Buddy Carter

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Chair, for the life of me, I do not understand why they want to cut off their nose to spite their face. This is national security here, Mr. Chairman. This is not trying to preempt the laws. It is narrowly focused. We are talking about recycling national defense materials that include critical minerals, scrap metal. For the life of me, I don't understand how this is benefiting one company. It is benefiting the United States of America. This is recycling. This is environmentally safe, environmentally sound, environmentally friendly. Mr. Chair, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Chair, may I inquire as to how much time I have remaining.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Chair, this is commonsense legislation. This is not trying to benefit one company. This is trying to benefit the United States of America, both environmentally and, more importantly, our national security. It is recycling material of critical minerals that we need. It ensures that the physical and mechanical processing of scrap metal, as well as the disposition and recycling of defense articles, is governed by a clear Federal standard rather than a patchwork of conflicting State and local requirements. We are not trying to preempt anyone. We are just simply trying to secure America, trying to be environmentally friendly, and trying to recycle. I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Chair, obviously, I am not getting through here. I am just flabbergasted. I do not understand how the gentleman doesn't understand how this benefits the United States of America. Forget about California. Forget about Georgia. We are talking about the United States and national security. Mr. Chair, I yield back the balance of my time.

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 my bill, H.R. 2821, the FDA Modernization Act 3.0, bipartisan legislation that ensures the FDA fully embraces modern science while reducing unnecessary animal testing. Many of our families would feel incomplete without the pets and animals that bring unconditional love into our lives. Yet every year, millions of animals, including dogs, man's best friend, are still subjected to testing in the development of new medicines. As policymakers, we have a responsibility to protect those who cannot protect themselves. That responsibility includes embracing scientific innovation that can reduce unnecessary animal suffering while continuing to deliver safe and effective treatments to patients. In 2022, Congress took an important first step by passing the FDA Modernization Act 2.0. I was proud to help lead that effort. That law gave drug developers the ability to use modern, scientifically validated alternatives to traditional animal testing when appropriate. Congress made its intent clear. We wanted to encourage more effective, more humane, and more innovative approaches to drug development. Unfortunately, the previous administration failed to fully implement the law. Without clear implementation, too many researchers have lacked the certainty they need, and too many animals continue to be used in testing that modern science can increasingly replace. H.R. 2821 ensures the FDA finally carries out the will of Congress. This bill is not lowering standards. It is about raising them. Today's researchers have access to technologies that simply did not exist a generation ago: advanced human cell models, organ-on-a-chip technology, artificial intelligence, and computational modeling. These innovative tools have the potential to better predict how medicines will perform in humans while reducing reliance on animal testing. Our laws should reflect the science of today, not the science of decades past. Modernizing drug development doesn't just benefit animals. It benefits patients. By providing greater clarity and encouraging the use of validated alternative methods, we can make the drug development process more efficient. That means fewer unnecessary delays and more innovation. Ultimately, that means lifesaving treatments can reach patients more quickly without compromising the FDA's rigorous standards for safety and effectiveness. This is a commonsense, bipartisan bill. It reflects a simple principle: We can advance medical innovation while improving animal welfare. Those goals are not in conflict. In fact, they go hand in hand. Mr. Speaker, the FDA Modernization Act 3.0 fulfills the promise Congress made when we passed the FDA Modernization Act 2.0. It ensures that modern science is fully incorporated into our regulatory process. It helps reduce unnecessary animal testing and strengthens American medical innovation. It also helps bring new therapies to patients more efficiently. I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 2821, the FDA Modernization Act 3.0.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Norcross Police Officer Gabriel Veras, Jr., and Communications Officer Carin Elmore for their heroic and lifesaving teamwork. On April 7, 2025, Officer Elmore, acting quickly after receiving emergency calls, dispatched officers to the scene of a 3-year-old child in cardiac arrest. Officer Veras arrived before paramedics and began chest compressions and rescue breaths, reviving the child. Because of their quick and heroic action, a life was saved, and the child made a full recovery. On September 4, the city of Norcross awarded both officers the Arthur M. Kaplan First Responder Award for their heroism. This year, the National Association of Police Organizations honored Officer Veras with the 2026 TOP COPS honorable mention, and Governor Brian Kemp commended his lifesaving actions. I thank Officer Veras and Officer Elmore for their efforts to serve their community to the fullest capacity. I congratulate both of them on their well-deserved recognition and thank them for their service.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and the legacy of Matthew Ledbetter, a longtime Forsyth County Tax Commissioner, who passed away unexpectedly on June 27 at the age of 59. A lifelong Georgian and graduate of Forsyth Central High School and the University of Georgia--go Dawgs--Ledbetter dedicated nearly 21 years to public service, after having taken office in 2005 and most recently being reelected to a sixth term in 2024. Matthew will be remembered as a tireless advocate for the people of Forsyth County, known for turning the Tax Commissioner's Office into a well-oiled machine and building a legendary reputation for customer service. Friends recall his leadership, his wit, and his personality, as he never met a stranger. He was a devoted husband to his wife, Allison, and father to his sons, Evan and Ben. Georgia is grateful for Matthew's years of dedicated service, and our thoughts and prayers remain with his family and the entire Forsyth County community.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 200th anniversary of the First Presbyterian Church of Macon, Georgia. Organized on June 18, 1826, by the Reverend Benjamin Gildersleeve and Reverend Joseph C. Stiles, the church began with just 25 founding members. Since 1858, its historic sanctuary on Mulberry Street has stood as a landmark of downtown Macon and a fixture on the National Register of Historic Places. For two centuries, First Presbyterian has served as the mother church to several congregations across middle Georgia and has equipped its members in every area of life through worship, discipleship, fellowship, and mission. Today, First Presbyterian continues to welcome more than a thousand members, carrying forward a legacy that has spanned wars, revitalization, and generations of middle Georgia families. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the leaders and congregation of First Presbyterian Church on this remarkable milestone, and I thank them for 200 years of faithful ministry to the city of Macon.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Clara Martin, a beloved educator, broadcaster, and community leader who passed away June 21 at the age of 94. A graduate of the University of Georgia, Ms. Martin spent 14 years on the faculty at Brenau University, where she launched the school's journalism program and its first radio station. She went on to own and operate two radio stations in Clarkesville, lead adult education programs at Piedmont College, and later returned to Brenau to direct its journalism and broadcasting programs until her retirement in 2006. Clara also served as the U.S. Census Bureau administrator and correspondent for several Georgia newspapers. Her decades of work shaped generations of Georgia journalists and broadcasters. She is survived by three daughters, five grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. Mr. Speaker, Georgia is grateful for Clara's remarkable legacy of service and education. Recognizing Fred Gretsch on his 80th Birthday

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Fred Gretsch, a resident of Pooler, Georgia, and to wish him a happy 80th birthday. Fred is the fourth generation of his family to lead Gretsch, the storied musical instrument manufacturer founded in Brooklyn in 1883 by his great-grandfather, Friedrich Gretsch, a German immigrant. In 1984, Fred and his wife, Dinah, bought the company back into family hands and built it into the world-renowned name it is today, known for that great Gretsch sound. Gretsch instruments have shaped American music played by George Harrison, Elvis Presley, Chet Atkins, and Charlie Watts, among many others. Since bringing the company home to Georgia's First District, Fred and Dinah have generously supported music education, including establishing the Fred and Dinah Gretsch School of Music at Georgia Southern University. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of Georgia's First District, I congratulate Fred Gretsch on 80 remarkable years and thank him for his contributions to American music, craftsmanship, and philanthropy. Celebrating Market on the Square's 25th Anniversary

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a true hometown treasure in Georgia's First Congressional District, Market on the Square in historic downtown St. Marys, as it celebrates 25 years of serving our community. Since opening its doors in 2002, after the restoration of the historic Hernandez grocery store building, this family-owned business has become much more than a general store. Whether you are picking up a souvenir before visiting Cumberland Island, enjoying an ice cream cone on a warm summer day, or finding a perfect gift for someone, Market on the Square has created lasting memories for many families. For 25 years, they have watched downtown St. Marys grow, persevered through challenges and storms, and remained a cornerstone of one of Georgia's most charming waterfront communities. Businesses like Market on the Square are the heart of Main Street America, strengthening our local economy, while preserving the character and hospitality that make St. Marys so very special. Honoring Sheriff John Wilcher

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to wish my good friend a very happy 82nd birthday, Sheriff John Wilcher, retired sheriff of Chatham County, Georgia. A lifelong Savannah County resident, George dedicated 49 years of his life to serving the people of Chatham County, earning a reputation as a straight-talking tough guy. He served in both the United States Navy and the Army Reserve before joining the Chatham County Sheriff's Office, where he rose to the rank of colonel over 40 years of service. In 2016, Wilcher became the oldest person elected to the sheriff's office in Chatham County history and served with distinction until his retirement in 2024. Throughout his career, John earned the Georgia Sheriffs' Association Excellence Award and was recognized for his work improving mental health services in jails and raising over $300,000 for the Georgia Sheriffs' Youth Homes. Mr. Speaker, I wish a happy birthday to Sheriff Wilcher. The First District of Georgia is grateful for his lifetime of service. Happy birthday to my friend.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 200th anniversary of the First Presbyterian Church of Macon, Georgia. Organized on June 18, 1826, by the Reverend Benjamin Gildersleeve and Reverend Joseph C. Stiles, the church began with just 25 founding members. Since 1858, its historic sanctuary on Mulberry Street has stood as a landmark of downtown Macon and a fixture on the National Register of Historic Places. For two centuries, First Presbyterian has served as the mother church to several congregations across middle Georgia and has equipped its members in every area of life through worship, discipline, fellowship, and mission. Today, First Presbyterian continues to welcome more than 1,000 members, carrying forward a legacy that has spanned wars, revitalization, and generations of middle Georgia families. I congratulate the leaders and congregation of First Presbyterian Church on this remarkable milestone, and I thank them for 200 years of faithful ministry to the city of Macon.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize my middle son, Barrett Carter, a proud southeast Georgia native and accomplished PGA head golf professional. Barrett graduated from the University of Georgia before settling in the New Orleans area in 2009 where he has built an impressive career as a PGA class A professional. He has served at some of the region's premier facilities, including TPC Louisiana and Metairie Country Club, head golf professional at Oak Knoll Country Club in Hammond, and recently he was appointed as head golf professional at Bayou Oaks at City Parks in New Orleans. Most notably, Barrett is passionate about growing the game through instruction and creating welcoming programs for golfers of all ages and abilities. Barrett and his wife, Halley, live in Metairie with three precious daughters, Bennett, Catherine, and Clara. They are proud to call south Louisiana home. Although Barrett has made Louisiana his home, the First Congressional District of Georgia is proud to claim him as one of our own. Congratulations, Son. Your mother and I are very proud of you and love you very much.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Camden Pharmacy in St. Marys, Georgia, as it celebrates its 20th anniversary on June 13, 2026. For two decades, Camden Pharmacy has served the people of Camden County with personalized community-focused healthcare. Located across from Camden Medical Center, the pharmacy offers prescription services, over-the-counter medications, wound care supplies, veterinary medications, long-term care and hospice services, and much more. Under the leadership of pharmacist Anthony Kicklighter, Camden Pharmacy has built a reputation for exceptional service and a commitment to caring for every patient who walks through its doors. As a pharmacist myself, I understand the importance of forming a reliable repute within one's community, and Anthony has done great work for the people of St. Marys. I am happy to congratulate Anthony and the entire Camden Pharmacy team on 20 years of dedicated service to our community and wishing them continued success in the years ahead. Honoring Paul Watkin

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Paul R. Watkin, as he retires from Federal service after an extraordinary 48 years of dedicated service to our Nation. Mr. Watkin began his distinguished career in 1978 with Company C, 1st Ranger Battalion, 75th Infantry Regiment, where he served with honor and distinction in some of our Nation's most challenging operations. While serving, he deployed in Operation Eagle Claw, the 1980 mission to rescue 53 American hostages in Iran, and later participated in Operation Urgent Fury in Grenada. After earning both the Ranger and Special Forces Tabs and serving 7 years in the special operations community, he became a senior counterintelligence special agent and retired honorably from the U.S. Army in 2000. Mr. Watkin transitioned directly into Federal civil service, serving in key security and intelligence leadership positions across the Army. Mr. Watkin has served our Nation faithfully, and I wish him the best in the next chapter of his life. Honoring Kennedy Ingram and Macie Phillips

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Kennedy Ingram and Macie Phillips. The two Georgia graduates have made history as the first Black women to receive a bachelor of science in ocean science from the University of Georgia. The program provides students with an interdisciplinary understanding of the structure and function of marine systems from global oceans to local estuary environments and their interaction with the Earth- atmosphere system. The two were inspired to become pioneers in their field hoping to have a lasting impact and inspire others like them to pursue groundbreaking endeavors. I am proud to say that they were successful in their goals. Kennedy and Macie have become trailblazers, creating a tradition and legacy of academic achievement in their school. I thank Kennedy and Macie for their contributions to the scientific community. I am excited to see the tremendous things they will accomplish in the future. Mashama Bailey, North America's Best Female Chef

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize chef Mashama Bailey who is credited with reinventing Southern and Black American food traditions. Beginning her career, she worked as a private chef in New York City and was later persuaded to undertake professional cooking. In 2014 she entered a partnership to open The Grey in Savannah, Georgia. In 2019 and 2022, she earned the James Beard Award for her dishes that featured history and culture through mixing traditional Southern techniques with contemporary influences. As chairwoman of the Edna Lewis Foundation, she preserves African- American culinary traditions and develops educational opportunities in cooking, agriculture, food studies, and storytelling. Most recently, she was named to the TIME100 list of the most influential people in the world as an influential culinary figure. She received the North America's Best Female Chef Award for 2026. Chef Bailey is paving the way for rising chefs and inspiring others through her work. Recognizing Dr. Greg Tanner

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Greg Tanner, recently named South Georgia State College's president. As interim president, he increased the college's enrollment in the summer of 2023 by 14.7 percent, earning the Chancellor's Cup award for enrollment growth. In 2025 he was presented with Phi Theta Kappa's Paragon Award for New Presidents, honoring his dedication to the college and its students. More recently, he earned the Dr. Zeb L. Burrell MD Distinguished Service Award for his contributions to a new emergency services concentration in the college's School of Business. The foundation of his career consists of a bachelor's degree in education from Georgia Southern University, a master's degrees in physical education and educational leadership from Valdosta State University, and a doctorate in educational leadership and supervision from Nova Southeastern University. From a K-12 school principal to president of South Georgia College illustrates his dedication to education and to leadership. Honoring Gina Joy Rigby-House

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Gina Rigby- House for a remarkable career defined by hard work, faithful leadership, and a genuine commitment to serving others. Gina's journey began as a part-time employee at Aflac while she was still a senior in high school in Columbus, Georgia. Through dedication, perseverance, and an unwavering work ethic, she built a career spanning nearly four decades and became one of the most respected leaders in public policy and government affairs. For more than 26 years, Gina represented Aflac in Washington, helping guide the company through complex legislative and regulatory challenges while earning the trust and respect of colleagues, policymakers, and friends on both sides of the aisle. Yet what sets Gina apart is not simply her professional success, but the way she has invested in others. Through her leadership with the University of Alabama's Blackburn Institute, she has mentored countless young leaders, generously sharing her wisdom, encouragement, and belief in the next generation. Those who know Gina know her greatest joy has always been found in her family, the relationships she has built throughout her life, and her signature sense of style, notably shown through her shoes. Whether as a mentor, colleague, wife, grandmother, or friend, she has led with grace, humility, and a servant's heart. I congratulate Gina on an extraordinary career. I thank her for the countless lives she has touched, and I wish her and her husband, Mike, every blessing in the years ahead. Honoring Sandra Fryhofer

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Dr. Sandra Fryhofer on becoming president-elect of the American Medical Association. Dr. Fryhofer is an Atlantic-based internal medicine physician who has previously served in numerous roles in the AMA and has worked tirelessly to advance the roles of both patients and physicians. Following a vote by physicians and medical students at the AMA annual meeting, Dr. Fryhofer garnered the support to begin her year-long term stating in June of 2027. Dr. Fryhofer spent numerous years as the AMA's liaison to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. She contributed greatly to the development of vaccines protecting against COVID-19, influenza, HPV, and many others. Aside from the AMA, Dr. Fryhofer served as president of the American College of Physicians. When she was elected in 2000, she became the youngest person and the second woman to have served in the role. I wish her the best of luck and sincere congratulations as she begins her role. Honoring Martha Zoller

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of my friend Martha Zoller, whose voice and service to Georgia will be deeply missed. For more than three decades, Martha informed, challenged, and connected Georgians as a broadcaster, columnist, author, and political commentator. She earned the respect of listeners across our State through analytical, honest conversation, and an abiding love for Georgia and our country. I have had the privilege of joining Martha on her radio show many times over the years. Our conversations were always thoughtful, candid, and rooted in our shared commitment to serving the people of Georgia. She had a remarkable ability to ask the right questions and to listen carefully, offering valuable insights to listeners. Martha embodied the gold standard of professionalism, always acting quickly to offer her support as a mentor to countless people in politics and journalism. My prayers are with Martha's family, friends, and colleagues, and the countless listeners whose lives she touched. Her legacy will live on through them. May God lift them up in His arms and help them find comfort in this challenging time. Recognizing Josh Brooks

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Josh Brooks, who has been athletic director of the University of Georgia since 2021. He recently received a contract extension after back-to-back Southeastern Conference championships in football and national championships in women's tennis, women's track, and equestrian. During his time as athletics director, the Bulldogs have earned 9 national championships, 14 SEC crowns, and 33 individual national titles across 21 sports. Many facilities upgrades were under his management and supervision, including the new Lindsey Hopkins indoor tennis courts, improvements to the south side of Sanford Stadium, a new men's and women's basketball weight room, and more. He demonstrates leadership as an active member on the SEC Executive Committee and as vice chair of the NCAA Football Oversight Committee, and chair of the NCAA Football Practice and Playing Seasons Committee. Brooks' extended contract will allow him to continue making momentous milestones for the University of Georgia. Honoring Larry Walker, Jr.

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Mr. Lawrence Cohen ``Larry'' Walker, Jr. who passed away on June 9 at the age of 84. Mr. Walker was a lifelong resident of Perry, Georgia. He graduated from Perry High School in 1960 and attended the University of Georgia where he earned a bachelor's in business administration and a juris doctorate. In 1966, Mr. Walker was appointed Perry's first municipal court judge and later as the city attorney, a role he held for 40 years. Larry was later elected to the Georgia State House of Representatives where he served for 32 years and became majority leader. While in the State legislature, Mr. Walker played a key role in bringing Frito-Lay and the Georgia National Fairgrounds to Perry, Georgia. After his time in the State house, Larry was elected to the Georgia Transportation Board and appointed by Governor Sonny Perdue to the Georgia Board of Regents. Our thoughts and prayers are with Mr. Walker's family as they mourn his loss. Honoring the Life and Service of Specialist Adrian Bonsey

Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service of Specialist Adrian Bonsey, a dedicated soldier of the United States Army who tragically lost his life during a training exercise earlier this month. Specialist Bonsey answered the call to serve his country when he joined the Army in 2023 and quickly distinguished himself through his professionalism and selfless service. As a combat engineer, he played a vital role in supporting our Nation's military readiness. Prior to arriving at Fort Stewart, Specialist Bonsey served at Fort Carson, Colorado, and deployed to Poland in support of our allies and partners abroad. During his service, he earned two Army Achievement Medals, reflecting his dedication and contributions to the Army and his fellow soldiers. While training, Specialist Bonsey made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our Nation. Mr. Speaker, we mourn this tragic loss; extend our deepest condolences to his family, his friends, and his fellow soldiers; and honor his memory with gratitude for his service. Congratulating Dr. Angel Cabrera