Brad Finstad

Mr. FINSTAD

Mr. FINSTAD. Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague from Minnesota for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the rule and my bill, H.R. 9576, the National Fraud Enforcement Division Act of 2026. My home State of Minnesota has become far too familiar with the fraud, waste, and abuse running rampant throughout our State and country. While we have seen the systematic failure of Tim Walz and his administration, the Trump administration has stepped up, working to investigate these matters and safeguard Americans' hard-earned taxpayer dollars. The Department of Justice has taken decisive action, especially, establishing the National Fraud Enforcement Division to investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars. My legislation will make this division permanent within the Department of Justice and will appoint an Assistant Attorney General for national fraud enforcement, who will head the National Fraud Enforcement Division and perform duties laid out by the Attorney General. It is high time to put an end to the fraud plaguing this country by establishing this permanent framework to strengthen our Federal fraud prosecution efforts. Mr. Speaker, I urge a ``yes'' vote.

Mr. FINSTAD

Mr. FINSTAD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Col. Bruce Bredlow for more than 30 years of dedicated service to our country. As Col. Bredlow enters retirement, I want to personally thank him for all he has done and sacrificed in service to the American people throughout his decorated military career. Born and raised in Champlin, Minnesota, Col. Bredlow enlisted in the Army in 1991, and graduated from the Mankato State University ROTC program as a Distinguished Military Graduate. In 1997, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Air Defense Artillery. At Fort Bliss, Texas, Col. Bredlow served as a platoon leader and battery executive officer in 3-2 ADA, 31st ADA Brigade and later commanded Delta Battery, 1-7 ADA, 108th ADA Brigade and Headquarters, and Headquarters Battery, 108th ADA Brigade. Throughout his career, Col. Bredlow served the United States at bases around the world, including Japan, Saudi Arabia, Italy, and Germany. His roles included Air and Missile Defense Commander, Joint Operations Center Watch Officer, and Brigade Commander. He is now retiring as ADA Assistant Commandant for the Army at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. He was recognized for this distinguished service with numerous awards and decorations, including the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, the Army Basic Space Badge, and the parachutist badge. I wish all the best to Col. Bredlow in his retirement and many happy years to come with his loved ones. Our state and Nation will forever be grateful for his service and dedication to his fellow Americans.

Mr. FINSTAD

Mr. FINSTAD. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman Williams for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of my bill, H.R. 8881, the SBA Artificial Intelligence Utilization Act. In a time when artificial intelligence and machine learning continue to become more accessible and revolutionize the way businesses operate, it is important to ensure our Federal agencies adopt AI responsibly, especially in the SBA. This legislation requires the Small Business Administration to report its use of AI and machine learning within their operations, while also assessing the advantages and risks. This legislation also gives SBA the opportunity to assess the appropriateness, effectiveness, and value of using these technologies. AI can be a useful tool for the SBA to process information and ease its implementation, but it also raises questions about transparency, oversight, and risks. This does not mandate the use of AI or prohibit innovation in our Small Business Administration, but instead ensures commonsense congressional oversight into how these tools are being used. Congress has the responsibility to ensure Federal agencies are using this ever-changing technology transparently, responsibly, and effectively, and my bill ensures just that. Mr. Speaker, I urge a ``yes'' vote.

Mr. FINSTAD

Mr. FINSTAD. Mr. Speaker, I thank Congressman Sessions for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 1335. For far too long, fraud has run rampant through our federally funded, State-administered programs in States like mine, Minnesota. It has allowed bad actors to steal billions of hard-earned taxpayer dollars, taxpayer dollars meant to feed hungry children, taxpayer dollars meant to help with and assist low-income adults, taxpayer dollars that were intended to help veterans afford housing, and taxpayer dollars that were meant to provide affordable childcare. This administration and congressional Republicans remain committed to putting an end to this nonsense and making sure assistance programs are there to serve our neighbors who truly need them, not fraudsters. Mr. Speaker, I am just a commonsense farmer from southern Minnesota. It is beyond me and my understanding that tackling this fraud epidemic in this country should not be defined by the sweatshirt and the label we have on that sweatshirt. It should not be a sweatshirt with an ``R'' on it. It should not be a sweatshirt with a ``D.'' This should be the issue that we all put on the sweatshirt that has ``USA.'' We are protecting the taxpayers of this country. We should be committed to putting these fraudsters in jail. That should not be a partisan issue. That should not be a red-State or a blue-State issue. Earlier this week, the House Oversight Committee released a report exposing, in my State of Minnesota, how Governor Walz and Attorney General Ellison were aware of the widespread fraud taking place throughout the State. They had the authority to stop it, and they failed to act. Today's resolution affirms our commitment to combating waste, fraud, and abuse. It is our commitment that we need to protect the generosity of the American taxpayer. I am proud to support this legislation that holds fraudsters accountable. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes.''

Mr. FINSTAD

Mr. FINSTAD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Scott Winslow of Fountain, Minnesota, for his recent appointment to the Minnesota USDA Farm Service Agency State Committee. Scott is a fifth-generation farmer in Fillmore County, where he raises corn, soybeans, hogs, and beef cattle. He understands firsthand the challenges that family farmers and producers across southern Minnesota are facing, and he brings that real-world experience to his service. Scott has long been a leader in our agricultural community, serving on the Fillmore County Farm Bureau Board, the Fillmore County Pork Producers Board, and previously on the Minnesota FSA State Committee. He also currently serves on the U.S. Grains Council Trade Team and the Minnesota Corn Research and Promotion Council, helping promote Minnesota agriculture at home and abroad. It was an honor to nominate Scott to serve on the FSA State Committee. I congratulate him on this appointment and thank him for his continued service to Minnesota agriculture.

Mr. FINSTAD

Mr. FINSTAD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Paralympic gold medalist and southern Minnesota native, Landon Uthke, on his remarkable performance at the 2026 Paralympic Winter Games in Milano Cortina, Italy. Landon made his Paralympic debut as a Defenseman on the USA Sled Hockey Team, helping Team USA secure their fifth consecutive gold medal in a 6-2 win over Canada. At three years old, Landon had his left leg amputated following a lawnmower accident. Growing up in Albert Lea, Landon started playing sled hockey at seven years old and went on to play for both the Rochester Mustangs and Minnesota Wild sled hockey teams. Landon's hard work has truly paid off, and his determination is inspiring to all of us at home in southern Minnesota. I congratulate Landon on his 2026 Paralympic debut. His family, friends, teammates, and fellow southern Minnesotans could not be prouder of him.

Mr. FINSTAD

Mr. FINSTAD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Olympian and southern Minnesota native, Aidan Oldenburg, on his remarkable performance at the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Milano Cortina, Italy. Aidan started his curling career at age 10, growing as a competitor and athlete over the years. Growing up in Mapleton and graduating from Minnesota State University, Mankato, he truly represents the heart and talent within Minnesota's 1st Congressional District. Aidan and his team represented the United States on the world stage at both the World Championships last August and the Olympic games earlier this year. In his first Olympic appearance, Aidan helped the U.S. Men's Curling Team secure a fifth-place finish. Aidan's skill and determination have inspired us all. I congratulate him on his 2026 Olympic performance. His family, friends, teammates, and fellow southern Minnesotans could not be prouder of him.

Mr. FINSTAD

Mr. FINSTAD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Olympic gold medalist and southern Minnesota native, Taylor Heise, on her remarkable performance at the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Milano Cortina, Italy. In her very first Olympic appearance, Taylor not only helped lead Team USA to a gold medal but delivered at the biggest moments-- including the assist on the game-winning overtime goal that secured victory over Canada. Earlier this year, Taylor's hometown of Lake City declared February 19th as ``Taylor Heise Day,'' recognizing her historic achievement, the years of perseverance, early-morning practices, and the family and mentors who helped her reach this moment. Her grandfather Kenny, who once drove her to Red Wing every day so she could play, said it best: ``Taylor, you work hard and it paid off.'' Taylor's grit, talent, and heart have inspired fans at home in Minnesota and across the country. She reminded all of us what it means to pursue a dream with unwavering determination. I congratulate Taylor on her extraordinary 2026 Olympic performance. Her family, friends, teammates, and fellow southern Minnesotans could not be prouder of her.

Mr. FINSTAD

Mr. FINSTAD. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman Guthrie for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 1346, delivering on year-round, nationwide sales of E15. As a fourth-generation corn and soybean farmer from southern Minnesota raising that fifth generation and representing 21 counties in southern Minnesota, a very strong egg-producing district, I have had many conversations with my neighbor farmers. I know by hearing what they are telling me and firsthand in my own experience as a farmer that we are facing uncertainty in our input costs and uncertainty in the global markets. We need a new domestic opportunity for our corn. E15 delivers on that. Throughout the past several years, farm country has been forced to rely on D.C. bureaucrats granting emergency waivers to sell E15 during summer driving season. E15 is a commonsense, win-win solution to strengthen demand for farmers, support rural economies, and provide consumers with more affordable fuel options. Food and fuel security is also critical to our national security. I will choose reliance on my neighbors in southern Minnesota over our foreign adversaries to produce our domestic fuel supply every day of the week. Mr. Speaker, it is high time for Congress to act. It is high time that Congress provides much-needed certainty to our fuel supply chain. I urge a ``yes'' vote.

Mr. FINSTAD

Mr. FINSTAD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate an extraordinary achievement, the first-ever State championship for the Sleepy Eye St. Mary's Knights girls' basketball team. In an unforgettable performance, the Knights battled past top-seeded Mountain Iron-Buhl in an impressive 83-63 victory. Appearing at the Class A title game for the second straight year, the Knight's relentless defense and explosive offense brought home this year's win. Morgan Mathiowetz scored early three-pointers and finished the tournament with a remarkable 100 total points, including 27 in the championship matchup. Olivia Schieffert followed with 25 points of her own, showcasing the teamwork and confidence that define this historic run. The Knights capped off their 2026 season with a 32-1 record. All of us across the First Congressional District are incredibly proud to call them our own. I congratulate the legend, Coach Bruce Woitas and his team on bringing home the first State title. They earned every moment of this championship. Way to go, Knights.

Mr. FINSTAD

Mr. FINSTAD. Mr. Chair, I thank Chairman Thompson for yielding. Mr. Chair, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 7567, the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026. As a fourth-generation farmer raising that fifth generation, I know firsthand that farm country has faced compounding challenges over the past several years. I am committed to addressing these issues by passing a strong, bipartisan farm bill that is written by farmers and for farmers, by rural communities and for rural communities. The ag title of working families tax cuts made the most significant investment in farm safety net spending since the 2002 farm bill. The 2026 farm bill builds upon those successes, and it reflects the bipartisan priorities of farmers in southern Minnesota and all across this country, delivering the strong farm policy that farmers, producers, and rural communities need and deserve. Every American is affected by this farm bill, and this legislation responsibly addresses their needs across all 12 titles. Mr. Chair, I encourage my colleagues to support this important piece of legislation.

Mr. FINSTAD

Mr. FINSTAD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce and congratulate the organization on celebrating 160 years of support for local businesses and economic growth. Since 1866, the Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce has been a strong advocate for the business community, helping build the Rochester area into the epicenter of economic activity that it is today. For more than a century and a half, the chamber has supported generations of entrepreneurs, employers, community members, and businesses across the Rochester community, shaping the economic development in our region with strong business advocacy, investments in workforce and professional development, and meaningful networking opportunities. Mr. Speaker, I am thankful for the work of the chamber members and their leaders and for the many contributions to fostering the connections that make the Rochester community a great place to live, work, and do business. I congratulate the entire Rochester Area Chamber of Commerce family on celebrating this incredible milestone, and I wish them continued success for the next 160 years and beyond.

Mr. FINSTAD

Mr. FINSTAD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Brian Buhr, one of my former professors at the University of Minnesota, who is stepping down after 13 years of serving as the dean of the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences and the director of the Minnesota Agriculture Experiment Station. As our State's premier institution for agricultural education, the U of M has a longstanding reputation of excellence in developing and training future ag leaders. Thanks to Dean Buhr's leadership, CFANS has become a global leader in ag education, offering a diverse range of studies for 14 undergraduate majors, 25 minors, and 13 graduate programs. By working shoulder to shoulder with farmers, agribusiness, and public policymakers, Dean Buhr has worked to cultivate a student experience that combines classroom learning with cutting-edge research and public engagement, preparing CFANS graduates to become the world's ag leaders of tomorrow. I thank Brian for his years of service to the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences and the many contributions he has made to the U of M's legacy in ag education. I wish him all the best as he starts this new chapter.

Mr. FINSTAD

Mr. FINSTAD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the members of the emergency medical services (EMS) profession who dedicate their lives to providing often lifesaving medical care and transport services to patients as well as entire communities. These health care professionals are on the frontlines of providing vital emergency 9-1-1 and interfacility ambulance services. Every year, the dispatch of an ambulance is the first response to millions of medical emergencies. Often, the survival of a patient is enhanced by the prompt medical attention provided by paramedics and emergency medical technicians (EMTs) prior to the arrival at an emergency department. As a result of the selfless acts of these courageous and devoted professions, the lives of thousands of Americans are saved each year. While these professionals do not expect to receive recognition for their work, they deserve our outmost gratitude. I would like to highlight a very special group of EMS professionals or ``Stars of Life'' who were recently honored by the American Ambulance Association. This year, the American Ambulance Association is recognizing 147 Stars of Life--by far the largest number of Stars of Life in the over 25 years of the program. The American Ambulance Association honors each year those paramedics, emergency medical technicians, dispatchers and other ambulance service personnel who exemplify what is best about the EMS field. The American Ambulance Association has appropriately designated these individuals as ``Stars of Life''. Past Stars of Life have included paramedics and EMTs who were part of evacuation and response efforts to natural disasters, acts of terrorism and public health emergencies. Members of this year's Stars of Life program are no different and were involved with exceptional acts such as stabilizing an expecting mothers in medical distress and saving the life of both the mother and newborn baby and using quick thinking and their medical skills to save individuals involved in vehicle crashes. Of equal importance, this program also pays tribute to those ambulance service personnel whose heroic acts or community service activities may not have made the news, but were just as meaningful to the people they aided. They are truly America's health care safety net. I am especially proud of the four Stars of Life from Minnesota being recognized this year who serve Minnesota with pride. They are John Harding, Stacy Jensen, Daniel McIntosh and Daniel Rohe. I had the opportunity to meet with John Harding with Mayo Clinic Ambulance from North Mankato, Minnesota and can tell you he is a first-class EMS professional who deeply cares about his community and his patients. Mr. Speaker, I include in the Record the names, organizations and hometowns of the 2025 American Ambulance Association Stars of Life honorees: 2025 American Ambulance Association Stars of Life Jennifer Aguilar, Superior Mobile Health, San Antonio, Texas; Kayla Alderman, Sunstar Paramedics, Largo, Florida; Mark Allen, EMSA, Tulsa, Oklahoma; Zoe Allison, Metropolitan EMS, Little Rock, Arkansas; Anthony Arrigo, Priority Ambulance, LLC, Utica, New York; Domingo Barboa, Cascade Ambulance, Bellingham, Washington; Carlos Bautista, EagleMed, Dodge City, Kansas; Emma Beaupre, Armstrong Ambulance Service, Arlington, Massachusetts; Jonathan Bell, Metropolitan EMS, Little Rock, Arkansas; Kathleen Benoit, Cataldo Ambulance Service, Somerville, Massachusetts; Cortney Bloxham, Pafford Medical Services, Inc., Stigler, Oklahoma; Scott Bodien, Mecklenburg EMS Agency, Charlotte, North Carolina; Kandice Bogatz, Northwell Emergency Medical Services, Syosset, New York; Andre Joel Bower, Priority Ambulance, LLC, Fredericksburg, Virginia; Robert Brengartner, Hall Ambulance, Bakersfield, California; Richard Byerwalters, Mohawk Ambulance Service, Schenectady, New York; Alison Cagle, Acadian Ambulance, Lafayette, Louisiana; Nathan Cagna, Huron Valley Ambulance, Ann Arbor, Michigan; Jeremy Capps, Hall Ambulance, Bakersfield, California; Larry Christian, Priority Ambulance, LLC, Indianapolis, Indiana; Timothy Clark, Rescue, Inc., Brattleboro, Vermont; Hugh Coley, Northwell Emergency Medical Services, Syosset, New York; Jason Cooke, Priority Ambulance, LLC, Anderson, South Carolina; Chris Crawford, American Medical Response, Portland, Oregon; Naomi Crittendon, Olympic Ambulance, Tacoma, Washington; Talitha Crowe, American Medical Response. Temple, Texas; Nathanael Day, EagleMed, Wichita, Kansas; Krystal Daymonde, Hartford HealthCare EMS, Network, Meriden, Connecticut; Courtney De Weese, Life EMS Ambulance, Grand Rapids, Michigan; Trish Dickerson, Pafford Medical Services, Inc., Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; Sergey Dobrinin, Bell Ambulance, Inc., Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Rudy Drago, River Medical, Lake Havasu City, Arizona; Aaron Durette, American Medical Response, West Hartford, Connecticut; Arianne Emling, Air Evac Lifeteam, Marion, Illinois; Jimi Estrada-Velazquez, American Medical Response, Riverside, California; Tom Felter, Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service, Hebron, Indiana; Marc Flores, Air Evac Lifeteam, Abilene, Texas; Tyler Ford, REACT EMS, Shawnee, Oklahoma; Kara Fox, Ute Pass Regional Ambulance District, Woodland Park, Colorado; Neil Frame, Metro-Area Ambulance Service, Mandan, North Dakota; Eric Friedell, Northwell Emergency Medical Services, Syosset, New York; Will Gardam, Spirit EMS, Greenville, Ohio; Rusty Gilbert, Pafford EMS of Louisiana, Ruston, Louisiana; Kenny Glimme, REACH, Oceanside, California; Aaron Goodloe, American Medical Response, Kansas City, Kansas; Alex Gossett, Priority Ambulance, LLC, Rockman, Georgia; Dylan Graves, American Medical Response, Keizer, Oregon; Terry Gray, American Medical Response, Puyallup, Washington; Rachelle Hallett, Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service, Milwaukee, Wisconsin; John Harding, Mayo Clinic Ambulance, Rochester, Minnesota; Carol Harper, Priority Ambulance, LLC, Fremont County, Wyoming; Jeanine Hasenkopf, Mohawk Ambulance Service, Schenectady, New York; Jayeah Haske, Life EMS Inc., Enid, Oklahoma; Shelby Hawkins, Southern Paramedic Services, Brinkley, Arkansas; Brian Heisz, Gundersen Tri-State Ambulance, La Crosse, Wisconsin; Charles Henley, Pafford Medical Services, Inc., Quitman County, Mississippi; Connor Holt, Priority Ambulance, LLC, Jefferson County, Alabama; Athena Hopkins, Pafford Medical Services, Inc., Rogers County, Oklahoma; Ryan Horowitz, Falck USA, Orange, California; Julie Humes, Air Evac Lifeteam, Macomb, Illinois; Braxton Impson, East Baton Rouge Parish EMS, Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Zachary Jahnke, Life EMS Ambulance, Grand Rapids, Michigan; Jeremy Jaime, Falck USA, Orange, California; Louann Jarreau, East Baton Rouge Parish EMS, Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Stacy Jensen, M Health Fairview/HealthEast, St. Paul, Minnesota; Christopher Jerrell, Mecklenburg EMS Agency, Charlotte, North Carolina; Jeff Kaufman, PatientCare EMS Solutions, Sioux Falls, South Dakota; Daryl Kennedy, Advanced Life Systems, Spokane, Washington; Joseph Ketcham, MedicWest, North Las Vegas, Nevada; Stacy Kohn, Friendswood EMS, League City, Texas; Eric Korneffel, Northwell Health, Syosset, New York; Jason Lambeth, Sinor EMS, Butler, Oklahoma; Katie Leland, Ute Pass Regional Ambulance District, Woodland Park, Colorado; Josh Lewis, Life EMS Ambulance, Grand Rapids, Michigan; Antony Lockwood, Regional Ambulance Service, Rutland, Vermont; Paul Lopez, Falck USA, Orange, California; P.J. Lowe, American Medical Response. Jackson, Mississippi; Matt Magiera, Medstar EMS, Summerdale, Alabama; Samantha Mahan, Cataldo Ambulance Service, Somerville, Massachusetts; Dave Martens, Gundersen Lutheran MedLink AIR, La Crosse, Wisconsin; Matthew Matouk, Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service, Elmhurst, Illinois; Eva Matyus-Bailey, Pafford EMS of Mississippi, Brandon, Mississippi; Caleb McDougal, Southern Paramedic Service, Brinkley, Arkansas; Beau McFarlin, Air Evac Lifeteam, Marion, Illinois; Daniel McIntosh, Lakes Region EMS, North Branch, Minnesota; Alyssa McMullen, Mohawk Ambulance Service, Schenectady, New York; Alexander Megquier, American Medical Response, West Hartford, Connecticut; Osvaldo Michel, Hall Ambulance, Bakersfield, California; William Miles, Hall Ambulance, Bakersfield, California; Douglas Milks, American Medical Response, Angola, New York; Ashley Miranda, Hartford HealthCare EMS Network, Meriden, Connecticut; Dillon Misenheimer, East Baton Rouge Parish EMS, Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Edmund Moreshead, North East Mobile Health, Scarborough, Maine; Magen Morris, MedicWest, North Las Vegas, Nevada; Jon Mullaly, Armstrong Ambulance Service, Arlington, Massachusetts; Gheorghe Munteanu, Action Ambulance Service, Inc., Wilmington, Massachusetts; Holly Nasello, Life Line, Prescott, Arizona; Andrew Natoli, Medic Ambulance Service Inc., Sonoma, California; Daniel Norfleet, Priority Ambulance, LLC, Clarksville, Tennessee; Thomas Elliot Owen, Priority Ambulance, LLC, Forest, Mississippi; John Pagonis, Northwell Emergency Medical Services, Syosset, New York; Shrey Patel, Hall Ambulance, Bakersfield, California; Aaron Pearce, Sunstar Paramedics, Largo, Florida; Jonathan Penick, EMSA, Tulsa, Oklahoma; Trey Phillips, Air Evac Lifeteam, Snellville, Georgia; Mark Powers, Community Care Ambulance Network, Ashtabula, Ohio; Tarun Prajapati, MedEx Ambulance, Skokie, Illinois; Rick Pringle, American Medical Response, Temple, Texas; Julie Purick, American Medical Response, Rochester, New York; Gerardo Ramirez, Falck USA, Orange, California; Emma Reyes, Action Ambulance Service, Inc., Wilmington, Massachusetts; Dana Rhoades, Action Ambulance Service, Inc., Wilmington, Massachusetts; LeAnn Riley, American Medical Response, Modesto, California; Ryan Rizen, American Medical Response, Evansville, Indiana; Katelyn Roberts, REMSA Health, Reno, Nevada; Jess Robins, Medic Ambulance Service Inc., Vallejo, California; Darrell Rohe, Lakes Region EMS, North Branch, Minnesota; Daniel Rooney, Priority Ambulance, LLC, Maricopa County, Arizona; Samantha Sabol, American Medical Response, Temple, Texas; Joannie Sanchez, Acadian Ambulance, Lafayette, Louisiana; Sara Sanders, Mohawk Ambulance Service, Schenectady, New York; Missy Satterfield, Air Evac Lifeteam, Abilene, Texas; Joseph Sisneros, Del Norte, Ambulance, Crescent City, California; Jamon Smith, Gold Cross Services, Salt Lake City, Utah; Christopher Spilde, Woodburn Ambulance Service, Woodburn, Oregon; Mark Staley, Pafford Medical Services, Inc., Chicot & Drew Counties, Arkansas; Morgan Stanley, American Medical Response, Independence, Missouri; Jason Staszko, Bell Ambulance, Inc., Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Jonathan Stocker, Superior Mobile Health, San Antonio, Texas; Doug Struble, Mercy Ambulance Service, Inc., Savannah, Georgia; Sarah Stump, Spirit EMS, Greenville, Ohio; Samantha Sukel, Emergent Health Partners, Ann Arbor, Michigan; Tristan Tomlins, Medic Ambulance Service Inc., Vallejo, California; Jonathan Tseng, Falck USA, Orange, California; Corey Tucker, Century Ambulance, Orange Park, Florida; Stone Volkmer, Community Care Ambulance Network, Ashtabula, Ohio; Julianna Wadsworth, Olympic Ambulance, Poulsbo, Washington; Adam Wagh, Superior Mobile Health, San Antonio, Texas; Parker Wallace, Mecklenburg EMS Agency, Charlotte, North Carolina; Michelle Walsh, Superior Air- Ground Ambulance Service, Lancaster, Ohio; April Weisler, Southern Oklahoma Ambulance Service, Ardmore, Oklahoma; Alisha Welicki, Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service, Sterling Heights, Michigan; Melissa White, Metropolitan EMS, Little Rock, Arkansas; Dustin Williams, Superior Air-Ground Ambulance Service, Schaumburg, Illinois; Dustin Wilson, American Medical Response, Stockton, California; Ryan Zavada, Advanced Medical Transport, Peoria, Illinois; and Brannen Zilka, American Medical Response, Concord, California.

Mr. FINSTAD

Mr. FINSTAD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Sheriff Dave Lange, who is retiring this month after a nearly 40-year career in law enforcement, including 29 years with the Nicollet County Sheriff's Department. A proud son of southern Minnesota, Sheriff Lange joined the department right out of high school as a jailer-dispatcher. He then went on to work briefly in North Mankato before returning to the sheriff's department for good. In 2002, he was elected sheriff, a position he has proudly held for the past 23 consecutive years. Since joining in the mid-1980s, Sheriff Lange has seen the department navigate decades of change. During his years of leadership, he spearheaded the procurement of new vehicles and equipment and oversaw the implementation of new technologies within the department. Mr. Speaker, I thank Sheriff Lange for his years of service and the example that he has set for all of us in southern Minnesota. I offer congratulations to Sheriff Lange on his retirement and best of luck in this next chapter.

Mr. FINSTAD

Mr. FINSTAD. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Pennsylvania for yielding. I rise today in support of S. 222, the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, which I was proud to help introduce alongside Chairman Thompson. As a fourth generation farmer raising the fifth generation, I know firsthand the importance of ensuring families have access to healthy and nutritious milk products. As a father of seven, my wife and I have purchased our fair share of milk on trips to the grocery store. This legislation has been in the making for a long time, and it is past due that we send it to the President's desk and make this the law of the land. Moving forward, every child across southern Minnesota and the rest of the Nation will have access to whole and 2 percent milk products when they go through the school lunch line. Moreover, this legislation will support our dairy farmers and the rural communities they call home. Farming is one of the most honorable and noble professions this country has to offer, and southern Minnesota is the home to some of the best dairy farmers and manufacturers in the world. This legislation is a win-win for school-age children and dairy farmers across this country. I am proud that we now, once again, can say loudly: ``Milk: It does a body good.'' Mr. Speaker, I encourage my colleagues to support this important legislation.

Mr. FINSTAD

Mr. FINSTAD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate 25 years of the Minnesota Agriculture and Rural Leadership program known as MARL. Twenty-five years ago, MARL was founded with the goal of developing the skills of Minnesota's agriculture and rural leaders, connecting them with educational resources to build their influence and effectiveness at local, State, national, and international levels. In the year 2000, the first MARL class was selected with the inaugural seminar held that November. Today, MARL is recognized throughout Minnesota as the leading agriculture and rural leadership development program. The idea for MARL was sparked by a 2-year research and development project between Southwest Minnesota State University, University of Minnesota Extension, and the Humphrey Institute at the University of Minnesota. Since its creation, the MARL program has continued to grow throughout the past two-and-a-half decades, with some of Minnesota's well- respected leaders among its alumni. Mr. Speaker, as a past board member of MARL, I am especially proud to recognize this outstanding program for its commitment to educating and training tomorrow's rural leaders for the past 25 years. I wish them many more years of success.

Mr. FINSTAD

Mr. FINSTAD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember the lives of Justin Reinarts and Tabitha Trescott, two individuals whose lives were senselessly taken on November 2 in the close-knit community of Hanska, Minnesota. Justin served 17 years with the Hanska Fire Department. He took great pride as a first responder, never giving a second thought to doing anything he could to help others. At his funeral last week, seven area fire departments paid tribute to Justin, and scores of community members lined the streets to say good- bye. Tabitha was a warm light in the lives of those who knew her. She is remembered by many for her steadfast belief in God's unconditional love, the driving force behind the love that she showed to others. Hanska, a town of just a few hundred residents, has been shaken by this tragedy that has left our community heartbroken for the families of Justin and Tabitha, especially their children who are left to carry on without them. I am honored here today to pay tribute to Justin and Tabitha, and may their lives and their contributions to southern Minnesota never be forgotten.

Mr. FINSTAD

Mr. FINSTAD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding young leader from southern Minnesota, Vannah Heil of St. James. This November, Vannah will join more than 700 youth from across the Nation at the National 4-H Congress in Atlanta. Vannah is one of only nine students selected to represent Minnesota at this prestigious event, where she will take part in workshops, service projects, and opportunities to strengthen her leadership and communication skills. As a Minnesota 4-H State Ambassador, Vannah has already shown her commitment to building stronger communities and inspiring her peers. The 4-H program has a long tradition of equipping young people with the tools they need to succeed in school, careers, and civic life. Vannah embodies the very best of that mission. I am proud to represent her and look forward to seeing the great things she will accomplish in the years ahead.

Mr. FINSTAD

Mr. FINSTAD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Minnesota State University, Mankato, on the grand opening of their new Maverick Innovation Gateway. This center represents the very best of southern Minnesota, where innovation meets hard work and where our next generation of leaders will gain the skills to drive our economy forward. With the support of community partners like Nidec and many others, this facility will provide students with hands-on experience, foster entrepreneurship, and prepare young people to meet the workforce demands of tomorrow. As a proud Minnesotan, I know firsthand the impact that institutions like MSU-Mankato have on our families, our businesses, and the vitality of our region. The Maverick Innovation Gateway will be an invaluable resource for students not only to build the skills necessary to fill critical jobs but to take what they are learning in the classroom and translate it to real-world job experiences. This new addition to the MSU campus is more than just a building. It is a promise to students and employers that southern Minnesota is and will remain a hub of opportunity and innovation across our State and Nation. Mr. Speaker, today, I congratulate President Inch, faculty, staff, students, and the entire Mankato community on this exciting achievement.

Mr. FINSTAD

Mr. FINSTAD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Jake Larson, a World War II veteran and a beloved social media star who recently passed away at the age of 102. Jake was born and raised in Owatonna, Minnesota, and was truly a hero to our Nation. In 1938, at the age of 15, though he may have said he was 18, he enlisted in the National Guard. Mr. Speaker, 4 years later he was sent overseas to Northern Ireland where he served as an operations sergeant, eventually assisting in the planning of the D-day invasion. On June 6, 1944, Jake was among the brave and selfless heroes who stormed the beaches of Normandy, surviving relentless enemy bombardment and machine gun fire before ultimately pushing the Nazi forces off of Omaha Beach. Months later, he would go on to take part in the Battle of the Bulge, earning two medals for his service. Later in life, ``Papa Jake'' was introduced to social media by his granddaughter, McKaela, where he shared stories of his experiences overseas during the war. His humor, humility, and heroism captured the hearts of millions, inspiring younger generations of Americans. I have no doubt that Jake's legacy will live on through all those he impacted, both in person and through his videos. He was a courageous veteran, an inspiring storyteller, and, most importantly, a friend to all. He will truly be missed. May he rest in peace.

Mr. FINSTAD

Mr. FINSTAD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize my friend and fellow Minnesota farmer, Lori Stevermer, who recently completed a successful term as president of the National Pork Producers Council. Lori has dedicated her career to advocating for Minnesota's pork producers. In addition to raising pigs with her husband, Dale, on their farm near Easton, Minnesota, Lori served 9 years on the executive board of the Minnesota Pork Producers Association, including 2 years as president, and on various State and national committees. The time and effort she invests on behalf of not only Minnesota pork producers but all American pork producers has helped shape a better business climate, expand American producers' market access, and promote the benefits of pork to a wide audience. Lori often says: ``The world is run by the people who show up.'' And show up she does. Lori has made countless trips to Washington, as well as all across the country and internationally, to advocate for her fellow pork producers. I thank Lori for her years of relentless dedication and leadership, and congratulate her on a successful year as president of the National Pork Producers Council.

Mr. FINSTAD

Mr. FINSTAD. Mr. Speaker, over the past week, I have been reminding myself that hope, faith, and resilience are the enemy of evil. I remind my fellow Minnesotans--not just the Republicans and not just the Democrats but my fellow Minnesotans--that hope, faith, and resilience are the enemy of evil. While one person's evil acts shook us to our core, it is up to each and every one of us to be the good. I hope that all of us take time to lean on each other and find opportunities to be more loving family members, kinder friends, and better neighbors because that is the good that overcomes evil. My thoughts and prayers go out to the Hortman and Hoffman families during this time of tragedy. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this important resolution.

Mr. FINSTAD. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman Comer for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. Res. 519. In the early morning hours of June 14, many of us woke up to the horrifying news of a targeted political attack that took the lives of former Minnesota Speaker of the House Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, and which left State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette, hospitalized with multiple gunshot wounds. In the hours and the days following, the largest manhunt in our State's history ensued, with over 200 officers from local, State, and Federal jurisdictions working together around the clock to bring the shooter to justice. I thank the officers who conducted this successful manhunt and ensured the safety and security of Minnesota lawmakers in the ensuing hours. I also express my personal gratitude to members of the New Ulm Police Department, the Brown County Sheriff's Office, and Sheriff Jason Seidl. They worked to ensure the safety of my family and me in the hours following the attack. I had the honor of serving with Speaker Emerita Hortman for 4 years during my time in the Minnesota Legislature. I will forever cherish the conversations and friendship that I had with her then and throughout the 20 years since. When I look at my time serving alongside her, Melissa embodied the spirit of the hardworking people of Minnesota. She came from a blue- collar upbringing and had a work ethic that drove her to always seek out solutions rather than seeking out a spotlight for a political win. Melissa was a principled public servant who led by example. When tough decisions had to be made, she put her politics aside and got the job done for Minnesotans. As a lawmaker, Melissa brought her roll-up-the-sleeves, problem- solving approach to almost every issue. Along with it, she touched all of us with the witty humor that many of us will remember her for, including myself. Melissa was a very special person, and I can say without hesitation that our State was better served due to her leadership. The halls of the Minnesota State Capitol will be a lot less bright without her. Words cannot express the emotions that all of us across Minnesota have experienced in the wake of this tragic event: devastation, fear, grief, and outrage. Whether we agree or disagree on policy issues, politically targeted violence like this must never be tolerated. My wife, Jackie, and I teach our kids that it is possible to respectfully disagree with others. We have to do the same as a society. We have to lead by example and put civility back into today's political discourse. Political disagreement is healthy. It is what our system of government was founded upon. We have our fair share of that political disagreement in Minnesota, and we even have it here in the House Chamber. I was proud to join every Member of the Minnesota delegation on both sides of the aisle to call out this act of hatred, and we will continue to do so together.

Mr. FINSTAD

Mr. FINSTAD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Bob Kierlin, a beloved community member and dedicated public servant who passed away earlier this year at the age of 85. Born and raised in Winona, Bob was a fixture in the southeastern Minnesota community. He graduated from Cotter High School and served in the Peace Corps in Venezuela before going on to represent his neighbors from Winona in the Minnesota State Senate from 1999 to 2007. As a young man in 1967, Bob and four of his high school friends founded the Fastenal Company when Bob saw a need to get hardware to the construction sites quickly. A new supply chain concept was born. With Bob's innovation and his leadership, Fastenal quickly grew into a worldwide distributor, employing more than 23,000 employees with locations in all 50 States and 25 countries. Today, Fastenal is a Fortune 500 company and Winona's largest employer. Bob was much more to his hometown than a CEO, though. His community involvement and generosity to local causes was seemingly limitless, setting an example for us all in how to serve our neighbors in greater need. I have no doubt that Bob's legacy will live on through the countless lives he impacted, both personally and professionally. He was a renowned business leader, a generous benefactor, and a dedicated public servant. He was also a true friend to a great many of us across southern Minnesota. He will truly be missed. May he rest in peace.