John Faso

Mr. FASO

Mr. FASO. Mr. Chairman, I rise today to offer my amendment, which would provide States additional flexibility to administer the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP. If included in the farm bill, this amendment would provide States the option, not a mandate, to determine the appropriate mix of government staff and service provider staff for all administrative SNAP functions. It would build on existing SNAP administrator flexibility within employment and training programs as well as technology initiatives like electronic benefits transfer. This barrier, currently in the SNAP law dating from the 1970s, prevents the implementation of commonsense administrative solutions that include integrated call centers, leveraging investment to modernize programs, and incorporate best practices and the ability to address periodic peaks in enrollment activity that accompany times of economic distress. Mr. Chairman, I know that at least a dozen Governors sent a letter to the leadership of the House and Senate today saying that States across the country have been calling for administrative flexibility to implement various government programs, and it is time that we provide each State the choice to decide what is best for them in their overall effectiveness in running these programs. Mr. Chairman, I would also like to thank my partners in this amendment, Representatives Hartzler, Poliquin, Marshall, and Goodlatte, who are supportive of this policy change. I encourage my colleagues to vote in favor of this commonsense amendment and provide the States with added flexibility, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. FASO. Mr. Chairman, I have an amendment at the desk made in order by the rule.

Mr. FASO

Mr. FASO. Mr. Chairman, I appreciate the impetus behind the gentleman from California's amendment, but I think this amendment, if it were adopted, would threaten to destroy the carefully constructed efforts that we have endeavored to engage in in the committee to create something that was realistic and achievable. Lowering the age from 6 to 3 will make it much more difficult for many SNAP families to comply with the work requirements, and reducing the ability of a State to have a waiver of up to 15 percent of the population will also make it extremely difficult, by reducing that number down to 5 percent. So I think what the committee did was have a finely balanced effort to try to move more able-bodied people into work and into training. While the gentleman's motivations are certainly fine in this regard and he is attempting to get at the right thing, we think that the amendment, if it were adopted, would actually destroy the carefully constructed effort that we have made to try to encourage work and responsibility.

Mr. FASO. Mr. Chairman, I am encouraged by the support for my amendment. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. FASO. I yield to the gentleman from Texas.

Mr. FASO. Mr. Chairman, I rise today to offer an amendment which would provide the USDA the tools it needs to quantifiably measure conservation outcomes. These provisions are substantively the same as a bipartisan bill I introduced earlier this year with Representative Marcia Fudge. If included in the farm bill, my amendment would have the USDA measure, evaluate, and report on various conservation programs across the Nation. This information is necessary to help define, evaluate, and justify taxpayer return on conservation investment programs. Right now, the USDA can provide information on the impact of our conservation programs in terms of contracts and acres, but they lack the ability to provide the actual impact of these programs on important resource concerns. By ensuring that the USDA has all of the tools necessary to collect this information, we can better protect and preserve these programs into the future. The USDA's voluntary conservation programs are consistently helping farmers in initiatives that protect natural resources while also increasing farm productivity. This amendment would ensure that the USDA can continue to improve existing conservation programs and practices while also supporting our Nation's farmers. Mr. Chairman, we will also seek, in response to concerns that have been raised by the Farm Bureau, to, in conference, further refine the privacy provisions relating to the research activities that would take place under this bill to ensure that any personally identifiable information that would be contained within the analysis of conservation programs is further protected by the United States Department of Agriculture.

Mr. FASO. Mr. Chairman, I have an amendment at the desk.

Mr. FASO

Mr. FASO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Anthony Michael ``Mike'' Bucci Jr., who will be honored as Person of the Year by the Columbia County Association in the City of New York on May 10, 2018. Born and raised in Hudson, NY, Mike was an honors graduate of Hudson High School, where he was-a three-sport letterman. He went on to graduate cum laude from Villanova University in 1983, where he was the captain of the intercollegiate bowling team. Upon graduation, Mike was immediately hired to work for the accounting firm Ernst and Whinney. During his time with the firm, he was responsible for audit and consulting services for more than 100 different audit and tax clients. 1988 brought a new adventure for Mike, as he became the Audit Director and Controller for the NYS Bridge Authority in Highland, NY. In that capacity, he was responsible for a $10 million annual budget that handled the implementation, maintenance, and adequacy of the Authority's financial and management accounting and reporting systems. In 1998, Mike became a partner at the prestigious accounting firm of Pattinson, Koskey, & Rath P.C. In a short three years, Mike was named Treasurer and equity owner in the firm. During that time, the firm voted to be renamed Pattison, Koskey, Howe and Bucci, CPAs, P.C. Under his leadership as Managing Shareholder, the firm amassed ten partners, eighteen CPAs, and six offices in the Hudson Valley. Mike is also a dedicated and active member of his community who is always willing to lend a hand. He has served on several local boards including the Twin County Vikings, the Hudson Little League, and the Hudson Boys and Girls Club. Currently, Mike is a member of the Columbia County Sons and Daughters of Italy No. 659, serving as a trustee and was named its ``Positive Image Award'' recipient in 2005. Mike's service to Columbia County is greatly appreciated, and I congratulate him for being honored as Person of the Year by the Columbia County Association in the City of New York.

Mr. FASO

Mr. FASO. Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague, the gentleman from Oklahoma, and my colleague, the gentleman from Illinois, as well, for their fine comments in relation to this legislation. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to offer support for H.R. 4722, a bill to designate the postal facility at 111 Market Street in Saugerties, New York, as the Maurice D. Hinchey Post Office Building. Congressman Hinchey was a lifelong New Yorker and a true public servant. He passed away in his home in Saugerties, New York, on November 22, 2017. He is survived by his wife, Ilene Marder, and his three adult children. He is fondly remembered as a staunch advocate for what he believed, including care for our military veterans and the environment through his support of the Clean Air Act and the Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area, among many other accomplishments. The week of his passing, I took to the House floor with the entire New York delegation to mourn the death of our colleague. Today, I stand here with this legislation as a token of remembrance for a father, a husband, a veteran, and a distinguished Member of this House who was dedicated to his constituents and all the people of our Nation. Mr. Hinchey served 3 years in the U.S. Navy, 18 years in the New York State Assembly, and 20 years in the U.S. House of Representatives, during which time he represented a broad swath of New York State from the Hudson Valley and the Catskill Mountains over to the southern tier of our State as well. Mr. Speaker, I am privileged to have served 6 years in the New York State Assembly with Mr. Hinchey, and I am also honored to represent many of the same areas of upstate New York here in Congress as Maurice Hinchey did. I am joined by 27 bipartisan cosponsors, including the entire New York congressional delegation, to offer this bill. Mr. Speaker, I especially want to thank Liam Fitzsimmons, who served on the staff of Congressman Hinchey as well as on the staff of the late Congresswoman Louise Slaughter. Congresswoman Slaughter assisted and was a colead on this legislation, and I know she would be pleased by the House passage today of this bill.

Mr. FASO

Mr. FASO. Mr. Speaker, as May marks Lyme Disease Awareness Month, I rise today to recognize the countless individuals currently living with Lyme and to honor the medical experts and advocates combating this epidemic throughout the Nation. In upstate New York, where I reside, we are aware of the real and continuing threat that Lyme and related tick-borne diseases pose. With an estimated 300,000 new cases each year, the Lyme crisis is spreading. It is found in about half of all U.S. counties and in nearly 80 countries worldwide. Transmitted by tick bites, Lyme disease has no known cure, is difficult to diagnose, and can attack the nervous system, even sometimes leading to death if left untreated. There is no silver bullet to combat this devastating disease, but better public education and more Federal research can lead to significant advancements. The medical and public health communities urge you to check yourself and your loved ones, especially children, each day for ticks and to seek out the best information on best practices for preventing tick bites and Lyme disease. I look forward to continuing to work with members of the upstate New York community, Lyme disease advocates throughout America, and my colleagues here in Congress on both sides of the aisle to increase awareness and to find a cure, finally, for this devastating disease.

Mr. FASO

Mr. FASO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the centennial anniversary of the Cannon Free Library in Delhi, New York. Libraries play an important role in our upstate communities, cultivating a love of learning and reading, and fostering a profound sense of fellowship among residents. For 100 years, the Cannon Free Library has enriched the lives and minds of the citizens of Delhi by encouraging imagination and serving as a place of gathering. Through its many program offerings, youth services, and wide selection of books, the library is a cornerstone of the community. On behalf of the 19th Congressional District and the U.S. House of Representatives, I would like to extend my deepest appreciation and congratulations to the Cannon Free Library. As the library celebrates its 100th birthday, I would like to commend the staff, the Cannon Family, and the residents of Delhi on this achievement and wish them continued success in its next 100 years.

Mr. FASO

Mr. FASO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with profound respect to recognize and celebrate the career of Ms. Diane McCord on the occasion of her retirement. Ms. McCord has retired from the Town of Esopus, New York after forty dedicated years of service. For the past four decades, Ms. McCord has served Esopus in many different capacities as Town Clerk, Town Councilperson, and Town Supervisor, making herself a cornerstone of the community. Ms. McCord's many years of dedication to the town has improved the quality of life of her friends and neighbors, and as the President of the Senior Citizens organization, has enhanced the lives of many seniors. I respect the commitment of those distinct individuals who have tirelessly devoted themselves to their community. Ms. McCord's legacy of hard work and commitment to the Town of Esopus is a source of inspiration, instilling the values of determination, conviction, and loyalty in her community. Mrs. McCord has been an esteemed leader, and I thank her for her commitment to her community. I wish her every happiness as she embarks on this new chapter.

Mr. FASO

Mr. FASO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the State of Israel. The United States was the first nation to recognize Israel as an independent nation in 1948. Since then, our nations have cultivated a significant and enduring relationship, one built on a shared commitment to democracy, peace in the Middle East, and economic prosperity. Israel is among the United States' most important allies in the international community. Since its independence, the Jewish state has resolved to maintain a free and democratic society, despite being surrounded by powers committed to its destruction. I extend my sincerest congratulations to the citizens of Israel on 70 years of independence. I wish the Jewish state continued prosperity in the next 70 years, and I look forward to our two nations continuing to strengthen our alliance.

Mr. FASO

Mr. FASO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to extend the happiest of birthday wishes to Mr. Edwin Millard Ford of Kingston, New York who is celebrating his 100th birthday. Mr. Ford has lived a life characterized by hard work and an unyielding selflessness, making him a pillar of his community. Mr. Ford has served as the Kingston City Historian since 1984, actively conserving, interpreting, and presenting the city's history in unique and engaging ways. He has unearthed the wonders and stories of Kingston's past and preserved them for future generations. Mr. Ford is a man of family, community, and faith. His legacy of dedicated service and participation is a source of inspiration, and has made him a cornerstone of the Kingston community. Mr. Ford's zeal for life has made him a great role model for the people of the 19th Congressional District. On behalf of the U.S. House of Representatives, I am grateful for his commitment to Kingston and the state of New York. Mr. Speaker, I wish Mr. Ford a very happy and healthy 100th birthday.

Mr. FASO

Mr. FASO. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank G.T. Thompson, my colleague from Pennsylvania, our subcommittee chairman on the Nutrition Subcommittee for his leadership. G.T. Thompson deeply feels about the condition that people have who may be living in poverty, who may be suffering from food insecurity for themselves and their family. And I say to Chairman Thompson that it has been a pleasure to serve for the last 15 months under his leadership on the Nutrition Subcommittee. The reforms that we are seeking to implement in H.R. 2 in the SNAP program, in this 2018 farm bill, are truly intended to assist people out of dependency and into employment. I have heard from so many employers throughout my district in the Catskills and Hudson Valley and in central New York that they have jobs available, but they simply can't find qualified people to meet those jobs and to fulfill those responsibilities. In fact, this morning in the Budget Committee, we had the Director of the Congressional Budget Office before us, and one of the topics that was raised was the fact that there are very low workforce participation rates among able-bodied people between 18 and 65 in our Nation. And this is part of the problem that we have a workforce participation rate nationally of approximately 63 percent. In a number of the counties that I represent in the 19th Congressional District in New York State, that workforce participation rate for able-bodied, employable people between 18 and 65 hovers at 60 percent or slightly below 60 percent. There are plenty of jobs that are there, but, unfortunately, people do not have the skills, the training, sometimes the work ethic, and the notion of what it means to get up and go to work every day and meet the need of that employer and customers of that employer. So this is a real serious issue in our country. If we are going to deal with the looming fiscal crisis that we have for mandatory spending programs like Social Security and Medicare, for instance, we need to get more people in the workforce. We need to create more opportunities to give people a hand-up, and not simply a handout. Now, one of the things that is truly important about this SNAP reform that Chairman Thompson and Chairman Conaway are leading the way in H.R. 2 on, in this 2018 farm bill, is that we are going to make it easier for people who are on the SNAP program to qualify for the program without having every nickel of any asset that they possibly have to count against their qualification. So, for instance, this legislation will allow a family on SNAP to have a savings account of up to $2,000 without that counting against the asset test. Today, that simply isn't the case. So a family that might need money for fixing their car, or having their kids go to the orthodontist or the dentist, or some other kind of family emergency--to buy a washing machine, for instance--they are not even allowed under SNAP's asset test rules to have a $2,000 savings account. That is wrong, and it is simply an outmoded notion that we have precluded that. The other thing that I think is very interesting in this proposal, in this reform proposal, is that we are going to raise the asset test on the value of an automobile from about $4,650 to $12,000. I represent a rural part of upstate New York. My district is larger than the State of Connecticut. Many times people have to drive 40, 50 miles one way to get to a job. Well, we can't expect someone who is struggling with difficult economic circumstances for them or their family to be able to qualify for SNAP and have an asset of a vehicle--which they need desperately to get to work every day--we can't have that asset limited to a $4,600 vehicle. So this legislation which Chairman Thompson and Chairman Conaway are spearheading would raise that vehicle asset test up to $12,000. So these are logical, rational things. That asset test has been at $4,650 for many decades now. So these are the kinds of commonsense reforms that are contained within this proposal that I hope that our colleagues on the other side of the aisle will pay heed to and carefully study because we welcome their input in this. But we also know that the American people are demanding that we have reform in these programs and that we encourage and we really bring the job opportunities and the job training counseling to people who are dependent. There are over 3 million people in the SNAP program today who are able-bodied adults, who are capable of working, between 18 and 59, who have no children at home. We know that, in today's economy, many, many parents and many Americans go into the workforce with minor children at home. They are out there working. They are out there pitching in trying to improve the lot for themselves and their families. There is absolutely no reason why an able-bodied adult with no children whatsoever should not be in a work program and should not be required to participate in a State-sanctioned, State-supervised employment counseling and training program. So these are the things that we are trying to do: increase opportunity, obviously reduce fraud and people who might be benefiting from the program who might be working off the books somewhere but still qualifying for benefits. But that is not the main impetus here. The main impetus is: How are we going to create more opportunity for people who need a hand-up in the economic ladder? Mr. Speaker, I want to thank Chairman Thompson so much for leading the way on this. We had numerous hearings and listening sessions, including one in my district in Schoharie County at SUNY Cobleskill. The overwhelming consensus in dealing with the Food Stamp program or SNAP program is that we need to keep it, we need to make sure that people who are on it and who are able to work have the opportunities and are certainly encouraged to move into the workforce. Mr. Speaker, I include in the Record an article which I wrote in the Albany Times Union which appeared on April 9, 2018, about the SNAP reform and the need to include healthy measures for food but also enhanced work requirements. [From the Albany Times Union, Apr. 9, 2018] SNAP Must Include Work, Healthy Food Mandates (By Rep. John Faso) With over 42 million Americans--and over 2.8 million New Yorkers--receiving critical nutrition assistance, it is a self-evident fact that the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps people in meaningful ways. SNAP reduces hunger in low income households, and when it provides benefits to families with children, it has been shown to improve health outcomes for those children. Like any program of this size, SNAP is not without flaws. The program insufficiently promotes self-sufficiency; too many recipients could be working, but are not. There continues to be too much fraud and abuse in the program, and the program also needs to be much more effective in promoting proper nutrition. Congress will soon reauthorize SNAP as part of the 2018 Farm Bill and now is the time to fix the program. Let's address these issues one at a time. First, the program needs to better focus on encouraging and helping non-working recipients find and retain employment. While many receiving SNAP benefits do work--and others are seniors, children or disabled, and therefore can't be expected to work--a large group of those currently receiving benefits are neither disabled nor employed. In 2016, there were over 11 million non-disabled people aged 18 through 59 receiving SNAP, who aren't working. A purpose of benefit programs such as SNAP should be to help people gain self-sufficiency. We would be more successful at reducing systemic hunger and poverty if states required able-bodied adults to participate actively in employment and training programs that put them on a path toward stable employment. Alternatively, if someone does not wish to participate, they could actively self-select and unenroll from the program. This approach was successful in increasing earnings and reducing poverty in the wake of President Bill Clinton's sweeping welfare reform in the 1990s, and it will work again if applied to SNAP's current entitlement structure. Second, fraud and the improper use of benefits is still too rampant in the SNAP program. Only in Washington is losing roughly $650 million per year due to fraud and failures in program integrity considered a ``good job'' because it is a small percentage of the total amount of taxpayer money spent. That is still $650 million that is not being used as intended, which is to feed families. There must be zero tolerance when it comes to fraud and abuse. Hiding income, failing to disclose assets, trafficking benefits or utilizing unscrupulous food vendors are activities we need to stop. Congress needs to allow state and local officials who see this fraud right before their eyes to pursue and penalize this activity. Finally, the SNAP program is not doing enough to promote nutrition and reduce childhood obesity. Obesity is an issue for far too many American families and childhood obesity in low-income families is growing. The program's title suggests that it promotes healthy and nutritious food options but does nothing to limit the ability to purchase products that no one will argue are part of a healthy diet. Hundreds of millions of dollars' worth of SNAP benefits are spent on sugary beverages, and it's past time that Washington prohibits the use of SNAP benefits to purchase soda. Every dollar not spent on soda can go toward a healthier alternative. While some will contend we are limiting choice for the poor, tax dollars should only pay to encourage healthier choices. At the same time, we should also fix some of the asset tests for eligibility, such as allowing a recipient to have a car worth over $12,000 instead of the $5,000 limit today. If we expect someone to work, they need a reliable vehicle to get to the job. We should also allow a recipient to have savings up to $2,000, without affecting eligibility. Over the next decade, SNAP benefits will total more than $630 billion in taxpayer dollars. We must do more to ensure that we assist able-bodied recipients in joining the job market, while at the same time continuing to assist those for whom nutrition assistance is a necessity. John Faso, R-Kinderhook, represents the 19th Congressional District.

Mr. FASO

Mr. FASO. Mr. Speaker, it is with profound respect that I rise today to recognize and celebrate Mr. PJ Keeler for being named the Twin Rivers Council, Boy Scouts of America recipient of the Good Scout Award. This designation is reserved for those distinctive members of our community who exhibit the values of scouting and are a force for good. Mr. Keeler has distinguished himself as a cornerstone of the Columbia County community. Through his innovative thinking as Columbia County Treasurer and his decades-long participation in the volunteer fire department and ambulance service, Mr. Keeler has improved the quality of life for the county's many residents. His tireless dedication to Columbia County and the compassion he shows toward his friends and neighbors has made him a role model within the community for young generations to follow. Mr. Keeler's legacy of hard work is a source of inspiration, instilling the values of determination, confidence, and civility in his community. I am grateful for Mr. Keeler's years of dedicated service to Columbia County and to New York state.

Mr. FASO

Mr. FASO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the bicentennial anniversary of the founding of Milan, New York. Formerly part of the Little Nine Partners Patent, the Town of Milan was incorporated on March 31, 1818. For two hundred years, Milan has taken part in the great American experiment, weaving together a diverse community and cultivating a strong civil society. This small bucolic town situated on the northern border of Dutchess County has celebrated many great triumphs of our nation and witnessed the nascent years of America's existence, but has also persevered through times of hardship. The strength and independence that continues to define this town are a result of principles instilled at its founding two centuries ago. While the area has experienced many changes over the past two hundred years, the town of Milan is always eager to look to the future, but never forgets its past. Milan was built on a foundation of determination and resiliency with a strong community focus and a deep appreciation for a rural lifestyle. These core beliefs continue to guide and distinguish the community today. This bicentennial anniversary marks a great milestone in Milan's history, and serves as an important time for reflection. On behalf of the 19th Congressional District and the U.S. House of Representatives, I would like to extend my deepest appreciation and congratulations to the town of Milan. As the residents celebrate its 200th birthday, I would like to commend them on the success of their small, thriving community and wish Milan continued prosperity in its next 200 years.

Mr. FASO

Mr. FASO. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the Town of Ghent on the occasion of its bicentennial. On April 3, 1818, Ghent was established as a town in Columbia County, New York through numerous members of The Society of Friends, which includes early settlers such as the Macy, Tripp, and Bunker families. The town of Ghent is situated in the midst of a thriving agriculture population and is the center of considerable trade and the outlet of a large amount of produce. While the settlement was small until the advent of the railroads, the community's attention to the development of infrastructure rapidly made it what it is today. For over 200 years, Ghent has participated in the American story, contributing to our great state and nation. On April 3, 2018, the residents of Ghent will hold a well-deserved celebration of its history and accomplishments. In the neighborly and hospitable tradition of Ghent, this bicentennial celebration will reflect the values of this beautiful community, bringing families and residents together to commemorate the town they love and share. I formally thank the Town of Ghent and each of its residents of the past two centuries for their contributions to New York's 19th district.

Mr. FASO

Mr. FASO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect that I rise today to recognize Mr. Tom Cole who has served as a member of the East Kingston Fire Department for fifty years. A broad thinker and steward of the Ulster County community, I admire Mr. Cole's curiosity. Even though he has many years of experience, having served as Fire Chief and responded to many unique situations, Mr. Cole is an eager student, always willing to improve his skills and expand his knowledge. Members of our local fire service play an important role in our Upstate communities, selflessly responding to emergency situations and safeguarding our neighborhoods. The commitment of Mr. Cole to our state through his fifty years with the East Kingston Fire Department is a milestone very few have reached. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in honoring Mr. Cole for his lifetime of hard work and dedicated service.

Mr. FASO

Mr. FASO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2018. This budget deal is a step forward that allows Congress to move on and tackle the problems Americans sent us here to solve. It includes a number of provisions that are wins for New Yorkers, including strengthening the state of our military readiness, improving care for our veterans, critical hospital investments, and providing more funding to fight the opioid crisis. Additionally, I want to express my support for the special committees organized to propose genuine reform to the congressional budget process and another to address the funding crisis for multi-employer pension plans. For far too long, Congress has governed from funding crisis to funding crisis, inhibiting its ability to tackle our nation's most pressing problems. This bipartisan agreement also includes fixes for several lingering health care related issues, including a two-year reauthorization of the Community Health Center Fund, a two-year elimination of the medical device tax, and an extension of the Medicare Love-Volume Hospital adjustment. This Medicare fix translates to millions of dollars for several Upstate hospitals. Finally, I am thrilled to see my legislation improving the John H. Chafee Foster Care Independence Program included. This program is critical in assisting older former foster youth transition to an independent life, including providing education and training vouchers. This improvement increases the age the states can provide assistance from 21 to 23. It should also be noted that the nation faces a looming debt crisis which is not made better by this legislation. My support for the bill was overwhelmingly influenced by the critical defense funding gaps affecting military readiness. Secretary Mattis has been very persuasive in his arguments as to the impacts of the budget sequester on our troops and the need to rebuild core aspects of our national defense. I trust his judgement in this regard. While there is still much work to be done, I applaud my colleagues for coming together to draft this bipartisan measure, and I am proud the President signed this legislation into law on February 9, 2018.

Mr. FASO

Mr. FASO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect and admiration that I rise today to recognize the prestigious achievements of Mr. Bob Becker for being named the recipient of the Four Chaplains Brotherhood Award. This designation recognizes those special individuals who dedicatedly serve the community without regard to the ethnicity, values, or beliefs of others. It is a true testament to Mr. Becker's continued legacy of acceptance, patriotism, and steadfast commitment to improving the lives of veterans. A man of uncommon devotion and admirable selflessness, Mr. Becker faithfully served our country for over twenty years in the United States Marine Corps as a supply chief and platoon sergeant in the Second Marine Division and in the USMC Reserve, retiring as a distinguished first sergeant. Having served as the New York State Commandant of the Marine Corps League and as National Commandant in the Marine Corps League, Mr. Becker is an esteemed and clarion voice for veterans' affairs, both locally and nationally. Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in congratulating Mr. Becker on receiving the Four Chaplains Brotherhood Award. His lifetime of hard work and dedicated service to the United States is inspirational, and I am grateful for his contributions to New York State.

Mr. FASO

Mr. FASO. Mr. Speaker, it is with great respect and honor that I rise today to recognize the retirement of Columbia County Coroner, Angelo Nero. Mr. Nero retired January 1 of this year, after dedicating over forty years of his life as Columbia County Coroner. He is remembered for his professional, compassionate, and timely service during his career. Angelo provided exceptional service to the people of Columbia County, while maintaining a professional relationship with local law enforcement and first responders. His colleagues knew they could always depend on Angelo to respond to phone calls at all hours of the night. During his career, Angelo served as Valatie village trustee and mayor for ten years. Prior to his service at the local level, he served in our Armed Forces during the Korean conflict. Angelo's selfless service to Columbia County and our nation is greatly appreciated, and I wish him and his wife Barbara the best in their next adventure.

Mr. FASO

Mr. FASO. Madam Speaker, it is with great pride that I rise today to recognize Hurley Fire Department member Shelagh Sweeney. Shelagh was named Hurley Fire Department's first female Firefighter of the Year. Her service and dedication to her community as a firefighter, EMT, and field training officer for mobile life support services is most admirable. Her inspiration to join the fire department came from her attendance of a first-aid class during her time at SUNY Ulster. Continuing her education by taking classes at Marist College is a testament to the dedication she reflects with her service to her community. Shelagh's selfless service to the community, while striving for further personal growth, is greatly appreciated, and I wish her the best in continuing on her journey.

Mr. FASO

Mr. FASO. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that I may hereafter be considered to be the first sponsor of H.R. 1057, a bill originally introduced by Representative Tiberi of Ohio, for the purposes of adding cosponsors and requesting reprintings pursuant to clause 7 of rule XII.

Mr. FASO

Mr. FASO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Integrated Wood Components, Inc. (IWCI) of Deposit, New York for being named ``Local Business of the Year'' by the Deposit Chamber of Commerce. Founded by the Kamp Family in 1972, IWCI has become an industry leader in composite wood furniture manufacturing through their commitment to producing quality products in an efficient and environmentally conscious way. This recognition is a true testament to IWCI's continued legacy of innovation, community involvement, and environmental stewardship. Boasting one of the most modern, energy efficient, and fully integrated wood components manufacturing plants in the country, IWCI is known for its cutting-edge operation, swift adaptation to consumer needs, and technological advancements. The ``Local Business of the Year'' award, however, is a special designation reserved for those businesses who go above and beyond demonstrating exemplary business practices. In the 19th District, community involvement and conserving our cherished outdoor spaces are priorities we hold dear, and IWCI is no exception to that. From aiding local community organizations to embracing environmentally-sensitive practices, IWCI is a bulwark of community and environmental sustainability. For over forty years, IWCI has left a positive imprint on our Upstate community and economy. On behalf of New York's 19th District, I want to congratulate the Kamp Family on their many years of hard work and community service, and celebrate IWCI on its much-deserved award. I am grateful for the Kamp family's commitment to New York State, and I wish them and IWCI continued success.