrey ``Jeff'' W. Donahue, a resident of Virginia's 11th Congressional District, as he celebrates his 100th birthday on May 14th of this year. I had the honor of meeting Mr. Donahue in 2019 at a Memorial Day Ceremony in the town of Vienna, Virginia. A veteran of World War II, Mr. Donahue was a naval aviator flying an F4F in combat missions in the Pacific Theater while serving aboard the USS Salamaua. His remarks at the ceremony focused on his service to his country and the sacrifices made by many members of his generation who lost their lives in the war. He was 96 at the time, yet he spoke with clarity as though he were talking about events he had just experienced. Following World War II, he continued his military service in the reserves, when he was called once more to serve as a flight instructor in Pensacola, Florida during the Korean war. Like so many military veterans, Mr. Donahue took advantage of the G.I. Bill to earn a bachelor's degree from the University of Connecticut. He then pursued a career in the insurance industry with Fireman's Fund Insurance, which took him and his growing family on a journey to many cities on the east coast until their final move to Fairfax County in 1970. Service to his country and community defines Mr. Donahue's life. For years, he has been an active member of his church and volunteered as a tutor for elementary school children into his mid-90s. There is an adage that age is just a number, which certainly holds true for Mr. Donahue and his wife, Barbara. Over their 72 years together they have raised 6 children, 5 of whom graduated from James Madison High School. As their family tree grows, they now have 13 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren who affectionately call them Pop and Gram. Mr. Speaker, as we celebrate Jeff's 100th birthday, I want to extend my best wishes for a joyful gathering of family and friends. I also extend my appreciation for his service to our country. Happy 100th birthday, Jeff.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to commemorate the life and work of Kim Hosen. Kim was a dedicated environmentalist who made significant contributions to the protection and preservation of the natural habitats in Prince William County, Virginia. Kim was the founding Executive Director of the Prince William Conservation Alliance, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the natural resources of the region. Kim's tireless efforts led to the protection of approximately 300 acres of land, creating the Merrimac Farm Wildlife Management Area, and establishing the Bluebell Festival, which celebrates the acquisition of this area, which now attracts nearly 1,000 people annually. Additionally, Kim initiated the Wildlife Garden, which showcases what is possible for backyard habitats, and launched the Merrimac Farm VA Master Naturalist Chapter. I was proud to partner with her to fight for an environmentally just solution to coal ash pollution at Possum Point. Kim was instrumental in establishing 40 miles of scenic by-ways all located in the Rural Crescent. She also led the effort to rewrite the Environment and the Parks, Trails, and Open Space Chapter of the 2008 Comprehensive Plan, further demonstrating her unwavering commitment to protecting the unique habitats and quality of life for all residents of Prince William County. Her consistent, reliable, and knowledgeable voice for the environment and healthy communities made her an invaluable resource for Prince William County Planning Commissioners, the Board of County Supervisors, and residents who sought her expertise on how to best protect the natural resources of the area. Kim's contributions were recognized throughout her career. These include the Conservation and Environmental Education for Potomac River National Wildlife Refuge Complex from U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in 2004, Conservationist of the Year from Ducks Unlimited in 2006 and 2015, Influential Women Award from Prince William Living in 2015, Native Plant Champion from Plant NoVA Natives in 2016, and the Certificate of Appreciation from the Committee of 100 in 2022. Kim's legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched and the natural habitats she helped protect. Her commitment to preserving the environment and educating future generations will continue to inspire others to follow in her footsteps. Kim will always be remembered as a remarkable environmentalist who made a lasting impact on the world around her. She is survived by her two sons, Eli and Jake. She will be dearly missed by her family and friends and our entire community. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in commemorating the life of Kim Hosen and in sending her family our sincere condolences.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I have worked on issues related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict for over four decades since I began as a staffer on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee in 1979. Israel, led by leaders like Golda Meir and Moshe Dayan, was David fighting Goliath--a young, bold democracy under threats from every direction. Israel has long been America's strongest ally, and our support for Israel's democracy, economic stability, and defense is ironclad. On the 75th anniversary of Israel's independence, I am proud to vote for a resolution that supports this remarkable milestone. With that said, I am extremely disappointed that the resolution missed a crucial opportunity. The juxtaposition is startling: This resolution presumes business as usual when it is anything but. We have reached an inflection point in the U.S.-Israel relationship. For 70 years, we have found common cause with Israel because they have been the only democracy in the Middle East. For the first time in our history, an Israeli Prime Minister has put bipartisan support for Israel in jeopardy by exploiting partisan fissures within the United States, rejecting the notion of a two-state solution and opting to advance his own right-wing political agenda. Netanyahu's cabinet of right-wing extremists has put the very rights and political inclusion of LGBTQ+ individuals, women, secular Jews, Palestinians, and Arabs alike in peril. As the United States continues to play a crucial role in supporting Israel, on a bipartisan basis, we must be clear that an aggressive anti-democratic tilt in Israel threatens our strong, longstanding partnership based on shared democratic values. The resolution unfortunately did not mention the longstanding, bipartisan support for a two-state solution, nor did it condemn attacks against Israel's democratic institutions, including an independent judiciary, and incitements of violence against Palestinians. When Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich made comments on March 3, 2023, suggesting the Palestinian city Huwara ``needs to be wiped out, but the State of Israel needs to do it,'' Arab nations involved in the Abraham Accords immediately condemned this abhorrent incitement of violence. To be clear, the actions of Ministers Ben Gvir and Smotrich to bless settler violence, incite violence against Palestinians, and threaten annexation of large portions of the West Bank imperil the Abraham Accords themselves, let alone the prospects for expansion to other Arab nations. I will cast my vote in support of Israel and the Abraham Accords, with great concern. My hope is that constructive U.S. engagement, and the will of the Israeli people in favor of a peaceful, demilitarized, democratic Jewish state, will be the forces that prevail.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate the Reverend Dr. Eugene Johnson on his retirement after 30 years of faithful leadership at Mount Olive Baptist Church in Centreville, Virginia. Mount Olive Baptist Church has served the spiritual needs of those in the Centreville and Northern Virginia communities for nearly 120 years, and Dr. Johnson's leadership has positioned this institution for another century of success. Rev. Dr. Eugene Johnson was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, and raised in nearby Oakville. His father was a minister and his mother worked avidly for the good of the community. Dr. Johnson received a Bachelor of Architecture Degree from Southern University, Baton Rouge, in 1970. He earned his Master of Divinity Degree at Howard University in 1989, and in 2006, the Richmond Virginia Seminary conferred on him the prestigious Honorary Doctor of Divinity Degree for his exemplary leadership and service. Before assuming full-time pastoral duties, Dr. Johnson was known as a national expert in design, art, and architecture. He served as the principle Resident Architect with the Federal Highway Administration and was credited as being the first African American in many of the agency's national accomplishments. Dr. Johnson has been recognized for his efforts that resulted in the designation of ``All-American Road'' to the historic Selma-to-Montgomery March for Voting Rights route. This march, led by the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., began on March 21, 1965, with 3,200 marchers. Four days later, on March 25, 1965, 25,000 marchers had joined. In 1992, Dr. Eugene Johnson assumed the leadership of Mount Olive Baptist Church. Under his guidance, the Church has experienced unprecedented growth in not only the number of members, but also in its activities and influence. Membership has increased nearly ten-fold from 250 members in 1992 to more than 2,000 today, including many young people. Dr. Johnson inspired his congregation with his timely sermons and his compassion for all people in every aspect of their lives. In the midst of a global pandemic, Dr. Johnson led Mount Olive Baptist Church in continuing the good works of ministering to the hopeless, caring for the sick and shut-in, providing food for the hungry, and speaking up for the voiceless. He truly embodied the congregation's core values of community and service throughout this unprecedented time. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating Rev. Dr. Eugene Johnson on this momentous occasion, and in commending him for his service to Mount Olive Baptist Church and our community.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to commemorate the life and work of David Allen Starr. David devoted himself to his family and his community, and he will be deeply missed. David grew up in Columbus, Ohio, and studied at Miami University before receiving his law degree from Washington University. Prior to his prestigious law career, David worked closely with Senator Howard Metzenbaum, rising to become a trusted legislative director. His work to reach across the aisle and pursue practical bipartisan solutions was widely respected, even earning praise from the late Bob Dole. After leaving Capitol Hill, David continued to work in the area, joining the Williams and Jensen law firm in 1989. He would go on to spend 32 years collaborating with this team to come up with solutions to complex issues facing consumers and manufacturers alike. His work for U.S. tailored clothing manufacturers, as well as wool and cotton manufacturers, both saved jobs and preserved a historic and vital sector of the American workforce. Outside of his work, David lived an adventurous and full life. He loved to sail, and often took advantage of breaks in the Congressional schedule to explore the Chesapeake Bay on the aptly named Recess. He was a frequent and accomplished cyclist, completing multiple century rides to support Multiple Sclerosis research. Perhaps his most well-known and beloved contribution to the Northern Virginia community, David teamed up with his wife Amy to turn their coffee-roasting hobby into the Beanetics microroasting house in Annandale. They have provided countless Virginians with high quality coffee, fueling public, private, and non-profit enterprises alike. Beanetics has donated their time, talent, and money to aid in countless causes in our region. They donate coffee to local schools and community groups, offer wall space to artists in the area, and belong to the Annandale Chamber of Commerce. They are a model small business, and a team I am proud to know well. I was proud to partner with Beanetics to win both the 2014 and 2015 Annandale Bed Race, an annual competition to raise funds for the Virginia Special Olympics. If there is an opportunity to engage with the community, Beanetics will be there. David was a devoted family man, and he will be sorely missed. He is survived by his wife Amy and their son Adam, alongside his mother Joyce, his brothers Sandi and Barry, and countless other friends and family members. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in commemorating the joyful and resilient life of David Allen Starr and in sending his family our sincere condolences.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the 85th Anniversary, as well as incoming 2023 officers, of the Occoquan-Woodbridge-Lorton Volunteer Fire Department. Incorporated in the Commonwealth of Virginia in 1938, the OWLVFD is comprised of committed community members who volunteer their time, energy, and financial resources to ensuring the safety of the families and property in and around Woodbridge. During its 85-year history, the Department has continued to expand and there are now three stations staffed by over 200 volunteers who serve and protect an ever-growing local population. From their bravery in action, to their presence with the youth in the community, OWLVFD is readily available for the families of Woodbridge. It is with great honor I include in the Record the names of the following Occoquan-Woodbridge-Lorton Volunteer Fire Department Officers: Operational Officers: Lt. Aundrea Bonilla, Lt. Mark Powers, Lt. Michael Yankaskas, Lt. Jonathan Baldwin, Lt. Reggie Lawrence, Capt. Melissa Westphal, Capt. Steve Godin, Capt. Scott Shaw, Assistant Chief Sandra Williams, Assistant Chief Kurt Bolland, Assistant Chief Ernest DeSantis, Assistant Chief Ryan Williams, Chief Wayne Haight. Administrative Officers: Sergeant at Arms--Mark Bauer, Election Officer--Sabrina Brandon Ricks, Treasurer--Debbie Haight, Membership Secretary--Stacey Godin, Executive Vice President--Sue Wessolleck. Board of Directors: Jonathan Baldwin, Frank Bruno, Mike Clark, Dee Gottman, Brenda Kuhn, Melissa Payne, Stephanie Powers, Steve Simmons, President--Dave Williams. Auxiliary Officers: Chaplain--Rita Arrington, Treasurer--Frances Spicer, Secretary--Sara Baldwin, Vice President--Kara Simmons, President--Leslie Quinn. While a new executive board has been elected and new officers sworn in, the mission of the Occoquan-Woodbridge-Lorton Volunteer Fire Department remains the same. These volunteers continue to put themselves in harm's way for the benefit of the residents of the area and have educated and mentored youth, not only teaching fire safety education, but also strengthening community relations. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing the 85th Anniversary of the Occoquan-Woodbridge-Lorton Volunteer Fire Department and their service to our country and steadfast commitment to their community and in congratulating the newly elected officers and board members. I thank them for their dedication and to all I say: ``Stay safe.''

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department and the graduates of the 156th Class. As they prepare to join the ranks of the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department, I encourage the 26 graduates to reflect on the history of the department and the contributions and dedication of the brave men and women who have served before them to protect our community. The Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department's Recruit School consists of an extensive and demanding 22-week program. In addition to two weeks of orientation, recruits completed nine weeks of EMT training and eleven weeks of fire suppression training. Upon graduation, these recruits will be certified at the level of Firefighter I/II by the Virginia Department of Fire Programs. These recruits have the distinct honor of joining one of the best Fire and Rescue Departments in the United States. The efforts of the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department have been recognized across this country. Members from the Department serve on the elite VA Task Force 1, which is among the first units called to disaster zones to provide search and rescue support. Members of that Task Force were recognized by the International Association of Fire Chiefs with the Benjamin Franklin Award for Valor as a result of their efforts in the aftermath of the devastating earthquakes that struck Nepal in 2015. Fairfax County is fortunate to have such excellent ambassadors for our community and I commend them for all that they have done to protect lives and property not only here in Fairfax County, but around the world. As the newest members of the Fire and Rescue Department, the 156th Recruit Class graduates join the department as integral parts of our community's emergency response and public safety team. I am confident that this graduating class will serve the residents of Fairfax County with honor and distinction. It is my great honor to include in the Record the names of the 156th Recruit Class: John W. Anderson Toma C. Anescu Ariel L. Antons Natas J. Bache Trent Z. Barlow Shane W. Bloom James R. Brown III Jacob R. Christian Ryan A. Comer Alyssa R. D'Anna William C. Dolan Ryan S. Kaminski John S. Kolacz Ian J. Luffred Christopher T. Lunde Brian S. Maphis William F. Montgomery Hailey E. Moore Matthew A. Mudar Nancy L. Reed Cody N. Shaffer Casey E. Sullivan Garrett S. Thompson Thomas J. Tufano Garrett M. Tullos Jason R. Upchurch Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating the newest members of the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department. I thank them for their service to their community and to all members of the Fire and Rescue Department, past and present, I say: ``Stay safe.''

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the recipients of the 2023 Fairfax County Student Peace Awards. The Fairfax County Student Peace Awards began with one high school in 2006 to encourage high school aged students to think about peace as both a means and an end, and to recognize young people who work as peacemakers. By 2013, the program was being offered in every public high school in Fairfax County, as well as in many private schools. Participating high schools choose one Junior or Senior, or one student group active in promoting peace or removing the causes of conflict. Examples of outreach include committing to peace by engaging in activities that strive to end conflict, either locally or globally, promoting the understanding of divisive issues and situations to bridge differences, and working to resolve conflicts among students or members of the community who feel isolated or alienated. I am pleased to include in the Record the names of this year's Student Peace Award winners: Filimon Meaza, Annandale High School; Debora Horng, Centreville High School; Ella Ostlund, Chantilly High School; Ella Duncan-High, Edison High School; Adan Eftekhari, Fairfax High School; Lucia Patino Iporre, Falls Church High School; Ash Bulmer, Hayfield Secondary School; Amanda Green, Herndon High School; Girl Up, Justice High School; Nadine Elosta, King Abdullah Academy (KAA); Jessica Sim, Lake Braddock Secondary School; Bareen (Bree) Yagana, Langley High School; Mohamed Karim EI-Gaili, John. R. Lewis High School; Matthew Sullivan, Madison High School. No Place for Hate, Marshall High School; Saehee Perez, McLean High School; Amare D'Agostino, Mount Vernon High School; Aaliyah Garnett, Mountain View High School; Frank Marquez, Quander Road School; Jaeda Lawton, Robinson Secondary School; John Claude Shaffer, South County High School; Urooj Khattak, South Lakes High School; Social Change Club, Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology; Sarah Salama, West Potomac High School; Muqtader Zahid, West Springfield High School; Cameron Kasper, Westfield High School; UNICEF Club, Woodson High School. Mr. Speaker, the efforts of these young people are the building blocks of a more peaceful and tolerant world. I commend them on their efforts and dedication and ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating each award recipient and thanking them as well as Fairfax County Public School System and sponsor organizations for all they have done for our community.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the Burke Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department on the occasion of its 75th Annual Installation of Officers Banquet, and to thank its volunteers for filling an essential role in keeping our community safe. The Burke Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department was founded in January 1948, and for more than seven decades it has provided lifesaving fire suppression, fire prevention, and emergency medical and rescue services to the residents of Burke and the surrounding communities. It also provides, houses, and maintains firefighting and emergency medical equipment, provides opportunities for professional growth and development for the membership, and maintains and fosters a strong viable organization. As one of the county's most active volunteer fire and rescue departments, the Burke Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department works in cooperation with the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department to serve the community. I am honored to recognize the dedicated men and women of the Burke Volunteer Fire Department who have volunteered for extra duty as Officers or as members of the Board of Directors and to include their names in the Record: Board of Directors: President--Ian Dickinson Vice President--John Powers Secretary--Maria Suarez Ortiz Treasurer--Larry Bocknek Director--Kathleen Beer Director--James Stahlman Director--Kenneth Senn Officers: Chief--Keith O'Connor Deputy Chief--Tina Godfrey Deputy Chief--John Hudak Captain--Melissa Ashby Captain--Kevin Grottle Lieutenant--Caitlin Edwards Sergeant--Gavin Kuzemchak Sergeant--Noah Bilger In addition to the men and women who have generously assumed the responsibilities of serving as an Officer or a member of the Board of Directors, the Burke Volunteer Fire Department is also presenting awards to the following individuals in recognition of their exemplary service during the last year: Rookie of the Year--James Stahlman Officer of the Year--Gavin Kuzemchak EMS Officer of the Year--Noah Bilger Career Member of the Year--Charles Arntson Founders Award--Charlene Murphy Administrative Member of the Year--Matt Bryant Administrative Member of the Year--Tonya McCreary Chief's Award--Thomas Warnock President's Award--Larry Bocknek Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating the department for 75 years of service and in thanking all of the brave volunteers who do not hesitate to drop everything when the community calls in need of help. To all of these men and women who put themselves in harm's way to protect our residents I say: ``Stay safe.''

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the Arts of Great Falls on its 15th anniversary. The Arts of Great Falls (AGF) Foundation is a non-profit organization, founded in 2008 to encourage, support, and promote the fine arts in Great Falls and the surrounding communities. Located in the heart of Great Falls in the Village Centre, their popular art school attracts students from across the greater Washington metropolitan area. From June through August, AGF holds a summer camp for young, aspiring artists between the ages eight and eighteen. This camp allows students to explore a variety of mediums such as oil paints, papier-mache, and charcoal. During the school year, they offer adult fine art classes from beginners to professional artists. These classes give people the chance to adventure into jewelry making, try their hand at plein air painting, or express themselves through collage abstracts. The Arts of Great Falls also provides gallery space for local artists to exhibit their work and offers affordable studio space to 12 artists at The Artists' Atelier and The Artists' Loft. The shared studio rentals allow local artists to create and exhibit their artwork for the community. Throughout the year, AFG hosts multiple events, including the 1st Friday ArtWalk and the annual Paint Great Falls Plein Air Competition. These events offer unique ways to enjoy and appreciate art. Another cornerstone event, the Studio Art Tour, offers attendees the opportunity to meet local artists in their home-based studios and share creative processes. The tour features many of the region's top creative talents and showcases a variety of workspaces. People can see demonstrations, exhibits, and hands-on activities in some studios located in historic, rustic, or other extraordinary properties and outbuildings. Demonstrations include wood carving, a lithographic press, pottery, mixed media, and photography. Mr. Speaker, organizations like the Arts of Great Falls serve a fundamental role in our community. The arts have played, and must continue to play, a fundamental role in our daily lives. The value of support for the arts in communities across America cannot be understated, and I commend the Arts of Great Falls for what they do to preserve and promote artistic expression in Northern Virginia. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Arts of Great Falls for fifteen years of extraordinary work.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Bob Rota, who recently retired after 40 years of public service, most recently here in the House as the enrolling clerk. Bob began his service as a United States Capitol Police officer before joining the Clerk's Office in 1987. In his job as enrolling clerk, Bob oversaw a team of highly skilled professionals responsible for preparing House-passed legislation throughout the stages of the process and all the way to its presentation to the President for signature. Bob produced high-quality work every single day. As enrolling clerk, it was his duty to make certain that bills such as the National Defense Authorization Act, normally over 4,000 pages long, had all amendments inserted in the correct places and the graphs and charts were accurate, which is no small task. Bob's breadth of expertise extended to his encyclopedic knowledge of House procedures. He could always be counted on to respond to all questions in a timely and accurate way. Whether he was walking someone through the minutia of the legislative process or even how to fix a problem at their home or with their car, Bob was and is an integral part of the team that supports our legislative work. Bob looks forward to retirement and spending time with his wife, children, and grandchildren. I wish Bob and his family many years of a happy, healthy, and well-earned retirement. Congratulations, Bob.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I thank my dear friend, the former chair and now the ranking member of the Foreign Affairs Committee, for his leadership and friendship. I also thank my dear friend from Missouri, Congresswoman Wagner, who has served America in many roles. I thank her for her leadership on today's legislation, a bipartisan piece of legislation that is very timely and important. This legislation provides an update to the Taiwan Assurance Act, which I was proud to support in 2020 to underscore the importance of U.S. support for Taiwan. The key piece of legislation Congress initiated back in 1979 is, as Chairman Meeks indicated, the Taiwan Relations Act. It was passed when I was a young staffer in the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and it originated out of that committee. It was designed by Congress to help create unique architecture in the bilateral relationship between the United States and Taiwan. It followed immediately after normalization of relations with the People's Republic of China, and it was designed by Congress to make sure that no military solution would be available in the question of the status of Taiwan. The Taiwan Relations Act was designed to put forth parameters and a roadmap to govern our bilateral relationship. Central to that roadmap is Taiwan's ability to defend itself with support from the United States. That is a promise we made then, and it is a promise we must keep today. As an increasingly aggressive China threatens its neighbors throughout the South China Sea, as if it were its own private pond, and as it encroaches on territorial waters and airspace and asserts ludicrous claims that the South China Sea is its Chinese pond, this is the time for the United States and this Congress to reassert our support, our unequivocal support, for the right of the Taiwanese people to decide for themselves how they will manage their affairs and their relationship with Beijing. As president of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly for the last 2 years, I was proud to partner with my colleagues in this body and on both sides of the aisle to put China on the NATO agenda for the first time in its 70-year history, believe it or not. This is a crucial moment for the U.S.-Taiwan relationship. It requires a sober and comprehensive understanding of the challenge China can pose to the United States and its security and prosperity, as well as that of the people of Taiwan. In this moment, our support for Taiwan, its people, and its democratic structure is paramount in the face of Chinese aggression. I urge my colleagues to support this legislation. Again, I thank my colleague from Missouri and the distinguished former chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee for their leadership.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I condemn H. Res. 26 in the strongest terms, which seeks to nullify the Revised Criminal Code Act of 2022, enacted by the council of the District of Columbia (DC). This bill is nothing more than a naked power grab on the part of House Republicans to enforce the will of Congress on the duly elected local representatives of the District of Columbia. I approach the subject of home rule as a former local government official having served on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors for 14 years, including five as chairman and as a former chairman of the Council of Governments. I know what it takes to manage public safety. I cannot imagine how a local government can function efficiently or effectively, if each of its public safety decisions requires Congressional approval. I have consistently supported autonomy for the District and would argue Congress' actions have actually had a deleterious effect on the District and its residents. D.C.'s lack of autonomy affects the entire National Capital Region, especially the thousands of my constituents who are civil servants and work in the District. I hope the irony of this situation is not lost on those who support the conservative principles of limited government and states' rights. Let me remind my colleagues of what my fellow Virginian, James Madison, said in the Federalist Papers, Number 43, with respect to the intent of the Congressional authority. In referring to the residents of this federal District, Madison said ``they will have had their voice in the election of the government which is to exercise authority over them; as a municipal legislature for local purposes.'' There is no more basic exercise of municipal authority than protecting public safety.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to this bill. We often hear Republicans want to roll back the clock--roll back the clock on abortion rights to 1973 before Roe v. Wade, roll back the clock on teaching the history of American slavery to, I don't know when, 1860, 1619? This bill actually rolls back the clock. It is right there in the text. The bill mandates ``each agency shall reinstate and apply the telework policies, practices, and levels of the agency as in effect on December 31, 2019.'' Which begs the question: What was the state of Federal telework in 2019? President Trump's administration had across-the-board limitations to telework at major Federal agencies that had made progress before, like the Department of Education and the Department of Agriculture. The overall telework participation rate had recorded its first drop since the enactment of the Telework Enhancement Act authored by myself and Mr. Sarbanes of Maryland. We had not yet experienced the onset of the global pandemic, which forced us overnight to move the Federal Government to a posture of substantially enhanced hybrid work. We deployed telework as the critical continuity of operations tool it should be. We procured the IT and IT security we needed. Supervisors figured out how to manage hybrid work. At the height of the pandemic, 75 percent of the Federal workforce was, in fact, working remotely. Not everybody is going to continue to telework full time, nor should they. Federal telework participation rates have already decreased substantially as more Federal employees move back in person. The most recent telework survey showed that 47 percent of Federal employees teleworked in the last fiscal year, but the fact remains that increased availability of telework is here to stay in the private as well as the public sectors. The Bureau of Labor Statistics found that 80 percent of U.S. businesses expect increased telework levels to continue after the pandemic. That is in the business community. That is the nature of the workforce of the future. We should be embracing the productivity and employee satisfaction gains realized through telework. I offered an amendment to this bill that would have done just that, but unfortunately, we are considering this bill under a closed rule. We should be using a measured approach to determine where hybrid or remote work might not be the best fit. I know I have done that in advocating for more in-person work at the IRS, processing paper tax returns; at the State Department, responding to passport applications; and at the National Archives, fulfilling veterans' document requests, all of which require in-person functioning. I have supported it, as have my colleagues. I have also offered a telework legislation bill, the Telework Metrics and Cost Savings Act.

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, this would help measure cost savings and focus on using telework effectively, but this bill is sort of a one size fits all, come back to work no matter what. Let me say to my friend from Wisconsin that I had a constituent die from COVID because there were no protocols in his Federal workplace. There ought not to be any more casualties to COVID. We ought to have systematic protocols in place. That is what I think has to precede this kind of legislation we are considering on the floor today. I thank my friend from Kentucky for introducing this bill.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, the civil service is the lifeblood of our government and provides taxpayers, small businesses, and vulnerable populations vital resources and services throughout the country. As Chairman of the Subcommittee on Government Operations for the past 4 years, I held a series of hearings focused on revitalizing and rejuvenating the federal workforce. What we found is that proposals like Chance to Compete should exist in a constellation of improvements to federal workforce recruitment that includes better pay, reforming federal internships to improve the intern to employee pipeline, and remaining competitive with the private sector in areas such as hybrid work--all of which are the subjects of legislation produced by the Government Operations Subcommittee last Congress (FAIR Act, Next Gen Feds Act, and Telework and Metrics Cost Savings Act). I am proud to be the lead-cosponsor of the Chance to Compete Act, which leverages skill assessments to build a more competitive, equitable, and inclusive workforce. This bill has bipartisan support and through demonstration projects at agencies proven empirical success. In short, this legislation allows an agency that has an open position to develop a skills-based assessment to evaluate candidates in a way that goes above and beyond the traditional review of past work and education experience. Furthermore, this bill: Enables agencies to share their assessment findings with other agencies, streamlining the overall hiring process and ensuring competitive candidates do not fall between the cracks if they have already proven their ability to perform. And deploys talent teams at agencies to ensure the development and implementation of the goals of this bill. I thank Representative Virginia Foxx, for her hard work and leadership on this bill as well as the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), Partnership for Public Service (PPS), the Senior Executives Association (SEA), Professional Managers Association (PMA), and others who have endorsed this legislation.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the Settlement Agreement Information Database Act, which I'm co-leading with my colleague from Alabama, Mr. Palmer. This bipartisan legislation was considered under suspension and agreed to in the House of Representatives by a voice vote in previous Congresses. I am glad to note that the first couple of bills from the Oversight and Accountability Committee coming to the Floor in the 118th Congress are bipartisan measures. That continues the tradition from the 117th Congress, when the first bill on the Floor from the Oversight Committee was the FedRAMP Authorization Act (117th), a bipartisan bill I wrote, co-led, and passed with now-Chairman James Comer. Federal settlement agreements, negotiated behind closed doors, cannot continue to be shrouded in secrecy when they directly affect States, municipalities, and local stakeholders. The SAID Act bring these binding agreements into the light by requiring federal agencies to publicly publish their documents or provide the public with written justification to keep the records confidential. Details of the settlement agreements would remain public until 5 years after the termination of the agreements. Increased transparency and better intergovernmental collaboration help form the foundation of good government, and this bill is one more tool to ensure government accountability. I am a former local government official who served on the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors for 14 years, including 5 years as Chairman. I currently chair the Congressional Caucus on Former Local Elected Officials, and I have authorized legislation, the Restore the Partnership Act, which would revive the Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations. I am committed to enhancing the intergovernmental partnership, which often entails requiring the federal government to be more transparent and proactive in its relationship with local governments. When it comes to settlement agreements that have the potential of tying the hands of local governments on everything from stormwater management to public education the default should be transparency. I welcome this bipartisan legislation, urge my colleagues to support it, and ask the Senate to act on this bill.

Mr. CONNOLLY

Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I thank my friend for yielding. Mr. Speaker, it is my hope that this Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the United States and China will be a sober and comprehensive engagement of the very important challenge China poses to American security and prosperity and that of our allies, and not a cynical descent into the worst impulses of Republican oversight efforts. This select committee offers an opportunity for this body to assess and act on how the United States can compete with the CCP on advanced manufacturing, trade, and emerging technologies; lead the world in competition between democracy versus autocracy; and to bring to light the autocratic practices and human rights violations in Hong Kong, the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, and Tibet. As president of NATO's legislative arm, I was proud to partner with my colleagues in this body on both sides of the aisle and on both sides of the Atlantic to put China on the NATO agenda for the very first time in its 70-year history. I am hopeful this select committee can also follow the lead of the Congressional Taiwan Caucus, which I co-chair and have co-chaired for 10 years, to use this committee as a venue to express bipartisan support for Taiwan's democracy, independence, and territorial sovereignty instead of driving wedges that can only advance the interests of those we seek to expose. Using this committee to drive partisan wedges would be a missed opportunity, and I am hopeful we will not do that. I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to tackle the geopolitical question of our generation and to make this a bipartisan inquiry and effort.