Buddy Carter

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the Shandra Eisenga Human Cell and Tissue Product Safety Act, which is a critical piece of legislation aimed at preventing tuberculosis infections linked to tissue transplants. In 2023, 36 patients across seven States contracted tuberculosis from infected bone grafts. One of these patients was Shandra Eisenga, who tragically passed away on August 10, 2023, from tuberculosis, or TB. This bipartisan bill requires the Department of Health and Human Services to conduct public awareness campaigns to assist in preventing TB outbreaks caused by contaminated human cell and tissue product donations. Shandra's death was a preventable tragedy, and we will honor her memory by strengthening guidelines and improving education for these medical products, so no other family has to suffer through this again. Mr. 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. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the Charlotte Woodward Organ Transplant Discrimination Prevention Act, which prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in the organ transplant system. This bill prohibits covered entities from determining that an individual is ineligible to receive a transplant or denying a transplant based solely on the fact that the individual has a disability. The bill is named after Charlotte Woodward, an advocate with Down syndrome who received a lifesaving heart transplant a decade ago. Since then, she has advocated tirelessly to ensure that others living with Down syndrome and other disabilities have the same access to lifesaving care that she did. Unfortunately, there have been too many instances in which individuals with disabilities have been denied a lifesaving organ transplant, and this is unacceptable. Congress has the opportunity to help ensure that individuals with disabilities are treated fairly within the organ transplant system. No one, Mr. Speaker--no one--should be denied access to an organ transplant just because they have a disability. That is why I am proud to support this bill, which will make sure that all Americans, no matter their disability status, will be able to receive the access to care that they need and deserve. Mr. Speaker, I thank my good friends, Representative Cammack and Representative Dingell, for their leadership on this important issue, and I urge my colleagues to support this legislation.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Elizabeth Hartley, who has been named a national ambassador for health science education and a finalist for Georgia's top new teacher in technical education. She has led an exceptional career in the Bulloch County School System, receiving a variety of awards within her first 5 years of teaching. As an ambassador for the National Consortium for Health Science Education, she will cohost seminars, webinars, support major events, and boost national engagement in health science education. Outside of the classroom, Ms. Hartley is not only a registered nurse but also the Bulloch County Therapeutic Allied Health and Medicine career pathway instructor. The pathway helps more than 130 students annually, serving as a local pipeline for future healthcare professionals. Today, we express our gratitude to Elizabeth Hartley for her service to Bulloch County students.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Frederica Academy baseball team who won the program's first-ever State championship this season. Since 1969, Frederica Academy has earned 76 State titles across all its athletic programs, except for one. Their baseball program had battled a history of ups and downs, not quite being able to finish the drill, until now. Fighting back from near elimination early in the playoffs, the St. Simon's team overcame adversity to make their first State title series since 2018. The boys swept their opponents from Pinewood Christian to earn the GIAA Class 3A baseball State championship and made history for their athletic program. Under Head Coach Tim Orlosky, these young men exhibited persistence, sportsmanship, and humility in their title run. Mr. Speaker, join me in congratulating this team of incredible young men and everybody who supported them in their journey to achieve history for Frederica Academy.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Rachel Kinsaul who was recognized by the Georgia Department of Education as the Georgia Teacher of the Year for 2026. She led an exceptional career in the Morgan County school system as a teacher of agricultural science, extending her involvement beyond the academic setting. Rachel serves as the chapter adviser to the Future Farmers of America organization and the president of the Morgan County Farm Bureau. She continues to help inspire students to create their own philanthropic projects, developing future community leaders. Her efforts focus on fostering leadership, collaboration, and a sense of community in the young minds she educates. As an alumna of the University of Georgia--Go Dogs--she has received several accolades, including the Outstanding Alumnus Award from the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences and recognition as the 2025 Milken Educator of the Year. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Rachel on her well-deserved recognition as Georgia Teacher of the Year.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the HALT Fentanyl Act, which permanently extends President Trump's 2018 schedule I classification of fentanyl-related substances. Mr. Speaker, the United States is facing a poisoning epidemic, and it is caused by illicit fentanyl and its related substances that are pouring over our borders and into our communities. In 2023, under the Biden-Harris administration, more than 107,000 people died of drug overdoses, roughly 75,000 of whom died from synthetic opioids, largely illicit fentanyl, or fentanyl-related substances. Included in that number is a family from Georgia who lost their two sons, 22-year-old Gannon and 19-year-old Max, to fentanyl poisoning. We cannot allow this lawlessness and tragedy to continue to tear our communities apart. That is why we must stop deadly fentanyl from flooding across our borders and crack down on traffickers. President Trump has already made progress by securing our borders, and Congress must support him in this critical effort. That is why Congress must pass the HALT Fentanyl Act that is before us today. Mr. Speaker, let's pass this bill, secure our borders, stem the tide of the growing fentanyl crisis, and save lives. Again, Mr. Speaker, this is fentanyl poisoning. We are not talking about addiction here. We are talking about one pill, one pill that poisons, and that kills people. That is what my colleagues are trying to prevent here.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize St. Simons Island's designation by U.S. News and World Report as one of the best underrated travel destinations in the U.S. They evaluated over 1,500 vacation destinations worldwide and ranked them across numerous categories. St. Simons Island, the largest barrier island on Georgia's Golden Isles, offers low-hanging Spanish moss, salty air, and warm ocean water. It is home to pristine beaches, miles of walking paths and trails, ice cream shops, and award-winning restaurants. Despite this, St. Simons has still managed to keep a low profile and is often overlooked by out-of-State beachgoers. I am proud that St. Simons Island, my new home, is being recognized for the stunning views and coastal relaxation it offers patrons.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the late Nicholas Pappas, a distinguished gentleman who devoted more than 30 years to the restaurant scene in Savannah, Georgia. As a longtime owner of the Olympia Cafe, he united locals and tourists with his cherished recipes, exceptional culinary skills, and warm personality. Under his leadership, the restaurant gained significant acclaim, being ranked in the top 10 percent of restaurants worldwide by Tripadvisor in 2024. Mr. Pappas was more than just a restaurant owner. He was a loving father and a grandfather, a mentor and a role model, and an exemplary civil servant. His legacy will live on through Olympia Cafe, where countless memories and joy were brought to many. He set a superb example for others to follow through his welcoming manner and unwavering work ethic. Today, we celebrate Nicholas Pappas' life. The community is strengthened in the one-of-a-kind service that he provided to the people of Savannah.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Robert Headley, for receiving the Student Organization Leader of the Year Award at Georgia Southern University. This award is presented annually to a student who demonstrates exceptional leadership, embodies their organization's values, and positively impacts student life on campus. As president of the Interfraternity Council during the 2024-2025 academic year, he played an essential role in advancing Greek life and fostering collaboration among Greek organizations. Robert is an outstanding young man who has consistently excelled in all of the mentioned areas. I congratulate Robert on this remarkable achievement. I wish him the best in his future endeavors. Honoring Nicholas Pappas

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Savannah's recent distinction as one of the Nation's top honeymoon destinations. The city was ranked sixth overall, accompanied by renowned areas such as Palm Springs, Napa Valley, and Miami. Savannah's downtown offers visitors a plethora of experiences. The Savannah Historic District offers preserved architecture and museums for history enthusiasts. Broughton Street offers a wide range of shopping options, featuring a mix of small, local shops and larger commercial retailers. If visitors prefer a more relaxing experience, Tybee Island is just 15 minutes away. On Tybee Island, vacationers can enjoy the serene beaches, outdoor activities, and coastal relaxation. Savannah's distinctive blend of cultural richness and coastal beauty makes it an ideal destination for newlyweds. Honoring Robert Headley

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate Greg Parker on being named 2025 Retailer Executive of the Year by Convenience Store News. Greg, the founder and CEO of Parker's Kitchen, has grown his business from one store in 1976 to his 100th in a grand opening in April of 2025. His brand has become a role model in business, being synonymously described as clean, friendly, profitable, and philanthropic. Greg exhibits the best characteristics of this award. He is a leader. He positively impacts his community, and he strives for business excellence. He is often recognized for his significant philanthropic efforts, recently donating $20 million to the Savannah Community Foundation. This generous donation is just one of many throughout his successful career. Mr. Speaker, the First District of Georgia appreciates Greg and his many years of friendship. Savannah: Our Nation's Top Honeymoon Destination

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Georgia Pharmacy Association and recognize its 150th anniversary this year. Founded in 1875 in Macon by a group of Georgia pharmacists, the Georgia Pharmacy Association has acted as a platform to promote pharmacy both as a profession and a vital component of healthcare. The organization's reach has expanded into our four pharmacy schools in Georgia, fostering involvement from the next generation of healthcare professionals. The Georgia Pharmacy Association has achieved several legislative wins, both at the State and Federal levels, including a recent State reimbursement bill supporting independent pharmacies in their battle against PBMs. I congratulate the Georgia Pharmacy Association on their achievements for pharmacy throughout the past 150 years, and I wish them all the best at the upcoming State convention in Amelia Island this weekend.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 157.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a constituent of mine, Mr. Joel Willis, for his recent retirement after 45 years of serving his community in St. Simons Island, Georgia. Mr. Willis epitomized strong leadership and an unwavering work ethic, earning him his position as CEO of Epworth by the Sea. Through nearly 50 years of hard work at Epworth, Mr. Ellis transformed what was once a humble motel into a state-of-the-art retreat, tourist destination, and host to Christian conferences. Epworth by the Sea undertook an incredible expansion under Mr. Willis' leadership, adding over 135 rooms and 50 employees, fostering the growth of St. Simons Island. Not only have his efforts strengthened the local economy, but Mr. Willis has made it Epworth's mission to continue giving back, as shown through its history of accommodating church-related and nonprofit groups. Mr. Willis has exemplified the best of hard work and Southern hospitality, and it is an honor to recognize him and his service to the community of St. Simons Island.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 65th anniversary of the Meals on Wheels program led by Senior Citizens, Inc. in Savannah, Georgia. For 65 years, this program has provided thousands of nutritious meals and vital daily contact with elderly, homebound adults. This year, to celebrate the milestone, Senior Citizens, Inc. partnered with local chefs, including James Beard Award winner Chef Bailey. Chef Bailey assisted in crafting special gourmet meals as a tribute to the people they serve. Meals on Wheels delivers care, compassion, and peace of mind to families in Savannah and beyond. The partnership reflects the power of community engagement and shows what is possible when local organizations and volunteers work together to lift others. I thank Senior Citizens, Inc., Meals on Wheels, and Chef Bailey for their initiative and congratulate them on the anniversary of this most important service.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Buford City Schools as being named among the top school districts in America. Education is one of the greatest gifts we can provide our children, and I am proud that Georgia is receiving recognition for this honor. Buford City Schools ranked at No. 22, achieving an overall A-plus rating, with A-pluses in nearly all categories. The top-rated public school serves 5,946 students from pre-K to 12th grade, maintaining a student-teacher ratio of 18:1. Additionally, 70 percent of students are at least proficient in math and 65 percent in reading. I thank the teachers and the Buford community for setting an example for the State of Georgia and the rest of our Nation to follow.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Chair, I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Chair, I rise today in strong support of Chairman Guthrie's SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Reauthorization Act of 2025. This critical legislation reflects House Republicans' ongoing commitment to fighting the opioid and fentanyl crisis that is devastating families across this Nation. Under the leadership of President Trump and Chairman Guthrie, we are finally seeing real progress. Listen to these figures, Mr. Chairman: For the first time in years, opioid overdose deaths have declined, dropping from over 83,000 in 2023 to under 55,000 by the most recent data. Those are good numbers. They did not happen by accident. It happened because we took bold action to secure our borders, to prioritize treatments, and invest in recovery programs that work. We can help continue this trajectory by advancing the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Reauthorization Act of 2025, which is one of the single largest congressional efforts to address our opioid crisis. Through the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Reauthorization Act of 2025, we are reauthorizing prevention programs and recovery services and ensuring that first responders can access and administer Naloxone. We are ultimately restoring hope and healing by putting a stop to drug overdose and poisoning. Mr. Chair, I thank Chairman Guthrie for his work on this important issue, and I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support this legislation. Mr. Chairman, let's pass this bill. Let's secure our borders. Let's stem the tide of the growing fentanyl crisis, and let's save lives.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mourn the loss of Chris Lane Gay of Pooler, Georgia. Chris started his career in the grocery industry in Garden City Piggly Wiggly, playing a key role in developing Red & White Food Stores in Savannah. He owned Midtown Market on 37th Street, Claxton Supermarket, and Food Fresh in Claxton, Georgia. Beyond his profession, Chris was a member of the Claxton community, serving on the Claxton-Evans County Chamber of Commerce board of directors for over 25 years. He played an instrumental role in forming the Chamber Junior Board, served on the Claxton Downtown Development Authority and the Georgia Food Industry Association, and was a past member of the Claxton Rotary. It is clear that Chris would go above and beyond for the community he cared so deeply about. He was the kind of supporter and cheerleader everyone would be lucky to have. Chris, a talented storyteller and comedian, made connections wherever he went, creating valuable memories for his friends and loved ones. Mr. Speaker, please join me in prayers for his family and all privileged enough to know him and to love him.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the unexpected but powerful example of American entrepreneurial spirit. Recently, Southern Living Magazine named NFA Burger the best hamburger in the entire State of Georgia. Sometimes, the American Dream looks different from what you would expect, and in this case it looks like a cheeseburger served from a Chevron gas station. Founded by Billy Kramer, NFA Burger has served roughly 200,000 perfectly seasoned patties to long lines of locals and travelers since 2019. NFA Burger's recognition was earned without flashy branding and large investors. This emphasized the quality, consistency, and community support of a small business operating in a humble setting. This commendation serves as a reminder that entrepreneurship thrives in small towns and family-owned storefronts across America. Today, I congratulate NFA Burger for this tremendous achievement.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Berry College, a well respected and prestigious university located in Mount Berry, Georgia. Leisure and Travel ranked Berry College as the second-most beautiful campus in America. The institution is breathtakingly picturesque, offering stunning views of lakes, fields, forests, and mountains. Not only is it one of the most beautiful, but it is reportedly the world's largest as well, encompassing nearly 27,000 acres and offering 88 miles of trails. Beyond its attractive exterior, Berry College offers state-of-the-art education to over 2,000 undergraduates and nearly 200 graduate students. As a private, nonprofit college, Berry consistently gives back to Georgia and the United States through generous contributions to student scholarships, academic resources, classroom technology, the arts, athletics, and high-quality facilities. Berry College exhibits the best of private education, providing students with limitless opportunities to pursue their academic and professional aspirations. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Berry College for elevating the standard of higher education in Georgia. Recognition of NFA Burger, the Best Burger in Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Arrowhead Pointe Golf Course, a well-kept, picturesque green nestled within Richard B. Russell State Park in the Georgia mountains. Offering breathtaking views of Lake Richard B. Russell, this course has become a destination for golf lovers seeking both challenges and tranquility. Ranked number eight on the 2025 USA Today 10 Best List, Arrowhead Pointe is described as the epitome of serenity and offers an excellent recreational experience to locals and visitors alike. Beyond its natural beauty and top-tier design, Arrowhead Pointe is praised for its affordability, making it accessible for golfers of all ages and budgets. This course is more than just a place to play. It is a retreat where families and friends can connect with nature, enjoy healthy competition, and create lasting memories. Arrowhead Pointe exemplifies the best of public golf, offering a world-class experience, welcoming players with warm southern hospitality, and fair prices. Today, we celebrate Arrowhead Pointe Golf Course and its contribution to Georgia's tourism, recreation, and community well-being. Congratulating Berry College

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mourn the loss of Richard ``Dick'' Wallace. Dick was a man who led a captivating life growing up in Alexandria, Virginia. From a young age, he exhibited an exceptional musical talent, often playing intricate pieces by ear on multiple instruments. Dick was an Eagle Scout, God and Country, and Order of the Arrow in Boy Scouts. He was passionate about educating students about the Federal Government, playing an instrumental role in implementing the Presidential Classroom, a program teaching high school students about the U.S. Constitution and the workings of Washington, D.C. In 1975, after the birth of his child, Richard Austen, the family fell in love with and then moved to Savannah, Georgia. As a people person and proud citizen of Savannah, Dick served the community in many ways, including as a YMCA soccer coach, head of the Military Civilian Affairs for the Savannah Chamber of Commerce, and president of Ardsley Park Neighborhood Association, among countless other accomplishments. Dick will be missed. May his memory live on in the smiles of those he profoundly impacted. Recognition of Arrowhead Pointe Golf Course

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The American people are suffering. They are suffering from 4 years of government overreach and out-of-control spending that has put us on the edge of fiscal ruin. That stops now. This bill will make President Trump's tax cuts for American families permanent, remove taxes on tips and overtime, unleash American energy dominance, and eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse from key Federal programs. Passing this bill means preserving Medicaid, preserving Medicaid for generations to come, and keeping our promise to ensure it is there for Americans who truly need it. This bill will allow families still feeling the pain of inflation to take home tax-free tips and hard- earned overtime. This bill will rein in out-of-control spending by government agencies such as EPA that had little or no oversight under President Biden. Let me be clear: This is a bill that works for America. It will put us back to the path toward fiscal responsibility, keep money in the pockets of Americans, unleash American energy dominance, and preserve key programs for those who need them.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and to thank a dedicated public servant and also a dear friend, Emmitt Nolan, for his 10 years of honorable service to the people of Georgia's First Congressional District. Emmitt has been a vital part of our team in the Golden Isles. He has served as a trusted representative of our office, building strong relationships and faithfully carrying out the concerns of our constituents. Throughout his time in public service, from serving on the Brunswick City Commission, to attending countless civic and cultural events, Emmitt has proven himself to be deeply committed to our community. He is often found not in the spotlight but quietly supporting the causes and people that matter most. I have known Emmitt since he managed my opponent's campaign for Congress. I had to get that in. Even then, his character, kindness, and grasp of the issues stood out. It is no surprise that he has become a mentor and a role model to others following in his footsteps. As he transitions to the private sector, I have no doubt Emmitt will continue making a difference. Mr. Speaker, please join me in thanking Emmitt Nolan for his decade of service to the First Congressional District of Georgia and wishing him every success in the next chapter of his life.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor three remarkable individuals recognized by Senior Citizen, Inc., of Savannah for their unwavering commitment to our community. Dr. Otis Johnson is a trailblazing leader, educator, and former mayor of Savannah. He has dedicated his life to civil rights and uplifting communities everywhere. Camille O'Neill, a devoted educator and pillar of the community, has nurtured countless students and built a legacy of love and service in Savannah. Finally, John White, Sr., is a World War II veteran who served in the Marines. Mr. White is a recipient of the Congressional Medal of Honor and one of the Original Nine, the first African-American police officers in Savannah. His courage, leadership, and service continue to inspire others. Their collective efforts exemplify the spirit of civic engagement and demonstrate the profound impact one can have through service. Let us draw inspiration from their achievements and strive to follow their examples.