J. Correa

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Madam Speaker, I agree with my colleagues from the other side: Let's go after fraud, waste, and abuse. But this bill allows the administration to hold back funding for children and families under the guise of fraud. Earlier this year, the administration froze $10 billion in funding for families and children in blue States. Let's talk about guardrails. A year ago, we gave ICE and CBP seven and three times their annual budgets, respectively. Where are those funds going? ICE just paid $130 million for a warehouse in Georgia that was bought for $30 million the year before. ICE just bought another property in Texas for $123 million that was valued at $11 million. Also, let's not forget Secretary Noem's $170 million luxury jet. Instead of going after children and families, let's go after these wasteful, fraudulent contracts. I urge my colleagues to vote ``no'' on this measure.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Harold ``Hal'' Yoak, a proud veteran, a dedicated educator, a loving husband, and a great member of our community who is celebrating his 101st birthday today, June 3. Born in 1925, Hal answered the call to serve his country in World War II, serving in the United States Navy from 1944 to 1945. Like so many of the Greatest Generation, he demonstrated courage, patriotism, and a commitment to something greater than himself. Then, on Christmas Eve of 1947, Hal married the love of his life, Eileen Whited. Together they shared an extraordinary marriage of 67 years. Following his military service, Hal devoted the rest of his career to education, retiring from Pacifica High School, where he inspired students through his dedication and his passion. Today, as we recognize Hal's life and birthday, we celebrate a century defined by service, family, and education. On behalf of southern California's 46th Congressional District, I am honored to recognize his contributions and wish him a very happy 101st birthday. Happy birthday, Hal. We love you.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, all gave some and many made the ultimate sacrifice. Memorial Day is a time to reflect upon the sacrifices made by the members of our military. To our veterans and fallen soldiers, from Orange County and around the country, I thank them for their service. We are forever indebted to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our Nation's freedom and who allowed us to build a better future for the next generation. Mr. Speaker, I ask that all my colleagues join me today in honoring our servicemembers who laid down their lives for our country. Thank you to our great patriots.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to wish Bishop Kevin Vann a happy 75th birthday. Since 2012, Bishop Vann has led the Catholic Church in Orange County, guiding it through becoming one of the largest and most dynamic diocese in the Nation. He has also led the remarkable transformation of the former Crystal Cathedral, a protestant church, to Christ Cathedral, now a vibrant center of Catholic worship. We are talking about relations, good relations, between Catholics and Protestants. Today, he serves nationally as the treasurer for the California Catholic Conference of Bishops as well as leading bishops nationwide through the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. I wish Bishop Vann a happy 75th, and many more.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Chair, I have an amendment at the desk.

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Chair, I rise in strong support of my and General Jack Bergman's amendment No. 10 to restore funding for medical and prosthetic research at the Department of Veterans Affairs, which is being cut in this bill by $45 million. As all of you know, 3 weeks ago President Trump signed an executive order to expedite psychedelic therapies research for depression and substance abuse disorder specifically for veterans. The President's executive order also called for $50 million in matching funds for research as well in this area. As all of you know, Texas is also leading the way by also having allocated recently $50 million for psychedelic research. Sadly, again, this bill cuts $45 million in funding from last year's funding level and is even $22 million less than what President Trump has requested this year. I am grateful for General Jack Bergman for supporting me and working with me on this amendment. Mr. Chair, this amendment is basically about taking care of those who have answered the call of duty to defend our country, those individuals who come back from combat with invisible wounds that still have not healed. On a daily basis, 20 to 40 veterans take their lives, commit suicide, because of PTSD. As all of you may not know, psilocybin and other psychedelic treatments actually work and do cure veterans. Last week, when I was back home, I heard a story. Two Orange firefighters took their own lives--two Orange County firefighters in their thirties, who were veterans, one of whom was waiting to receive psychedelic treatment in Mexico because it is not available in the United States. Many veterans have taken this treatment and have essentially been cured of PTSD. Mr. Chair, I ask my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support this amendment. This is about treating our veterans, their invisible wounds, and making sure we reduce that 20 to 40 suicides that we have per day in this country of veterans who are suffering from those wounds that they brought back from the battlefield. Mr. Chair, I urge my colleagues to support this amendment and to restore funding for critical medical research for our Nation's heroes. Mr. Chair, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the dedicated service of Christopher Blasnek with over 40 years of law enforcement experience. He will be retiring as a Senior Safety Officer with the Rancho Santiago Community College District. He began with RSCCD around March 2022, and has overseen the safety of employees, students and my Congressional District Office. Prior to the Rancho Santiago Community College District, Christopher served as Commander to the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department South Patrol Division, comprising the Carson, Cerritos, Lakewood, Lomita, Norwalk, and Pico Rivera patrol stations beginning in 2019. Christopher Blasnek was the Unit Commander of East Patrol Division, Crescenta Valley Sheriff's Station. Prior to Crescenta Valley Station, Captain Blasnek was assigned to the Reserve Deputy Program as the operations lieutenant/unit commander. This assignment placed him at the helm for the Department's Reserve Deputy Program, Explorer Program, and Posse Program located in Monterey Park. Also, he worked in the East Patrol Division, working as the operations lieutenant of Walnut/Diamond Bar Station. This position placed him as the second in command of a large area, which included Diamond Bar, Walnut, Rowland Heights, and Covina Hills. In 1991, Captain Blasnek was instrumental in the formation of the Department's first full-time Motor Program. He participated in the pilot program under the training of the California Highway Patrol. Today, the Department has motor vehicles in many contract cities and contract transportation bureaus. Christopher Blasnek earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from California State University-Long Beach, where he also went on to obtain his Master of Science in Emergency Services Administration in 2008. Christopher was the 2015 President of the San Gabriel Valley Peace Officers Association, a charity organization designed to network with other agencies throughout the San Gabriel Valley to share crime and intelligence information. Christopher was promoted by Sheriff Jim McDonnell on March 16, 2017, and took over the position of unit commander at the Crescenta Valley Station on April 2, 2017. Christopher Blasnek resides in Dana Point with his wife of 40 years. He enjoys golf, traveling, and spending time with his family.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to the lasting legacy of Zoroastrianism and acknowledge its significant contributions to human thought, which encompass early concepts of moral responsibility, justice, and the ongoing conflict between good and evil. July 4, 2026, signifies the 250th anniversary of the Zoroastrian legacy that has shaped the perspectives of the American Founding Fathers, the creators of the Declaration of Independence, and the architects of the United States Constitution in establishing principles for governing a society that is multi-religious, multiracial, multi- ethnic, and multilingual, fostering peace and prosperity. We recognize the rich cultural and philosophical heritage of Zoroastrian communities globally and their ongoing contributions to diverse societies. The broader human pursuit of freedom, ethical governance, respect for human dignity, and women's equality--as well as legacies in trade, international commerce, and innovations such as early postal and passport systems--embody timeless Zoroastrian values that resonate throughout civilizations. These principles are reflected in America's role as a symbol of freedom, democracy, commerce, equality, and justice to the world. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Zoroastrians around the globe and honor their vibrant traditions, resilience, and unwavering commitment to the progress of humanity, history, and civilization on this significant occasion, commemorating the 250th anniversary of the Zoroastrian legacy in connection with American independence.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of former California United States Senator and Anaheim Mayor John Seymour. A proud marine, Mr. Seymour served our great Nation from 1955 to 1959 before returning home to pursue his education at UCLA. Mr. Seymour began his public service in the 1970s, first as an Anaheim city councilman and later serving as our mayor from 1978 to 1982. Later, Mr. Seymour continued his service as a United States Senator from 1991 to 1992, where he earned a reputation as a pragmatic leader who was willing to work across the aisle on issues such as education, public health, and responsible governance. After elected office, Mr. Seymour continued his dedication to public service by advancing opportunities for working American families as a leader of the Southern California Housing Development Corporation. Mr. Speaker, today, we honor the life and legacy of Senator John Seymour. Go Bruins.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Jaden Ochs, who stands at a remarkable intersection of compassion, discipline, and purpose-- qualities that define an exceptional nurse as well as an extraordinary human being. Having earned her Master of Science in Nursing from Georgetown University. Jaden has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to excellence in one of the most demanding and meaningful professions. Her academic achievement alone is impressive, but it is her journey, the lives she has touched, the environments she has served in, and the leadership she has shown that truly sets her apart. Throughout her clinical training, Jaden gained invaluable experience as a student nurse resident in labor and delivery, where she supported mothers and families during some of the most profound moments of their lives. She further honed her skills at St. Joseph's Hospital, deepening her expertise in labor and delivery while also caring for the most vulnerable patients in the neonatal intensive care unit. As a member of the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing. Jaden has been recognized for her academic achievement and leadership in the field. She has also given her time selflessly as a student nurse volunteer, embodying the true spirit of service that lies at the heart of nursing. Perhaps most inspiring is her role as the founder and president of the American Veterans Society Military Outreach. Through this initiative, Jaden has demonstrated a deep commitment to those who have served our country, bridging healthcare and advocacy in a way that reflects both courage and compassion. Jaden Ochs represents the very best of what the nursing profession aspires to be--skilled, driven, and guided by a profound sense of purpose. Her journey is only just beginning, and there is no doubt that her impact will continue to ripple outward, touching lives, strengthening communities, and inspiring others to follow in her footsteps.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of my very good friend, Minard Duncan, a devoted educator and public servant whose impact on our community will be felt for generations. Before dedicating his life to education, Mr. Duncan proudly served our country in the U.S. Army during the Korean war from 1952 to 1954. Later, he served at the Fullerton Unified School District for more than 40 years as an educator and principal, during which time he helped developed programs that strengthen student literacy and success. After retirement, he wasn't over. He went on to work at Cal State Fullerton in the area of education. Then he was elected to the Fullerton School District Board of Trustees for 8 years. Beyond his profession, he was a man who cherished his family, friendships, and life's simple joys. He is survived today by his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren who will carry on his legacy. Mr. Speaker, please join me in celebrating the life of Minard Duncan, a man who served his country, his community, his family, all with distinction. May he rest in peace.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor Anaheim's very own George Adams for his remarkable career that transformed the recycling industry in the United States. After inheriting his dad's modest scrap metal facility, George grew it into the largest metal recycling company in the United States. He has created 4,000 jobs and processes over 5 million tons of recycled material each year. What makes George such a great businessman? He is a human, and he cares. Before he was big, I remember he had the place that you would go to sell your recyclables, with the best price on metal. Not only that, I remember taco Fridays. You come to sell your metal at George's place, and you got free tacos, all you could eat. I have got to tell you, he is a man with a heart and a man with business acumen. I congratulate George Adams. I say, keep up the good work. He is saving the Earth while he is doing it. He is doing a great job keeping our environment clean.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Alfred Escalante, who has passed away at the age of 100. Born in Texas, Alfred left for California as a young man in pursuit of more opportunities. He embarked on a career as a car painter, becoming a master of the trade and a lifelong resident of Santa Ana along the way. Years into his career, he went to work for his son's Custom Auto Service in Santa Ana, which is nationally renowned for servicing and restoring Packard cars. Together with his beloved wife Lucy, Alfred created a lifetime centered around family and the importance of living together. Alfred instilled in his children the importance of integrity, humility, and perseverance. He also served as a father figure to countless others in his community, teaching them life skills such as faith and manners while providing them with a second chance and lots of hope. Alfred is survived by his children Alfred, Jr., Robert, David, Sandy, Steve, and Cynthia, as well as by his grandchildren. As he said to his family shortly before he passed, ``I did not leave you any money but I left you a clean name. Protect it because it's worth more than a pot of gold.''

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, on March 17, 2026, I was necessarily absent and missed the following votes on the House Floor. Had I been present, I would have voted accordingly below: YES on Roll Call No. 88, H.R. 4294, Mitigation Action and Watermen Support Act of 2026; YES on Roll Call No. 89, S. 3971, Small Business Innovation and Economic Security Act; NO on Roll Call No. 90, Motion on Ordering the Previous Question; and NO on Roll Call No. 91, H. Res. 1115, Rule providing for consideration of H.R. 1958, Deporting Fraudsters Act of 2026; H.R. 556, Protecting Access for Hunters and Anglers Act; and H.R. 4638, Federal Working Animal Protection Act.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the Segerstrom High School girls' soccer team for earning a victory and the CIF Division 6 championship, again showing Santa Ana as the home of champs. The Jaguars won 4-0, securing their first CIF championship in history. This is a testament to their hard work and dedication. Congratulations to Coach Diego Aguirre for his leadership, and players Aymar Salgado, Isabella Barrera, and Jewel Orellana for scoring in the CIF championship game. Congratulations to all the players on the team's success. They have made their school and the Santa Ana community so proud, and we look forward to seeing their future successes. Honoring Bera Family

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Bera family and their multigenerational commitment to service, education, and our community. This family legacy began with Kanta and Babulal Bera, who came to the United States from India in the late 1950s. Kanta and Babulal believed that education was the pathway to opportunity in the middle class. They worked multiple jobs, while pursuing graduate degrees and raising Raja, Rimal, and Ami, their three sons. The Beras' dedication to global health spanned from Orange County to India. From starting an all-girls school in India that has graduated more than 7,000 students to supporting health and housing efforts not only in India but in southern California, the Beras have expanded opportunities to countless communities to pursue their educational opportunities. Two generations now of Beras have attended UCI School of Medicine. UCI School of Medicine has become the center of their efforts to support future medical graduates. In 2020, the Beras donated $100,000 to the UCI School of Medicine to permanently support medical students traveling to India. These aspiring medical students are able to work in global clinical environments and underserved communities here in the United States. The personal history of the Bera family inspires all of us to pursue education and to give back to our communities, not only in America but around the world. Mr. Speaker, I thank the Bera family. I thank them for showing us how it is done.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Holly Hagler and her dedication to service through nonprofit work. Ms. Hagler has spent much of her career serving our community's fastest-growing demographic, adults 65 and older. Since becoming the Orange County chapter president and CEO of Meals on Wheels in 2010, Ms. Hagler has led the delivery of meals to more than 15,000 older adults per year. Ms. Hagler has also served on the leadership council of the Orange County strategic plan for the aging and as board chair of the National Association of Nutrition and Aging Services. She has been recognized many times by the L.A. Times in both chambers of the California State Legislature. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Holly on a career filled with many accomplishments. We will miss her.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Santa Ana High School girls wrestling team. They finished as Empire League champs, Southern CIF champions, champions of the Division I dual, and Eastern Division individual tournament champs. They finished fourth place in the CIF Southern Section Masters. Mr. Speaker, five of these wrestlers will be moving on to wrestle in the State's championship tournament. I thank Head Coaches Tim Byers and Fernando Serratos. I also thank Assistant Coaches Liborio Salazar, Alex Becerra, Monica Serratos, Jose Leon, and Stephanie Zamora for teaching our young Saints leadership qualities, and what hard work and dedication can mean at the end of the day. These young ladies are wrestling champs all while maintaining a GPA of 3.48. Mr. Speaker, I offer congratulations to the Saints. Once a Saint, always a Saint.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I was necessarily absent and missed the following vote on the House floor. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 71, H.R. 6329.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the work of the Bera Family and their multigenerational commitment to service, education, and community. This family legacy began with Kanta and Babulal Bera, who immigrated to the United States from Gujarat, India in the 1950s. Kanta and Babulal believed that education is the path to opportunity. They worked multiple jobs while pursuing graduate degrees and raising three sons, Raja, Dr. Rimal Bera (Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at the University of California, Irvine Department of Psychiatry), and Congressman Ami Bera. The Beras' dedication to global health has spanned a variety of impactful projects not only in Orange County, but to the other side of the world in India. From starting an all-girls school in India that has graduated more than 7,000 students to supporting health and housing efforts throughout southern California, the Beras have expanded opportunities for countless communities. Two generations of the Beras have attended the UCI School of Medicine, and UCI is now the foundation of the family's key accomplishment--to support future physicians. In 2020, the Beras donated $100,000 to the UCI School of Medicine to permanently support medical students traveling to Rajkot, India. These aspiring physicians are not only able to experience a global clinical environment, but they are also able to work in underserved communities, collaborate with local medical providers, and extend the reach of medicine beyond individual patient care. The personal history of the Bera Family and their inspiring legacy is a reminder that we all have a responsibility to dedicate ourselves to building a stronger, kinder, and better community.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize East Fullerton Little League's 70th birthday. Little League's mission is to instill in children the values of sportsmanship, honesty, loyalty, and courage, aiming to produce well- adjusted, stronger, and happier children. The hundreds of volunteers who take the jobs of running a Little League are usually the unsung heroes. That is why I am standing here today to recognize the Little League volunteers who have stepped up to the plate to demonstrate the benefits and values of volunteerism, family, and sportsmanship. Let's follow the example of our Little League parents and volunteers by making a pledge to support youth in our community and to support the people who spend countless hours teaching America's favorite pastime. Let's play ball, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the Law- Enforcement Innovate to De-Escalate Act. Simply put, Mr. Speaker, this legislation will save lives. It is supported, as my colleague has said, by an unprecedented, historic coalition. Support spans 95 bipartisan cosponsors across 35 States, including the Fraternal Order of Police, Major County Sheriffs, Hispanic American Police Command Officers Association, Peace Officers Research Association of California, African American Mayors Association, Moms Against Police Brutality, and the Prince Jones, Jr. Foundation. This collaboration, this coalition of law enforcement leaders and community justice advocates, doesn't happen by accident. It is because this legislation is sound policy, balanced, and needed. Modern less-than-lethal devices like the latest taser systems fully integrate with body-worn cameras, automatically capturing events and improving oversight. These tools reduce the risk and increase transparency, expanding the evidence record around use-of-force incidents. It provides clarity for agencies, manufacturers, and regulators without--let me repeat, without--weakening gun laws. Mr. Speaker, I strongly support this measure.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, in California when you register to vote, you do so under penalty of perjury. Then they cross-check your information to make sure that you are eligible. Then we have a very active district attorney in Orange County that says if you violated this under penalty of perjury, we are going down on you. Instead, I would ask my friends, my colleagues on the other side of the aisle: Let's do everything we can to make sure that every eligible American actually votes. Why would you take away the right of a veteran to vote, of a senior to vote, of somebody in the military to vote? Let's go the other way. Democracy is stronger when we have stronger participation. Vote ``no,'' and let's move on with democracy.

Mr. CORREA

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the service of Orange City Fire Chief Sean deMetropolis, who is retiring from the city of Orange after 30 years of stellar service. Chief deMetropolis began his career in 1995 and worked his way up to be fire chief. In addition to serving our community, Chief deMetropolis also stepped up to serve our great country by serving on FEMA's Task Force 5, which included a 20-day deployment to support Hurricane Katrina victims. Chief deMetropolis has always led by example by dedicating his life to keeping the city of Orange safe. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Sean on his well-deserved retirement, and I thank Sean for his service. Recognizing Otoniel Gomez

Mr. CORREA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the heroic actions of my neighbor, Otoniel Gomez. Mr. Gomez lives in Santa Ana with his family. On December 5, tragedy struck. The Gomez family woke up to the smell of smoke. Otoniel jumped out of a second-story window to escape the fire. Then, without missing a beat, he grabbed ladders to help his wife and children climb to safety. Thanks to his bravery and quick thinking, the entire Gomez family, including their dog, Lyka, escaped without injury. That night, Mr. Gomez did show us what true bravery is all about. Mr. Speaker, I pray that Otoniel's family continues to recover from the loss of their home. Honoring the Life and Legacy of Doris Ann Derleth Hirota