Diana DeGette

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, among the many other deficiencies of the bill, it is a direct assault on women's reproductive freedom. Number one, it defunds Planned Parenthood, which means if this bill passes, 1 million Americans will have no pap smears. They will have no breast cancer screenings. They will have no well-women visits. That is the first thing it does. Then, the manager's amendment, introduced in the dead of night, says that one in seven Americans who are on the insurance exchanges will no longer be able to get abortion coverage on those exchanges with their own money. I can see why the Republicans wanted to do this in the dead of night because after the Dobbs decision, America woke up. We realized that this is an important service. When the women and families of America wake up and find out the direct assault on reproductive freedom in this bill, they are going to be mad, and they are not going to forget when they go to the ballot box in 2026.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and commemorate the life of Reverend James D. Peters, Jr., a titan of civil rights, a moral leader in Denver's faith community, and a man who dedicated his life to lifting up the voices and needs of the most vulnerable among us. Reverend Peters leaves behind a powerful legacy of faith in action, tireless advocacy, and an unwavering commitment to Justice. Born in an era marked by deep segregation and inequality, Reverend Peters found his calling at the intersection of ministry and the Civil Rights Movement. He marched alongside Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in Selma, Alabama, crossing the Edmund Pettus Bridge in 1965 in the fight for voting rights. He was present at the founding meeting of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. But as those closest to him will attest, Reverend Peters did not merely honor history--he made it, lived it, and carried its mission forward in Denver. Reverend Peters moved to Denver in 1978 to serve as the pastor of New Hope Baptist Church--a position he held with distinction for nearly three decades. Through this ministry, he became a spiritual anchor, civil rights leader, and moral conscience for the city. Though he was never a candidate for public office, he helped shape public life in Colorado. He chaired the Colorado Civil Rights Commission and served as a trusted voice within the Colorado Democratic Party, always pushing for a broader, more inclusive vision of Justice. Reverend Peters was truly a man of deep conscience and unwavering resolve. He stood up for what was right--even when it was not popular-- and he never lost the fire that fueled the Civil Rights Movement. He always stood firmly with community leaders demanding justice and systemic reform. His presence gave strength to all Denverites and lent moral clarity to those fighting for change. His advocacy extended far beyond politics and deep into people's lives. Reverend Peters inspired countless elected leaders, including State Senator Rhonda Fields, whom he encouraged to run for office after the tragic loss of her son. On a personal note, Reverend Peters was a friend and confidante of mine for many years, generously sharing his wisdom and advice. Reverend Peters was not only a champion for civil rights, he was also a unifier. As his ministry reached across the racial divides, he reminded us that faith calls us not only to believe, but to act, not only to pray, but to serve, not only to hope, but to build. He loved the Rockies. He loved the Broncos. He loved his friends. And above all, he loved his church and community. Today, Mr. Speaker, we honor the life of Reverend James D. Peters, Jr., a man who walked with history, who shepherded a city, and who never ceased to care for the people of Denver and beyond. May we carry forward his vision of justice, compassion, and unity.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker. I rise today to honor the life and legacy of my dear friend and mentor, Gerald P. McDermott--a highly regarded trial attorney, advocate for justice, pillar of Denver's legal community, and revered family man. Jerry's career was defined by an unwavering commitment to defending the rights of all Coloradoans, no matter their circumstance or situation. Jerry was a proud son of Pueblo, Colorado. He stayed in Colorado for his education, attending Colorado State University and the University of Denver School of Law, where he was a member of the law review. After graduating from law school, Jerry established a legal career fighting for people who needed a strong advocate. He was associated with many preeminent trial firms in Colorado and founded his own firm, establishing the highest standards of trial excellence and ethics. Jerry's lifelong love of politics was cemented when he was a reading clerk for the Colorado State Legislature during the 1965-66 session. Later, he was the point person for the rights of the injured in the 1985 tort reform legislative session and gained respect from legislators on both sides of the aisle. He consistently supported politicians who he believed met his standards and worked actively to help them get elected and succeed in office. I saw this for myself. When I was a young member of the General Assembly, struggling to balance my law practice, service as a legislator, and raising two young daughters, Jerry took me in. He gave me an office in his firm and was always there to help me with a case or give advice about a tricky legal issue. Jerry received many awards and accolades, but he would say that his biggest success was his family. He and Rosemarie were married for over 60 years, and they raised two sons, Sean and Brian. Over the years, Jerry spoke to me with such pride about the success of his boys. Truly, his family was the center of his life. To scores of Colorado lawyers, Jerry was a guiding light and voice of reason. He gave us advice, set an example through his work, and showed us what it meant to fight for people who needed a strong advocate. His dedication to fairness and justice had a lasting impact on generations of trial lawyers. I am proud to have known Jerry and to call him my friend. Colorado's legal community mourns the loss of a giant.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today along with Representatives Jason Crow and Brittany Pettersen, to recognize the 30th anniversary of Denver International Airport, a cornerstone of Colorado's economy and a critical gateway to the world. Since opening its doors on February 28, 1995, Denver International Airport--commonly known as DEN--has played a transformative role in connecting Denver and the entire Rocky Mountain region to destinations across the globe. Denver International Airport is more than just an airport--it is an economic powerhouse. Generating more than $36.4 billion annually and supporting over 41,000 jobs, it has become the largest economic engine in the state of Colorado. From the beginning, its construction was guided by bold leadership and the support of voters, resulting in a facility designed for the future. Spanning 53 square miles, DEN was built with expansion in mind, with the ability to grow from six to twelve runways to meet increasing demand. Over the past three decades, Denver International Airport has served nearly 15 billion passengers and has risen to become the third-busiest airport in North America. With projections nearing 100 million annual passengers in the coming years, the airport continues to evolve, ensuring it remains a world-class hub for air travel. Its iconic tented terminal, with 21 Teflon peaks, is recognized around the world and symbolizes Colorado's welcoming spirit and pioneering ambition. Beyond its economic contributions, Denver International Airport has been a leader in sustainability and inclusiveness. Through innovative construction and operational practices, it has demonstrated environmental responsibility while fostering opportunities for a diverse workforce. The airport's Center of Equity and Excellence in Aviation has been instrumental in creating partnerships with local businesses and developing career pathways for underrepresented communities. Denver International Airport is also a champion of Colorado's unique character, offering travelers a true taste of the state through its locally inspired concessions, dedicated volunteer ambassadors in cowboy hats, and the world's largest airport therapy animal program. As a result, Denver International Airport is not only a transportation hub but also one of Colorado's most recognizable cultural ambassadors. As we celebrate this milestone, we reaffirm our commitment to maintaining and enhancing Denver International Airport's role as a gateway to the Rockies and beyond. Its continued growth and innovation will ensure that it remains a vital link in our Nation's transportation network for generations to come. On this 30th anniversary, we ask our colleagues to join us in recognizing the enduring impact of Denver International Airport and the many individuals who have contributed to its success.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Jerome H. Kern, a remarkable leader whose passion for the arts, philanthropy, and public service law made a significant impact on Denver and beyond. Jerry was a man of immense intellect, unwavering commitment, and profound generosity. He was a force of nature, a sharp legal mind, a tenacious leader, and an advocate for the arts, business, and public service. Born in Brooklyn in 1937, Jerry graduated cum laude from the New York University School of Law, where he was a Root Tilden Scholar and managing editor of the New York University Law Review. After law school, Jerry had a distinguished legal and business career. He initially worked as a senior partner at Baker & Botts, LLP, where he was the senior corporate lawyer in the New York office. For over 20 years, he served as the principal outside legal counsel to Tele-Communications, Inc. (TCI) and Liberty Media. He later became vice chairman and a board member at TCI and played a key role in major media mergers, including the AT&T/TCI merger and the Time Warner/Turner Broadcasting merger. Jerry used his success in life to fulfill his true calling-- relentless advocacy for the public good. As a trustee of NYU School of Law, he learned that the Root-Tilden Scholarship that had helped him get a start in life was being limited by severe budget deficiencies. He not only donated $5 million to the program but also led a $30 million endowment effort that resulted in the program's renaming as the Root- Tilden-Kern Scholarship. His dedication to public interest law has paved the way for countless students to pursue careers in service of the greater good. Since his efforts, more than 450 public interest lawyers have gone out to serve their own communities. After Jerry and his wife, Dr. Mary Rossick Kern, moved to Denver, he learned that the Colorado Symphony was facing financial ruin. Not only did he save the symphony, but agreed to give a sustainable future by becoming CEO and President of the Board and leaving behind an $88 million endowment that secures its place as a cultural cornerstone for generations to come. His advocacy for a world-class concert venue continues to shape the future of Denver's performing arts scene. Beyond the arts, Kern's philanthropic contributions extended to public service and health care. He founded and chaired the Institute for Children's Mental Health, endowed a research chair at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, and worked tirelessly with Volunteers of America Colorado, sponsoring the construction of the Michael Kern Kitchen, which provides Meals on Wheels to those in need. In 2002, Jerry and Mary were honored with the Volunteers of America Humanitarian of the Year Award. As a Root-Tilden scholar myself, I dedicated my career to public service--and Jerry was a strong model of how to make this happen. His life was one of service, vision, and relentless advocacy for the arts and public good. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire those who believe in the transformative power of culture, philanthropy, and law. I extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know him. His memory will remain a guiding light for those who seek to make a meaningful impact in their communities.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Daniel L. Ritchie, a true friend and towering figure in Colorado's civic and educational landscape. A man of humility, integrity, and vision, Dan Ritchie left an indelible mark on the University of Denver, the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, and countless other institutions that he supported with his generosity and leadership. Born in China Grove, North Carolina, Dan Ritchie was a man of extraordinary drive and intellect. He earned degrees from Harvard University, beginning a career that spanned finance, broadcasting, and philanthropy. From his work as CEO of Westinghouse Broadcasting to his tenure as DU chancellor, he brought a steady hand and a keen strategic mind to every challenge he faced. When Dan became chancellor of DU in 1989, the institution was in financial peril. Through bold action and personal sacrifice--selling his own ranch to bolster fundraising efforts--he transformed DU into a world-class university, expanding its academic programs, growing its endowment, and elevating its national reputation. His leadership made DU a hub of excellence, where students and faculty could thrive in a reinvigorated learning environment. Beyond the university, Dan Ritchie extended his vision to the broader Denver community. As chairman of the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, he guided the organization through turbulent financial times, ensuring that future generations could experience the transformative power of live theater. His commitment to early childhood education through the Temple Hoyne Buell Foundation and his work with the Daniels Fund further reflected his deep belief in the power of education to change lives. Despite his many accomplishments and accolades, Dan Ritchie never sought the spotlight. He lived by a simple yet profound code--his `cowboy ethics'--which emphasized courage, fairness, and an unwavering commitment to one's community. He led not for recognition, but for the betterment of those around him. He was a friend and mentor to generations of civic leaders--always with an open door and wisdom to share. As we remember Daniel L. Ritchie, let us not only celebrate his remarkable achievements but also carry forward his example. Let us be inspired by his generosity, his unwavering dedication to education and the arts, and his belief that each of us has a role to play in improving our communities. Colorado has lost a great leader, but his legacy will endure through the institutions he strengthened and the countless lives he touched. I extend my deepest condolences to Dan's family and friends. May he rest in peace.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Madam Speaker, there have been significant declines in the use of hazardous chemicals and better water quality. Rather than passing this bill, which only protects oil and gas producers, we should require more transparency to the public. Families shouldn't have to choose between their health and their house just because it is close to a drilling site. I urge my colleagues to oppose this legislation and work in a bipartisan way to make sure that where we do fracking it is done safely.

Ms. DeGETTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today in opposition to the Protecting American Energy Production Act. Now, as a Coloradan from an energy-producing State, I don't oppose fracking, and frankly, opposition to fracking is not in the Democratic agenda. However, I think we can all agree that fracking must be done safely and with transparency. This bill would allow natural gas producers to keep abusing loopholes that allow them to hide dangerous chemical components in their fracking fluid, and that is something I don't think any of us should support. Having served as the top Democrat on the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Energy, Climate, and Grid Security in the last Congress, I have worked closely on this issue for many years. I have introduced legislation that would ensure that our communities would be safe from the dangerous chemicals that are often used in fracking fluid. Fracking releases thousands of harmful chemicals that poison our drinking water and pollute our air, including hydrogen sulfide, which causes nausea, vomiting, and headaches; benzene, a known carcinogen; toxic metals; acids; and even diesel fuel. A significant number of scientific studies prove negative health effects like cancers, asthma, and birth complications are caused by fracking chemicals. These chemicals particularly affect the most vulnerable in our society, including children, people who are pregnant, the elderly, lower-income communities, and communities of color. For example, those who gave birth while living near a fracking site had children who are two to three times more likely to be diagnosed with leukemia between the ages of 2 and 7 than those who were not exposed. For older adults, a study found that living near fracking sites in Pennsylvania during its so-called fracking boom between 2002 and 2015 were more likely to be hospitalized for cardiovascular disease than those in neighboring States where fracking was banned. What complicates our ability to regulate these hazardous chemicals is that only in retrospect can we assess the damage that is being done in the name of oil and gas production. It was just 2 years ago that scientists were able to conclude the extent of harm caused by the fracking fluid in 2016, that was almost 10 years ago. A study found it caused 410,000 asthma flare-ups; 2,200 new cases of childhood asthma; and 7,500 excess deaths, costing $77 billion in health impacts. Now, these examples are only a drop in the bucket. We don't even have accurate numbers of just how many Americans are affected because the law prioritizes polluters over people by protecting the exact chemical makeup of fracking fluid that fracking companies call ``proprietary information.'' It has been proven that fracking chemical disclosure requirements lead to significant declines in the use of hazardous chemicals and better water quality.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the legacy of Ms. Dana Crawford. She was a true Denver icon who transformed our city with her vision and determination to revitalize Colorado's most treasured places. Born in Kansas, Dana brought her passion for preservation and community to Denver in 1953. Inspired by New England town squares, she saw the potential for our city to have vibrant gathering spaces. Her work began with Larimer Square, a well-known landmark in downtown Denver, which she saved from destruction in the 1960s. Under challenging circumstances, she transformed a block of deteriorating buildings into a thriving hub that sparked a nationwide movement for historic preservation. Dana's vision didn't stop at Larimer Square. From the Oxford Hotel to Union Station, her work preserved Denver's essence while building for its future. Eventually, her impact extended beyond Denver, revitalizing communities across Colorado, in places like Trinidad, Pueblo, and Idaho Springs. Dana was a pioneer and beloved in Denver and beyond. Her work wasn't just about preserving buildings--it was about building community and creating places that brought Denverites together. Our hearts go out to her four sons--Jack, Peter, Tom, and Duke--and all who knew and loved her. May her memory continue to inspire us all and live in the heart of our city.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the bipartisan Good Samaritan Remediation of Abandoned Hardrock Mines Act. This bill would establish a pilot program for 15 low-risk abandoned mine remediation projects to be approved by the EPA and to be conducted by qualified State agencies, local governments, and nonprofits. It does not provide unlimited protection for everybody. It is a pilot project. In Colorado and across the West, we are surrounded by the legacy of our pioneering mining industry, but with that comes the responsibility to address what is left behind at mining sites. According to the GAO, of the nearly 140,000 abandoned hardrock mines in the U.S., we have 23,000 of them in Colorado alone, with over 7,400 of them posing environmental risks. Under current law, groups that volunteer to clean or restore a former mining site could become liable for the site, even if the group played no role in causing the pollution before remediating the site. The Colorado Department of Natural Resources has told me that that hurdle has stopped cleanup efforts in Colorado. This bill represents a critical step forward, empowering those nonresponsible parties that are ready, willing, and able to help and to improve water quality in and around abandoned hardrock mines to obtain a permit to clean up those sites. By establishing a pilot program, abandoned mines can be remediated over the next 7 years, and we will learn lessons on how to best permit and manage remediation of those sites going forward. In September 2023, the Biden administration's recommendations to improve mining on public lands called for the establishment of a Good Samaritan remediation. The administration strongly supports the establishment of a Good Samaritan remediation program through the bill. Mr. Speaker, I urge passage of this bill that would allow us to address important environmental issues.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Madam Speaker, the Inflation Reduction Act, the bipartisan infrastructure law, and the CHIPS Act constitute the most important climate legislation ever enacted. EPA modeling indicates implementation of the IRA alone can achieve a reduction of the transportation sector's carbon pollution by roughly 11 to 25 percent from 2005 levels by 2030. EPA's final rule is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from light-duty vehicles by about 11 percent every year. Once fully phased in, the standards will save the average American driver an estimated $6,000 in reduced fuel and maintenance over the life of a vehicle. I am going to say that again because my colleagues on the other side of the aisle seem to think this is bad for consumers when, in fact, it is good. Once fully phased in, the standards will save the average American driver an estimated $6,000 over the life of a vehicle. The beauty of this approach is that it allows automakers to do what they do best, which is innovate. EPA's rule does not mandate or ban any specific technology. Instead, it sets emission standards that apply across an entire auto fleet rather than specific vehicles. What this means is that auto companies could still produce cars with higher emissions provided that they balance out the emissions with sales from lower emission vehicles. EPA did its homework. They worked closely with stakeholders in developing this rule, and that is why manufacturers can use a variety of approaches, from EVs to gas-powered vehicles with particulate filters, to comply. I am confident American automakers can rise to this challenge. As States and auto companies plan, consumers are increasingly excited about lower emission and zero-emission vehicles. In my home State of Colorado, an Environmental Defense Fund analysis examined the net purchase cost of electric vehicles and found many offered thousands of dollars in lifetime savings. For example, it found cost savings as high as $21,500 when comparing the cost of Ford's F-150 Lightning EV with the gas-powered Ford F-150. Consumers are taking advantage. In 2023, U.S. EV sales reached 1.6 million, which is a 60 percent increase from 2022. This shows consumer demand for EVs is here and will only grow. As the evidence shows, EPA's rule saves consumers money and reduces carbon emissions. It is not an either/or. However, to compete globally, we must continue to make progress. One of the few countries that rivals the U.S. in EV adoption is China. Eight of the top best-selling EVs in the world are made by Chinese companies. This administration has taken strong action to ensure U.S. automakers can compete in this critical sector. Now, I will address a claim the EPA emissions limit will mandate electric vehicles. We hear this all the time. This is simply not the case. EPA is relying on flexible performance-based standards. This means, as I said, instead of requiring any specific approach, automakers have the option to allow for a mix of technologies to meet the limits. This has not stopped my colleagues on the other side of the aisle from pursuing CRAs that would raise emissions and hike costs for consumers. I find that so ironic because what we want to do is help consumers here. Unfortunately, this isn't new. The majority has spent this entire Congress attacking progress in protecting human health and the environment, while the Energy, Climate, and Grid Security Subcommittee has moved numerous bills attacking energy efficiency, including the so- called Refrigerator Freedom Act. At the end of the day, the biggest threat to energy security is our country's dependence on foreign oil and natural gas. However, with this resolution and by ignoring the threats posed to the grid by the climate crisis, frankly, the majority is fiddling while Rome burns. The Biden-Harris EPA has led. I am grateful for their leadership. If we care about our energy security, we should all support EPA's rule to reduce our demand for a finite resource. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to oppose this resolution.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the DeOndra Dixon INCLUDE Project Act. In 2018, NIH launched the INCLUDE Project to investigate conditions that affect individuals with Down syndrome and the general population, such as Alzheimer's disease, congenital heart disease, and diabetes. Many diseases affect individuals with Down syndrome differently than typical people. This means including individuals with Down syndrome in biomedical research is crucial to understand how to treat them. It also means investigating those differences helps us understand how diseases work generally. The University of Colorado's Linda Crnic Institute for Down Syndrome Research has been on the forefront of this critical work. Just last month, Crnic Institute scientists published groundbreaking research on the differences in oxygen physiology for people with Down syndrome. This new knowledge will help improve treatments for all people with chronic hypoxia. This is the kind of research we need to foster, and it's why the INCLUDE project needs its own authorization to continue its important work. I do want to raise one issue I have with this bill as we consider it today. It originally contained an authorization of $250 million annually, but to conform with the inexplicable rules of this majority which say you can't authorize more than a current appropriation, it was amended in subcommittee to only $90 million each year. This authorization does not even match the $125 million included in this year's NIH appropriations bill for the INCLUDE Project, much less give the program room to evolve. We need to move this important legislation, but we must restore the authorization to $250 million as consideration of this bill continues. Finally, I'd like to thank my constituent Michelle Whitten, founder of the Global Down Syndrome Foundation, whose tireless advocacy for people with Down syndrome has spurred research and led to scientific breakthroughs. It has also helped bring this bill to the floor of the House of Representatives today.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 150th anniversary of Temple Emanuel. Temple Emanuel is a place of sanctuary and belonging, a place deeply intertwined with the history and culture of Denver, and a spiritual home for countless individuals for many generations. As we mark this milestone, it is important to remember the journey that has brought Temple Emanuel to this occasion. First established in 1866 and officially incorporated in 1874, this congregation predates Colorado's statehood. While the city has changed a great deal over these last 150 years and indeed the location of Temple Emanuel has changed more than once, the heart of the temple--a living connection to millennia of Jewish traditions for congregants--is the same. Today, the temple is the largest Jewish congregation between Kansas City and the West Coast. For the Jewish community in Denver, Temple Emanuel is a place for life's milestones large and small. From weekly Shabbat Services to the High Holy Days, from celebrations to mourning, this temple hosts countless special memories, moments of deep personal meaning and community healing, and serves as a community gathering place for people from all walks of life. I have seen firsthand the commitment Temple Emanuel has to bringing our community together through service work and social justice, a role that is particularly impactful during times of uncertainty as the congregation sustains and restores community. They host courageous conversations on social issues and have served as a meeting place for interfaith dialogues. In an era marked by division and discord, Temple Emanuel has emerged as a beacon of hope and resilience, embracing our entire community and providing a sanctuary for those in need of solace and support. The 150th anniversary of Temple Emanuel helps us reaffirm our commitment to the values of unity, compassion, and understanding that have guided this institution for a century and a half. May Temple Emanuel continue to serve as a shining example of the transformative power of faith and community for generations to come. I congratulate my friend Rabbi Joseph R. Black and the entire congregation on this incredible milestone of 150 years in service to Denver.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life and service of Judy Schneider. The stories told at her retirement reception in 2019 were full of laughter and more than a few tears. Talk about a life well-lived. Judy started her public service career working on committees in both chambers focused on congressional reform. She then became an analyst at the non-partisan Congressional Research Service. As each of us well knows, Judy then went on to befriend, mentor, and provide so much more to Members of Congress and their staff as a specialist on all things Congress over the next four decades. Funny, foul-mouthed, and just opinionated, Judy had a deep love of both democracy and Congress. Whether a Staff Assistant or a Chief of Staff, a Member of the House or a Senator, she consistently passed along her love and knowledge for how the game is really played in Congress. Through her work, Judy sought to develop not only an educated Member or an educated congressional staffer, but to live up to what the Founding Fathers envisioned and expected of an educated constituency. But the gift Judy shared and taught so many through her exacting lectures and conversations was to train each Member and each staffer so Congress functions better, so that democracy functions better. It is my true hope that wisdom is never lost by those who have the honor of working in this institution and complex. There have been 56 Speakers of the House of Representatives and 45 Presidents of the United States. There has only been one Judy Schneider. To ascribe so many positive qualities to one individual might be seen as the usual gilding of the lily. In the case of Judy, it was simply the truth. My life, this institution of Congress, and our country are better off thanks to her 43 years of Congressional service and life here on Earth with us. May her memory be a blessing.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from Colorado (Mr. Lopez).

Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, as the dean of the Colorado congressional delegation, I am so honored to welcome Representative-elect Lopez to this Chamber to represent Colorado's Fourth Congressional District for the next 6 months. Representative-elect Lopez is an Air Force veteran, a small business owner, a husband, and a father. Born into a hardworking family in pursuit of the American Dream, Representative Lopez is committed to working to improve the lives of his constituents. He met his wife, Lisa, during his military service, and they married and moved to Colorado, where they raised their two children. At the age of only 27, Representative Lopez was elected mayor of Parker, Colorado, which was, at the time, the fastest growing town in Douglas County. He worked with the town to improve infrastructure, manage growth, and support families and small businesses. Following his mayoral term, he was the director of a nonprofit that provided students from low-income families with scholarships to pursue their educational dreams. I had the honor of working with Representative Lopez when he was the president and CEO of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and later as the Colorado director of the Small Business Administration. Representative Lopez and his wife live in Elbert County, Colorado, where they continue to serve their community and give back to the State they call home. I look forward to working with the Representative to support the people of Colorado with our delegation. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from Colorado (Mr. Lamborn), my friend and the senior member of our delegation.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that the gentleman from Colorado, the Honorable Greg Lopez, be permitted to take the oath of office today. His certificate of election has not arrived, but there is no contest and no question has been raised with regard to his election.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, thanks to all of the Members here today who have worked on this legislation. I rise in strong support of S. 870, legislation that includes the ADVANCE Act, which I co-lead with Energy Subcommittee Chairman Jeff Duncan, to modernize our nuclear energy policy and to maintain important safety provisions and environmental protections. Transitioning to clean energy needs to be an all-of-the-above approach that leverages every aspect of our energy production in the United States, including nuclear. Nuclear energy provides nearly 20 percent of the electricity in the United States. It is also our largest source of carbon-free energy, making up more than half our emissions-free electricity. We know that nuclear energy is not a silver bullet, but if we are going to get to zero percent carbon emissions by 2050, it must be part of the equation. This bill helps ensure that our approach to nuclear energy is modernized, focusing on safety and environmental protections. I am glad that my provisions to improve safety measures at nuclear energy facilities, recruit a highly trained and skilled workforce, and keep our nuclear regulations up to date were included in the bill. These steps will help enhance our nuclear energy supply chain while protecting against failures that could negatively impact communities in the workforce. One of the provisions included in this legislation will strengthen the Nuclear Regulatory Commission's ability to attract and retain highly qualified and competent employees, ensuring the commission is up to the challenge of licensing the advanced reactors that we anticipate will come in increasing numbers over the next decade. In 2022, the NRC reported it was 23 percent smaller than it was 6 years earlier, and a third of the commission is currently eligible for retirement. We need to incentivize a strong nuclear energy workforce so we can ensure nuclear energy is safe and effective. This will be an important part of taking on the climate crisis. This bill is overwhelmingly bipartisan, it is supported by a variety of advocacy groups, and I urge my colleagues to support the bill.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong opposition to this bill. Our Nation is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. These public lands promote biodiversity, they support local economies through tourism and recreational opportunities, and really, they truly showcase what we mean when we sing ``America the Beautiful.'' I have been working my entire time in Congress to pass meaningful legislation that would conserve public lands in Colorado and beyond. My home State of Colorado has more than 8.3 million acres of public lands, and the entire West has tens of millions of acres more. Enjoying these public lands is intrinsic to the cultural idea of the American West and protecting them helps communities who are powered by outdoor recreation tourism. These public lands are also vital in mitigating the impact of climate change and in improving the health of our planet. Restoring and protecting ecosystems throughout the land supports the biodiversity of plants and animals, and it leads to a healthier balance for all of those who rely on these protections. Last year, along with Senator Martin Heinrich from New Mexico and Congressman Jared Huffman from California, I called on the Department of the Interior to finalize the Conservation and Landscape Health rule, because BLM-managed lands are often overlooked in conversations about addressing biodiversity and climate change, even though these areas are some of the most unique and special public areas that we have throughout this country. I was excited when the Biden administration finally announced the rule earlier this month because I knew it would build on the administration's work to protect States like mine and to support a healthier and cleaner environment for all. The rule is a major victory for preserving and protecting those landscapes and enhances our ability to ensure that future generations can enjoy them for years to come. Just last week, I met in Denver--which by the way is just within a few miles of many of these lands that will be protected--with the Bureau of Land Management Colorado State Director Doug Vilsack, to discuss the importance of this rule, BLM's work in Colorado, and how we can protect additional lands throughout our country. Congressman Neguse's and my home State of Colorado is ground zero for the important work that BLM is doing, and I support their efforts here in Congress because I know defending public lands is good public policy. Attacking our hardworking agency is not. The bill we are considering today is a waste of our time, and it only serves one purpose: To undermine the important public land goals of the Biden administration. By gutting this rule, Congressional Republicans would open the beautiful lands for exploitation and would prevent any administration from implementing any other rule that would further protect public lands. They are putting the mining and drilling lobby over the American people, millions of whom enjoy these lands every day. This bill would also harm the local communities whose lifeblood is these important public lands. Western States, who are home to the overwhelming majority of BLM-managed lands, would be significantly impacted, and not in a good way, by this bill. These efforts are misguided, and they further reinforce that the majority is not focused on the issues that matter to our constituents. I will continue to work to protect public lands, and I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on the motion to recommit and ``no'' on this bill.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 120th anniversary of the Tennyson Center for Children in Denver, Colorado. Established in 1904, Tennyson Center for Children has been committed to serving Colorado's most neglected and abused children. Their high-quality programs have changed lives and led to successful outcomes for many of those who use their services. Supporting at-risk youth and keeping families together helps to secure bright futures for children and puts them on a path to success, and Tennyson has worked to support families across Colorado. Ninety-one percent of the children who rely on Tennyson services have experienced trauma, neglect, or abuse. To address the complex needs of this population, Tennyson offers a breadth of services, including child and family therapy, parenting support, behavior management, education support, and childcare. Thanks to these services, 98 percent of families who sought assistance at Tennyson stayed together. In 2023, I worked with Tennyson to secure federal funding to assist in the construction of the mental health residential treatment center. This center focuses on the urgent and unmet mental health needs of vulnerable, low-income children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The new center will help Tennyson better serve vulnerable youth in our communities by increasing access to essential mental health treatment. I look forward to our continued partnership to ensure Tennyson can continue to provide life-changing care to those most at risk of abuse and trauma. One hundred and twenty-nine years of service to Colorado is a tremendous accomplishment, and I congratulate the entire staff at Tennyson on achieving this milestone. Tennyson Center for Children is a fixture of our community, and I am honored to recognize its 120th anniversary.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of the Dr. Michael C. Burgess Preventive Health Savings Act. A great frustration for those of us who work a lot on healthcare policy is the difficulty in accurately predicting the cost of preventive care. Right now, as you heard from my coauthor of the bill, Dr. Burgess, when Congress looks at the cost and benefits of preventive healthcare, we only look at a 10-year window. That is true even when the savings associated with preventive care would accrue 15, 20, 30 years in the future. That is why Dr. Burgess and I wrote this bill, so that we could look at preventive care over a longer time frame and actually see the cost savings that it will give us. That will help us refocus our healthcare legislation on prevention rather than waiting until serious diseases occur. Preventive care averts illnesses, helps catch problems before they get too bad, and also saves lives. It has another benefit. It saves money. Therefore, Congress should be able to consider how preventive healthcare saves taxpayers' dollars when we prepare to vote on legislation. This bill provides a framework for committees to request an extended estimate for legislation related to preventive healthcare from the Congressional Budget Office. With the framework laid out in this bill, committees can, on a bipartisan basis, request an estimate of the effects of a preventive healthcare bill up to a 30-year window. This sounds a little technical but, frankly, I believe it will revolutionize how Congress considers preventive healthcare legislation. It is going to make it so Congress will have long-term cost estimates on preventive care legislation from a nonpartisan, trusted source. As new innovations to keep Americans healthy are developed, we can better consider their long-term effects as we try to make them more available to the American people. At the same time, as you heard, this bill does not allow any new budgetary gimmicks. Instead, it just gives us the framework to get the information we need. Part of the genesis of this bill was when Dr. Burgess and I and others were working on the Affordable Care Act. I really wanted to put in the mandated benefits the inclusion of smoking cessation. Now, everybody in this room and in the gallery knows, helping Americans stop smoking cigarettes is one of the most obvious areas where preventive care can just save lives but also save money. We all know the terrible results of smoking: higher risks of lung cancer, diabetes, stroke, heart disease, COPD, and more. Treating these conditions is expensive, but it is also deadly for people. CBO was working on this 10-year window when it made an estimate on my ideas, and they said: Congresswoman, we think the idea of smoking cessation is a great idea, but, unfortunately, the smoking cessation programs like the patch and Nicorette and things like that are just too expensive, and so we can't afford to pay for them as part of the mandated benefits of the ACA. To me, that is crazy, and that is why we need this bill. Dr. Burgess and I have been working on this bill ever since, over 10 years now, and I am proud to see it come to the floor. Here it is now. It is among the first bipartisan bills from the Budget Committee to be reported to the full House in years. We talk a lot about needing a long-term view. I can't think of a better example of a long-term view than a bill that takes more than 10 years, but yet we persevere. Finally, I thank Mike Burgess for his partnership on this bill and his partnership on the Energy and Commerce Committee for many other bills. We disagree a lot, but we have found a lot of common ground, and we always work in good faith to deliver for our constituents and the American people. This bill is a perfect example of how we work together to write commonsense legislation that centers on what Americans need to lead healthy lives. It is truly a bipartisan victory. It is good legislation. I am going to miss Dr. Burgess and his vision on the committee. I hope that we can work together to get this bill through the other body just as quickly as we can. I urge a ``yes'' vote on this bill.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman for yielding. As Dr. Burgess said, we are facing a maternal health crisis in this country. From 2018 to 2021, the overall maternal mortality rate in the United States nearly doubled. We are simply failing American women as they become mothers, and we are particularly failing Black Americans, who in 2021 were nearly three times as likely than White Americans to die becoming mothers, irrespective of education or socioeconomic status. This is exactly the trend that the former gentlewoman from Washington (Ms. Herrera Beutler) and I sought to address when we passed the original Preventing Maternal Deaths Act in 2018. Through the programs developed by that legislation we now have a much greater knowledge of what is causing this crisis and the infrastructure we need to build further understanding and drive solutions. Data generated by the Maternal Mortality Review Committees have provided us with the insight that 80 percent of maternal deaths are preventable. This understanding is the first step toward solutions, and we have to ensure that we not only don't lose but that we strengthen the process we have made in building, understanding, and standardizing data so that we have a clear picture across the country of why this is happening. The Preventing Maternal Deaths Reauthorization Act will continue and bolster our support for the Maternal Mortality Review Committees. It will also ensure the timely and frequent dissemination of best practices to prevent maternal mortality. Make no mistake, further action is needed, and this reauthorization in itself will not solve the crisis, but that further action depends on the critical insights that we can get from this legislation. It is the foundation on which the solution stands. I am very grateful that my friend, Dr. Burgess, has taken up the mantle on this legislation. I also thank my dear friend, Kathy Castor, and our ranking member here, Ms. Schrier, for their work on this legislation, and I urge a ``yes'' vote on this legislation.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, I am so confused. President Biden took action to ensure that future LNG exports are actually in the interest of Americans. His action had no impact on current production of LNG. Let me say that again. The projects that President Biden's order impacts are future projects. We are going to see if, in the future, those projects are in America's best interest. What this bill does is not just overturns this pause on future actions; it goes so much further. It says all LNG exports must be in the public interest, and it prohibits the Department of Energy from finding otherwise. Let's say, for example, these increased exports lead to higher rates for ratepayers, which may happen. The Republican bill says to forget about any kind of public interest review. It must be approved even if ratepayers' rates are higher. If the increased exports all went to China, that would be in the public interest, too. If the exports lead to an exorbitant release of pollution, that would be in the public interest, too. That simply defies logic and sense. It is a fundamentally unserious policy proposal. In fact, I would call it not really a policy proposal at all but a campaign-year idea to try to somehow make people think we are trying to stop LNG exports. Nothing could be further from the truth. We have already permitted enough LNG exports to triple our export capacity by the 2030s. That is under current law. That is not something that President Biden's order is going to impact. That is more than enough LNG to assist our European and Asian allies. The U.S. is already the world's top LNG exporter and will be for years to come, not to mention that my colleagues on the other side of the aisle know the Senate is never even going to take up this bill. Even if the Senate somehow did pass this, they know the President would never sign this bill into law. Also, this bill has already come up on two other occasions. Like I said, we need to be clear about why the Republicans are bringing this bill to the floor. They think this will be some good campaign ads or something else. Like so much of what else we have done on the floor, this is not going anywhere. I came here on behalf of my constituents to legislate. I came here to make the lives of the American people better. This bill doesn't do that. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote ``no.''

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a distinguished member of Denver's academic community and a cherished friend, Professor Ved Nanda. His recent passing is a profound loss, not only to the University of Denver and our local community, but to many across the U.S. and the world. Professor Nanda was more than just an esteemed colleague; he was a kind and passionate individual whose impact on our community extended far beyond the walls of the university. His commitment to education, international law, and the promotion of cultural understanding left a mark on all who knew him. Born in 1934 in Gujranwala, India, Ved Nanda built an exemplary career starting at Punjab University where he received an M.A. in Economics. He went on to receive a law degree from Delhi University, a law degree from Northwestern University, and completed subsequent postgraduate work at Yale University. After joining the University of Denver's (DU's) Sturm College of Law in 1972, Professor Nanda inspired generations of scholars, students, and activists, whether it was through his teachings or the 24 books he authored--spanning various fields of international law. For over five decades, Professor Nanda uplifted the students of DU and the Indian diaspora community, becoming a prominent figure and a bridge between our two nations. He also served in several illustrious positions, including Chairman of the Board of Hindu University of America and Vice President of the American Society of International Law. In 2006 Professor Nanda was honored with a $1 million founding gift from the University of Denver to launch the Ved Nanda Center for International and Comparative Law, promoting programs and scholarships in the field of international law. He was also honored with the prestigious Gandhi-King-lkeda Award for Community Peace Building in 2004 and the Padma Bhushan in 2018. These accolades are a testament to his significant impact on the field and tireless efforts to advance knowledge and cultural exchange. His work was noticed and rightly honored for its impact. For more than 30 years, Professor Nanda shared his wisdom with the larger Colorado community through his regular columns in the Denver Post. His clear and reasoned explanations of international issues provided important perspectives to readers. As we remember and mourn the passing of Ved Nanda, we also celebrate the enduring legacy he leaves behind. I have no doubt his intellectual contributions, passion for education, and love for both India and the United States will continue to inspire us all. Sadly, Ved lost his beloved wife and partner Katharine last August. During this difficult time, my heart goes out to his friends and family--his daughter, Anjati, son-in-law, granddaughters, extended family, and all those who counted him as a friend, teacher, and mentor. He will be missed.

Ms. DeGETTE

Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, last year set the record for the highest number of mass murders with a firearm in more than a decade. In fact, 2023 marked yet another year where there were more mass shootings than days in the year. These events continue to retraumatize our communities and our Nation because no community has been untouched by this deadly epidemic. One common denominator in these mass murders is the use of large capacity ammunition feeding devices, or high-capacity magazines. These magazines hold 30, 40, or even 100 rounds of ammunition, and they have been used in all 10 of our Nation's deadliest mass shootings. High- capacity magazines increase a shooter's ability to kill or injure large numbers of people quickly. One event that I still remember starkly is the shooting in Aurora, Colorado, at the movie theater, which is just a few miles from my home. One single perpetrator used an assault rifle and a 100-round magazine to fire 65 shots within just minutes, killing 12 people and injuring 70 others. Despite the fact that many members of the audience for that movie were either Active-Duty military or veterans who were trained to respond to a situation just like this, they were unable to respond because the volley of bullets was simply too extreme. The high-capacity magazine allowed that shooter to continue firing, pinning people down as shot after shot rang out. There are so many more examples of this terrible, terrible destruction: Columbine, also right outside my district; Dayton; Las Vegas; Parkland. No other developed country experiences this level of violence from firearms. Now, I recognize there is not one single piece of legislation that will completely end gun violence, but something must be done. In mass shootings with four or more people killed between 2015 and 2022, high- capacity magazines led to more than twice as many people being killed and nearly 10 times as many people being wounded per incident on average. It makes sense if you think about it because if you have just a few rounds of ammunition, then those highly trained soldiers and veterans in that movie theater audience would have been able to stop the shooter, tackle him, and disable him after he stopped shooting. Instead, when you can shoot up to 100 rounds in rapid fire, this is not possible. High-capacity magazines were designed for war. They weren't designed for hunting. They weren't designed for self-defense. Yet, they continue to be used against our fellow citizens in our hometowns and communities. Experts agree that reinstating the limit on high-capacity magazines would be an effective step in protecting our communities. Today, Representatives Titus and Schneider, along with the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force and I, are announcing that we are filing a discharge petition to bring the Keep Americans Safe Act up for a vote so we can reinstate the U.S. ban on high-capacity magazines. My bill would prohibit the sale or transfer of any high-capacity magazine capable of holding more than 15 rounds of ammunition. This is legislation that has been passed by this Chamber two times 2 years ago as part of the Assault Weapons Ban and the Protecting Our Kids Act. It is our obligation as Members of Congress to keep the American people safe and to protect our communities. Now is the time to reinstate the limit on high-capacity magazines. The petition will now be filed at the desk, and I urge all of my colleagues to sign it. It will take 218 signatures to bring this bill to the floor and to move us one step closer to eradicating the terrible ravages of gun violence for the American people.