Buddy Carter

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the Do No Harm in Medicaid Act, which protects children from unscientific sex-rejecting procedures. Dangerous and irreversible sex-change interventions for children should have no place in our medical system. These life-altering procedures, performed on minors who are still developing, carry serious risks, including infertility, sexual dysfunction, psychiatric complications, and long-term regret. Subjecting healthy, developing children, many of whom may be suffering from mental health issues, to damaging and harmful procedures without a clear, proven medical purpose is simply wrong. Additionally, comprehensive studies reveal profound uncertainty about the alleged benefits of these interventions. In fact, the Department of Health and Human Services issued a report finding that the so-called gender-affirming model of care for gender-distressed children lacks sufficient scientific and ethical justification. Prohibiting Federal Medicaid funding of sex-rejecting procedures for minors is essential to protect our Nation's children, not exposing them to unproven and irreversible medical interventions. We must be guided by sound science, medical ethics, and our responsibility to do no harm, not the radical left's agenda. Madam Speaker, I encourage my colleagues to support this bill.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding time. I thank Representative Miller and Representative Wittman for presenting this resolution. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of Representative Miller's resolution honoring the service and sacrifice of United States Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom and United States Air Force Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe. Mr. Speaker, on November 26, in an act of terror, Sarah Beckstrom was tragically taken from us. She served her country with honor and with dedication. Her loss is felt deeply by her family, by her friends, fellow servicemembers, and all who had the privilege of knowing her. This resolution recognizes her service to our great Nation, and it extends our heartfelt condolences to those who mourn her passing. We also honor Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe, who courageously answered our Nation's call to serve and was critically injured in the same heinous attack. As he continues his recovery, we are praying for his healing and strength for his family and the medical professionals who are caring for him. His courage, resilience, and his commitment to duty reflect the very best of our Armed Forces. Mr. Speaker, today we honor Sarah Beckstrom and Andrew Wolfe, and we recognize their service, their strength, and their sense of duty to our country.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Fred Gretsch, who celebrates 60 years leading Gretsch Drums and shaping one of the most respected names in percussion. Mr. Gretsch joined the family business in 1965 and devoted his career to preserving his heritage while pushing forward thoughtful innovation. His leadership helped define the distinct Gretsch sound that musicians across generations continue to recognize. Rather than chase trends, he prioritized tone and careful craftsmanship. That commitment helped the company remain a standard for artists who value instruments built with care and character. Gretsch Drums has reached stages large and small and remains a trusted choice for professionals and young musicians beginning their journey. This milestone reflects decades of determination and stewardship for Mr. Gretsch and those who have worked beside him. Today, we recognize Fred Gretsch for his influence on American music and for protecting the legacy that continues to inspire.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 125th anniversary of Great Dane. The company began in 1900 as the Savannah Blowpipe Company in Savannah, Georgia. What began as a blowpipe company turned into a steel products company, helping shape the transportation industry with trailers: flatbeds, refrigerated, and dry freight. Since then, the company has been expanding past its hostess city roots to 11 different plants across America, employing 4,000 people. In the 1940s, the company revolutionized food distribution by circulating air over ice blocks to keep things fresh. In World War II, the company was honored with the Army-Navy Excellence Award for making military-grade trailers to support troops in Europe. Then 9 years ago, a state-of-the-art research and development lab opened for the company in Savannah. Mr. Speaker, let us celebrate this extraordinary company whose legacy of innovation, endurance, and excellence continues to shape the world of transportation and inspire future generations.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Sheriff Richard Coleman as Sheriff of the Year for South Georgia from the Georgia Association of Black County Officials. This statewide recognition is part of GABCO's annual tradition of highlighting county leaders whose work strengthens public service and advances opportunity across Georgia's 159 counties. Sheriff Coleman is a Savannah native, and he is a proud 30-year Georgia certified peace officer. He is a graduate of Sol C. Johnson High School, holds a bachelor's degree in criminal justice administration, and has a master's degree in public administration. With extensive experience across all levels of law enforcement, Sheriff Coleman is a certified Georgia law enforcement executive administrator and a former chief of police. His distinguished career includes roles such as chief of internal affairs, assistant chief of police, and police operations commander. Sheriff Richard Coleman is committed to continuing his service for the people of Chatham County. I congratulate my friend on this well- deserved honor.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 308, and YEA on Roll Call No. 309.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to highlight a remarkable act of kindness happening right here in the State of Georgia. Georgia Tech faculty and staff opened their homes to students who could not travel home for Thanksgiving. Through a program called Home for the Holidays, students were welcomed like family. Many of these students are international, far from home, and experiencing an American Thanksgiving for the first time. Faculty members cooked meals, shared traditions, and offered community to those who needed it most. This is a very best example of what it means to look out for one another. It shows that a university is more than classrooms and textbooks. It is a community. These volunteers gave students comfort, belonging, and memories that will last a lifetime. Their generosity reflects the values we cherish in Georgia: hospitality, kindness, and service to others. Mr. Speaker, I commend Georgia Tech faculty and staff for making Thanksgiving feel like home for every student.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force, in Pooler, Georgia, which was named Best Museum in Georgia in the 2025 Best of Georgia Awards. This honor reflects the museum's significance as a leading institution for historical education in our State. The museum preserves the legacy of the Mighty Eighth Air Force and teaches the history of World War II aviation through exhibits, artifacts, and educational programming. Visitors can explore restored aircraft and walk through immersive spaces that allow them to connect with the people who served. Many leave with a deeper appreciation for sacrifice, duty, and the responsibility we all share to remember their stories. I am proud of Pooler for keeping this history alive and accessible. I congratulate the museum, which holds a special place for me, as it was established during my time as mayor. In fact, it was the first speech I gave as mayor of the city of Pooler. Mr. Speaker, I thank the staff, veterans, and volunteers for their important work.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a rising tradition out of the University of Georgia. It is The Fight Against Suicide. Born out of a student movement, this charity boxing event was created to spread mental health awareness, particularly among young men. What began in Athens now spans across eight universities with the proceeds benefiting the Sam Asbury Foundation in Atlanta Georgia, and other local charities. Sam Asbury was a proud graduate of the University of Georgia and a diehard Bulldog. He lit up every room with his smile and unique sense of humor. No one knew of the pain and battles he faced daily. Tragically, in 2020, Sam lost his silent struggle. His story is a

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 1262) to amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act with respect to molecularly targeted pediatric cancer investigations, and for other purposes, as amended.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. 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 in the Record on the bill.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Bilirakis), a very valuable member of the Committee on Energy and Commerce.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the bipartisan Give Kids a Chance Act, which supports research and development of drugs for children with cancer and other rare diseases. Nearly 70 percent of rare diseases start in childhood, and most still have no approved treatments. The Rare Pediatric Disease Priority Review Voucher Program has been a catalyst for developing therapies for these vulnerable populations. Thanks to this program, treatments have reached children who are suffering from nearly 40 rare diseases, many of which previously had no FDA-approved options and often led to severe disability or death before adulthood. Since 2012, the Rare Pediatric Disease PRV Program has helped bring more than 60 new treatments to market and has driven investment in hundreds of additional therapies for rare pediatric diseases that would otherwise be financially unviable. The Give Kids a Chance Act restores this critical program, ensuring that we continue to spur innovation, improve outcomes for young patients, and close gaps in pediatric drug research. Mr. Speaker, I encourage my colleagues to support this bill. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. McCaul), the esteemed Member who has announced that this will be his last session and who has had a stellar career in this august body and who has led in many, many ways, in many committees, and whose career we all want to emulate.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I apologize. I do have one other speaker. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from California (Mr. Obernolte).

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, in closing, I encourage a ``yes'' vote on this bill, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the unanimous appointment of Matt Harris as president and chief executive officer of the Northwest Georgia Joint Development Authority. Mr. Harris brings a strong track record of innovation and leadership in education and community development. Previously, he served as principal and coordinator of innovation for Walker County Schools, where he led Gilbert Elementary to national recognition by establishing Georgia's first public school forest kindergarten and earning U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon status. Beyond his work in public education, Mr. Harris has private-sector experience as a businessowner and operator. In his new position, Mr. Harris is charged with advancing business recruitment, strengthening site and infrastructure readiness, and fostering prosperity across northwest Georgia. The board of directors noted his professionalism and commitment as key reasons for his selection. Please join me in congratulating Matt Harris on this important appointment and thanking him for his service to our region.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. 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 on the topic of this Special Order.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the decades of service of Chief Warrant Officer Eric Bryan Williams. Chief Warrant Officer Five Eric Bryan Williams is a distinguished MH- 60 Black Hawk flight leader with the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment. Williams was born on October 17, 1975, and is a native of Duluth, Georgia. He first enlisted in June 1993 as a combat medic. Later, he was selected for appointment to Warrant Officer Candidate School. Williams conducted deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan, Djibouti, Yemen, and Somalia. Throughout his service, Williams went through a variety of training and earned a number of accolades, the highest being the Distinguished Flying Cross. On December 12, 2025, Chief Warrant Officer Williams is scheduled to retire, concluding 32 years of honorable and dedicated service to the United States Army. His exemplary career within the prestigious 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment reflects a commitment to excellence and unwavering dedication to the defense of our Nation. We thank him for his service. Commending Sergeant Bobby Stewart

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend Sergeant Bobby Stewart of the Chatham County Police Department for his outstanding act of bravery that earned him the Medal of Merit. On a critical day in Savannah, Sergeant Stewart disarmed a suicidal individual who was armed with a firearm, preventing what could have become a tragic outcome. His calm demeanor, compassion, and quick thinking not only safeguarded the life of the individual involved but also allowed that person to receive the help and care they needed. According to his supervisor, Sergeant Stewart's actions exhibited extraordinary kindness, courage, and unwavering service to the public. In recognizing Sergeant Stewart, we honor more than just a singular act. We uphold the standards of leadership and humanity that define public service. Please join me in thanking Sergeant Bobby Stewart for his courageous efforts and in acknowledging the many officers who keep our community safe every day. Honoring Firefighter Medics Kimberly Royer and Derek Wilson

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Bryan County Firefighter Medics Kimberly Royer and Derek Wilson, who were recognized by the 200 Club of the Coastal Empire for their remarkable courage and service. On June 7, 2024, a domestic dispute in Richmond Hill turned violent when a man shot his wife multiple times. While law enforcement secured the scene, Medics Royer and Wilson negotiated with the armed suspect for over an hour. After convincing him they were unarmed, they entered the house at great personal risk, reached the wounded woman, and carried her to safety for lifesaving treatment. For their bravery, Royer and Wilson received the 2025 Valor Award at the 200 Club ceremony in Savannah. Their actions reflect the high standards of public service and the courage that defines first responders across Georgia. Today, we thank Kimberly Royer and Derek Wilson for their valor, compassion, and steadfast commitment to saving lives. Honoring Tax Commissioner Sonya L. Jackson

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend Chatham County Tax Commissioner Sonya L. Jackson, who recently received the Presidential Award from the Savannah Branch NAACP at their 2025 gala. This award recognizes individuals whose leadership and service strengthen our communities through integrity, innovation, and impact. Commissioner Jackson earned this honor for her unwavering commitment to public education, exceptional customer service, and operational excellence at one of Chatham County's most vital government offices. Since assuming office, Commissioner Jackson has led efforts to make tax services more accessible and efficient for all residents. Her Tax Commissioner University initiative empowers citizens with the knowledge and confidence to navigate local government processes, building trust and transparency in government operations. Commissioner Jackson's leadership exemplifies how public service can strengthen the bonds between government and community. Today, we celebrate Commissioner Jackson's significant contributions and offer our gratitude for her dedication to improving the lives of Chatham County residents. Honoring Dr. DaShaun McGee

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Dr. DaShaun McGee, assistant principal at Bradwell Institute in Hinesville, for being named Georgia's Assistant Principal of the Year by the Georgia Association of Secondary School Principals. Dr. McGee stood out among more than 140 applicants, thanks to his servant leadership, tireless energy, and heartfelt commitment to students. He is known for being present in the lunchroom, in the hallways, and among the faculty. He builds relationships, offers guidance, and makes a tangible difference every day. Serving the students of Bradwell Institute and the wider Liberty County system, Dr. McGee leads with integrity, compassion, and a clear vision for educational success. His work elevates the school, supports his colleagues, and strengthens his community. Please join me in recognizing Dr. DaShaun McGee for this well-earned honor and in thanking him for his outstanding contribution to education in the State of Georgia. Marchese Construction, LLC

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Marchese Construction, LLC, a Savannah-based company that has been named one of America's Top 100 Small Businesses by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and its small business platform, CO. Out of more than 12,500 applicants nationwide, Marchese Construction earned this distinction as part of the 2025 CO-100, which highlights exceptional innovation, leadership, and community impact. For years, Marchese Construction has played a vital role in building not only structures, but also opportunities across our region. Their commitment to excellence and their dedication to local partnerships have strengthened Savannah's economy and showcased the entrepreneurial spirit that drives small business success through Georgia. This recognition is a testament to their hard work and the values they bring to every project. We are proud to see a business from Georgia's First District receive national recognition for excellence and community leadership. Commemorating the 37th Annual Georgia Peanut Tour

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 37th Annual Georgia Peanut Tour. The 37th tour began in Valdosta, Georgia, right around the onset of harvest season, making it the perfect time to showcase some peanuts. This year's preeminent stop was at Swilley Farms in which the Swilley family has been tilling the land for over 100 years. Danny Swilley continues to honor his family legacy, operating alongside his two brothers and his father. The Georgia Peanut Tour contacted Swilley and other local farmers, allowing them to showcase their farms and support the industry. The tour forges relationships, providing these businesses with the opportunity to connect with their customer base. Tourists can gain insight into the peanut harvesting process, infrastructure, production, handling, processing, and utilization. I want to congratulate the Swilley family for highlighting their stories in the peanut industry, from digging to managing disease that can ruin the harvest. Honoring Pooler Fire Chief Wade Simmons' 36 Years of Service