John Duarte

Mr. DUARTE

Mr. DUARTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the commonsense bipartisan Office of National Drug Control Policy Reauthorization Act of 2024. I thank Chairman Comer and Ranking Member Raskin for including provisions from legislation I introduced, the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Reauthorization Act, in this package to help combat the fentanyl and drug epidemic in California's central valley and across the United States. The Federal High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas Program, or the HIDTA Program, allows Federal, State, and local law enforcement officials to share intelligence and pool resources to help get these dangerous drugs off of our streets and out of our schools. They do this through 33 individual HIDTAs that have been designated around the country, including throughout my district. In 2022, the Central Valley California HIDTA seized over 1.4 million dosages of fentanyl, 3,000 kilograms of methamphetamine, 355 kilograms of cocaine, and 101 kilograms of heroin. These seizures of illegal drugs are exponentially higher for the United States. However, the HIDTA Program expired in 2023. The version of my HIDTA bill included in this larger package would authorize $298.5 million in funding for the HIDTA Program, a $18.5 million increase; renew this program through fiscal year 2031; and make $5 million available to individual HIDTAs across the country to further enhance their fentanyl seizure and interdiction activities. In addition, I commend the local prosecutors and district attorneys in my community who work hard every day to put drug traffickers behind bars, but resources can be limited, and California's soft-on-crime and lenient bail policies don't help. These partnerships between Federal and local prosecutors are critical to putting these high-volume drug traffickers in prison for decades, not months. That is what Federal prosecution can do. Included in this package are additional provisions for my bill that would empower the U.S. Attorney General to assign Federal prosecutors, known as assistant U.S. attorneys, to individual HIDTAs to investigate and prosecute organizations and individuals who are trafficking in fentanyl in the United States to the fullest extent of Federal law-- decades, not months. I am proud to have worked with local sheriffs and DAs in the valley to develop my HIDTA bill, and I appreciate their support for this important legislation that will help our communities become safer. I again thank Chairman Comer and Ranking Member Raskin for working with me on my HIDTA bill and including provisions on this program in the ONDCP package we are considering now. It is critical to ensure that law enforcement has the necessary tools and resources to continue to fight against fentanyl and the drug crisis across the United States. Protecting our communities and families is not a partisan issue. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 9598.

Mr. DUARTE

Mr. DUARTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to support H.R. 7409, the HEATS Act. This bill will assist working families, small businesses, and the geothermal energy producers streamline the permitting process for one of the cheapest and cleanest energy sources. We are talking about steam coming out of the ground and creating electricity. That is what we are talking about today. Geothermal is a big word. Let's not miss that. This is simply turning steam out of the ground into electricity. One of the cheapest and cleanest energy sources in the United States is prioritized and supported by the Federal Government. During a Natural Resources hearing earlier this year, I asked Federal regulators what we, the people, gain by requiring a Federal permitting process on geothermal energy, one of the cleanest, cheapest energy sources in the world. There was no coherent answer. Instead of restricting geothermal energy, we should be supporting and encouraging advancements in this field. Currently, the Bureau of Land Management is practicing regulation by imagination, with no real instances of negatives of geothermal energy production. I am proud to work with Representative Kim to take the necessary steps to make it easier to produce clean, affordable geothermal energy in California. California produces more geothermal energy than any other State, but the Bureau of Land Management is preventing California from growing our clean energy to our fullest potential. This bill ensures that geothermal energy producers do not need to obtain a Federal permit if they are drilling on land that is not owned by the Federal Government. With this commonsense change, we can grow our geothermal energy production. This would provide cheaper energy to working families, create good-paying jobs in California, and cement California and the United States as a global clean energy leader. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 7409. It is a commonsense bill that will lower energy costs for working families.

Mr. DUARTE

Mr. DUARTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Madera County Historical Museum's 50th Anniversary on September 28, 2024. The Madera County Museum was opened to the public on September 28, 1974. For fifty years, the Madera County Historical Society, volunteers, and local organizations have made the Madera County Museum a historic and informative destination in the Valley. I want to also recognize the efforts of the community for their donations and efforts to provide exciting events and learning experiences showcasing Madera County's rich history. Through the efforts of the community, the Madera County Museum provides Madera County with educational school tours, holiday events, and weekly educational public visitation options. Madera County Museum gives back to the community by hosting mock trial and 4-H educational opportunities for students, holiday events to bring the community together, and supporting local law enforcement. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in recognizing the Madera County Museum's role in preserving the rich history of Madera County. I would also like to encourage every Valley family to visit the Madera County Museum and learn about our Valley's rich history.

Mr. DUARTE

Mr. DUARTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Merced County Community Action Agency (MCCAA) in celebrating sixty years of service. MCCAA began serving Dos Palos in 1964 and opened its first Head Start center in 1965. MCCAA is part of a nationwide movement that began with the signing of the Economic Opportunity Act of 1964 by President Lyndon B. Johnson. MCCAA's mission is to serve, advocate, and collaborate for those in need by developing innovative strategies for self-empowerment. MCCAA gainfully employs nearly 200 people and serves over 17,000 unduplicated customers every month with a total of sixteen federal and state programs. The work MCCAA provides for the community would be impossible without our local community, who last year volunteered over 14,000 hours. Last year, MCCAA housed over 112 formerly unhoused community members with safe, affordable homes. Over 400 children utilize their free preschool programs for early learning and education. MCCAA provides 1,500 families with utility assistance, keeping families safe during scorching Valley summers. The MCCAA maintains over sixteen other locations in Merced County, and partners with over 200 local service providers, government agencies, and families to help with outreach, referrals and access to needed services. The D Street Navigation Center is open year-round, twenty-four hours per day to meet the needs of Merced County's most vulnerable living on the streets. Last year, over 514 unhoused individuals stayed at this Center. MCAA continues to expand. MCAA recently added a diaper bank, a summer food program, and expanded support for at risk pregnant and new mothers. Therefore Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in celebrating the MCCAA for 60 years of service to our Valley.

Mr. DUARTE

Mr. DUARTE. Mr. Chair, I thank Chairman Westerman for yielding, and I rise in support of the Fix Our Forests Act. As someone who farms on the edge of the forest in California, I can tell you, bad policies coming out of Washington and Sacramento, exacerbated by frivolous litigation, have led to failed outcomes in Federal forest management. There is no doubt about it: This is abandonment of one of our natural resources. As we see with government-imposed droughts in California, laws and regulations are being twisted to block forest management and timber harvesting in our national forests, which peaked in the 1980s, but steadily declined and have not recovered. This has been exacerbated by the designation of over 111 million acres of preservation wilderness areas that severely limit access, ban timber harvests, and make even firefighting difficult in our forests. This resource abandonment is also hurting our communities. Countless jobs are lost, and insurance companies are seeking to cancel policies and refusing to even provide fire insurance coverage in areas of California because of the risk of out-of-control forest fires. These fires also devalue our national forest habitat and watersheds. For example, we are now learning that some of these fires burn so hot that they may be changing the soil chemistry to create cancer-causing hexavalent chromium. That is the Erin Brockovich compound. This raises serious concerns about the toxic chemical getting into our groundwater when runoff from burn areas occurs. That raises another serious concern: sedimentation of our rivers. When our forests burn, debris washes off the Sierra Nevadas and settles into our waterways, silting up our rivers, streams, and reservoirs and hurts fish species. This increases flood risks and decreases our ability to store water. These fires also release millions of tons of pollution into the air that we breathe that can cause respiratory issues. This resource abandonment is hurting Californians, which is unacceptable, and that is why I am proud to support the Fix Our Forests Act. This commonsense legislation will make necessary reforms to expedite forest management projects and reduce frivolous lawsuits designed to slow or block action. This bill will help protect our forests, the environment, and will create jobs, and I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

Mr. DUARTE

Mr. DUARTE. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to celebrate three great Central Valley universities: UC Merced, Fresno State University, and Stanislaus State University, that The Wall Street Journal ranked three out of the top four colleges in America for helping students climb the socioeconomic ladder. These universities embody the American Dream. They empower first- generation Americans to work hard, get good jobs, and improve their lives. UC-Merced tops the rankings for social mobility and its commitment to transforming lives. The same values are echoed up and down the valley by Cal State-Stanislaus at number two and Cal State-Fresno at number four. These schools do more than provide a good education at a reasonable price. They open the door to the American Dream. Going to these valley schools is more than an education. It is an opportunity for valley kids to dream big, work hard, and build a better life for themselves and their families. Mr. Speaker, sending a student to one of these schools is a dream for so many families in the valley because they change lives. Today, on the House floor, we honor their impact, their dedication, and their relentless pursuit of excellence. I congratulate these universities.

Mr. DUARTE

Mr. DUARTE. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Bost) for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of my bill, the Clear Communication for Veterans Claims Act. I am proud that the House is considering my bill on the floor today and for the support of Democrats and Republicans so that veterans can obtain the benefits they have earned in service to our Nation. I thank the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Bost) for his support of this bill and my Democrat co-lead, the gentlewoman from Illinois (Ms. Budzinski), for joining me on this important legislation. This bill is a testament to what Congress can achieve when working across party lines. Since coming to office, I have led several veterans' townhalls across California's Central Valley. One topic that continues to come up is the daunting challenge that our veterans, young and old, face when applying for and receiving benefits through the VA after their service to our Nation, and this is unacceptable. Currently, when a veteran applies for benefits or files a claim with the VA, the VA responds in writing and often provides updates in writing. At a Veterans' Affairs Committee hearing in March 2024, it became clear that the VA's effort to make these letters easy to understand, to guide veterans through the process, have failed. We learned the VA letters are often lengthy, packed with indecipherable legal jargon, sometimes omit crucial information needed to advance a claim, and can be over 20 pages long. These letters cause confusion, anxiety, and stress among our veterans, and some veterans are so overwhelmed that they give up on their claims entirely. The Clear Communication for Veterans Claims Act would require the VA to work with a federally funded research and development center to simplify the notification letters for VA benefits, including disability compensation, disability ratings, health benefits, and education. This bill would require the VA to contract with a FFRDC to assess the letters sent to veterans within 30 days. Within 90 days of receiving the assessment, the VA would be required to notify Congress and implement any recommendations from the FFRDC. This legislation is supported by numerous veterans' groups across California, including the Paralyzed Veterans of America, Disabled American Veterans, the National Organization of Veterans' Advocates, the American Legion, as well as the Stanislaus County Veterans Advisory Commission. Their endorsements underscore the vital need for this reform. We must uphold our commitment to those who have bravely served our country. As a Congressman, I am always honored to help Central Valley veterans get their benefits. This bill is a step toward correcting the flawed VA claims process to help ensure our veterans get the care and benefits they earned from a grateful Nation. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Bost) for supporting the Clear Communication for Veterans Claims Act. I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

Mr. DUARTE

Mr. DUARTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Assyrian community in the Central Valley of California. In particular, Stanislaus County has had a long history of Assyrians seeking refuge from religious persecution and genocide in their ancestral homelands known as Mesopotamia. This vibrant and thriving community is determined to preserve the language, heritage, culture, and their identity as Christians. Over fifty thousand Assyrian Americans call Stanislaus County home. The 10th Anniversary of the Assyrian Festival hosted by the Assyrian Church of the East local parishes bring thousands of visitors to the Turlock Fairgrounds to celebrate the rich heritage, cuisine, and traditional dances of the Assyrian culture. The Assyrian language, heritage, and culture form the bedrock of Assyrian communities in the Central Valley, which anchors them in traditions that span millennia while also acting as guiding lights that propel them successfully forward while preserving their unique narrative. In addition, the Assyrian Church of the East's most ancient faith dating back to the first century of Christianity offers this community spiritual nourishment. This heritage instills pride, and the language and culture fosters unity. Together, they empower the Assyrian people worldwide to preserve the rich legacy and advance as a vibrant community, forging connections across generations and continents, ensurIng their enduring presence in the tapestry of humanity. Therefore, Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House to join me in proudly recognizing the Assyrian community in the Central Valley of California for its invaluable contributions to our Nation's history, culture, and prosperity as we celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the Assyrian Festival this month.

Mr. DUARTE

Mr. DUARTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize August 4 through 10, 2024, as National Health Center Week. This annual celebration of events is sponsored by the National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC). National Health Center week creates a valuable opportunity to showcase the work of Community Health Centers and raise awareness in the communities served by Federally Qualified Health Centers. Every year, Golden Valley Health Centers (GVHC) hosts various events centered around its patients and communities. These events commemorate National Health Center Week and highlight the commitment and passion of the Community Health Center staff. GVHC is one of the largest Community Health Centers in California and has been proudly serving Central Valley communities for more than 50 years. The organization has a long history of providing high quality health care to residents. In August, at events throughout the service region, the center will celebrate the comprehensive workforce and our communities who entrust their health care to GVHC, which is a growing network of clinics serving approximately 150,000 patients through 47 clinic sites each year. Community Health Centers serve as a beacon of strength, service, and care in communities across the United States. Together, they care for 31.5 million patients, representing 14,000 communities. One in five California residents receives their care at a community health center. GVHC invites the community to join us in honoring the achievements and commitment of Community Health Centers across the country. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in recognizing August 4 through 10, 2024, as National Health Center Week.

Mr. DUARTE

Mr. DUARTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Michelle Reimers, who recently retired as General Manager of the Turlock Irrigation District (TID). TID was founded in 1887, making it the oldest irrigation district in California. Today, TID provides water from Don Pedro Reservoir to over 150,000 acres of farmland in Stanislaus and Merced counties through 250 miles of canals. It is one of only four irrigation districts in California that provide retail electricity to homes, farms, and businesses in its service territory. Michelle was with TID for 18 years, starting with its public information operation, but through hard work and dedication to the District, she assumed various other leadership positions, culminating in becoming the first female General Manager in 2020. During her time leading the agency, she focused on transparency, collaboration, and commitment to its customers, but always prioritized ensuring that TID had water supplies to serve its communities, such as through creating new water rights for the District to capture flood flows on the Tuolumne River. In addition, under Michelle's leadership, TID electricity rates remained among the lowest in California, without wavering on reliability. Just three months into her role as General Manager, Michelle successfully navigated the most challenging pandemic of our time. Additionally, she led TID through extreme weather conditions, including the third direst three year stretch on record and then one of the wettest winters in history, and through significant wildfires multiple years in a row all the while maintaining the reliability our community expects and deserves. Michelle was also a driving force in the long- term relicensing of the Don Pedro Project, a federally licensed water storage facility with hydroelectric energy generation on the Tuolumne River, with Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. Pragmatic and results oriented, Michelle would bring disparate groups together from the Environmental Defense Fund to the American Public Power Association to get the job done. While she encouraged collaboration, she never shied away from her main objective--to ensure our communities and farms had a reliable supply of water and power. And when she was not leading TID or representing the District in water- related negotiations, she could be found growing walnuts and almonds on her farm. Michelle was a tireless advocate of our community and farmers and always led with the customer in mind. She should be proud of all she accomplished while leading TID and, as she begins this new chapter in her life, I am confident she will continue to make positive impacts in our Valley. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing a woman whose professionalism, passion, and determination has benefited many of the water and power users of California's San Joaquin Valley. It is both fitting and appropriate that we honor Michelle Reimers on her retirement from the Turlock Irrigation District. I want to wish Michelle and her family all the best as she embarks on this new phase of life.

Mr. DUARTE

Mr. DUARTE. Mr. Chairman, I thank the gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. Fleischmann) for yielding time to me. Mr. Chairman, the last 2 years in California have been very, very wet, and flooding has devastated our valley. I saw firsthand the devastation in Planada, California, when brush and sediment in Miles Creek forced floodwater into neighborhoods that had been flooded from similar events just 5 years prior. My office and I helped displaced families in Planada after their homes were destroyed or damaged by floodwater. The work is still not done. I am never going to object to Mother Nature blessing our State with rain and snow, but we must better prepare to capture and manage our water coming off of the Sierra Nevada mountains to protect our communities and farms. Mr. Chairman, my amendment, which I am grateful is included in this package, is very simple. It prioritizes funds for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, one, to study the scope and scale of sediment buildup in the rivers and streams in the San Joaquin watershed and, two, to report to Congress on how to reduce that buildup to protect families and farms from flooding. My amendment has the bipartisan support of Congressmen Costa, Fong, and Harder. As I close, I make one additional important point. Water abundance is affordable energy, food, and housing. Farms create good-paying jobs, stabilize soil, improve air quality, and deliver affordable dinners to working American families. Hydroelectric energy is clean energy when we need it. Houses can only be built where water abundance is available. Mr. Chairman, I thank Chairman Fleischmann for supporting my amendment, and I urge my colleagues to support this en bloc package of amendments.

Mr. DUARTE

Mr. DUARTE. Madam Chair, under the Clean Water Act, the EPA or States with delegated authority regulate point sources of pollution into the waters of the United States. Point source pollution is pollution from any discernible, confined, and discrete conveyance, such as pollution from sewage treatment facilities but not agricultural stormwater runoff. This type of discharge pollution is regulated by Federal law to protect water quality and human health. Certain types of wastewater discharges, which are considered point source pollution, into bodies of water can adversely impact water quality and the environment. In California, the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta is surrounded by communities with wastewater treatment plants. It is critical to ensure that these facilities are not unintentionally or deliberately discharging wastewater into the delta, which can result in harmful algal blooms. This can adversely impact nature and threaten species in the delta, which has a ripple effect that can ultimately result in less water going to the Central Valley for families, farms, and affordable housing. Instead, more water is needed to flush these pollutants out of the delta. My amendment, which I am grateful is included in the en bloc package of amendments, is very simple, Madam Chair. It prioritizes funds for the Environmental Protection Agency to, one, study whether any wastewater treatment plants are making point source pollution discharges into bodies of water, rivers, or deltas without the necessary Clean Water Act permits and reports to Congress on its findings so that this body can better exercise its oversight responsibilities. This amendment will help keep vital freshwater on farms and in people's homes where it belongs rather than being used to flush wastewater out of the delta that should not have even been there in the first place. Madam Chair, I thank Chairman Simpson for supporting my amendment and including it in the en bloc package of amendments.

Mr. DUARTE

Mr. DUARTE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Bob Gallo of Modesto, California, who passed away earlier this week. A successful businessman, Bob grew the E. & J. Gallo Winery into the largest family-owned winery in the world. Bob also played a key role in establishing the Gallo Glass Company and other business ventures in the valley. Bob helped put Modesto on the map. He and his late wife, Marie, supported arts and education through the valley, culminating in the Gallo Center for the Arts. Bob and Marie transformed the cultural landscape of Modesto and our valley. The loss of Bob will be deeply felt in our community. His generosity and hard work left a legacy of kindness and community spirit that will make a difference in the valley for years to come. Alexandra and I send our sincere condolences to Bob's 7 children, 22 grandchildren, and the entire Gallo family.

Mr. DUARTE

Mr. DUARTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the month of June as National Portuguese Heritage Month, honoring the contributions Portuguese Americans make to our country. As the descendant of immigrants from the Azores, I admire the rich culture and history of Portuguese communities in the Central Valley, throughout California, and across the country. To me, Portuguese Heritage Month brings back memories of Festas--celebrations spent enjoying Portuguese culture, and food. I for one, have spent many days with friends and family enjoying sopas, sweet bread, and linguica. Bullfights, parades, and, of course, the bodo de leite are cherished traditions in our Valley. These events are made possible by the dedication of cultural organizations who commit themselves to keeping Portuguese heritage alive. Over 350,000 Portuguese Americans call California home--the largest community in the United States. This community shapes life in our State, and, especially, the Central Valley. The story of the Valley would be impossible without the stories of thousands of Azoreans who crossed an ocean and a continent determined to live the American Dream. Today, that dream is realized. Portuguese-Americans are leaders in dairy and farming, serve proudly in the U.S. military, and give back to our country in countless ways. Three Representatives of Portuguese heritage serve our Valley in Congress, and I am honored to be among them. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House to join me in proudly recognizing Portuguese Americans' invaluable contributions to our Nation's history, culture, and prosperity as we celebrate National Portuguese Heritage Month.

Mr. DUARTE

Mr. DUARTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the momentous occasion of Evapco's 45th anniversary and the significant completion of the Sierra building expansion in 2024. Evapco is a global industry-leading manufacturing company with global resources and solutions for worldwide heat transfer applications, it is employee owned, and was founded in the United Slates. Evapco launched its second U.S. manufacturing company in Madera, California, in 1979, and now employs more than 234 individuals. Evapco's expansion in Madera County has not only created more jobs in the congressional district that I represent but is also a testament to my constituents' dedication and hard work. It also has bolstered Evapco's production capabilities and will help it meet growing demand for advanced cooling solutions in our community, the Central Valley of California, and beyond. My constituents enjoy working for Evapco as it follows the vision of ``one global team, united to be universally recognized as the superior provider of a full spectrum of heat transfer solutions.'' And its commitment to teamwork has enabled its employees--my constituents--to excel. It is a team their employees and customers alike can count on for a lifetime. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in celebrating Evapco's 45th anniversary in California and recognizing its success in expanding in my district to produce innovative water-saving, ``Eco-Air'' dry-cooling products, which will improve the quality of life of my constituents, Californians, and communities around the world.

Mr. DUARTE

Mr. DUARTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mary Ellen Chavez, as the Parade Marshal for the Town of Planada's 2024 Community Day Parade. The daughter of migrant farm workers, Mary Ellen was born in Brawley, California and is a proud graduate of Le Grand High School (LGHS). While an LGHS student, and eventual Manzanita Queen, she was encouraged by her peers to go to college. Eventually Mary Ellen became the first high school and college graduate in her family. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from the College of the Holy Names, an all-women's Catholic college in Oakland, on a full academic scholarship. Then she completed a teaching credential at Fresno State University. At age 21, Mary Ellen began a 55-year long career as a catechist, teaching three generations of Planada children how to love the Lord. A parishioner of Planada's Sacred Heart Catholic Church for over 80 years, Mary Ellen (and her family) regularly volunteered to help clean the church. She was also a regular reader, eucharistic minister, and choir singer, as well as a founding member of the English rosary group. Around Planada, she spent the rest of her hours cooking the best chile verde, coaching softball, helping her husband run the Planada Recreation Program, or attending baseball and softball games all over the area, where you could hear her distinctive two-fingered, celebratory whistle from a mile away. Mary Ellen taught in Fresno, Merced and Kern counties during her teaching career. In 1999, she was named the Vineland School District Educator of the Year while teaching an innovative curriculum on the Dust Bowl Days at Sunset Middle School near Lamont. She retired from teaching in 2000, having already served several terms on the Le Grand Union High School District Board of Trustees from 1978 to 1991. After her retirement, she was appointed to the Merced County Board of Education and served from 2005 to 2014. Mary Ellen and her husband, John, married in 1963, and while dancing weekends at every wedding, church event or fundraiser, produced eight children plus one walk-on. Those eight gave them 20 grandchildren, who have so far produced 26 great-grandchildren. Nothing pleases Mary Ellen and John more than to be surrounded by the chaos of their big family. I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mary Ellen as the Parade Marshal for the Town of Planada's 2024 Community Day Parade.

Mr. DUARTE

Mr. DUARTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a significant milestone in the agricultural community of Ballico, California--the centennial anniversary of the Cortez Growers Association. Established on April 18, 1924, by four visionary Japanese immigrants, the Cortez Growers Association began as a small cooperative endeavor to market fruits and vegetables effectively despite language barriers. The founders employed a bilingual agent, ensuring their enterprise's early success and sustainability. The association thrived, even through the Great Depression, expanding its membership and operational capacity. By 1932, twenty-six additional members had joined, and Cortez Growers Association appointed its first full-time manager. However, the outbreak of World War II and the subsequent internment of Japanese Americans dealt a severe blow to the association. All members, being of Japanese descent, were either interned or enlisted in the military, many serving in the highly decorated 442nd Regimental Combat Team. Despite these adversities, the Cortez Growers Association's land was preserved through trust and leased to neighboring farmers, allowing the association to regain its footing post-war. The resilience and determination of the members during these trying times are a testament to their commitment to their community and country. In the ensuing decades, the Cortez Growers Association has continued to adapt and thrive. Transitioning from a diverse crop base to focusing solely on almond production, the association has stayed at the forefront of agricultural innovation and efficiency. Today, the Cortez Growers Association is a leader in the almond industry and a pillar in agricultural advocacy, helping to found the Almond Alliance. As we commemorate a century of enduring legacy, the Cortez Growers Association is a beacon of community resilience, adaptability, and success. The values of faith, family, and dedication to future generations are as alive today as they were a hundred years ago. With great pride, I recognize the Cortez Growers Association for its century of service to the agricultural community and the nation. I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Cortez Growers Association for 100 years of service and offer my sincerest wishes for their future.

Mr. DUARTE

Mr. DUARTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Assistant Commissioner Field Aniceto Ortiz upon his retirement from the Ceres Police Department. On December 16, 2023, Assistant Commissioner Field Aniceto Ortiz retired from the California Highway Patrol (CHP), after serving for 30 years. Aniceto was responsible for CHP field operations in the State of California and was responsible for nearly nine thousand employees. Aniceto served in various assignments across the state, such as Chief of Central Division in Fresno, a Special Response Team Commander, and was an inaugural member of the Department's Office of Inspector General. Aniceto engaged with the communities he served to provide the highest level of Safety, Service and Security to the people of the state of California. Throughout his career, Aniceto held firm to the CHP's organizational values to serve and safeguard communities with compassion and understanding. Aniceto is a first generation American and was the first in his family to serve in law enforcement. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy, FBI California Law Enforcement Executive Development Seminar, and the Naval Postgraduate School Executive Leaders Program. Aniceto continues to serve his community by volunteering for several community organizations, including the Visually Impaired Persons Support group, Children's Crisis Center, Rotary Club, and as an honorary board member for Without Permission, Inc. And upon his retirement, I want to extend my best wishes to Assistant Commissioner Ortiz on his new journey.

Mr. DUARTE

Mr. DUARTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize May 14, 2024 as Hmong-American Day, honoring the legacy of the Hmong people who served, were wounded, or lost their lives in battle. Their sacrifice, to ensure America remains the land of the free, knowing we forever owe a debt of gratitude for their sacrifice. We recognize the important cultural, social, political, and economic contributions of Hmong Americans that provide generational enrichment and enhancement to this county across many sectors, including CBOs, business, healthcare, education, public safety, and government. From 1961 to 1975, more than 40,000 Hmong individuals were recruited by the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) to fight alongside American soldiers in the Secret War, a vital part of the Vietnam War, in Laos. But in 1975, the Fall of Long Chen forced thousands of Hmong to flee Laos to seek refuge from persecution, where many refugees and their families immigrated to other countries, including the United States, and to California--where today Merced is home to more than 8,000 Hmong residents. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in celebrating Hmong-American Day and formally recognizing and celebrating the rich history, culture, and contributions of Hmong Americans in Merced County and other communities throughout California.

Mr. DUARTE

Mr. DUARTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of Jose Lugo. Jose was a loving son, father, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend. He put others before himself, and he made people laugh endlessly. He loved music and having a good time with his family and friends, while always ensuring that his friends and family were taken care of. While Jose is no longer with us, his loved ones are left with so many beautiful memories of him. His favorite places to visit were Half Moon Bay, Pescadero, or any beach. He was selfless and truly had a heart of gold, and demonstrated this by choosing to donate his organs at the end of his life so that others would receive an opportunity to extend their lives. He was able to save five different lives by donating his earthly organs, and for that he is now a guardian angel and hero. He will forever be in his family's hearts, and with his loved ones wherever life takes them. We love him and he will be missed dearly. May he rest in peace.

Mr. DUARTE

Mr. DUARTE. Mr. Chair, I rise today to support H.R. 7023, the Creating Confidence in Clean Water Permitting Act. This bill provides relief to farmers, small businesses, and energy producers across the Central Valley and throughout the United States by cutting red tape, streamlining reviews, and providing greater regulatory certainty under the Clean Water Act. I am proud that H.R. 7023 includes my initiative taking much-needed steps to fix inconsistencies in the permitting process under the Clean Water Act. In particular, this bill ensures that EPA permit writers do their jobs in a clear and reliable manner, including clear, objective, concrete limits on specific pollutants or water body conditions that permittees can rely on. Currently, the EPA's National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit writers often include language in permits that provide loopholes for antidevelopment groups to sue and block permits needed for critical energy and other infrastructure improvements. My provision closes those loopholes and limits opportunities for unwarranted lawsuits. This bill doesn't roll back the Clean Water Act. It codifies decades- old EPA policy to shield permit holders from activist lawsuits as long as they acted in good faith and according to the specific terms of their permit. This type of regulatory certainty and legal protection for permit holders is necessary for improving our Nation's infrastructure, especially California's Central Valley water infrastructure. Mr. Chair, I urge my colleagues to support this bill, a commonsense reform that will strengthen the permitting process for permit seekers and holders, as well as provide greater clarity for permitting agencies.

Mr. DUARTE

Mr. DUARTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of John Morrow Derby, a legend of Central Valley journalism who spent 60 years in the newspaper business. Mr. Derby was the publisher of five local weekly newspapers, including the Merced County Times, the Atwater-Winton Times, the Hilmar Times, the Hughson Chronicle, and the Waterford News. He also served as president of the parent company Mid-Valley Publications. Mr. Derby was known for coining the local slogan and business mantra, ``The Power of Positive Press.'' He was an avid sailor, a member of the Lake Yosemite Sailing Association, and a longtime member of the Merced Sunrise Rotary Club. John Derby first came to the Central Valley in the 1950s, studying at Fresno State and serving in the military toward the end of the Korean conflict. In Korea, he picked up the journalism bug when he pursued an assignment to write about the operations of nine battalions from Seoul to Panmunjom where the peace talks were held. Mr. Derby would eventually end up in Merced in 1961 after landing a reporting job at the Sun-Star. Over the course of six decades, he started multiple newspapers across the Central Valley. Mr. Derby once wrote, ``Life without being a newspaper man is about the most boring thing in the world. The ink really is in my blood . . . I am here to stay and do what I have loved to do all my life--and that is to cover the lives of people in our community in a positive way.'' Last Christmas, he wrote a deeply personal message to some of his top staffers: ``You are full grown, and capable newspaper people. You have learned all the lessons it took me 60 years to learn and more. Now it is your duty to teach others the art of good honest journalism . . . May your ship of life sail true. May the ocean be wide and the currents be strong. May the winds blow hard. May you sail on, through the fury of those winds, and come out whole.'' Throughout his six-decade career in journalism, John Morrow Derby exemplified ``The Power of Positive Press'' with his devotion to his community and his steadfast dedication to fairness, decency, and truth. It was an honor to have known him, and upon his passing, I would like to extend my sincere condolences to his family and express my deepest sympathies to his beloved Mid-Valley Publications team.

Mr. DUARTE

Mr. DUARTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Chief Rick Collins upon his retirement from the Ceres Police Department. Chief Collins began his career in law enforcement after graduating from Ceres High School and joining the Ceres Police Department as an Explorer at the age of 19. In 1995, he was hired as a Reserve Officer, and in 1997 he was hired as a full-time officer where he was assigned to patrol. He was then assigned to the Detective Bureau in 1999 and worked as a financial crimes and high-tech crimes investigator. Chief Collins was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in 2004 and assigned to the Patrol Division. During this time, he earned a BA in Organizational Leadership from Chapman University and a master's degree also in Organizational Leadership from Brandman University. In 2008, he was promoted to Lieutenant where he managed the department's Special Operations units. In 2015 he was promoted to Captain, and in 2019 he was promoted to Chief. Chief Collins is also a graduate of the Sherman Block Supervisory Leadership Institute, class 235, and of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, class 268. Off duty, Chief Collins has devoted his time to Ceres youth sports. He's coached youth soccer and served on the youth soccer board for three years. He's also volunteered as a coach for youth baseball. Throughout his distinguished career in law enforcement, Chief Collins has exemplified the highest standards of duty and commitment to public service--earning the admiration of myself and his local community in the Central Valley. Upon his retirement, I want to extend my best wishes to Chief Collins on his new journey.

Mr. DUARTE

Mr. DUARTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today, joined by my colleagues, Rep. David Valadao and Rep. Tom McClintock, to proclaim February 16, 2024, as National Almond Day. Today, we celebrate the remarkable contributions made by almond farmers, processors, workers, and all those involved in the almond industry. National Almond Day recognizes the industry's success and innovation, highlighting its vital role in our Nation's agriculture and economy. Almonds, often referred to as nature's wonder, offer many benefits. They are the healthiest shelf-stable protein grown on Earth and are gluten-free. They provide essential nutrients such as healthy fats, fiber, vitamin E, calcium, niacin, magnesium, iron, and potassium. Almonds contribute to maintaining healthy hearts, cholesterol levels. and blood sugar. They even promote skin health and protect against ultraviolet radiation. One remarkable aspect of almonds is their versatility. Almonds serve as a healthy and delicious food option, suitable for snacking or as an ingredient in baking and cooking. They have become a staple in countless households, enriching our diets and enhancing our culinary experiences. My home state of California is the heart of this industry. It is home to 7,600 almond farms, most family-owned and operated by dedicated third- and fourth-generation farmers. These small-scale, sustainable practices are the backbone of the almond industry, fostering a sense of community and preserving farmland. The impact of the almond industry extends far beyond agriculture. It employs 110,000 people in California and contributes a staggering $9.2 billion annually to our economy. Furthermore, California is responsible for supplying 100 percent of the almonds in the United States and 80 percent of the world's almond supply, making our state a global leader in almond production. On this special day, we honor the hardworking men and women who work tirelessly to bring almonds to our table. National Almond Day is a tribute to their dedication and innovation. As we enjoy the nutritious and delicious almonds, let us also recognize the profound impact of the almond industry on our lives. communities, and environment. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the United States House of Representatives to join me in celebrating National Almond Day and the contributions of almond farmers, processors, and other industry members who make the almond industry one of the most successful and innovative in the United States. May National Almond Day be a source of pride and inspiration for all.

Mr. DUARTE

Mr. DUARTE. Mr. Speaker, I thank Congressman Calvert for this Special Order. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank, admire, and pay respect to my good friend, Speaker Kevin McCarthy. For many years I supported candidates, many of the men I admire here and many of the ladies. I did fundraisers, and they came to my house. Kevin was one of them. When this race came up where I decided to run for Congress, I looked to the example of Kevin McCarthy, and I said: America is about to turn socialist. If I don't step up and work alongside Kevin McCarthy to win this seat, to win this critical majority today, then I may grow old in a socialist country for lack of my own efforts and for lack of seeing the inspiration and responding to the tireless work of Speaker Kevin McCarthy, who is a dear friend of mine and a dear friend of many. I know in the years to come when--however far forward it is--when I talk about my time in Congress, the conversation will quickly go to an American hero, Kevin McCarthy, who tirelessly and successfully worked to stop socialism in America by winning this critical majority here in Congress. I thank Kevin for our freedom, his leadership, and I thank him for his friendship. I wish the best to him in the future. I will be here in Congress while he does his thing, and I am happy to see it.