Russell Fry

Mr. FRY

Mr. FRY. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and to include extraneous material on H.R. 4323.

Mr. FRY. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 4323, the Trafficking Survivors Relief Act, is a strong, bipartisan piece of legislation--and bicameral, actually--that will help one of our most vulnerable populations. This legislation passed the House Judiciary Committee by a voice vote earlier this year, and I am looking forward to seeing it pass the full House. Human trafficking is a heinous crime that we are all too familiar with. Human trafficking is not just a distant problem. It is a crisis that touches every corner of our Nation, rural communities and urban centers. It can occur anywhere, in any community, and it does not discriminate. Traffickers exploit the vulnerable wherever they may find them. We see it happen to a vast number of women and children who are exploited after crossing our southern border. We see it happen to people from both low-income and high-income backgrounds. We see it happen to ordinary Americans, people who never imagined that they would become victims themselves. Efforts by Federal, State, and local law enforcement and advocates to eliminate trafficking and to support victims have increased awareness, reporting, and prosecution of sex traffickers across the country. However, victims of these crimes are sometimes prosecuted for their actions taken while under the control of their traffickers. This can lead to the arrest, conviction, and incarceration of actual trafficking victims themselves without proper consideration of their criminal culpability. We know that criminal convictions, and even nonviolent ones, can hold someone back from applying for a job or getting housing. These victims deserve to be able to heal and move on with their lives. Thankfully, we have made significant progress to help survivors. Today, the vast majority of States--in fact, 46 or 47--have some sort of relief to victims for nonviolent offenses committed while under the control of their traffickers. These laws allow individuals to reenter their communities and move on with their lives. My home State of South Carolina continues to lead on this forward- looking, victim-centered approach. The Trafficking Survivors Relief Act follows the States' clear lead and provides Federal relief to survivors of human trafficking who committed a nonviolent offense as a direct result of being a victim of human trafficking. For a court to grant this relief, a defendant must show that the offense was committed as a direct result of being a victim of human trafficking. To ensure that these opportunities are only available to true victims of trafficking and not criminals, we have worked hand in hand with law enforcement to include appropriate safeguards in the bill. The legislation allows for additional evidence to be considered, including the sworn testimony of a law enforcement officer as to whether a victim had any role in coercing other victims into criminal offenses. This legislation is endorsed by multiple advocacy organizations, faith-based organizations, and law enforcement officials. This is a bipartisan, bicameral piece of legislation that unites both law enforcement and victim organizations. It is a good piece of legislation. There are countless individuals and organizations that have worked tirelessly to get this bill to where it is today, including CPAC Foundation's Center for Combating Human Trafficking, NCOSE, Rights4Girls, Street Grace, survivor leader Hollie Nadel, and so many more. Last Congress, a bipartisan group of attorneys general wrote a letter in strong support of the Trafficking Survivors Relief Act. This carefully crafted legislation strikes the right balance in protecting victims' rights and public safety. Let's work together to fight back against this evil, to help victims and survivors begin a new chapter, and to allow them to take on every opportunity that life hands them without any constraint of their past. I encourage all of my colleagues to support the Trafficking Survivors Relief Act, and I encourage swift passage in the Senate. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. FRY. Mr. Speaker, I have no further speakers on the bill and am prepared to close. I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. FRY. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. FRY. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. Mr. Speaker, I find myself in this moment on H.R. 4323, the Trafficking Survivors Relief Act, in somewhat of a deja vu. I did this legislation at the State level, and I talked to victims of human trafficking and those who have used this legal mechanism as a sense of relief to expunge their crimes, to get their prior convictions vacated, to apply for housing, and to go on with their lives in a very meaningful way. What they would share with me and what I will share with you today is that this absolutely matters to them. Being able to turn the page on their past is not easy. It is not easy for a victim of human trafficking to come forward. There is shame sometimes in doing so. There is extreme guilt. When they get that chance to do that, this is an incredibly important step. Here is the caveat that I think is often overlooked. Law enforcement loves this bill, too. Why is that? Because during a prosecution of a criminal defendant who is a trafficking victim, or within a conviction of a human-trafficking victim, victims are allowed to tell their story. One, it is very therapeutic and helpful to the victims themselves, but for the law enforcement folks, they can go after the real bad actors. I think that is the key crux of this bill, and I think that is what unites Republicans and Democrats, House and Senate Members, and the law enforcement community and victim organizations. It is a great piece of public policy that has worked so well in 46, 47, 48 States at this point, and there is no reason why the Federal Government should lag behind the States anymore in crafting a very good, commonsense piece of legislation. This bill is victim-centered. It is law enforcement-focused, as well. It checks all the boxes of good public policy. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support it, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. FRY

Mr. FRY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Izzy Soto and her teammates on the United States National Development Team for winning a gold medal at the 2025 Pan American Inline Hockey Championships in Oaxtepec, Morelos, Mexico. Representing our Nation with pride and determination, the team demonstrated remarkable resilience by winning four consecutive games to capture the championship title. I am especially proud to note that Izzy is from Myrtle Beach and was the only member of the Women's Junior Team from South Carolina, making her achievement even more meaningful for our state and the Grand Strand community. Their accomplishment reflects the best of American spirit, teamwork, and perseverance. Competing at this level not only showcased their skill but also provided invaluable experience playing alongside and against some of the best athletes in the world. I commend Izzy, her teammates, and their coaches for their dedication and sportsmanship, and I extend my best wishes to all those continuing to compete in future tournaments. Their success brings great pride to the United States and serves as an inspiration to young athletes everywhere.

Mr. FRY

Mr. FRY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople, a spiritual leader recognized around the world as both a bridge builder and a peacemaker. For decades, Patriarch Bartholomew has endured harassment and persecution, yet he has remained steadfast in his mission to foster reconciliation between East and West, to promote interfaith dialogue, and to speak out forcefully against fanaticism and violence. His efforts to defend human rights and religious freedom have earned him deep respect among people of many faiths. Patriarch Bartholomew's unwavering commitment to peace, compassion, and justice has left a profound impact on the world, and his example continues to inspire people across the globe. I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing his extraordinary service and lasting contributions to humanity.

Mr. FRY

Mr. FRY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Domtar Marlboro Mill in Bennettsville, South Carolina, which since 1990 has been a cornerstone of economic growth, innovation, and community service. As the last greenfield paper mill built in the United States, it employs more than 300 workers, contributes over $800 million annually to the regional economy, and produces essential paper and pulp products used across the Nation. The mill has earned recognition for its commitment to safety, efficiency, and responsible forestry, while also investing in Marlboro County through scholarships, service projects, and support for local organization. The Marlboro Mill stands as a source of pride for South Carolina's 7th District, and I commend its workforce and leadership for their lasting contributions to our state and country.

Mr. FRY

Mr. FRY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of a remarkable man and devoted member of the Myrtle Beach community, Mr. Lloyd W. Coppedge, who passed away on July 19th at the age of 80, surrounded by family and friends. Born in Abilene, Texas, Lloyd was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and a friend to all. After graduating from Texas Tech with a degree in accounting, Lloyd brought his talents and heart to the business world, eventually purchasing Wolverine Brass in Myrtle Beach in 1988. There, he not only built a thriving company, but a family. He knew every employee by name, cared for their families, and led with a huge heart. His entrepreneurial spirit extended to the restaurant industry, where he became a partner in Divine Dining, helping grow a beloved institution and once again touching the lives of thousands through his generosity and leadership. But beyond his business accomplishments, Lloyd's legacy lives in the lives he impacted, from his daughters Tracie and Allison, to his wife Judi, to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and even to the many ``adopted'' friends and family he made around the world. Lloyd Coppedge led with integrity, treated everyone with kindness, and never stopped working to make his community better. If you had Lloyd as a friend, you knew you had a guardian angel. May we remember his legacy, not just in words, but in the way we treat those around us.

Mr. FRY

Mr. FRY. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the Navy Club of Georgetown, South Carolina, as it celebrates an extraordinary milestone, its 100th anniversary. Since 1925, this group has united veterans of the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. From the shores of South Carolina to all around the world, they've served our Nation with honor. For generations, the Navy Club has remained deeply embedded in the life of the Georgetown community--supporting Navy Junior Reserve Officers, honoring naval heritage, and fostering a spirit of unity among veterans and civilians alike. What began in 1925, as a gathering of like-minded servicemembers, has grown into a lasting institution, one that continues to support generations of veterans through friendship, mentorship, and tradition. The Club's annual shrimp dinners have become a beloved local occasion, bringing people together to share stories, remember the past, and strengthen community ties. The Navy Club's mission is clear: to honor the proud legacy of naval service in South Carolina. Through veteran outreach, youth engagement, and the preservation of time-honored customs, it safeguards our maritime traditions for the future. As we mark this centennial, we are reminded of the enduring values that define our armed forces: honor, courage, and commitment. The Navy Club's story is one of lasting impact, civic pride, and a devotion to service that transcends generations. Over the decades, it has built a strong foundation of fellowship and support, uplifting those who served, commemorating those we've lost, and building bridges within Georgetown. Its events have become more than social gatherings--they are touchpoints of history, community, and service. Their passion for service, fellowship, and patriotism continues to inspire the next generation. On behalf of the people of South Carolina's Seventh District, I thank them and congratulate them on 100 years.

Mr. FRY

Mr. FRY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize an incredible public servant and a great friend, Mayor Marilyn Hatley of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, who is retiring after two decades of public service. Marilyn has been a constant force for many years, leading with strength, dedication, and a genuine heart for the people of North Myrtle Beach. She is a pioneer. She has worked harder than anyone. In fact, she is one of the hardest-working women that I know to make North Myrtle Beach not just a premier tourist destination but a place we are all proud to call home. She has championed beach renourishment, expanded recreational opportunities, and helped build major infrastructure, all while keeping North Myrtle Beach on budget with some of the lowest taxes and crime rates in South Carolina. The entire city is proud of the lasting impact Marilyn has made on North Myrtle Beach. I know she will enjoy this next chapter. She has earned it.

Mr. FRY

Mr. FRY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the incredible season of the Coastal Carolina University baseball team. With grit, heart, and determination, these young men made the Chanticleer Nation, the Grand Strand, and all of South Carolina incredibly proud. They battled their way into the College World Series final and left it all on the field. From the first pitch to the final out, they represented South Carolina with strength and skill. I congratulate Coach Schnall and all of the players on a season to remember. Their run inspired fans across the Nation and reminded us why we love this game. We look forward to their continued success in the years to come. Chants Up. Honoring Robert Franklin Childs III

Mr. FRY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of a dear friend of mine and a fixture in the Surfside Beach community, Mr. Robert Franklin Childs III, known to most as Bob. Originally born in Washington, D.C., he spent 37 years working on Capitol Hill, starting in the electrical engineering department under the Architect of the Capitol. After retiring from the Hill, Bob and his wife, Nancy, moved to Surfside Beach. There he continued his career in public service as the mayor of Surfside Beach from 2016 to 2020. He also served on the Surfside Beach Town Council, the board of directors for the Horry County Council on Aging and the Waccamaw Regional Council of Governments. He brought honesty and common sense to local government and was loved by all. When you look at the iconic Surfside Beach pier, know that it was Bob's tireless efforts, advocacy, and grit that rebuilt it after devastating hurricanes impacted our region. Bob was an incredibly hard worker, and his passion for improving the lives of those around him always remained constant. Bob was an incredible person, too. He believed in passing the baton, in helping people, people who wanted to serve their community. Bob was a constant voice in their ear for good public service. He was the kind of man who lived his values, not just in words, but in the way he treated others. May his memory leave a lasting legacy for all those who knew him.

Mr. FRY

Mr. FRY. Mr. Speaker, the Big Beautiful Bill Act is exactly what this country needs. It is bold. It is clear. It is packed with real solutions. While Democrats have buried their heads in the sand on the biggest issues facing America, Republicans are stepping up. They ignored the border crisis while towns are overrun. They downplay inflation while families can't afford groceries. They pretend crime isn't skyrocketing while our cities become war zones. Democrats would rather police our speech than protect our streets. They will rush to ban plastic straws but look the other way when fentanyl overruns our cities. When parents speak up at school board meetings, they get labeled as extremists, while actual criminals walk free. The one big, beautiful bill does exactly what they won't. It secures the border, and it protects our communities. It strengthens our economy. It cuts taxes. It cuts waste. It unleashes American energy and puts the American people first. Mr. Speaker, there are no more excuses and no more distractions. It is time to fix what is broken, and this bill is the blueprint.

Mr. FRY

Mr. FRY. Mr. Speaker, pursuant to House Resolution 405, I call up the bill (H.R. 2255) to allow Federal law enforcement officers to purchase retired service weapons, and for other purposes, and ask for its immediate consideration in the House.

Mr. FRY. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and to include extraneous material on H.R. 2255.

Mr. FRY. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 2255, the Federal Law Enforcement Officer Service Weapon Purchase Act, will allow current or former Federal law enforcement officers in good standing to purchase a retired service weapon at salvage value from the Federal agency that issued the service weapon to the officer. Under the bill, the administrator of general services would be required to establish a program to provide these purchases. To be eligible to participate in the program, the officer must be in good standing with the agency and any firearm sold through the program must be sold within 6 months of the date when the firearm was retired. Current Federal regulations require all Federal law enforcement agencies to destroy their firearms after they are retired from official use. This regulation costs the American taxpayers millions of dollars every year. For example, in 2022, the Fraternal Order of Police notified Congress that multiple Federal law enforcement agencies were in the process of replacing their service weapons. The replacement of these service weapons accounted for the destruction of approximately 20,000 firearms, costing the taxpayers roughly $8 million. Not only would this legislation cause agencies and the taxpayers to avoid that cost, but it would also recoup some of the taxpayers' dollars for the initial purchase of the firearm. American taxpayers should not be forced to pay for a service weapon twice, once at the initial purchase when it was acquired by the agency and then again when it is needlessly destroyed at the end of its life. Law enforcement officers should have the opportunity to purchase the service weapon they used while serving in law enforcement. By allowing officers to purchase their retired service weapons, this provides a starting point to keeping them safe so that they may protect their communities as well as themselves and their families. This legislation is supported by 10 law enforcement organizations, the Association of State Criminal Investigative Agencies, Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association, the National Fraternal Order of Police, Major Cities Chiefs Association, the Major County Sheriffs of America, the National Association of Police Organizations, the National Narcotics Officers' Associations' Coalition, the National Sheriffs' Association, the Sergeants Benevolent Association NYPD, and the National Treasury Employees Union. I hope my colleagues across the aisle recognize this bill not as a partisan measure but, much like it was last year, in fact, bipartisan when it was voted on in the House. This is a commonsense, cost-saving initiative that supports law enforcement and the American taxpayers. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bill, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. FRY. Mr. Speaker, just to discuss a few of the extraneous comments that were made by the minority party, the officer that is currently employed by a Federal law enforcement agency must be in good standing. In order for that to happen, obviously, they are not committing crimes. Some of these things that are kind of coming out that the majority party is talking about or has talked about is the officer must be in good standing. If they have blemishes on their record, they are no longer employed or employable by that Federal agency. Second of all, grenade launchers are not issued by Federal law enforcement agencies. They might be used by Federal law enforcement, but they are not issued to that officer. Sawed-off shotguns, the same thing, they are not issued to an officer. The officer must be in good standing. In the event that the officer is retired within that 6-month period, these weapons don't sit around with their name on them in a locker room somewhere waiting for the weapon to also be retired. It is then issued to another officer. The program only extends if you are retired, and you happen to have the ability when you are retired to purchase that retired service weapon, you have a 6-month period in which to do that. The window is very short. GSA, under the bill, has every opportunity to come up with the rules and regulations related to this. A lot of this is distraction. This is the same bill that we passed last year. In fact, 13 Democrats supported this bill. The smoke and mirrors that is created by the minority just don't actually exist in reality. This is a very commonsense bill. Law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every single day. They should be able to purchase their service weapon. If the officer is retired and their service weapon is retired roughly commensurate to when they actually physically retire, then they can also purchase that. Anyone who is actually charged and convicted with a crime, that the gentleman talks about, would be precluded from doing this. GSA has all the rights to come up with the regulations themselves. The statute is very clear. Law enforcement officers are not issued machine guns. They are not issued grenade launchers. They are not issued sawed-off shotguns or missile launchers or helicopters. These are not part and parcel to an officer's weapons in the line of duty. They are issued handguns, maybe a shotgun, and maybe a rifle. That is it. These things are ultimately distractions. The DOGE stuff I won't respond to at all because it doesn't need to be. This is a commonsense bill supported by a lot of law enforcement agencies, a lot of law enforcement organizations, and was voted on in a bipartisan fashion last Congress. Mr. Speaker, I have no further speakers. I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. FRY. Will the gentleman yield?

Mr. FRY. The gentleman said it applied to grenade launchers, sawed- off shotguns, and the like. Those are permitted to be used, but they are not issued to an officer.

Mr. FRY. They don't take those weapons home with them is the whole point. Under GSA--

Mr. FRY. To answer the gentleman's first question, if you are in good standing, then that means that you cannot have committed a felony.

Mr. FRY. The prohibited purchaser statute would preclude them from being able to purchase that to begin with.

Mr. FRY. GSA comes up with the regulations. That is laid out very clearly in the bill that they would come up with those regulations on an officer.

Mr. FRY. No. What I am saying is that these things are not actually in reality. People are not issued helicopters, grenades, or whatever else.