Chuck Fleischmann

Mr. FLEISCHMANN

Mr. FLEISCHMANN. Mr. Chairman, I yield 2 minutes to the distinguished gentleman from Texas (Mr. Cloud), who also is the vice chairman of this Appropriations subcommittee.

Mr. FLEISCHMANN. Mr. Chairman, I yield 2 minutes to the distinguished gentleman from the great State of Texas (Mr. Arrington), the chairman of the House Budget Committee and my dear friend.

Mr. FLEISCHMANN. Mr. Chairman, I yield 2 minutes to the distinguished gentleman from Louisiana (Mr. Higgins), my friend.

Mr. FLEISCHMANN. Mr. Chair, I yield an additional 1 minute to the gentleman from Arkansas.

Mr. FLEISCHMANN. Mr. Chair, I yield 2 minutes to the distinguished gentleman from Arkansas (Mr. Hill), my friend and also the chairman of the House Financial Services Committee.

Mr. FLEISCHMANN. Mr. Chair, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Taylor), my friend.

Mr. FLEISCHMANN. Mr. Chair, this bipartisan en bloc amendment was developed in coordination with the minority. It contains noncontroversial amendments addressing important issues at agencies funded in this bill. These amendments have been agreed to by both sides. Mr. Chair, I respectfully support its adoption, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. FLEISCHMANN. Mr. Chair, pursuant to House Resolution 672, I offer amendments en bloc as designee of Chairman Cole.

Mr. FLEISCHMANN. Mr. Chair, I yield myself the balance of my time. Mr. Chair, I thank the ranking member and the Members who have spoken on this bill. In closing, I urge strong support of this great bill. This bill helps all of America regain energy dominance. It fulfills the great agenda that President Trump has set out not only for nuclear but for energy. It is a bill that helps all Americans with community projects for both Republican and Democratic districts. It reaches out and does great things for energy, for water, for the Bureau of Reclamation, and I urge my colleagues to support this bill. Mr. Chair, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. FLEISCHMANN. Mr. Chair, I yield an additional 1 minute to the gentleman from Texas.

Mr. FLEISCHMANN. Mr. Chairman, at this time, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Weber), my friend.

Mr. FLEISCHMANN. Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. FLEISCHMANN. Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. FLEISCHMANN. Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. FLEISCHMANN. Mr. Chair, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. FLEISCHMANN. Mr. Chairman, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Chairman, I am pleased to bring the fiscal year 2026 Energy and Water Development bill to the floor today. I begin by thanking my good friend and Ranking Member Marcy Kaptur for her partnership throughout this process. I realize we have some bona fide differences and issues on this bill, but we always have very cordial discussions. I do appreciate her very much. Mr. Chairman, this bill provides a total of $57.3 billion to safeguard the United States' national security, strengthen our economy, and unleash American energy dominance. The bill delivers strong support for our national defense and provides $25.3 billion for the National Nuclear Security Administration prioritizing and continued modernization of the nuclear weapons stockpile and the United States Navy nuclear fleet. The bill strengthens our Nation's energy security by advancing American leadership in deploying new nuclear technologies and supporting the administration's efforts to make full use of our Nation's vast fossil fuel resources. This bill will reduce reliance on foreign materials and secure the full supply chain of critical minerals. The bill furthers our Nation's scientific and technological leadership, providing $8.4 billion for the Department of Energy's Office of Science. At the same time, the bill reduces funding by 25 percent across numerous other department programs, including the applied energy technology offices, to ensure taxpayer resources are focused on the highest priority research and development projects. The bill also strengthens our economy and promotes public safety providing $9.9 billion for the Army Corps of Engineers, including full funding of the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund activities and the highest priority ongoing construction projects on the inland waterways system. Funding for the Bureau of Reclamation is prioritized to projects that increase water supply and support drought resilience. Finally, the bill provides a number of provisions to codify President Trump's executive actions to protect American values and prevent our resources and intellectual properties from falling into the hands of foreign adversaries. This legislation reflects a clear commitment to fiscal responsibility while safeguarding our national security and increasing economic prosperity for all of our citizens. Mr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues to support it, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. FLEISCHMANN. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on H.R. 4553 and that I may include tabular material on the same.

Mr. FLEISCHMANN

Mr. FLEISCHMANN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to extend a warm welcome to His All-Holiness Bartholomew, the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople and spiritual leader of Orthodox Christianity. Recognized as ``First Among Equals'' among Orthodox bishops, he is visiting our Nation's Capital to receive the Templeton Prize--the world's most prestigious award honoring contributions to religion and science. As Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople, His All-Holiness leads the world's second-largest Christian church. Since assuming this role in 1991, he has earned global respect for his spiritual leadership and commitment to peace. Guided by his belief that ``war in the name of religion is war against religion,'' Patriarch Bartholomew has built strong relationships with religious and political leaders in every continent to promote unity among faiths. In 1997, Patriarch Bartholomew became the first Ecumenical Patriarch to visit the United States, and it is our great pleasure to welcome him back as he meets with the President, the Secretary of State, and Congress. I recognize and celebrate his lifelong dedication of peacemaking and his steadfast efforts to build bridges between East and West, Christian and Muslim, and all people of good will. May his presence here remind us of our commitment to remain ``One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.'' I extend my warmest welcome to His All-Holiness and pray that his visit will be blessed with success, fellowship, and hope for the future of our common humanity.

Mr. FLEISCHMANN

Mr. FLEISCHMANN. Mr. Speaker. I rise today to commemmorate the tenth anniversary of the July 16, 2015, terrorist attacks in Chattanooga that took the lives of five brave U.S. servicemen, remembered forever as the Fallen Five. Ten years ago, yesterday, tragedy struck our Chattanooga community when a radical jihadist terrorist took the lives of five heroic servicemen and wounded two others in one of the darkest days Chattanooga and Tennessee have endured. Out of the horror and violence of that terrible day, our community has stood firmly together in love, support, kindness, and strength to honor and remember the ultimate sacrifice and legacy of the Fallen Five and to uplift and support their beloved families. Chattanoogans, Tennesseans, and Americans nationwide will never forget the Fallen Five. We will always pay homage to U.S. Marine Gunnery Sergeant Thomas J. Sullivan, U.S. Marine Staff Sergeant David A. Wyatt, U.S. Marine Sergeant Carson A. Holmquist, U.S. Marine Lance Corporal Squire K. ``Skip'' Wells, and U.S. Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Randall J. Smith. Their dedication to America, our community, our military, our freedoms, and service to others will always be remembered. Please join Brenda and me in praying for the eternal souls of the Fallen Five, who are home now with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and for their families and loved ones. We remember the eternal, healing words spoken through Psalms, ``God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble,'' and ``Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me.'' May God bless the Fallen Five and their families, and may God continue to bless Chattanooga and our great Nation.

Mr. FLEISCHMANN

Mr. FLEISCHMANN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Arnoldo Moore on his retirement from the Social Security Administration after 30 years of distinguished service. Mr. Moore began his career in September 1994 as a Service Representative in Grand Rapids, Michigan, followed by assignments as both a Claims Representative and Management Support Specialist. In August 2003, Mr. Moore transitioned to Social Security Headquarters in Washington, D.C. serving as National Public Affairs Specialist, Human Resource Specialist, and Interactive Video Training (IVT) trainer, and Systems Analyst. While at headquarters, Mr. Moore was instrumental in developing and revising scripts for IVT broadcasts aired nationwide. He provided leadership and training to new employees on related programs. During his tenure in this role, Mr. Moore traveled the United States engaging with groups such as disability services organizations and Native American organizations. He prepared meetings for both the Commissioner and Acting Commissioner with White House staff to discuss Social Security Administration initiatives. From August 2003 through April 2025, Mr. Moore served in the Chattanooga, Tennessee Field Office as a Public Affairs Specialist. In this role, Mr. Moore has served as constituent liaison to my office providing outstanding service and support both to my district staff and to my constituents. Now, Arnoldo enters a new chapter in his life and is looking forward to spending more time with his wife, Yaritza, and his children, Aniza and Alejandro, while continuing to serve in our community. It is with great honor that I recognize Mr. Arnoldo Moore for his many years of public service to our Nation and our community, and I wish him well in all new endeavors as he begins his retirement.

Mr. FLEISCHMANN

Mr. FLEISCHMANN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Sergeant Willie J. Trueitt, Jr. of Chattanooga, Tennessee, in recognition of his impending retirement. Sergeant Trueitt serves as the lead for Special Operations and Community Engagement with the University of Tennessee--Chattanooga Police Department. He has held positions in law enforcement for 31 years, including seven years with the Chattanooga Police Department, five years with the U.S. Veterans Affairs Police, and more than 19 years with the UTC Police Department. Sergeant Trueitt also served our Nation in the United States Navy. In his eleven years of service, then-Petty Officer Trueitt served in duty stations including Scotland and Norfolk, Virginia. I had the pleasure of meeting Sergeant Trueitt when he served in the security detail for my visits to the UTC campus, and he also oversaw the security planning for my Service Academy Day event this year. He has committed himself to serving the campus community, displaying a high level of professionalism while also bringing a bright smile and a positive attitude to his work. It is with gratitude that I recognize Sergeant Willie J. Trueitt, Jr., for his 42 years of public service to our Nation and our community, and I wish him well on his retirement.

Mr. FLEISCHMANN

Mr. FLEISCHMANN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Mr. Joseph F. Decosimo of Chattanooga, Tennessee, on his 100th birthday, and to recognize his commitment to the Chattanooga community. Joe was born to immigrant parents in 1925. After graduating from high school, he served in the United States Navy during World War II. After the war, Joe attended the University of Georgia on the GI Bill, earning his degree in accounting before earning his MBA from the Kellogg School of Business at Northwestern University. Joe and his wife, Rachel, then returned to Chattanooga, where he began his first job as a certified public accountant. In 1971, he started his own firm, Joseph Decosimo & Company. He would go on to hire four of his nine children at the growing firm. JD&Co would grow into one of Tennessee's largest accounting firms, employing over 300 people. He would take the knowledge gained from this to found Decosimo Corporate Finance, where he continues serving as Principal Emeritus. Joe's involvement in our community can be seen through the legacy of his name. In 2014, the University of Tennessee--Chattanooga honored his support and involvement with the Joseph F. Decosimo Student Success Center within the University's Rollins College of Business. Further, Joe has established two scholarships and a professorship in Accounting at UTC and has served as a teacher, advocate, and supporter of the University and the Rollins College of Business. Joe also served as a founding member of the stadium board for Finley Stadium and was instrumental in the construction of the stadium. Joe has served in key board positions at several Fortune 500 companies and has been involved in several civic and professional organizations during his career. He served as president of the TN CPA Society and as chair of the Tennessee State Board of Accountancy. Joe also chaired the Chattanooga United Way Board of Directors and led its annual campaign drive, served as a founding board member of the Hamilton County/Chattanooga Convention Center, served on the board of the Chattanooga Bible Institute (now Richmont Graduate University), served as senior investment advisor to the Arthur S. DeMoss Foundation, and as President of the Chattanooga Rotary Club. He was honored by the Chattanooga Kiwanis Club as their Person of the Year and was King of the Chattanooga Cotton Ball, an annual event to raise money for charities to benefit women and children in need in the Chattanooga area. Joe has served as chairman for numerous charitable drives that have raised millions of dollars for the Chattanooga community. Joe's legacy is also reflected in his family. Joe and Rachel were married on September 27, 1949, and celebrated their 75th anniversary this past year, and are parents to nine children and 72 grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His children and grandchildren continue to serve the community as business and civic engagement leaders throughout Chattanooga. Joe is a parishioner of St. Augustine Catholic Church of Signal Mountain. It is with great pride and profound gratitude that I recognize Joseph F. Decosimo for his extraordinary service to our community. His dedication, leadership, and contributions stand as a model of service. I have been fortunate to know Joe as a personal friend and stand to express my sincere appreciation for all he has done in support of our great Nation and community.

Mr. FLEISCHMANN

Mr. FLEISCHMANN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Timothy G. Vowell, who has dedicated 30 years of exemplary service to our Nation through his career in the United States Air Force (USAF), as well as his subsequent contributions to education and the federal government. His outstanding service and unwavering commitment to the values of leadership, integrity, and duty are a testament to his character and devotion to our country. After joining the Air Force, Colonel Vowell served with distinction in a variety of roles, ultimately retiring as a highly respected officer. Following his distinguished military service, Mr. Vowell continued to serve his community as an Air Force Junior ROTC (AFJROTC) instructor at Clinton High School. His impact as an educator was profound, shaping the lives of countless young cadets and imparting the values of discipline, respect, and leadership that will carry them throughout their lives. Additionally, Colonel Vowell served as the Faculty Advisor for the Academy of Military Science, further extending his reach in mentoring future leaders of our Nation. His dedication to the academic and moral development of young minds is a model of public service that goes beyond military duties, inspiring students to pursue excellence in both their academic and personal lives. In his role within the Department of Defense (DoD), Colonel Vowell provided invaluable support for national aerospace leadership, helping to advance strategic initiatives that continue to safeguard our national interests. His expertise and guidance played a significant role in shaping policy and providing support to the United States Congress on aerospace and defense matters. Furthermore, Colonel Vowell's tireless efforts led to the development and implementation of the Inspector General Complaints Resolution Program within the federal government. His leadership in this important initiative improved the transparency and accountability of federal operations, ensuring that complaints were addressed with the seriousness and efficiency they deserved. It is with great pride and deep gratitude that I recognize Timothy G. Vowell for his extraordinary service to our Nation. His dedication, leadership, and contributions to both the military and civilian sectors stand as a model of public service. I wish him continued success in his well-deserved retirement and express my sincere appreciation for all he has done in support of our great Nation.

Mr. FLEISCHMANN

Mr. FLEISCHMANN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of women entrepreneurs and to recognize the impact of women-owned businesses in the Third District of Tennessee and our communities nationwide. Like many communities across the United States, East Tennessee is home to many women- and family-owned businesses, critical local employers supporting generations of employees, and local charitable efforts, including our schools and youth sports teams. Women-owned businesses are important drivers of our local economy, employing millions of Americans nationwide and accounting for trillions of dollars in revenue annually. Women-owned businesses also include businesses of all sizes and industries, including in the healthcare, professional services, retail, real estate, and construction industries. Mr. Speaker, I am proud that one such business--McKee Foods Corporation--is located in my district in Collegedale, Tennessee. McKee Foods, better known as the makers of Little Debbie Snack Cakes, was founded by O.D. and Ruth McKee in Tennessee nearly 100 years ago and today is a fourth-generation family business employing thousands of employees nationwide. In March, during Women's History Month, I had the pleasure of meeting with Debbie McKee-Fowler, Chairman of the Board for McKee Foods, and representatives from several women-owned and family businesses here in Washington. These women-owned businesses were on Capitol Hill as part of an event with Family Enterprise USA and members of the Congressional Family Business Caucus to share the stories of their businesses and educate Congress on challenges in starting and growing their businesses, including how government policies like the Death Tax prevent business owners from passing down their legacy to the next generation. As Congress continues its important work of advancing policies that grow our economy, unleash American innovation, and increase opportunity, it is vital that we continue to listen to and support these women-owned businesses, including through legislation. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to rise in support and celebration of these and other women-owned businesses.

Mr. FLEISCHMANN

Mr. FLEISCHMANN. Mr. Speaker, I am excited to congratulate the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga men's basketball team on winning the National Invitation Tournament in an exciting overtime victory to bring the championship trophy home to Chattanooga and East Tennessee. This nail-biting head-to-head had Chattanoogans on the edge of their seat. As Chattanooga Mocs senior Garrison Keeslar drained a jumper with 11 seconds left in overtime, the Mocs' opponent, UC Irvine, launched a Hail Mary pass to their player on the opposite baseline, who missed his shot at the buzzer. This error delivered a well-deserved National Championship to the UTC men's basketball team--the first ever in the program's history. The UTC Mocs have made Chattanooga and all of Tennessee so proud. I join their families and friends with my immense respect for their talents and new title--National Champions. Go Mocs.