Joni Ernst

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Withdrawn.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, for over a decade, I have led the charge to expose government abuses, curb reckless regulations, and protect hard- working taxpayers from Washington's overreach. As my colleagues have so rightly discussed, the actions by the Biden administration made it necessary for President Trump to declare a national energy emergency on day one. The Biden administration's green energy programs artificially incentivized electric vehicles using billions of taxpayer dollars, with only 60 charging stations to show for it. Folks, that is just one of the many energy-related billion-dollar boondoggles by the former administration. As chair and founder of the Senate DOGE Caucus, I committed to preventing unchecked bureaucrats from issuing regulations that impose significant new costs and stifle growth. Every day, DOGE is uncovering just how far the Biden administration went to conceal its reckless spending through the Federal Agencies, especially regarding their climate pet projects. Instead of transparency and objective analysis, Biden's bureaucrats relied on manipulation, inflated so-called ``net benefits,'' and completely disregarded economic reality in their rulemakings. And they were prolific, churning out nearly 110,000 pages of regulations just last year. That is 1 year and 110,000 pages--the highest number ever. Between November 2023 and January 2025 alone, Agencies issued 50 final rules using shady accounting gimmicks, slapping over half a trillion dollars in regulatory burdens onto hard-working Americans. This included a relentless push to regulate truckers out of business, based on the audacious claim that its extreme emissions rules would somehow create $99 billion in benefits for society. But here is the reality, folks: These policies make everything more expensive for families, they kill jobs, and they hurt our small businesses. It doesn't stop there. The Department of Energy cited billions in so- called ``climate net benefits'' and the ``social cost of greenhouse gases'' to justify heavyhanded mandates, ignoring the very real costs passed on to farmers and manufacturers. For too long, unelected bureaucrats have ignored the voices of job creators and working families, pushing costly regulations while hiding the true impact. This is why my RED TAPE Act is critical. My bill ensures that Agencies can no longer manipulate a cost-benefit analysis to push their own agenda. It requires Agencies to prioritize data- driven, measurable economic benefits, not vague ideological justifications. While some Federal employees complain about the new directives from the Trump administration, they should take a moment to understand that hard-working Americans who have had to show up to work and take risks to open businesses will no longer tolerate having to foot the bill for regulatory overreach. I am voting no on this effort to end President Trump's national energy emergency. I support the President's efforts to make energy more available and affordable to power economic growth. I yield the floor.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize Edgewood Locker of Edgewood, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In 1966, Tom and Joan Kerns founded Edgewood Locker as a family-run operation in a rented building in downtown Edgewood. After experience on their family farm, the young couple decided to take the risk of opening a meat processing plant. Initially, the business focused solely on custom meat processing and locker storage services. Four years later, the Kerns family expanded operations by purchasing an old creamery on the north edge of town and remodeling it themselves. The business steadily grew with the involvement of their sons Terry and Jim, and by 1980, they established a generational family partnership. This enabled Edgewood Locker to expand its service offerings, as well as launch a retail store serving cuts, cured meats, and more. Over the years, the business undertook six major remodels to accommodate its increasing customer base and expanding range of services. In 1997, this ultimately led to Edgewood Locker's relocation into a new, state-of- the-art facility on the west edge of town. In 2022, the business nearly doubled its space, adding another 19,000 square feet to its facility. Today, Terry and Jim continue to run Edgewood Locker along with the family's third generation Katie, Baili, Payson, and Luke. Under their leadership, Edgewood Locker expanded to employ 60 full-time employees from the local community while serving customers throughout Iowa. Edgewood Locker built a reputation for its high-quality meat products and award-winning processing services. The company provides full- service custom processing of cattle, hogs, lambs, goats, and deer, catering to both individual customers and wholesalers. Edgewood Locker prepares award-winning sausages, meat sticks, bacon, and more with their family recipes and works with over 140 retail partners across the State. Last year, the business produced over 1 million pounds of sausage and almost 500,000 pounds of venison products. Edgewood Locker is deeply committed to community service. The company is a member of the Edgewood Chamber, the American Association of Meat Processors, and the Iowa Meat Processors Association, with over 200 industry awards hanging on its walls. The company also supports local schools, civic groups, and churches through charitable donations and sponsorships. Additionally, Edgewood Locker sponsors the annual Edgewood Rodeo. The business is committed to investing in the next generation by running a butcher apprenticeship program for high school and college students. The program covers the students' tuition at Hawkeye Community College and allows them to learn the skills of the trade by working at Edgewood Locker. Edgewood Locker will celebrate its 58th anniversary in Iowa later this year. Edgewood Locker's entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to excellence are clear. I want to congratulate the Kerns family and the entire team for their hard work and dedication to providing exceptional products and services to families across Iowa. I look forward to seeing their continued growth and success.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for the quorum call be rescinded.

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, in just a few minutes, we will be asked to decide whether the Honorable Kelly Loeffler should be confirmed as Administrator of the Small Business Administration. As chair of the Small Business Committee, I would like to strongly urge all of my colleagues to vote yes and support her nomination. As a successful business leader, Kelly Loeffler is the perfect person to increase transparency and accountability at the SBA and prioritize the needs of small businesses. Throughout the committee's rigorous nomination process, Senator Loeffler has been thoroughly cooperative and impressive. She passed out of the committee with a bipartisan vote of 12 to 7. Over the course of her career, Senator Loeffler has shown how hard work, grit, and midwestern common sense can take you from Illinois soybean fields to CEO of your own company and, now, to lead a government Agency. I am confident that Senator Loeffler will ensure SBA once again works for all small businesses and ushers in a golden age for America's small businesses. Senator Loeffler is the right person to lead the Small Business Administration. She understands the burdens facing small businesses and recognizes how Washington can often serve as a barrier and a hindrance to their success. I have no doubt that she will fight to make sure Main Street is heard. Again, I urge all of my colleagues to support her nomination and confirm Senator Loeffler as Administrator of the Small Business Administration. I yield the floor.

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the previously rescheduled vote begin immediately.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize Sweetheart Bakery and Homer's Deli of Clinton, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In 1950, Sweetheart Bakery began as a small family-owned operation when real-life sweethearts Charlie and Florence Thornton opened their first storefront on Main Avenue. Their son Charles J. Thornton joined the business, learned the beloved recipes, and eventually took the reins when his father passed away. In 1978, Charles, along with his wife Joanne moved Sweetheart Bakery one block west, expanding the business into its current storefront in the Lyons business district. After decades of success, the third generation of the Thornton family officially took over in 1998 when Charles' son Chuck and his wife Brenda purchased the Main Avenue shop. Upon taking over, they merged the family bakery with Homer's Deli, the next-door restaurant that the two also owned and managed. With each generation, the bakery has evolved while maintaining its family values. Today, Sweetheart Bakery and Homer's Deli remain a family-owned and operated small business, and the fourth generation is already working alongside the business' 33 community-based employees. Chuck and Brenda's children Shauna and Derek help manage daily operations and are part owners of the company. The bakery remains committed to crafting everything from scratch, including its famous cakes, seasonal cookies, pastries, and handmade candy. Their homemade breads and buns, crafted from Grandpa Thornton's 75-year-old recipes, remain customer favorites, as do their world-famous Blarney Stones. Homer's Deli complements the bakery, offering fresh sandwiches and soups, making the establishment a go-to spot for the Clinton community, as well as local organizations looking to cater. Beyond their commitment to quality food and baked goods, the Thornton family actively supports the Clinton community. Chuck and Brenda play leading roles in the North River Drive project, working to revitalize the Lyons Business District and bring additional success to their neighboring small businesses. Brenda led many initiatives across the community in her role as president of the Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce, which changed its name to Grow Clinton in 2022. Additionally, while on the board of Mercy One Hospital, Brenda worked to bring essential oncology equipment to Clinton. Chuck previously served as the president of the Lyons Business Association and partnered with the local middle school to teach Junior Achievement for many years. Today, Shauna currently serves as the secretary of the Lyons Business Association and leads as cochair of the annual chili cook-off and the Clinton Christmas Walk. In March, the Thornton family will celebrate the 75th anniversary of Sweetheart Bakery and Homer's Deli in Iowa. With a legacy spanning over seven decades, Sweetheart Bakery and Homer's Deli's commitment to family values, incredible baking, and community service is clear. I want to congratulate the Thornton family and their entire team for bringing family baked goods, sandwiches, and more to communities across Iowa. I look forward to seeing their continued success.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. I ask for the yeas and nays.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, later today, we have the opportunity to advance the nomination of the Honorable Kelly Loeffler to be the Administrator of the Small Business Administration. Senator Loeffler is immensely qualified for this role. As a successful businesswoman, it is abundantly clear that Senator Loeffler truly understands what it takes to be an entrepreneur and will be an effective voice for small businesses across America. Since President Trump's election in November, optimism on Main Street has surged to its highest levels since 2018. Our Nation's job creators--small businesses--are excited about the prospect of having a dedicated and knowledgeable leader at the helm of the SBA. Last week, the Small Business Committee, on which I serve as chair, favorably reported her nomination out with a bipartisan vote--a sure sign that my friends on both sides of the aisle believe she is fit to lead the SBA. Senator Loeffler will bring accountability back to the Agency and promote policies that will truly benefit America's small businesses. As evidenced in her nomination hearing, Senator Loeffler's experience and her expertise make her the right person to lead the SBA and advocate for our small businesses. Growing up on her family's farm in Bloomington, IL, Senator Loeffler experienced firsthand the problems facing America's farmers and small business owners. And as a fellow farm girl myself, I look forward to having some more Midwest common sense in Washington, DC. Senator Loeffler also witnessed her parents start up a small trucking business and navigate complex rules and regulations. She understands the struggles small businesses face because--do you know what?--she has experienced them. Fortunately, Senator Loeffler is ready to cut the redtape and reduce the burdens that so many of our job creators still face today. Senator Loeffler is also a successful entrepreneur. She was the first employee and CEO of a financial technology company. Through her hard work and tenacity, she aggressively grew the company and took it public within 3 years. Additionally, Senator Loeffler knows what it means to work for Main Street and the American people. During COVID, as a U.S. Senator, she worked tirelessly to bring relief to the people of Georgia, specifically through the Paycheck Protection Program. However, she, like me, recognizes that some took advantage of this program, and they need to be held accountable. During her confirmation hearing, Senator Loeffler detailed her zero-tolerance policy for waste, fraud, and abuse in the SBA. That should be welcome news for all of us. In addition, Senator Loeffler indicated the need for a full-scale audit--I started my political career as an auditor, so I agree with this--a full-scale audit at the SBA to uncover improper spending and stated she would rely on that data to make the best decisions for the future of the SBA. Senator Loeffler also noted the importance of working with Congress, particularly when it comes to disaster relief. She recognized the tragedy of the SBA's disaster shortfall, which lasted for 66 days in the middle of back-to-back natural disasters. She recognized this should never happen again. SBA's vital role in the disaster process cannot be overstated, and we must ensure we have an Administrator who will alert Congress at the first signs of any concerns. The SBA needs a strong leader with a proven track record in business management, and Senator Loeffler brings all of that and more to the table. I look forward to working with Senator Loeffler to ensure small businesses all across America can thrive and maintain these high levels of optimism we are already seeing under this administration. I urge my colleagues to advance her nomination and support her with a ``yes'' vote. I yield the floor. I suggest the absence of a quorum.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship today adopted rules governing its procedures for the 119th Congress. Pursuant to rule XXVI, paragraph 2, of the Standing Rules of the Senate, I ask unanimous consent that the accompanying rules adopted by the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship be printed in the Record.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Madam President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize BHFO of Cedar Rapids, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In 2003, Jon and Stacie Sefton founded BHFO in the basement of their home in Cedar Rapids. The company's name reflects their family-oriented approach, incorporating the initials of their daughters Brittany and Hannah, along with ``Factory Outlet,'' to emphasize accessibility to premium products. The couple wanted to provide high-quality, designer apparel at affordable prices. The emerging world of e-commerce provided an opportunity for Jon and Stacie to sell brand-name fashion items online through eBay. In 2010, they launched their own website and have continued to reach customers all around the world. BHFO started as a single online marketplace with two suppliers and has now grown to operate across 18 different marketplaces with hundreds of brand partnerships. Jon, who serves as the CFO and President, and Stacie, who serves as CEO, relocated the business multiple times to accommodate their rapid expansion before settling into a state-of-the- art, 240,000-square-foot facility in Cedar Rapids. This facility serves as the hub for their operations, allowing them to efficiently source, process, and distribute an extensive selection of clothing, shoes, and accessories to their customers worldwide. Today, BHFO employs over 100 team members, including their daughter Brittany who works as a buyer for the company. The company prides itself on adapting to changing consumer trends and embracing technological advancements to optimize its e-commerce platform and logistics. Their business continues to grow and thrive, with over 2.8 million positive reviews on eBay. Beyond their impressive business achievements, BHFO remains committed to giving back to the community by supporting food pantry collections and a cancer walk that raises funds towards cancer research. BHFO is a member of the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance, and in 2013, they awarded BHFO with the Bravo Award for their local growth and economic impact. In 2024, Newsweek ranked BHFO in the top 30 for best multibrand online shop in the United States. The business contributes to charitable organizations such as the Zach Johnson Foundation, Youth for Christ, and Many Hands for Haiti International, reflecting BHFO's belief in using their success to uplift others. In March, BHFO looks forward to celebrating its 22nd anniversary in Iowa. The entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to excellence demonstrated by BHFO is clear. I want to congratulate Jon and Stacie, their family, along with their entire team, for their hard work, innovation, and dedication to enriching their community in Iowa. I look forward to seeing their continued success.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Madam President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize World's Window of Cedar Falls, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In 1982, Vonna Yoder founded World's Window to educate the Cedar Valley community about fair trade business practices and to support artisans worldwide. Driven by a desire to help international artisans find success through fair wages and ethical trade, Vonna began to sell global artisan products at a church-sponsored gift fair. After the overwhelming success of the second annual fair, she established a permanent retail store in 1984. World's Window operated as a community- led nonprofit for 40 years until 2022 when a longtime volunteer Betsy Roling decided to purchase the shop and keep the mission alive as a family-owned small business. Today, World's Window continues to thrive in its downtown Cedar Falls storefront, offering an array of high-quality, handcrafted goods from over 30 countries and 40 artisan groups and cooperatives. While preserving the shop's global mission, Betsy also introduced a local vision with the Cob Mercantile. With the help of community volunteers and employees, Betsy opened a year-round indoor market to give local Iowa artisans a Main Street location without the typical costs associated. The Cob Mercantile offers a shared marketing and online sales platform and a physical booth space. Beyond World's Window store and the Cob Mercantile, Betsy opened a space for local artisans to rent and host classes, workshops, or private events for children and adults in the community. World's Window remains an active part of the Cedar Valley community. The business is a member of the Cedar Falls Downtown District. In addition, the company offers special fundraising nights for organizations to host an event in the shop and take home a guaranteed portion of the total proceeds back to their business. The two conjoined storefronts remain an important part of the Cedar Falls Main Street, embodying the meaning of service--whether it is supporting local Iowa businesses or international artisans. Later this year, World's Window looks forward to celebrating its 43rd year in Iowa. The entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to global and local impact demonstrated by World's Window and the Cob Mercantile are clear. I want to congratulate Betsy Roling, her family, Vonna Yoder, and the entire team for their hard work and dedication to enriching their community and providing unique, meaningful products to families across Iowa. I look forward to seeing their continued growth and success.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize Myers Tree Farm of Sperry, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In 1987, Robert and Patti Myers planted the first group of Christmas trees on an acre of land in hopes to sell them and help pay for their children's college education. This inspired their son Chad Myers to begin working at a local nursery and even using his graduation money to purchase and sell trees in the community. While attending Iowa State University, Chad spent summers expanding the family business. After graduating with a degree in horticulture in 1993, Chad took over the business full-time. Today, Chad and his wife Joni, along with 12 community members, help operate the business. The company features over 5,000 Scotch Pine, White Pine, and Norway Spruce trees across 25 acres of land. They offer full-service landscaping, including seeding, sodding, tree transplanting, and more. Chad's college studies in greenhouse management inspired the construction of the farm's first greenhouse, which later evolved into the Potting Shed, a flower and home decor shop run by Joni. In 2019, the Myers renovated their barn into a wedding venue. What started as a kind gesture to assist a friend during a storm in 2008 has since transformed into a pivotal element of their business and creative spirit. Serving the community remains the core of Myers Tree Farm. Since 2001, the business has hosted an annual Fourth of July celebration to thank their customers. This event features a professional fireworks show attracting over 5,000 attendees each year. Additionally, Myers Tree Farm is a member of the National Christmas Tree Growers, as well as the Iowa Nursery and Landscape Association. Later this year, Myers Tree Farm looks forward to celebrating its 38th anniversary in Iowa. The entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to excellence demonstrated by Myers Tree Farm is clear. I want to congratulate this family-owned and operated business and the Myers' dedication to enriching the Sperry community and providing exceptional products and services to families across Iowa. I look forward to seeing their continued growth and success.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize Jones Dairy of Milford, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In 1903, Minor Jones and his wife Emma opened Jones Dairy when they rented 160 acres of farmland in Milford, IA. The family raised a variety of crops and livestock, ranging from cattle and pigs to corn and soybeans. In 1934, the couple purchased the land where Jones Dairy Farm remains today. Upon returning home from World War II, their son James became the second-generation owner of the Jones family farm. James and his wife raised their five children on the farm and began specializing in dairy cattle. Their youngest son Patrick developed a strong interest in dairy farming and, specifically, Jersey cows. Patrick and James worked together to expand the business while modernizing dairy production on the farm. In 1982, Patrick and his wife Nancy purchased Jones Dairy, becoming the third-generation owners. The couple raised their eight children on the farm and oversaw an expansion to 1,500 cows and over 1,200 acres of farmland. Today, two of Patrick and Nancy's children Aaron and Nathan manage the dairy operations full time. Jones Dairy continues to be a beloved gathering place for the family, including Patrick and Nancy's 14 grandchildren. Jones Dairy has grown to employ 20 northwest Iowa community members and boasts a sophisticated operation, milking 1,800 cows three times a day using a 64-stall DeLaval rotary parlor that was added in their 2023 expansion. The Grade A milk is then transported by a semi-tanker to where it is made into cheese and sent out across the Midwest. Over 12,000 gallons of milk are produced each day, and Jones Dairy sells nearly 4.3 million gallons of milk annually. Jones Dairy also grows cover crops, such as winter rye, for soil health and forage feed for the cows. Beyond the milk production, the farm offers daily tours for visitors to have the chance to milk cows, bottle-feed newborn calves, and enjoy a petting zoo. In 2015, Jones Dairy was awarded the Iowa Venture Award by the Iowa Area Development Group. Additionally, during their 2023 expansion project, the farm not only sought to prioritize cow comfort and efficiency, but also hospitality. State-of-the-art viewing windows and programming space enable Jones Dairy to fulfill its mission to educate guests about the important connection between farms and food. The family farm remains an active part of the community by hosting local school districts for immersive field trips and 4-H-sponsored events, with over 500 schoolchildren visiting annually. Later this year, Jones Dairy looks forward to celebrating 122 years in Iowa. It is clear that the family-owned and operated Jones Dairy's commitment to family while supporting Iowa's dairy industry. I want to congratulate the Jones family, as well as the entire team at Jones Dairy, for their continued dedication to family farming and educating the next generation of Iowans. I look forward to seeing their continued success in Iowa.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, I rise in support of the Laken Riley Act and ask my fellow colleagues to vote for my amendment, Sarah's Law. Combined, these actions will close the loopholes that for too long have allowed murderers who come here illegally to roam free in our communities and commit more crimes. These two young women, Sarah Root and Laken Riley, and their families deserve justice. Folks, we can make this happen tonight. After all, this is not a partisan fight. I am honored to have my colleague Senator Fetterman from the great State of Pennsylvania cosponsoring Sarah's Law. The truth is, the border crisis has impacted every State, not just southern border States like Texas and Arizona but New York, Georgia, Pennsylvania, and, yes, folks, even Iowa. The end of this month marks 9 years since Iowan's Michelle Root and Scott Root, whom I know personally, woke up to every parent's worst nightmare: Their daughter Sarah was killed by a drunk driver who was an illegal immigrant. Sarah, a 21-year-old from Council Bluffs, IA, had just graduated from Bellevue University in Nebraska with a 4.0 GPA. She was headed home after celebrating this milestone--a very important day in her life--with her family and friends. In an instant, an illegal immigrant, Edwin Mejia, who was drunk-driving, with a blood alcohol three times the legal limit, struck and killed her. One would think that Sarah's killer would clearly meet Immigration and Customs Enforcement's ``enforcement priorities'' but no--no. Citing the Obama administration's November 2014 memo, ICE declined to take custody of Mejia. Yes, folks, he had killed a woman, and they declined to take custody of Edwin Mejia despite his repeated driving offenses and history of skipping court dates. Before the Root family could even lay Sarah to rest in her satin- lined casket in the cold Iowa ground, her murderer had posted bond, never to be seen again and never to face justice. Since then, I have warned repeatedly against the dangers of letting illegal immigrants who have already broken our laws roam the country and continue their lawlessness. A loophole in the law meant Sarah's killer escaped justice, but today we can do something to ensure that no other family has to go through the pain and the grief that Scott and Michelle and Scotty and the rest of their family still feel from that heartbreaking day. My amendment would close the alarming loophole that let Sarah's killer go free. It would simply require ICE to detain illegal immigrants charged with killing or seriously injuring another person so they do not disappear before facing justice. Let's make this a reality today for Sarah's family, for Laken's family, and for the countless American families we can protect. I thank the gentle lady from Alabama for spearheading this effort to bring justice for our families. I yield the floor.

Ms. ERNST. I ask for the yeas and nays.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, our Nation, this body, and the American people are all too familiar with stories like Laken Riley's, the 22- year-old nursing student beaten to death by an illegal immigrant, one who was already in police custody in New York City before being let go. Unfortunately, after 4 years of Biden's open border, this heartbreaking story has become too commonplace. Hardly a day goes by without hearing of another American who has fallen victim to crimes perpetrated by the illegal immigrants the Biden administration let flood into our country. And worse, too many times an illegal immigrant arrested for a violent crime posts bail, never to be heard from again, escaping through loopholes in the law. This crisis only continues. While these tragedies should have never happened in the first place, my colleagues and I are taking action to ensure they never happen again. My legislation, Sarah's Law, in conjunction with the Laken Riley Act will close these loopholes, so our laws no longer prioritize illegal immigrants over our own citizens. Working to secure the border and protect Americans is not a new fight for me, but it became personal nearly 9 years ago. On January 31--so at the end of this month--marks 9 years since Iowans Michelle Root and Scott Root, whom I know personally, woke up to every parent's worst nightmare. Their daughter, Sarah, was killed by a drunk driver who was an illegal immigrant. Sarah--and she is a beautiful, young woman. She was 21 years old, she was from Council Bluffs, and she had just graduated from Bellevue University in Nebraska with a 4.0 GPA. She had her bachelor's degree in criminal investigations. She was headed home after celebrating this really important milestone with her family and her friends. Sarah had her entire life ahead of her; but, instead, an illegal immigrant, Edwin Mejia, who was drunk driving with a blood alcohol level three times over the legal limit struck and killed her. One would think that Sarah's killer would clearly meet Immigration and Customs Enforcement's enforcement priorities. But, no, citing the Obama administration's November 2014 memo, ICE declined to take custody of Mejia, despite his repeated driving offenses and history of skipping court dates. Before the Root family could even lay Sarah to rest, her murderer posted bond and was released, never to be seen again. To rub salt in the wound, the Biden administration removed Mejia from ICE's Most Wanted list. Since then, I have warned repeatedly against the dangers of letting illegal immigrants--who have already broken our laws--roam the country and continue their lawlessness. I have continually called on this body to step up and protect innocent Americans from criminals who are here in our country illegally and pass my bill: Sarah's Law. A loophole in the law means Sarah's killer escaped justice. But today, we can do something to ensure no other family has to go through the pain and the grief that Sarah's parents, Scott and Michelle, still feel from their heartbreaking day. My bill named in Sarah's honor would close the alarming loophole that let Sarah's killer go free. It would simply require ICE to detain illegal immigrants charged with killing or seriously injuring another person, so they do not disappear before facing justice. It is common sense, folks. No parent should have to endure the pain of losing a child like the Root family did. But, unfortunately, the Riley family is experiencing this same heartbreak. Sarah's and Laken's deaths are both tragic and, unfortunately, are doomed to be repeated if we don't close the loopholes in that law. Those who come here illegally and harm our citizens should, without question, be detained so they face justice. Again, folks, this is common sense. We can no longer prioritize illegal immigrants over public safety. We must pass the Laken Riley Act and Sarah's Law to send this message loud and clear for Sarah's family, for Laken's family, and for the countless American families that this action would protect. I yield the floor.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Madam President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize Boomerang Corporation of Anamosa, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In 1998, Bryce Ricklefs opened Ricklefs Excavating to support construction projects throughout the Anamosa community. After graduating from high school, Bryce began focusing on a career in grading and excavation. He purchased a used excavator in 1999 and began seeking larger projects. In 2002, the company began focusing on public municipal construction across eastern Iowa, expanding its services to include wastewater management, roadwork, and infrastructure projects. In 2017, Bryce rebranded Ricklefs Excavating to Boomerang Corporation to show the company's commitment to civil contracting projects that start and end with them, as well as a new era of innovation and growth. Today, Bryce and his wife Sarah own and operate the business with a team of 200 employees. Boomerang Corporation plans, designs, and oversees construction projects throughout eastern Iowa. The company prides itself on embracing infrastructure challenges while delivering high-quality results. From concrete projects to demolition, Boomerang Corporation uses the latest technologies, such as trenchless technology, to install, repair, or replace pipes with minimal destruction. In 2019, Bryce and Sarah helped found a software company Tractics to support contractors with asset tracking, project management, and timekeeping for civil construction projects. Beyond their contributions to civil construction, the Ricklefs also focus on enhancing Anamosa's built infrastructure. In 2020, they purchased eight buildings in the downtown area that were in disrepair and rehabbed them to a usable condition. They donated one of the buildings to the city of Anamosa's police department, and it is still used today. Additionally, Bryce, the son of a home builder, recognized Anamosa's housing shortage and has personally committed to building over 60 houses in the community. Boomerang Corporation is passionate about building up young Iowans and offers internships to local students. Demonstrating their commitment to the next generation, Boomerang Corporation partnered with the Anamosa Community School District and Kirkwood Community College to create an apprenticeship program. This initiative offers high school students the opportunity to graduate with both a high school diploma, as well as a certificate in a trade, such as welding. In September, Boomerang Corporation looks forward to celebrating its 27th business anniversary in Iowa. Boomerang Corporation's commitment to designing and overseeing high- quality construction and infrastructure projects is clear. I want to congratulate Bryce and Sarah Ricklefs and the entire team at Boomerang Corporation for their immeasurable impact on the Anamosa community. I look forward to seeing their continued growth and success in Iowa.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, thank you to my colleague from Oklahoma, Senator James Lankford, for arranging today's event. Mr. President, a winter storm shut down the Nation's Capital this week, but did anyone notice? Essential government employees showed up to do their jobs while the others enjoyed days off. My telework report revealed that just 6 percent of workers report in- person full time, and these bureaucrats are doing anything but working. This is sadly just more business as usual. However, it is a fitting prelude to a much bigger storm that is headed this way that will sweep over this city and forever alter the way it operates. I am, of course, talking about the Department of Government Efficiency, or DOGE. Headed up by Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, DOGE is putting Washington on notice. Henceforward, every cent being spent will now be scrutinized. All regulations must be justified and continually rejustified using data and outcomes, not just ideology. And the government works for the people, not the other way around. To support these efforts, I am honored to be chairing the Senate DOGE Caucus and working to downsize the government, which is why my colleagues and I stand here today. For that, I again want to thank Senator Lankford, a founding member of the caucus, author of his ``Federal Fumbles,'' and a true hero to taxpayers, for organizing today's discussion. It is a rare occasion for this many Senators to assemble on the Senate floor to call for spending cuts. In fact, since my fellow Iowans sent me to the Senate 10 years ago to make the porkers squeal, it has been a very, very lonely fight. In this era of political polarization, Democrats and Republicans still come together in agreement over one issue: living high off the hog. When faced with proposals to trim the fat from Washington's budget, Members of Congress from both parties act like Goldilocks--it is always too little or too big and never just right. But the real ``make-believe'' of this fairytale is that it is impossible to cut spending without causing pain. Most Americans aren't even benefiting in any meaningful way from the hundreds of billions of dollars hidden in our Federal budget. In fact, Washington's out-of-control spending has been fanning the flames of inflation over the past 4 years, increasing everyday costs for families all across the country. There is no time to wait for DOGE to get to work because even being a lameduck isn't slowing down Biden's reckless spending. Biden's binge- buying bureaucrats are being ordered to work overtime, including weekends, to get billions of dollars out the door as quickly as possible before President-elect Trump takes office. At the same time, the outgoing administration is cutting collective bargaining deals with government employee unions, giving bureaucrats the right to stay home from work until--get this--2029--conveniently after President Trump's term. If Federal employees don't want to come back to work, well, you know what, DOGE and I are happy to make that dream come true. My New Year's resolution is to put Washington back to work and on a diet. This week, I am reintroducing my bills to drain the swamp by relocating Federal Agencies and bureaucrats outside Washington. I am also putting forward a plan with $2 trillion in potential savings. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that this letter be printed in the Record. United States Senate, Washington, DC, November 25, 2024. Mr. Elon Musk and Mr. Vivek Ramaswamy Co-Chairmen, Department of Government Efficiency. Dear Mr. Musk and Mr. Ramaswamy: Thank you for stepping up to take on the challenge of saving taxpayers from Washington's out-of-control spending that put our nation $36 trillion in debt. Your mission could not be more urgent, and there's no team better suited to lead the effort. My fellow Iowans sent me to the Senate ten years ago to make the porkers squeal. It's been a very lonely fight. In this era of political polarization, Democrats and Republicans always come together in agreement over one issue: living high off the hog. When faced with proposals to trim the fat from Washington's budget, members of Congress from both parties act like Goldilocks. It's too little or too big, always too hard, and never just right. But the real ``make-believe'' of this fairy tale is that it's impossible to reduce Washington's budget without causing pain. Most Americans aren't even benefitting in any meaningful way from hundreds of billions of dollars being wasted. While you're seeking ``super high-IQ small-government revolutionaries'' for ``unglamorous cost-cutting,'' all that's really needed is a little common sense. If you can't find waste in Washington, there can only be one reason: you didn't look. With $3 billion of interest being added to our national debt every day, the longer we delay tackling the problem, the further away the finish line gets. To give you a head start, here are a trillion dollars' worth of ideas for trimming the fat and reducing red ink: Vacant Buildings Maintaining and leasing government office buildings costs $8 billion every year. Another $7.7 billion is spent for the energy to keep them running. Yet, with the federal workforce still largely working from home, not a single headquarters of a major government agency or department in the nation's capital is even half full. Billions more are being spent buying brand new furnishings for the abandoned offices. The government also owns 7,697 vacant buildings and another 2,265 that are partially empty. An additional $14 million is being spent leasing underutilized space and nearly $1 million more for its maintenance. Consolidating office space reduces costs and auctioning off unneeded properties brings in revenues. Audit the IRS Americans are paying the salaries and benefits for thousands of federal employees who aren't paying their own taxes. I audited the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and found more than 5,800 employees and contractors of the tax collection agency owe almost $50 million. As a result, many are now in payment plans, but 860 still haven't paid their overdue taxes. Tax evasion isn't just a problem at the IRS either. Government-wide, there are nearly 150,000 tax cheats owing $1.5 billion in unpaid taxes. Biden's Billion Dollar Boondoggles President Biden's so-called infrastructure program provided $7.5 billion to build a nationwide network of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations and $42 billion to expand broadband. Three years later, just 17 EV stations are completed and not a single person--not one--has been connected to the internet yet. It's time to pull the plug. The Biden administration also paid hundreds of billions of COVID relief dollars to fraudsters. A U.S. attorney calls it ``the biggest fraud in a generation.'' Some swindlers who uploaded pictures of Barbie dolls as photo identification on the applications were even approved to receive money. But the Biden administration is being lax recollecting the cash and time is running out. The Special Inspector General for Pandemic Recovery investigating the grift expires in March, unless Congress extends its mission until every penny is returned. Golden State Gravy Trains Taking Taxpayers for a Ride Just three California gravy trains are on track to burn through billions of dollars: The California High-Speed Train is costing about $ 1.8 million a day to build and won't be completed for another decade. The current cost estimate to complete the project is $128 billion--nearly $100 billion more than the original price tag! President Trump previously canceled federal funding for the project, but President Biden restored the money. The price tag of Nancy Pelosi's six-mile subway extension from San Francisco to Silicon Valley is $9.3 billion, more than $1.5 billion per mile. The 1.3-mile extension of San Francisco's Caltrain rail service is one of the costliest transit projects in the world with a price tag of $6.7 billion, or $5.15 billion per mile. Going a billion dollars over budget isn't a rounding error, it's a train wreck. Christmas in September In Washington, Christmas comes in September when binge buying bureaucrats go hog wild fulfilling their own wish lists. That's because the federal government's authority to spend money left over at the end of a fiscal year expires at midnight on September 30. In the rush to use it before they lose it, $53 billion was recently spent in a single week! The September spending sprees of the past included impulse purchases on $4.6 million of lobster tail and crab and $2.1 million for games and toys, including nearly $12,000 for a foosball table. For the sake of taxpayers, DOGE needs to be the Grinch. Welfare for Politicians The Presidential Election Campaign Fund provides welfare checks for politicians with presidential aspirations. It hasn't supported a winning candidate in two decades. This year the program paid out more than $1 million to Mike Pence's campaign and $380,000 to Green Party candidate Jill Stein. More than $16.6 million is currently available for funding the future aspirations of fringe candidates destined for failure. Bad Pennies The government is losing money making money, paying more than three cents to produce a penny and more than 11 cents for a nickel. That makes no cents when simply changing the composition of the coins could save more than $50 million a year. Trillion Dollar Secret Slush Funds This past year, Biden's bureaucrats claimed the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Small Business Administration ran out of money needed to assist veterans and pay for emergency disaster recovery efforts. Yet, Washington always finds money when it comes to paying for pet projects, and some accounts are flush with cash. There's still billions of dollars of unspent COVID relief dollars, for example. Most of us feel lucky when we find a $20 bill in our pocket or some change in the couch. Well, Washington ended the last fiscal year with trillions of dollars left unspent, $1.6 trillion of which isn't even obligated for any specific purpose yet. With trillions of dollars stashed away in secret slush funds, why is Washington borrowing any more money? Bogus Bonuses Federal employees and government contractors are being rewarded with financial bonuses for poor performance resulting in delays and cost overruns. The Pentagon is paying millions of dollars in unearned bonuses, including $10.6 million to a contractor that created ``a life and safety concern'' for airmen by failing to provide the necessary parts for jets. The VA misspent $10.8 million on bonuses for the department's senior execs from the PACT Act, passed to care for veterans exposed to toxic substances. As a result of the VA's mismanagement, the program went bankrupt, forcing Congress to pass an emergency bailout bill. NASA is paying out-of-this-world bonuses totaling more than $500 million to the contractors of the next manned moon mission, which is billions of dollars over budget and years behind schedule as a result of poor performance. Houston, we have a problem. Taxpayers were promised the moon but are instead getting stuck with a ``moondoggle.'' silly science Remember when America could actually land a man on the moon? Most Americans weren't even born when the last astronaut stepped foot on the moon. Today, we're spending billions on science and NASA can't even return our astronauts trapped on the International Space Station to Earth. American science is unmatched. We transformed the world with the creation of the internet, and SpaceX is aiming beyond the moon. The question is what are we learning from the billions of taxpayer dollars Washington is spending on research and development? The National Science Foundation is discovering the answers to questions like: How fast can a shrimp run on a treadmill? (66 feet per minute) Where does it hurt the most to be stung by a bee? (in the nostril) What were viewers' facial reactions to the Trump/Clinton presidential debate? (men looked angry and women appeared sad, especially when Clinton spoke) Which tastes better, water from a bottle or out of the toilet? (both were rated about the same) Does recycling make men seem less manly? (yes) How long does it take for a panda to poop? (about 12 seconds) What word are Republican members of Congress more likely to tweet than Democrats? (freedom) Can elephants solve puzzles? (yes) Not to be outdone, the National Institutes of Health spent tax dollars researching: To live a longer, healthier life, what political party should you join? (Republican) Are pampered cats less likely to poop outside the litterbox? (yes) Is pizza as addictive as drugs? (yes) Do pigeons gamble? (you bet) Does this sour cream and onion flavored potato chip look like Elvis? (yes, but judge for yourself) These might be fun to ask contestants on a game show, but the real question is: why are taxpayers supporting any of these studies? Unemployment for Millionaires Nearly 15,000 millionaires collect $213.3 million in unemployment payments in a single year. An old regulation left over from the Great Society-era requires the benefits be made available when someone loses a job, even if the recipient is still making a million dollars or more in other income. Most of the hardworking Americans picking up the costs aren't bringing home anywhere near that amount, even if they're working two jobs. The million-dollar question is: why is Washington forcing middle class Americans to finance the lifestyles of jobless millionaires? government swag Federal agencies collectively spend $1.5 billion every year on public relations and propaganda. This includes koozies, key chains, coloring books, snuggies, and costumed mascots. Let's bag the swag. every cloud has a silver lining Consolidating agencies' cloud computing software licenses could save $750 million every year. china's mad scientists The entire world knows Dr. Fauci funded risky research on coronaviruses in China's Wuhan Institute of Virology with taxpayer dollars. My investigations discovered millions more sent to other institutions and labs in the communist country for secretive risky research. united nations overpayments The United Nations (U.N.) charges the U.S. higher membership dues than any other country and then Washington voluntarily contributes $15 billion in additional contributions. U.N. staff helped plan and execute Hamas' terrorist attack on Israel in which American citizens were murdered and taken hostage. And a 2024 U.N. migrant plan promotes cash handouts for migrants to cover travel expenses and includes a map with a red line leading right to the U.S. border. Our tax dollars to the U.N. are subsidizing threats to our own national security! defenceless spending It's time to declare war on waste at Department of Defense (DoD). The Pentagon has never passed an audit and is unable to fully account for its budget. By its own estimates, DoD wastes $125 billion on bloated bureaucracy and inefficiency. DoD could save $527 million just by streamlining the duplication and unnecessary overlap within its storage and distribution centers. DoD overpayments are legendary and the department is still overpaying nearly $1 million for spare parts. This includes a nearly 8,000 percent mark-up for a soap dispenser than the shelf price and $1,220 for a coffee cup. remove ineligible recipients of federal employees health benefits The Federal Employees Health Benefits program is spending almost $1 billion a year paying the bills of individuals who aren't even eligible for the coverage. Over 12 years, the program covered more than $100,000 in claims for just two ineligible enrollees. paid to do nothing While millions of Americans are working two or more jobs to make ends meet, some federal employees aren't working at all. Dozens of Department of Energy employees with nothing to do spend the workday napping or playing chess, dominoes, and cards. Hundreds of other federal employees spend years with no work assignments while on paid administrative leave, costing more than $31 million in salary payments a year. Congress passed a law to fix this problem years ago, but it's still not enacted. Put them to work or send them home for good! stop giving away the farm Your call for budget cutting crusaders asks for individuals willing to work 80+ hours a week. Those type of hours aren't unusual for our nation's farmers and ranchers. No one works harder and every single American depends on the fruits of their labors. So nothing bugs me more than when the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) gives away farm aid to pay for pet projects, like subsidizing cricket farms or teaching pigs to play video games, that do nothing to support agriculture. snap back inaccurate snap payments Nearly $1 billion of ineligible Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits are being paid every month, according to USDA's own estimates. Tens of thousands of recipients enrolled in the program do not even qualify for the assistance and double dippers are getting second helpings from multiple states. Fixing these bureaucratic blunders would save more than $10 billion a year. reducing duplication and improving performance More than $200 billion in financial benefits could be achieved by implementing the thousands of outstanding recommendations made by Congress' nonpartisan watchdog agency, the Government Accountability Office. We may not agree with every suggestion, but GAO always puts taxpayers' best interest first. require commonsense project management principles For every $1 billion Washington spends. $102 million is wasted as projects go over budget, are delayed, or fail to meet projected goals. Implementing the most basic management systems--like establishing scopes and goals--could have saved taxpayers $688.5 billion from the $6.75 trillion the federal government spent this past year. This is by no means an exhaustive list, and I will be providing many more recommendations soon. My team and I are ready to help you make some prime cuts. Sincerely, Joni K. Ernst, United States Senator.

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, my proposal includes selling off thousands of vacant and underutilized buildings; auditing the IRS to fire the thousands of employees who owe tens of millions of dollars in unpaid taxes; pulling the plug on Biden's billion-dollar boondoggles for gravy trains that never leave the station and electric vehicle stations that aren't charging up anything but debt; bagging the swag and propaganda promoting government programs and Agencies at a cost of $1.5 billion a year; and changing the composition of coins so we stop losing money making money. In fact, there is no better example of the cost of government inefficiency. Washington spends 3 cents to produce a penny and 11 cents to produce a nickel. That makes no sense. A penny here, a nickel there--eventually, these examples all add up to millions, billions, and eventually, trillions. The bottom line is that if you can't find waste in Washington, there can only be one reason: You didn't look. Well, folks, I spent the last decade looking while just about everyone else seems to have been looking the other way--until now. While this is a personal issue for me, it should not be a partisan issue. After all, every American benefits from a more efficient government, and everyone loses when tax dollars are wasted. I have worked across the aisle on a number of issues to make Washington more transparent and accountable, so I would invite anyone in this body and everyone who may be watching at home who has ideas to join this conversation and our movement because DOGE is inevitable. I yield the floor.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Madam President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize the Original Saw Company of Britt, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In 1990, Robert and Laurie Eden started the Original Saw Company. After purchasing Jones Machinery Company, the couple moved the business from Des Moines to Britt in 1989. Later, the Edens bought Lancaster Machinery and the rights to begin manufacturing the radial arm saw. By the fall of 1990, the couple officially rebranded as the Original Saw Company. In 1993, after graduating from the University of Northern Iowa, Robert's son Allen joined the company full time. For nearly a decade, the father-son duo successfully managed the business together until 2002, when Allen took over as president of the company. Today, Original Saw Company has grown to a team of 21 community members and stands as the sole American manufacturer of radial arm and beam saws. The company has expanded its offerings from an initial lineup of 11 models to 24, ranging in sizes from 12 inches to 22.5 inches The company also offers tools such as saw measuring systems, extension tables, miter saw stands, and other essential woodworking products. In 2018, Original Saw Company doubled the size of its production facility. In 2020, they strengthened its capabilities further with the purchase of a molding machinery company. Original Saw Company's partner company Jones Machinery also provides machinery services and sales across the Midwest. Original Saw Company actively supports its community through sponsoring activity tickets for West Hancock Community School District, ensuring all elementary students can attend home sporting events. Additionally, Original Saw Company is a member of various industry organizations, such as the Wood Industries Association, where Allen served as the president. The company is also a member of the Association of Woodworking & Furnishings as well as the Cabinet Makers Association. In December 2022, Allen was awarded the North Iowa Area Community College Entrepreneur of the Month. This September, Original Saw Company looks forward to celebrating its 35th anniversary. Original Saw Company's commitment to crafting reliable saws, parts, and services underscores its dedication to quality and American manufacturing. I want to congratulate the Eden family, as well as the team at Original Saw Company, for their dedication to the woodworking industry and their local community. I look forward to seeing their continued success in Iowa.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Madam President, as ranking member of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize Iowa Spring Manufacturing of Adel, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In 1976, James Bianco founded Iowa Spring Manufacturing to create and deliver large, heavy-duty metal springs for agricultural and mechanical equipment and overhead garage door industries. Before starting the business, James lived in Des Moines and worked as a salesman for an Indiana-based mechanical spring company. He leveraged his experience and long-standing relationships to start his own spring manufacturing business. James and his wife Kathy began with a single machine and consulted an engineer to bring their vision to life. By 1979, the company relocated its headquarters to Adel to accommodate its growing operations. James managed Iowa Spring Manufacturing for more than 25 years and stepped down as CEO in 2002, handing over the reins to his son Tim Bianco, who joined the business full-time in 1989. Iowa Spring Manufacturing continues to expand its products to manufacture and deliver metal springs for agriculture, construction, and recreational industries. In 2007, the business launched a garage door spring division named Southern Atlantic Spring in North Carolina. With operations in three States, the company maintains over 450,000 square feet of manufacturing space, including their new 60,000-square- foot facility in Adel, which opened in April 2023. Under Tim's leadership over the last 20 years, Iowa Spring Manufacturing has grown from 30 employees to more than 200 employees, taking American-made springs across the Western Hemisphere. Iowa Spring Manufacturing is a member of the Adel Partners Chamber of Commerce, as well as the Farm Equipment Manufacturing Association. Additionally, Tim sits on the executive board of the Iowa Association of Business and Industry (ABI), as well as the board of the Spring Manufacturing Institute. In 2021, ABI awarded Tim with the Legend in Manufacturing Award. Locally, Iowa Spring Manufacturing is a dedicated supporter of the Adel Public Library and Adel High School. Across its locations in Iowa, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania, the company also works to support the local fire and emergency services. Next November, Iowa Spring Manufacturing looks forward to celebrating its 49th anniversary in Iowa. Iowa Spring Manufacturing's commitment to providing the country with reliable, American-made equipment is clear. I want to congratulate this family and the team for their dedication to keeping American-made metal springs available across the United States. I look forward to seeing their continued success.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Madam President, as ranking member of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize Lakefront Living of Pleasantville, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In 2018, Stacy Rowson started Lakefront Living after working as an embryologist for 13 years. She initially focused on selling custom sand and engraved vases for weddings and unity ceremonies, she expanded her business over time and moved it out of her home and into a rented a space in Pleasantville, IA. In 2019, Stacy purchased and transformed an old grocery store into the brick-and-mortar storefront where Lakefront Living remains today. While sand creations were the foundation of the business, Stacy's entrepreneurial spirit drove her to explore new possibilities. A suggestion from a community member sparked the idea to invest in a direct-to-film printer, opening the door to designing and printing custom products. Today, Lakefront Living specializes in customizable apparel, accessories, and gifts--all crafted in-house. The business has six community-based employees who assist Stacy with the design process. From custom tumblers to soaps and bags, Lakefront Living also plays a key role in creating much of the merchandise for the local high school. The company collaborates with small businesses across the Midwest to bring unique gifts and decor to the store. Lakefront Living also hosts parties, painting workshops, and charcuterie-making classes. Lakefront Living's dedication and impact on the community has not gone unnoticed. The business is an alumnus of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program and has won several awards, including the 2021 Pleasantville Business of the Year and placing second in the Red Rock Startup Pitch Contest. This year, the Marion County Economic Development Commission also recognized Lakefront Living as the Best Small-Town Retail Store and the Best Hobby and Special Interest Store in Marion County. Stacy also plays an active role in the Pleasantville community through her involvement with the Pleasantville FFA Alumni Association, Pleasantville Community School District High School Boosters Club, and the Liberty Evangelical Free Church youth group. Additionally, Stacy cofounded the Pleasantville Christmas on the Square, an annual event that takes place on Small Business Saturday. Next year, Stacy and her team look forward to celebrating Lakefront Living's fifth anniversary. Lakefront Living's desire to create customized quality products is clear. I want to congratulate Stacy Rowson, her family, and the team at Lakefront Living for not only offering unique, quality products, but also working to uplift other small I look forward to seeing their continued success in Iowa.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, as ranking member of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize Elliott Art Studio of Jefferson, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In 2023, Chad and Alyssa Elliott opened Elliott Art Studio in Jefferson. Chad Elliott, a lifelong artist and painter, started creating art as early as 5 years old. His skills and passion for art grew after graduating with a degree in ceramics from Graceland University. While honing his skills, Chad also discovered a new passion for music, teaching himself guitar and integrating this creative outlet into his life as an artist. Today, Chad tours the country as a musician, both as a solo artist and as one-half of a duo named the Weary Ramblers. The Iowa duo was even considered for seven Grammy nominations this year. Chad created all of his art in a home studio before his family moved to Jefferson in 2023. Inspired by the community's vibrant support for the arts, the Elliotts decided to open a brick-and-mortar location to create, sell, and teach art to aspiring artists. The studio is sectioned into a gallery in the front that displays finished pieces and a workshop in the back to develop art. The Elliotts also purchased a pottery wheel and kiln to create ceramics pieces in the studio. The studio has grown to become more than an art space, hosting concerts with local artists, open mic nights, and song circles. Chad and Alyssa manage Elliott Art Studio, with their children contributing their own artwork to the gallery. Recently, the couple expanded their products to offer hoodies and home decor featuring Chad's designs. They also plan to launch painting and pottery classes, as well as artistic workshops. To give back to the community that helped inspire the studio, the Elliotts are active in the Jefferson community through their involvement on the downtown Jefferson business promotions team, which helps support small businesses in the community. Chad also shares his talents throughout Iowa, painting murals in Coon Rapids, Spencer, and his hometown of Guthrie Center. The business looks forward to celebrating their second anniversary in Jefferson in May 2025. Elliott Art Studio's commitment to inspire the next generation of Iowa artists is commendable. I want to congratulate the Elliotts for their creativity and dedication to growing the art community, and I look forward to seeing their continued growth and success in Iowa.

Ms. ERNST

Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, as ranking member of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize Sully Locker & Market of Sully, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In 1946, Nelson Terpstra opened Sully Locker & Market as a local meat processor and storage facility. The Terpstra family owned and operated the locker through 2012, then sold it to another local family. In the spring of 2020, Rick and Cheryl Nikkel purchased the company. The Nikkels aimed to expand the business while honoring its more than 70- year legacy in Sully, where Cheryl grew up relying on the Sully Locker to store and process her family's livestock. Today, Sully Locker & Market processes over 850 cattle annually and manages every step of the process, from butchering and packaging to storing and shipping fresh cuts of meat nationwide. The business is also a full-service meat retail store, offering groceries, home decor gifts, and Cheryl's homemade soups and dips that are prepared on-site. In April 2023, the Nikkels expanded by opening the Sully Meat Market in Ankeny, IA. The market focuses on retail, offering a variety of cuts of meat from steaks to deli meat, as well as locally raised bison from Iowa Prairie Bison and local baked goods from La Rose Marie Bakery of Sully. Beyond managing Sully Locker & Market, the Nikkels run their family farm, raising over 700 cattle and numerous hogs. Sully Locker & Market has continued to grow, now employing 13 community members, including their son Josh, who is responsible for overseeing the meat processing operations. The company actively supports initiatives such as Hope Ministries, an organization in Des Moines committed to finding solutions to homelessness across Iowa. The business also works closely with the Lynnville-Sully Community School District to support a variety of charity efforts. Sully Locker & Market is a proud member of the Iowa Meat Processors Association (IMPA) and will be celebrating its 79th anniversary next year. I want to congratulate the Nikkel family and the rest of the team for their dedication to offering locally sourced quality products and providing a needed service to the community. I look forward to seeing their continued success.