Suzan DelBene

Ms. DelBENE

Ms. DelBENE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the remarkable service of Josiah Adams, who has been an invaluable member of my team since March of 2023. During his tenure in our office, his contributions have made a significant impact. Josiah quickly became known for his unmatched attention to detail and his can-do attitude. No job was too small, as he consistently went above and beyond to support our office. He always brought a sense of positivity that uplifted those around him. His quick and creative thinking were invaluable assets, ensuring seamless operations both within and beyond our office. Josiah has shown a strong dedication to public service, and I know that will stay with him as he moves on to new opportunities. I want to thank him for his hard work, his optimism, and the lasting contributions he has made to our team. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Josiah Adams and wishing him all the best in his future endeavors.

Ms. DelBENE

Ms. DelBENE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the remarkable life and legacy of Laurens ``Larry'' Ruben, a beloved professor, whose influence not only shaped my life but also the lives of countless students, colleagues, family, and friends. A source of light and a friend to all, we recognize the extraordinary impact Larry had on the many lives he touched. Larry Ruben graduated from the University of Michigan with Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Biology. After moving to New York with his wife and longtime lab partner, Judith, he earned his Ph.D. from Columbia University and completed post-doctoral work at Princeton University before joining Reed College in 1955. At Reed, Larry was instrumental in developing the Biology Department's research-rich curriculum, improving student research opportunities, and emphasizing the importance of outside funding to support the program. In his research lab, which remained open until he was 86 years old, I had the privilege to conduct research during my time at Reed. Larry contributed significant insights into immunology and cancer biology. Larry was not only an outstanding researcher but also an inspiring teacher and mentor. Known for his kindness and generosity, he was deeply committed to his students and their success. As my thesis advisor, he inspired my early career in immunology. Beyond his work in biology, Larry helped establish the Arts Division at Reed College and often sang with a Reed-based rock and roll band. He was also known for his exceptional dance moves, which left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to witness them. Larry Ruben was a friend, a mentor, and a man whose immense kindness and contributions will never be forgotten. We extend our deepest condolences to Larry's family, friends, students, and colleagues. Larry's impact will live on in all those he touched.

Ms. DelBENE

Ms. DelBENE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Ms. Lois Langer Thompson for nearly 40 years of invaluable service to our public library systems. Since 2018 Lois has passionately led Sno-Isle Libraries as Executive Director, which provides service to over 800,000 residents across Snohomish and Island counties. Prior to moving to Washington, she served the Hennepin County Library. I first met Lois in 2019 at the former Lake Stevens Historical Society and Museum, when she told me about her plans to expand Sno- Isle's library system in Lake Stevens with a new, larger library for the community. Since then, I have had the pleasure of working with her and watching her cultivate a thriving library community in Washington's First Congressional District and beyond. Under Lois' leadership, Sno-Isle Libraries has embedded equity across the organization, built a capital strategy to connect everyone to their local library, completed three library construction projects in Darrington, Edmonds, and Mill Creek, invested in digital equity, launched a commitment to sustainability, expanded the Foundation Board of Directors, strengthened community collaboration, and supported the formation of the first collective bargaining unit for employees. Lois also guided the organization through a pandemic, while adopting new services to allow Sno-Isle to continue providing essential resources to our communities. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Ms. Langer Thompson and wishing her the best in her retirement. We are grateful for her contributions to the community and will cherish her legacy of service and commitment to creating inspiring, welcoming spaces.

Ms. DelBENE

Ms. DelBENE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to demand justice for Dr. Seif Fateen, an MIT-educated professor who has been unjustly detained in Egypt since 2018. Dr. Fateen served in Egypt's Ministry of Education before the government was overthrown in a coup in 2013. His home was later raided without a warrant, and he was arrested. For the last 6 years, he has been held without a trial date despite an Egyptian law that sets a 2-year maximum for pretrial detention. Dr. Fateen has experienced various forms of mistreatment, torture, and near-total isolation during his detention, and he continues to be denied basic due process. I thank Dr. Fateen's family, who live in Redmond, Washington, in my district, for bringing his case to my attention. I recently met with the Egyptian Ambassador to advocate for Dr. Fateen, and I will continue to demand justice so that he can be reunited with his family as soon as possible.

Ms. DelBENE

Ms. DelBENE. Madam Speaker, I am honored to be here with all of my colleagues to celebrate the life and legacy of Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr. Madam Speaker, there are those people who stand out, who leave an indelible mark on you. You just hear their name, and you think that voice, the passion, the determination. Bill Pascrell--Billy, as we knew him--was one of those people. I had the honor of working with him on the Ways and Means Committee and also on his Oversight Subcommittee and calling him a friend and colleague. We worked together on issues from standing up against tax cheats to worker-friendly trade policy. He was always strong-willed and ready to fight, fight for what he believed in, and we all know he loved a good fight. He deeply loved his hometown of Paterson, with one t, in New Jersey and was a tireless advocate for his constituents in these Halls. My thoughts and condolences are also with his family, his incredible staff, and his loved ones. We are all fortunate to share in his memory.

Ms. DelBENE

Ms. DelBENE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the remarkable life and legacy of Charles ``Charley'' Royer, a trailblazing leader and visionary, who passed away on July 26. His impact on Seattle and the Pacific Northwest will be remembered for generations to come. Born in Medford, Oregon, in 1939, Charley began his career as a TV journalist, becoming a trusted household name, before transitioning into public service to become Seattle's only three-term mayor from 1978 to 1990. As mayor, Charley was the region's biggest cheerleader, leading the city's cultural and economic revival during his time in office. His visionary leadership not only addressed immediate challenges but also laid the foundation for Seattle's future for decades to come. Under Charley's guidance, Seattle saw the development of key infrastructure projects that define the city today, including the downtown transit tunnel, the West Seattle Bridge, and an affordable housing levy that's become a national model for providing dedicated, local funds to build and maintain low-income housing. After his time in office, Charley continued to shape Seattle as a civic leader. He was one of the strongest voices in transforming the downtown waterfront from a double-decker highway into the city's welcoming front porch to be enjoyed and open to all. His impact extended beyond infrastructure; he was a steadfast advocate for social justice, LGBTQ+ rights, public safety, and environmental sustainability. Charley Royer was more than a public servant; he was a friend and a guiding force whose influence will be felt for generations. We are grateful for his contributions and will cherish his legacy of service and commitment to Seattle and the Pacific Northwest.

Ms. DelBENE

Ms. DelBENE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the Weather Act Reauthorization Act. For the past 3 years, the National Landslide Preparedness Act has been providing communities with the tools and resources that they need to reduce the potential devastation of landslides. Washington State knows this pain too well. A decade ago, the single deadliest landslide in U.S. history destroyed a community between Oso and Darrington and took 43 lives in mere minutes. I knew in the aftermath of that that we have to do more to prevent future natural disasters from becoming national tragedies. The landslide law I championed is doing exactly that. The programs established by the law are increasing preparedness and improving mapping data so communities understand where vulnerabilities exist. We cannot let these programs expire when they are just getting up and running. The landslide law passed this Chamber without opposition in 2020 because every State in this country has some form of landslide risk. Each year, landslides kill between 20 and 50 people and cause over $3 billion in damage. With a changing climate and more unpredictable weather, landslide risks are only going to grow more frequent, more dangerous, and more costly. I urge my colleagues to support the Weather Act Reauthorization Act, which includes my legislation that extends these programs. I also thank Congresswomen Schrier and Gluesenkamp Perez along with Senators Cantwell and Murkowski for their support in reauthorizing the landslide law.

Ms. DelBENE

Ms. DelBENE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Cecily Hahn for three and a half years of invaluable service to my office and my constituents in Washington's 1st Congressional District. Cecily joined my office in January 2021, and as a former resident of the 1st Congressional District, she brought a much-needed and valuable perspective on the issues that matter the most to our communities. She worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic to support and address the unique challenges experienced by the exclave community of Point Roberts and other communities along our Northern Border. Through her persistence, the House passed legislation to add Mount Vernon as a federal court location in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington. She has also been a fearless champion of advancing strong privacy legislation, and has elevated the profile of the XR Caucus within the House of Representatives. In addition to her advancement of my legislative priorities, Cecily has served as a wonderful mentor to others on my staff and helped them grow and advance in their own careers. Cecily brought a great work ethic, strong Washingtonian spirit, and exemplary legal knowledge to the role. Over her tenure, we have learned about all things Taylor Swift and F1, and her impact on our office will be long lived. She built lasting relationships with my team and those who had the pleasure of getting to know her. Cecily has been an amazing staffer and a wonderful friend to all in the office, and we will all sorely miss her. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Cecily Hahn and wishing her the best in all of her future endeavors.

Ms. DelBENE

Ms. DelBENE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life a Rahul Chopra, a member of our Democrat family who tragically passed away on March 11. Rahul was kind, caring, and a constant source of optimism. Growing up in California, his interest in politics started from an early age and never wavered, turning what was at first a passion into a profession. Whether working for Senator Mark Kelly, or any one of many Democratic partner groups and committees over the years, Rahul was determined to build a career that would make the world a fairer and more just place. What was especially inspiring about him was the pure exuberance he took in being a mentor to the members of his team, often coupled with an irreverent sense of humor and kind word. Rahul will be remembered for his signature laugh, encyclopedic knowledge, and a generosity of spirit that was incandescent. Survived by his parents and brother, he will be missed terribly by us all.

Ms. DelBENE

Ms. DelBENE. Madam Speaker, I rise today on a solemn occasion. A decade ago this week, Washington State confronted one of the worst natural disasters in its history. On the morning of March 22, a hillside near the communities of Oso and Darrington collapsed, creating a devastating landslide that killed 43 people in just seconds. It was and still remains the single deadliest landslide in U.S. history. Karen Pszonka lost six members of her family, including her daughter, Katie, and grandsons, Wyatt and Hunter. Three generations of her family were wiped out in less than 2 minutes along with so many others. In the aftermath of this landslide, I authored the National Landslide Preparedness Act, which was signed into law in 2021. It has been a vital resource for communities to better identify, plan for, and respond to landslides in the years since. The law expands early warning systems, improves mapping technology, and provides States with grants to improve preparedness. The landslide law expires in a few months. Madam Speaker, I recently introduced bipartisan legislation with Congresswomen Schrier and Gluesenkamp Perez and Senators Cantwell and Murkowski to keep these programs going. This law passed with strong bipartisan support last time. We must do this again to ensure that the next natural disaster does not become the next national tragedy.

Ms. DelBENE

Ms. DelBENE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Alyssa Quinn for her two years of invaluable service to my office and the constituents in Washington's 1st Congressional District. Alyssa joined my office as an intern in January 2022 and then became our Legislative Correspondent in July 2022. She has worked tirelessly to ensure our constituents have received timely and thoughtful responses to their correspondence with my office. Alyssa is a very strong and reliable writer who excels at communicating complex and sensitive issues. She has also run our internship program in the D.C. office and has been a dedicated mentor to all those she has managed, helping countless interns find full-time employment. Alyssa has brought to our office the spirit of the Pacific Northwest and a deep love for all things Washington. Her enthusiasm for farm animals, dairy, and staying hydrated has been infectious to all in our office. Alyssa has been an incredible staffer and a wonderful friend to all in the office, and we will sorely miss her positive spirit. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Alyssa Quinn and wishing her the best in all of her future endeavors.

Ms. DelBENE

Ms. DelBENE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Washington State Trooper Christopher Gadd, who tragically died while on duty on March 2, 2004. He was taken far too soon. Trooper Gadd was born in Pasco, Washington and attended Kentlake High School in Kent, Washington. He continued his education at Green River College and Tacoma Community College, where he earned his Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT) certification. In September of 2021, Trooper Gadd began his career with the Washington State Patrol, as a cadet in Grandview, Washington. Gadd graduated with WSP's 116th Trooper Basic Training class in 2022. He earned two best-in-class awards among his class of 44: the Top Academic Award and the Top Collision Investigation Award. For the Gadd family, law enforcement and public service is a tradition. Chris's father is a WSP Trooper, and his sister serves with the Texas Highway Patrol. WSP Chief John R. Batiste said Chris knew all too well the risks of public service but still offered that service with unquestioned valor and, now, unfathomable sacrifice. Trooper Gadd resided in Snohomish County and was known as a loving husband, devoted father, caring brother, beloved son, and committed friend. He is survived by his wife Cammryn, 2-year-old daughter Kaelyn, parents, and sister. Our community will miss him dearly, and I am forever grateful for his commitment to service.

Ms. DelBENE

Ms. DelBENE. Mr. Speaker, the tax bill we are considering today contains several wins for families and our economy, but one piece falls short. The child tax credit expansion would still leave behind millions of kids in families that need it the most. Democrats offered a solution proven to cut child poverty in half, but Republicans rejected it. I will still continue leading the effort to fully expand the child tax credit, invest in our children, and lift up families. While today's bill is imperfect, it does include policies I have championed, including the largest expansion of the low-income housing tax credit in several decades and policies to reduce double taxation on American and Taiwanese businesses and workers. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

Ms. DelBENE

Ms. DelBENE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my deepest gratitude for the outstanding service and unwavering dedication of Andy Flick, who served as the Executive Director of the New Democrat Coalition. During my time as Chair of the New Dems, his tireless efforts were instrumental in advancing our shared vision for pragmatic and innovative solutions to the challenges facing our nation. From the intricacies of policy research to the dynamic coordination required in the Coalition's daily operations, his contributions have truly made a lasting impact. Andy's commitment to fostering bipartisan collaboration and ability to navigate the complex landscape of Capitol Hill have not gone unnoticed, and now he serves as the Director of Legislative Affairs for the Vice President. His strategic insights and meticulous attention to detail were invaluable assets to our team. As we continue to strive for a more effective and efficient government, I want to take this moment to recognize and thank Andy for his exemplary service. The New Democrat Coalition and I are profoundly grateful for Andy's hard work, and I am confident that his future endeavors will reflect the same level of excellence he brought to our team. I wish Andy the best of luck in all his future endeavors and thank him for his outstanding service.

Ms. DelBENE

Ms. DelBENE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Kevin Klinkenberg for his incredible 2 years of service to the New Democrat Coalition as Senior Policy and Outreach Advisor. Under my tenure as Chair of the New Dems, Kevin was an invaluable member of the Coalition team, leading our work on health care, trade, and immigration. His unbridled commitment to expanding the reach and influence of the New Dems on these critical issues will continue to positively impact the work of the Coalition, and the well-being of the American people, for years to come. Kevin was key to growing the Coalition's outreach initiatives, helping to foster strong relationships with outside stakeholders. His efforts strengthened our various initiatives and helped solidify our Coalition's reputation as a group of pragmatic lawmakers who deliver results for our constituents. Beyond his exceptional contributions to the Coalition, Kevin has been a warm and helpful presence to all who have had the pleasure of working with him. While we will miss him dearly, we could not be more excited for his next chapter as a Senior Advisor and Congressional Liaison at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Ms. DelBENE

Ms. DelBENE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, along with my colleague, Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, to mourn the loss of a remarkable individual and true visionary, Don Bateman. As we remember and celebrate his extraordinary life, we recognize the immense contributions he made to the field of aviation and the safety of our skies. Don Bateman was a pioneer in aviation, a man whose intellect and passion for flight reshaped the way we fly. Don Bateman made significant contributions to the development of numerous groundbreaking technologies that revolutionized aviation safety systems. He was the mastermind behind the Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System, a pivotal technology that has prevented countless collisions by warning pilots if their plane is heading into a mountain, radio tower, or some other obstacle. Before the warning system became widespread, obstacle collisions were among the leading causes of death from airline accidents. But because of Don's innovative work, these kinds of accidents are now incredibly rare. Many folks in the aviation industry believe he has saved more lives than anyone else in the history of flight. Don's brilliance extended far beyond his professional accomplishments. He was not only a trailblazer in aviation safety, but also a mentor and an inspiration to countless aspiring engineers, scientists, and aviation professionals. He was a man of integrity, kindness, and humility. His warmth and genuine concern for the well- being of others left an indelible mark on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. Today, as we mourn the loss of Don Bateman, let us also celebrate his remarkable life and the immense legacy he leaves behind. His groundbreaking work will continue to guide the aviation industry for generations to come, ensuring that the skies remain safe. On behalf of this chamber, we extend our deepest condolences to Don Bateman's family, friends, and colleagues. May they find solace in knowing that his contributions have made the world a safer place and that his memory will continue to inspire the next generation of technology leaders.

Ms. DelBENE

Ms. DelBENE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge the dedication and commitment of Sally Chen, a remarkable staffer and integral part of the New Democrat Coalition. Sally is transitioning from Capitol Hill this month to the White House, concluding over two years of exemplary service to our Coalition. Serving during my tenure as New Dem Chair and that of current Chair Annie Kuster, Sally leaves behind a legacy that will undoubtedly make our Coalition stronger for years to come. Sally's dedication to the New Dems was not merely a professional commitment, but a personal mission to drive meaningful change and progress for our nation. Sally was instrumental in our Coalition's efforts--from strengthening our economy and supporting working families to protecting our fundamental freedoms and defending our democracy. Without the dedication of committed public servants like Sally, we could not have accomplished nearly as much as we did and have. More important than her daily work, Sally has been a kind colleague to all who had the pleasure of working with her during her time on the Hill. Her presence at the New Democrat Coalition will be sorely missed as she moves into her new role. While I'm sad to see Sally go, I wish her the very best of luck in her future endeavors.

Ms. DelBENE

Ms. DelBENE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today against this Republican ruse, the default on America act. This legislation is not a serious proposal. It is a MAGA wish list that demands a 22 percent cut of essential Federal programs that support working families, seniors, veterans, public safety, schools, and housing assistance. If passed, this bill would cost an estimated 780,000 jobs, many in the clean energy sector, all across this country. What we need is simple: A clean bill to avoid a default, to ensure we protect the full faith and credit of the United States. If my Republican colleagues want to show Americans they can govern, then pass a clean bill and show us your budget, a real budget, like the President has released. Every day Republicans wait brings us closer to brinksmanship and hurts the American people and the global economy. I urge my colleagues to reject this bill.

Ms. DelBENE

Ms. DelBENE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Kelly Schulz for her one and a half years of invaluable service to my office and my constituents in Washington's 1st Congressional District. Kelly joined my office as my D.C. Scheduler in November 2021 and has worked tirelessly to ensure my schedule runs smoothly and I am able to make it to all of my commitments on time. She has also done a wonderful job of carrying out one of the most fundamental responsibilities of a congressional office--ensuring that as many constituents as possible are able to meet with their member of Congress to share their thoughts. Kelly has brought a wonderful Washingtonian spirit and hard work ethic to this critical position. Over her tenure, she played an instrumental role in overseeing the smooth ramp up of in-person constituent meetings as we transitioned back to being in the office--all while building lasting relationships with my team and those who had the pleasure of getting to know her. Kelly has been an incredible staffer and a wonderful friend to all in the office, and we will all sorely miss her and her infectious laughter. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Kelly Schulz and wishing her the best in all of her future endeavors.

Ms. DelBENE

Ms. DelBENE. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in opposition to the polluters over people act. Protecting our environment is foundational to the heritage, culture, and quality of life that we enjoy in the Pacific Northwest. We are trailblazers in clean, renewable energy sources like hydroelectric, wind, and solar. My colleagues on the other side of the aisle should follow our lead and focus on accelerating our transition toward a green energy economy like Democrats did in the Inflation Reduction Act. Instead, Republicans are pushing a messaging bill loaded with giveaways to the fossil fuel industry that will blow a $2.4 billion hole in our deficit. This legislation not only does nothing to lower energy costs, but it raises prices for families by repealing Inflation Reduction Act discounts for energy-saving home appliances. I offered an amendment to this bill, with the support of every Democrat from the Washington and Oregon delegations, that would prevent oil and gas companies from drilling along the Washington and Oregon coasts. The last thing any of us want is the next Deepwater Horizon spill on our shores. This was rejected by the majority. An open amendment process apparently only applies to Republicans. Mr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues to reject this bill.

Ms. DelBENE

Ms. DelBENE. Mr. Chair, I demand a recorded vote.

Ms. DelBENE. Mr. Chair, I urge my colleagues to support the Pacific Northwest and support this amendment. Mr. Chair, I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. DelBENE. Mr. Chair, I yield to the gentlewoman from Oregon (Ms. Salinas).

Ms. DelBENE. Mr. Chair, I yield to the gentlewoman from Oregon (Ms. Hoyle), one of our new Members.

Ms. DelBENE. Mr. Chair, I yield to the gentleman from Washington (Mr. Kilmer), my colleague from the Olympic Peninsula.