James Comer

Mr. COMER

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from California (Mr. Kiley).

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support the Guidance Out Of Darkness Act, or GOOD Act, and to pass this legislation once again, like the House did in the last term. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. COMER

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 872) to require covered contractors implement a vulnerability disclosure policy consistent with NIST guidelines, and for other purposes, as amended.

Mr. COMER. 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 this measure.

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I am happy to support H.R. 872, the Federal Contractor Cybersecurity Vulnerability Reduction Act. Mr. Speaker, this bill will require Federal contractors to have a vulnerability disclosure policy, or VDP. This would help contractors more quickly alert Federal agencies about vulnerabilities, which could avoid a future cybersecurity breach. Federal agencies must act quickly when dealing with a cyberattack. The sooner a Federal agency knows that it may have a problem, the sooner it can take steps to protect its systems and data, including the personal data of millions of Americans. It is reasonable to require Federal contractors to play a proactive role in addressing vulnerabilities in Federal information systems. This bill complements the committee's ongoing work aimed at helping Federal agencies protect their data and information systems. Mr. Speaker, I thank our great Cybersecurity, Information Technology, and Government Innovation Subcommittee chairwoman, the gentlewoman from South Carolina (Ms. Mace), for introducing this important legislation, which the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee unanimously passed last year and the House later passed as part of the fiscal year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act. I also thank the Cybersecurity, Information Technology, and Government Innovation Subcommittee ranking member, the gentlewoman from Ohio (Ms. Brown), for cosponsoring this legislation, building on the bipartisan support from last year. Mr. Speaker, I encourage my colleagues to support H.R. 872 once again, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I yield 10 minutes to the gentlewoman from South Carolina (Ms. Mace), the chairman of the Cybersecurity, Information Technology, and Government Innovation Subcommittee.

Mr. COMER

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, the lowest price technically acceptable, LPTA, is a source selection method outlined in the Federal Acquisition Regulation. This process uses price as a determining factor for a contract rather than other technical or operational factors. Following legislative work done by the House Oversight Committee during the 115th Congress, constraints were placed on agency use of the LPTA in the fiscal year 2019 National Defense Authorization Act. These constraints recognize that the LPTA criteria are not always appropriate for agencies seeking complex or technically innovative services. For instance, this can result in agencies sacrificing long-term value for short-term savings. We also do not want the LPTA to be used in a manner that jeopardizes national security. This bill requires the Director of the Office of Management and Budget to evaluate this source selection process to determine whether agencies are using the LPTA in an appropriate manner. Mr. Speaker, I thank my Oversight Committee colleague, Mr. Donalds, for his leadership on this bill, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 minutes to the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Donalds), a rising star.

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, the Safe and Smart Federal Purchasing Act is measured and targeted legislation that can inform future congressional work on Federal procurement, a policy area we know is ripe for reform and taxpayer savings. Mr. Speaker, I encourage my House colleagues to support this commonsense, bipartisan bill, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Mr. COMER

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 758) to direct the United States Postal Service to issue regulations requiring Postal Service employees and contractors to report to the Postal Service traffic crashes involving vehicles carrying mail that result in injury or death, and for other purposes.

Mr. COMER. 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 this measure.

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 758, which requires U.S. Postal Service employees and contractors to report to the Postal Service traffic crashes that result in injury or death. In 2023, The Wall Street Journal published an article alleging that the Postal Service contracted with low-cost trucking companies that did not follow highway safety regulations. They also reported that postal contractors have been involved in car crashes that have killed 79 people in the last 3 years. To conduct oversight of this important topic, Congress needs to be informed. The Mail Traffic Deaths Reporting Act requires the Postal Service to report to Congress any traffic crashes that result in injury or death. Under the bill, Postal Service employees and contractors will have 3 days to report a traffic accident to the Postal Service. These reports will include, at minimum, the date, time, location, nature of the crash, information identifying the contractor, and number of injuries and fatalities. The Postal Service will maintain a comprehensive internal digital database of this information. The Postal Service is also required to compile a publicly available report summarizing annual stats related to injuries and deaths from traffic accidents. I thank Representative Connolly, the ranking member of the House Oversight Committee, for working to partner with me on this necessary legislation. I encourage all of my House colleagues to support this national safety legislation, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, the Postal Service is tasked with the challenging job of providing fast, reliable mail service nationwide. While they do so, their safety should be prioritized. I encourage all my colleagues to support this commonsense bill that increases transparency into the Postal Service's safety record to improve the public safety throughout our Nation. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Mr. COMER

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Officer Oscar Guevara of the Frankfort Police Department for being awarded the 2024 Medal of Merit Citation for his bravery responding to a structure fire. Once Officer Guevara and Officer Byrd arrived at the scene of the fire, they immediately took action to rescue a mentally disabled female trapped inside the burning structure. After finding the front door was unsafe to enter, they went to the rear of the structure and scaled a fence to reach the victim. With Officer Guevara supporting Officer Byrd, they executed a critical rescue operation by reaching through a smoke-filled window to remove the trapped female from the building moments before the structure was completely engulfed. Through successfully executing this critical rescue operation, Officer Guevara showcased great bravery in the face of distress. Their actions demonstrate the utmost professionalism and capability beyond day-to-day requirements. Officer Guevara voluntarily performed extraordinary acts of bravery. His actions went above and beyond and have made him deserving of this fine honor. I am confident that Officer Guevara will continue to serve as an exemplary role model for law enforcement officers across the 1st Congressional District and the entire Commonwealth of Kentucky.

Mr. COMER

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jessica Wooldridge of the Frankfort Police Department for being awarded the 2024 Citizen Distinguished Achievement Award. During a critical missing person case involving an elderly resident with dementia, Ms. Wooldridge voluntarily joined the search operation, demonstrating exceptional civic duty. While braving challenging terrain, she covered an extensive area on foot, showcasing remarkable determination. Her efforts led to the successful location of the missing person, directly saving a life. Ms. Wooldridge's actions embody the values of service, commitment, and community that the Frankfort Police Department holds dear. Ms. Wooldridge's example serves as an inspiration, reminding us of the power of individual initiative in making a difference. Her dedication to public service makes her a role model for citizens in the community. I join with the Frankfort Police Department in thanking Ms. Wooldridge for her dedicated service and commitment. I am confident her actions will continue to inspire community members and law enforcement officers across the 1st Congressional District and the entire Commonwealth of Kentucky.

Mr. COMER

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Sergeant Craig Gonzalez of the Frankfort Police Department on being awarded the 2024 Medal of Valor for his bravery demonstrated while responding to a critical situation within Franklin County. Without regard for his own safety, Sergeant Gonzalez played a crucial role in successfully resolving a life-threatening situation. Through his actions and support in the face of clear and obvious peril, Sergeant Gonzalez exemplified the highest standards of law enforcement professionalism and demonstrated extraordinary commitment to preserving human life. His teamwork and decisive intervention reflected greatly upon himself and upheld the finest traditions of the Frankfort Police Department. Sergeant Gonzalez has earned the respect and support of Franklin County. Sergeant Gonzalez voluntarily performed extraordinary acts of bravery. His actions went above and beyond and have made him deserving of this fine honor. I am confident that Sergeant Gonzalez will continue to serve as an exemplary role model for law enforcement officers across the 1st Congressional District and the entire Commonwealth of Kentucky.

Mr. COMER

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Officer Maurice Byrd of the Frankfort Police Department for being awarded the 2024 Medal of Merit Citation for his bravery while responding to a structure fire. Once Officer Byrd and Officer Guevara arrived at the scene of the fire, they immediately took action to rescue a mentally disabled female trapped inside the burning structure. After finding the front door was unsafe to enter, they went to the rear of the structure and scaled a fence to reach the victim. With Officer Guevara supporting Officer Byrd, they executed a critical rescue operation by reaching through a smoke-filled window to remove the trapped female from the building moments before the structure was completely engulfed. Through successfully executing this critical rescue operation, Officer Byrd showcased great bravery in the face of distress. Their actions demonstrate the utmost professionalism and capability beyond day-to-day requirements. Officer Byrd voluntarily performed extraordinary acts of bravery. His actions went above and beyond have made him deserving of this fine honor. I am confident that Officer Byrd will continue to serve as an exemplary role model for law enforcement officers across the 1st Congressional District and the entire Commonwealth of Kentucky.

Mr. COMER

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize McCracken County on the celebration of their Bicentennial. McCracken County is an integral part of Kentucky's 1st Congressional District, full of rich history and wonderful people. McCracken County, along with the City of Paducah, has been central to Western Kentucky's identity and growth for two centuries. McCracken County has a proud history of contributing to the communities' rich economic, artistic, and cultural development. The waterways of McCracken County play a pivotal role in the county's story, serving as a strategic hub for inland waterway industries. They continue to attract businesses to contribute significantly to local revenue through job creation, tourism, and business operations. I am proud to represent the good people of McCracken County in Congress and look forward to seeing even more prosperous years to come.

Mr. COMER

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Lieutenant Todd Smither of the Frankfort Police Department for being awarded the 2024 Medal of Valor for his bravery demonstrated while responding to a critical situation within Franklin County. During a high-risk pursuit with an armed suspect who had barricaded himself in a vehicle following a multi-jurisdictional pursuit, Lieutenant Smither demonstrated excellent leadership by quickly developing and implementing a tactical plan to resolve the situation effectively. Additionally, along with Sergeant Presley, they worked to de-escalate a potentially lethal situation successfully. Under Lieutenant Smither's directions, his fellow officers were able to provide adequate support, which led to safeguarding human life. His actions and exceptional teamwork skills allowed for a peaceful resolution for all involved. Lieutenant Smither voluntarily performed extraordinary acts of bravery. His actions went above and beyond and have made him deserving of this fine honor. I am confident that Lieutenant Smither will continue to serve as an exemplary role model for law enforcement officers across the 1st Congressional District and the entire Commonwealth of Kentucky.

Mr. COMER

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Officer Byron Redmon of the Frankfort Police Department on being awarded the 2024 Medal of Valor for his bravery demonstrated while responding to a critical situation within Franklin County. During a high-risk pursuit with an armed suspect who had barricaded himself in a vehicle following a multi-jurisdictional pursuit, Officer Redmon provided critical tactical support throughout the duration of the event, allowing for a synchronized response that led to the suspect's safe apprehension. Throughout this critical situation, Officer Redmon provided crucial support contributing to the resolution. His actions and exceptional teamwork skills allowed for a peaceful resolution for all involved. Officer Redmon voluntarily performed extraordinary acts of bravery. His actions went above and beyond and have made him deserving of this fine honor. I am confident that Officer Redmon will continue to serve as an exemplary role model for law enforcement officers across the 1st Congressional District and the entire Commonwealth of Kentucky.

Mr. COMER

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Officer Andrew Humphries of the Frankfort Police Department on being awarded the 2024 Medal of Valor for his bravery demonstrated while responding to a critical situation within Franklin County. During a high-risk pursuit with an armed suspect who had barricaded himself in a vehicle following a multi-jurisdictional pursuit, Officer Humphries, responding to Lieutenant Smither's direction, approached the barricaded vehicle and successfully deployed chemical munitions, forcing the suspect to exit. Officer Humphries demonstrated excellent courage and tactical precision through his response. He played a vital role in ensuring this potentially lethal situation was resolved successfully. Officer Humphries voluntarily performed extraordinary acts of bravery. His actions went above and beyond and have made him deserving of this fine honor. I am confident that Officer Humphries will continue to serve as an exemplary role model for law enforcement officers across the 1st Congressional District and the entire Commonwealth of Kentucky.

Mr. COMER

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Sergeant Jonathan Presley of the Frankfort Police Department for being awarded the 2024 Medal of Valor for his bravery demonstrated while responding to a critical situation within Franklin County. During a high-risk pursuit with an armed suspect who had barricaded himself in a vehicle following a multi-jurisdictional pursuit, Sergeant Presley demonstrated excellent courage and tactical precision through his coordinated response with Lieutenant Smither to de-escalate a potentially lethal situation successfully. Throughout this critical situation, Sergeant Presley successfully disarmed the subject. His actions and exceptional teamwork skills allowed a peaceful resolution for all involved. Sergeant Presley voluntarily performed extraordinary acts of bravery. His actions went above and have made him deserving of this fine honor. I am confident that Sergeant Presley will continue to serve as an exemplary role model for law enforcement officers across the 1st Congressional District and the entire Commonwealth of Kentucky.

Mr. COMER

Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Officer Logan Sutton of the Frankfort Police Department on being awarded the 2024 Medal of Valor for his bravery demonstrated while responding to a critical situation within Franklin County. Without regard for his own safety, Officer Sutton played a crucial role in successfully resolving a life-threatening situation. Through his actions and support in the face of clear and obvious peril, Officer Sutton exemplified the highest standards of law enforcement professionalism and demonstrated extraordinary commitment to preserving human life. His teamwork and decisive intervention reflected greatly upon himself and upheld the finest traditions of the Frankfort Police Department. Officer Sutton has earned the respect and support of Franklin County. Officer Sutton voluntarily performed extraordinary acts of bravery. His actions went above and have made him deserving of this fine honor. I am confident that Officer Sutton will continue to serve as an exemplary role model for law enforcement officers across the 1st Congressional District and the entire Commonwealth of Kentucky.