Jared Huffman

Mr. HUFFMAN

Mr. HUFFMAN. Mr. Speaker, it is important that this 5-year surface transportation reauthorization invests in a cleaner, greener transportation future while helping create great-paying jobs for American workers, but the INVEST in America Act does more than that. It finally restores Congress' Article I prerogative in controlling the power of the purse. Through an open, transparent process, Member-designated projects will ensure that elected Representatives of the people have at least some say on which surface transportation projects get funding. And in my district that means expanding the SMART rail service into Healdsburg and further north, closing the gaps in a pedestrian and bike pathway along San Francisco Bay Trail, providing ADA accessibility and educational signage at the mouth of the Smith River Overlook, and planning for a safe pedestrian crossing at the San Rafael Channel. The INVEST Act will also start planning for improvements along Route 37 to benefit both commuters and the environment in the face of rising sea levels. I thank Chairman DeFazio for his leadership on this bill, and I look forward to sending it to President Biden's desk for his signature.

Mr. HUFFMAN

Mr. HUFFMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in celebration of the life of Christopher Yock, who passed away on June 8, 2021 at the age of 57 after battling a structure fire at San Francisco International Airport. He was a beloved member of the San Rafael community and a San Francisco firefighter. Christopher was born on December 27, 1963 in San Francisco and was raised in the Westborough neighborhood of South San Francisco. Christopher began his journey in the fire service as a firefighter at the Alameda Naval Airbase Station and the Presidio Fire Department before finally achieving his dream of becoming a firefighter for the San Francisco Fire Department. Christopher loved his career in the fire service, and was a beloved firehouse chef who prepared amazing meals for his fellow firefighters. Christopher lived a full and vibrant life, meeting and making lifelong friends along the way. He had a passion for traveling, cooking, photography, and music. Christopher was a seasoned world traveler, with some of his favorite destinations being Palau, Porto, Maldives, Tahiti, Bali and numerous family trips to Maui. Christopher is survived by his siblings, Jeffery Yock and Jennifer Yock-Lanthier, his son, Cayden Yock (Nancy Galvin), his brother-in-law, Sean Lanthier, and his nephew and nieces, Danielle Gracia, Alyssa Sozio, Adam Lanthier, and Ashley Yock. Madam Speaker, I respectfully ask that you join me in extending condolences to Christopher's family and friends and in expressing our deep appreciation for his dedicated service to public safety and the San Francisco Fire Department.

Mr. HUFFMAN

Mr. HUFFMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Chief Kenny Stevens as he retires from an outstanding career with the Stinson Beach Fire Department, spanning five decades of providing emergency response, rescue services, and peace of mind for residents and visitors. Chief Stevens moved to Stinson beach in 1966. After his father joined the Stinson Beach Fire Department, Chief Stevens joined the department as a junior firefighter and later became an official volunteer at the age of 16. Even while enlisted in the U.S. Navy, Chief Stevens still participated in drills when visiting home. After his discharge from military service, Chief Stevens returned to the Department as an assistant fire chief and was later promoted to lead the organization. From responding to the Grand Hotel fire in 1971 to being first on scene to a building explosion last summer, Chief Stevens' has served the public with courage and professionalism. Chief Stevens built a reputation as a strong mentor who prioritized training and professional development. He created opportunities for young volunteers to run drills, ensured they earned certifications, and helped them establish careers with other departments. Chief Stevens also raised funds for an annex building to supplement the Department's resources. With tourism steadily increasing over the years, having Chief Stevens' leadership to keep both the local community and visiting beachgoers safe has been invaluable to public safety. Madam Speaker, I respectfully ask that you join me in extending congratulations on Chief Steven's well-deserved retirement and in expressing our deepest appreciation for Chief Stevens' many years of service to residents of West Marin.

Mr. HUFFMAN

Mr. HUFFMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in celebration of the life of Al Aramburu, who passed away on May 11, 2021 at the age of 87. Al was a remarkable community leader who spent decades building bipartisan consensus and protecting the North Bay's natural resources. Al was born on February 16, 1934 in East Los Angeles. After finishing high school, he answered the call to serve our country in the U.S. Army from 1953 to 1956. Al graduated from California State University Northridge in 1960. He later moved to the Bay Area as a manager for Pacific Telephone and began his career in local government as a volunteer on Tiburon's Parks, Open Space and Trails Commission. Al was a strong advocate for Marin's vibrant Latino community and a champion for sound environmental policy while serving as Mayor of Tiburon and during his three terms on the Marin County Board of Supervisors. He led a successful campaign for a ballot measure opposing offshore oil drilling in Marin and helped create the Richardson's Bay Regional Agency to advance cleanup and rehabilitation priorities. To preserve an area of landmass for seals haulingout in Richardson's Bay, Al had a 17-acre section separated from Strawberry Spit, now known as Aramburu Island. Al's leadership also helped to designate Tiburon's Ring Mountain preserve, establish McKegney Green and protect Horse Hill in Mill Valley. Al was also a leader in the nonprofit sector and volunteered his time and talents to the Mill Valley Film Festival, Teatro Campesino, La Familia Center of Marin, and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce among others. With his favorite adage ``good government is boring government,'' Al was known as a classic workhorse public servant who measured successes by bringing people together. His thoughtfulness, compassion and hard work ethic demonstrated all the right qualities of a good leader. Friends, family, and colleagues loved Al for his wit, deadpan sense of humor, and propensity to pick up a guitar and sing. Al leaves a legacy to be revered. His many years of hard work made a lasting positive impact on the North Bay's people, places, and wildlife. Al Aramburu is survived by his wife, Margit Hind; siblings Ray, Henry and Angela; children Bert and Katie; stepson Jackie; and four grandchildren. Madam Speaker, I respectfully ask that you join me in extending condolence to Al's family and friends and in expressing our deep appreciation for Al's extraordinary career and life.

Mr. HUFFMAN

Mr. HUFFMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Adam Kolton, who passed away on April 26, 2021. A graduate of the University of Wisconsin, he lived in Bethesda, Maryland with his family and their dog, Riley. He is survived by two sons, 17-year-old Jacob and 14-year- old Sam, as well as his wife, Laura; his parents, Chet and Carol; his sister Lisa; mother-in-law Priscilla; and brother-in-law Sandy. A tireless environmental advocate, Adam spent much of his career fighting oil and gas development in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. At the beginning of his career, he oversaw a vital period as the Arctic Refuge Campaign Director at Alaska Wilderness League from 1997 to 2002, spearheading the fight to block Congress and the Bush administration from opening the refuge's coastal plain to drilling. Following that, he spent 15 years at the National Wildlife Federation, eventually overseeing its 40-person Washington, D.C. office as Vice President of National Advocacy and leading staff in countless conservation wins, including another high-profile Arctic Refuge battle in 2005. In 2017, he returned to Alaska Wilderness League as its Executive Director and led the organization's work to protect Alaska's public lands and waters through the politically challenging years of the Trump administration. His passion for bringing people together to protect the Arctic Refuge was highlighted by his dedication to elevating the voices of impacted Indigenous communities like the Gwich'in. As a northern New Jersey native, Adam was an unapologetic fan of the New York Mets and the forever hapless New York Jets. Early in his life, he and a friend formed Sports Fans United--``the largest nonprofit fan advocacy group in the country''--and Adam even testified before Congress in a hearing on revoking baseball's longstanding exemption from antitrust laws. It is my honor to recognize Adam Kolton, an individual wholly dedicated to the protection of our nation's wildest places like the Arctic Refuge. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the life of this remarkable advocate for conservation.

Mr. HUFFMAN

Mr. HUFFMAN. Madam Speaker, I regret that I was unable to cast the following vote. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call 108.

Mr. HUFFMAN

Mr. HUFFMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in celebration of the life of John Young, a remarkable community leader and activist who spent more than 30 years uplifting underserved communities in the North Bay Area. John was born on October 25, 1952 in San Francisco, CA. He grew up in Marin City and attended Tamalpais High School and College of Marin. John went on to study public policy at San Francisco State University, where he developed a passion for social justice. Recognizing the need to confront economic, health, and education inequities, John committed his career to championing more inclusive social policies. At the Marin City Community Development Corporation, John went to bat for the community that raised him, helping to plan and launch critical revitalization projects. The Canal Neighborhood in San Rafael benefitted from John's talents as an organizer and housing specialist for the Canal Community Alliance. John also successfully managed more than $5 million in grants for programs supporting low economic and disadvantaged populations across the Bay Area. John was a skilled problem solver who was able to effect change by bringing people together. In founding the Marin County Grassroots Leadership Network, he assembled a coalition for underrepresented residents to unite and speak with one voice. This helped secure more equitable policy outcomes, including housing, transportation, labor, and voting rights. In addition, more than 300 rising leaders were mentored and trained through the organization. Friends, family, and colleagues knew John for his big personality that could brighten any room. With a deep sense of compassion and a people-first attitude, John embodied all the qualities of a fierce community organizer. Although he will be sorely missed, John's legacy will live on through the lasting positive impact he had on our community and beyond. John's hard work made a transformative difference in the lives of many. Madam Speaker, I respectfully ask that you join me in extending condolence to John's family and friends and in expressing our deep appreciation for John's extraordinary career and life.

Mr. HUFFMAN

Mr. HUFFMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Adam Politzer upon his retirement from a distinguished 20 year career in service to the City of Sausalito. Adam was born and raised in Sausalito, and he graduated from Tamalpais High School. His career in local government began in 1987 as a recreation manager in Palo Alto. He later joined the City of Sausalito in 2000 as a parks and recreation director and quickly moved up the ranks to become the City's chief administrator. Upon his retirement Adam was the longest serving City Manager for Sausalito. During his tenure with the City Adam produced substantial improvements to the quality of life for the City's residents and visitors. Among his numerous achievements, Adam successfully led efforts to revitalize Robin Sweeney Park, Dunphy Park, Martin Luther King Jr. Park, and Southview Park; oversaw the consolidation of the Sausalito Fire Department with the Southern Marin Fire District; and managed development projects for new public safety buildings. Adam was also valued by the city council and staff for his skilled stewardship of taxpayer dollars and helping the City maintain financial stability throughout economic challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic. Over the years Adam became a strong mentor for the next generation of municipal leaders, launching the Southern Marin Management Academy to help train aspiring public servants. Adam is well-known by Sausalito and Marin County residents, business owners, and colleagues for his thoughtful leadership and willingness to thoroughly explore and pursue the best solutions to complex problems. Adam's commitment to the community of Sausalito has been, and will continue to be, productive and enduring. Madam Speaker, I respectfully ask that you join me in expressing gratitude to Adam for his extensive public service and extending to him congratulations on his retirement and best wishes on his next endeavors.

Mr. HUFFMAN

Mr. HUFFMAN. Mr. Speaker, I am excited to be one of the sponsors of this great legislation, and I am grateful that it includes, as title II, my bill, the Northwest California Wilderness, Recreation, and Working Forests Act. This bill addresses some lands in my district that are some of the most biodiverse ecosystems and exciting outdoor recreation opportunities you will find anywhere in California. These areas are home to old-growth trees critical for carbon sequestration, rivers that provide fish habitat and unparalleled recreation, and mountain trails that offer hiking, biking, and other unique experiences. Being active in the outdoors and experiencing wild places is a way of life in my district. Over the past year, with lockdowns and isolation, we have seen how important getting outside has been for our well-being. We all depend on the ecological, economic, and mental health benefits that our public lands provide, and that is why my legislation takes a multifaceted approach to public land management. First, it includes an ambitious restoration plan to improve forest health, promote fire resilience, and protect communities. Second, it recognizes the importance of the outdoor recreation economy by increasing recreational opportunities and tourism. Investing in our public lands means we are also investing in communities near our public lands, and that is why there is so much broad support in my district for this bill. Then, finally, this legislation protects important wild places. These areas include critical habitat and ecosystems as well as some of the best fishing, hiking, and white water runs in the State. It takes conservation seriously because it is urgently needed for the future of our planet. I would also like to explain the process. I believe good process leads to good policy, and we have worked very hard on this bill, starting when I first got to Congress. We have asked stakeholders about policy issues that should be addressed in public lands legislation. The legislation was further refined over more than 5 years of work. I have repeatedly sat down with constituents at public meetings and otherwise. We have discussed all the concerns that were addressed by local officials. I believe that this comprehensive, carefully developed bill reflects that good process in the fact that we have such broad support, including conservation organizations, outdoor recreation groups, dozens of businesses, community leaders, adjacent landowners, and former and current elected officials from all the affected counties. It also drew bipartisan support in the Natural Resources Committee, which is a rare thing for a wilderness-related bill. This bill is focused on a future for northwest California, where public lands are resilient and our outdoor recreation economy grows while we preserve environmental values for future generations.

Mr. HUFFMAN

Mr. HUFFMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today, with my colleague Congressman Mike Thompson, in memory of Joseph A. Myers, who passed away on December 29, 2020. Born January 16, 1940 in Cloverdale, Mr. Myers was a native Pomo Indian. He began his career as a law enforcement officer and was the first known California Indian to serve in the California Highway Patrol. He earned both his undergraduate degree and Juris Doctor from UC Berkley. Mr. Myers became a revered leader in the Native American community and developed a reputation for working effectively to preserve Native American history through education and activism. He served as the Associate Director of the American Indian Lawyer Training Program where he mentored advocates on tribal law, and notably joined a lawsuit against the Bureau of Indian Affairs that successfully reversed the termination of 17 Rancheria communities in California. Mr. Myers later founded the National Indian Justice Center to help tribes strengthen governance capacity and improve the quality of life in Indian country. He was also a founding board member of the California Indian Museum and Cultural Center. Mr. Myers shared his knowledge of Native American issues at UC Berkley as a professor in the ethnic studies department. The University named the Joseph A. Myers Center for Research on Native American Issues as a tribute to Mr. Myers contributions to the community including the Native American students on campus. Along with his hard work ethic and commitment to making a positive difference for others, Mr. Myers was known for his good sense of humor, compassion and wit. Although he is already greatly missed, there is no doubt his legacy will continue to be an inspiration for many. Madam Speaker, I respectfully ask that you join Congressman Mike Thompson and me in expressing deep gratitude for Mr. Myers and his many years of selfless service to the Native American community and the entire North Coast, and in extending condolences to his family and many friends.

Mr. HUFFMAN

Mr. HUFFMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Diana Bishop as she retires from a distinguished career in law enforcement spanning more than three decades and culminating in her role as Chief of the San Rafael Police Department. Chief Bishop grew up in Los Altos, CA. She earned a bachelor's degree in public administration from the University of San Francisco followed by an executive master's degree in public administration from Golden Gate University. She went on to graduate from the 219th Session of the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy. Her career in law enforcement began with the Santa Clara Police Department where she served for 26 years and rose to the rank of Captain. She was selected to serve as Chief of the San Rafael Police Department on January 4, 2012. Notably, she was the first woman to lead the organization since its creation in 1915. Chief Bishop developed a reputation for her hands-on approach to leadership, accessibility to the local community, and penchant for innovation. Under her leadership, the Department adopted numerous reforms and initiatives including being the first agency in Marin County to implement body-worn cameras across its entire force. She launched a unique Spanish-language citizens academy to increase transparency and foster community relations. Chief Bishop also strengthened the Department's focus on social services by hiring a Mental Health Outreach Provider to support those suffering from behavioral issues, substance abuse, or experiencing homelessness, among others. Diversity and racial equality were key priorities for Chief Bishop. She joined the community in voicing strong support for efforts to combat racial injustice, and her mentorship increased diversity among the Department's ranks. Chief Bishop's emphasis on de-escalation and implicit bias training helped ensure the Department delivered a higher standard of service. Through good times and difficult moments, Chief Bishop never wavered from her core mission of serving San Rafael residents, and the City is better because of her dedication to its people and places. Madam Speaker, I respectfully ask that you join me in honoring Chief Bishop for her many years of selfless service to San Rafael and extending to her best wishes on her next endeavors.

Mr. HUFFMAN

Mr. HUFFMAN. Madam Speaker, since 1993, every year on January 16th, our nation commemorates the 1786 passage of the Virginia Statute of Religious Freedom, authored by Thomas Jefferson. That landmark statute would go on to serve as the framework of the establishment clause of the First Amendment to the United States Constitution, providing the foundation for religious freedom here in our great nation. The past four years have made clear that there are those who would choose to distort the true definition of religious freedom, in order to allow the proliferation of discrimination under the guise of what they refer to as ``religious liberty''. The result of this callous and malignant effort culminated a week and a half ago with the storming of the United States Capitol building by White Christian Nationalist groups allied with the President, and the deaths of five Americans. The evidence of this fact is made clear by the thousands of ``Jesus'' signs, banners, and flags that flew beside those bearing the President's name, and those representing the White Supremacist movement. From the erosion of the Johnson Amendment, to the numerous executive orders issued which have served to undermine the rights of women and workers, the damage done to true religious freedom by a malicious administration, is drastic and undeniable. However, I stand before you today to pledge that with the aid of this body, my colleagues and I in the Congressional Freethought Caucus will do everything within our Constitutional powers to correct this distortion of America's ``first freedom''. It is a new day for our nation. The discriminating policies of the last four years are no more. I look forward to working with President- elect Biden, Vice President-elect Harris to correct the harmful policies enacted by the Trump administration. On this Religious Freedom Day, I call upon my colleagues in the House and Senate to pass the Do No Harm Act, end discrimination under the guise of ``religious liberty'' once and for all, and reestablish our ``first freedom'' to its Constitutional founding.

Mr. HUFFMAN

Mr. HUFFMAN. Madam Speaker, history is watching and saving the receipts. Today, my colleagues across the aisle must choose which side of a very bright line they want to be recorded on for all time. On one side: Lies, sedition, inciting and supporting insurrection and domestic terrorism. The other side: Your oath of office, the Constitution, democracy, decency. There is no middle ground. Today, we make history forever. So choose well. A vote to impeach Donald Trump means, years from now, you can look your grandchildren in the eye and say, ``I did the right thing.''

Mr. HUFFMAN

Mr. HUFFMAN. Madam Speaker, I regret that due to a scheduling conflict on January 3, 2021, I was unable to cast the following vote. Should I have been present, I would have voted YEA on roll call 3.

Mr. HUFFMAN

Mr. HUFFMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Kathrin (Kate) Sears for her outstanding career in public service as Marin County's District 3 Supervisor. Kate has been a resident of Southern Marin for most of her life, and it is the place where she developed the principled values that have guided her private and public careers. She earned a bachelor's degree in Asian studies at Carleton College in Minnesota, a master's degree in Chinese studies at the University of Washington, a doctorate in political science from the University of Michigan, and a law degree from Harvard University. In 2005, after working as an attorney in a private practice for 16 years, Kate joined the Consumer Law Section of the California Attorney General's Office. In 2011 Governor Jerry Brown appointed Kate to the Marin County Board of Supervisors after the heartbreaking death of Charles McGlashan. She was reelected in 2012 and 2016. Throughout her tenure on the Board of Supervisors, Kate represented the residents of Marin, its renowned public lands and the environment with passion and skill. She worked to improve public transportation, strengthen services for older adults, and increase affordable housing opportunities. Kate has helped to plan and implement key Marin initiatives including Bay WAVE and Drawdown: Marin. As Chair of Marin Clean Energy, Kate worked to develop energy efficiency programs and expanded electric vehicle charging stations in Marin. From Angel Island to Muir Woods, Kate has also fought for Marin's parks and open spaces. I am proud to have worked with her to find compromise in resolving community issues, including through the Muir Woods Parking Reservation System. Kate is a champion for the people and places of Marin County and leaves an appreciable legacy as she retires from the Board of Supervisors. Madam Speaker, I respectfully ask that you join me in honoring Kate for an accomplished tenure, and extend to her best wishes in her future endeavors.

Mr. HUFFMAN

Mr. HUFFMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to call attention to one of the many important provisions of today's legislation. In particular, I rise to discuss Section 1109 of Title XI of Division FF, relating to aquatic ecosystem protection, which comes from the FUTURE Western Water Infrastructure and Drought Resiliency title that I authored in H.R. 2 earlier this year. Today's provision is an improved version of that legislation, and it is the result of the ongoing bicameral water infrastructure negotiations between the committees of jurisdiction. I am grateful for the work done on both sides of the Capitol and both sides of the aisle to bring this to fruition. This aquatic ecosystem protection provision is designed to fund broadly-supported fish passage projects in the western states, and the specific intent is to help projects like the one in the Eel and Russian River basins in California, where we have a chance to significantly improve fish passage and habitat on the Eel River while providing long term certainty and reliability for Russian River water users. The Potter Valley Project Ad Hoc Committee has been refining this effort for several years, and we now have a Two-Basin Partnership that is taking the next steps. The intent of this new aquatic ecosystem protection statute is to support the important work of the Two-Basin Partnership, as well as other community-supported restoration projects like it around the west. I am including in the Record letters of support from the Round Valley Indian Tribes, Humboldt County, Sonoma County Water Agency, Mendocino County Inland Water and Power Commission, and California Trout-- collectively known as the Two-Basin Partnership--as well as from the Nature Conservancy, Trout Unlimited, and California Trout--collectively known as the California Salmon and Steelhead Coalition. I thank my colleagues for working with me to bring this legislation to fruition, and thank the staff in both the House and Senate who have helped in this effort, especially Matthew Muirragui from the House Natural Resources Committee and John Driscoll, Logan Ferree, and Ben Miller on my personal staff. I look forward to working with the next administration to support this win-win outcome for the North Coast and North Bay. Dear Chairman Huffman: The Round Valley Indian Tribes, Humboldt County, Sonoma County Water Agency, Mendocino County Inland Water and Power Commission, and California Trout, collectively known as the Two-Basin Partnership, write in strong support of the aquatic ecosystem restoration provision included in H.R. 2, which we understand you and your staff have negotiated for inclusion in the omnibus appropriations bill. The Potter Valley Project is a hydroelectric facility that, in addition to generating a small amount of electricity, diverts water from the Eel River into the Russian River basin. The Project's main facilities include two dams on the Eel River, a diversion tunnel and a hydroelectric plant. Citing economic concerns, current Project owner Pacific Gas & Electric announced in January 2019 that it would not seek a new license from Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to continue operating the facilities. PG&E's decision to not re- license the Project left an uncertain future for both Eel and Russian River interests. Instead of leaving it up to the utility and federal regulators to determine the region's water future, local leaders decided to work together to protect the interests of both river basins. The Two-Basin Partnership is a direct outgrowth of that collaborative effort, which brought together diverse stakeholders to develop a compromise solution for the future of this aging and non-economically viable hydroelectric project. The Partners have joined together as the applicant for the Project, with the collective goal of restoring 288 linear river miles of spawning habitat at the headwaters of the Eel through the removal of Scott Dam, while ensuring water supply reliability on the Russian River. Additional components of the proposed Project Plan include improving a water diversion infrastructure at Cape Horn Dam and developing infrastructure to provide water to meet summer irrigation needs for farmers and ranchers in Potter Valley. As you know, this legislation would directly support the Two-Basin Solution's shared objectives, which include: minimizing or avoiding adverse impacts to water supply reliability, fisheries, water quality and recreation in the Russian River and Eel River basins; improving fish passage and habitat on the Eel River sufficient to support recovery of naturally reproducing, self-sustaining and harvestable native anadromous fish populations including migratory access upstream and downstream at current project dam locations; and protecting tribal cultural, economic, and other interests in both the Eel and Russian River basins. On behalf of the Two-Basin Partners, we strongly support this inclusion and your continued support of our efforts on the Eel and Russian Rivers. Sincerely, Kathleen Willits, Councilmember, Round Valley Indian Tribes. Grant Davis, General Manager, Sonoma Water. Hank Seemann, Deputy Director-Environmental Services, Humboldt County Public Works Department. Janet Pauli, Chair, Mendocino County Inland Water and Power Commission. Curtis Knight, California Trout.

Mr. HUFFMAN

Mr. HUFFMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today on behalf of myself and our former House colleague, the great George Miller. Together, we wish to honor Benjamin (Ben) Miller who served each of us, and our country, with distinction for the past eighteen years. Ben departs the Hill on January 1, 2021 after eight years as my Chief of Staff, and before that a decade in Congressman Miller's office where he worked his way up from intern, to Legislative Assistant, to Legislative Director, to Deputy Chief of Staff. Throughout the Capitol and on both sides of the aisle, Ben has earned the respect, admiration, and affection of his peers. His tenure in the House is the very model of public service. When I was first elected to Congress in 2012, I sought out Ben knowing that his talents, experience and disposition would make him a great Chief of Staff. He exceeded my highest expectations. He helped me assemble a quality staff team and establish an office culture that reflects a strong work ethic, a fun and collegial environment, and a constant focus on carrying out our progressive policy agenda and getting things done. Ben never sought attention or personal recognition; he just did excellent work, usually behind the scenes. Like Congressman Miller and myself, Ben shares a passion for the sustainable management of our natural resources. Throughout his career on the Hill, Ben has been a friend to flora and fauna, a champion of bedrock environmental laws like NEPA and the Endangered Species Act, and a happy warrior in defense of our great American outdoors and the people and organizations that passionately work for its protection. Longtime staffers and outside experts can attest that Ben is a subject matter guru on what is arguably the most intricate, combustible, and Byzantine issue of all: California water. Ben understands that California water conflicts sometimes require you to fight, which is easy enough to do; but he also knows that achieving meaningful, durable results requires you to do the much harder work of engaging constructively and solving complex water problems. Beyond his policy expertise and legislative acumen, Ben will be remembered fondly by Team Huffman for the human qualities that were hallmarks of his leadership: honesty, professionalism, kindness of spirit, and the good humor he brought to work every day. Ben is a dedicated husband to Caitlin, and a proud father to Sam and Campbell. For reasons I will never understand, he is also a passionate fan of the San Antonio Spurs, through good times and bad. We forgive him for that. Madam Speaker, the functioning of our legislative branch which is so vital to our democratic republic has always depended on skilled, dedicated, unheralded congressional staffers. For eighteen years, in the most exemplary manner, Ben has provided that essential public service. He has earned the deep respect of his peers, and my enduring gratitude for being such a wonderful Chief of Staff. On behalf of myself, Congressman Miller, and dozens of current and former staffers who were privileged to work with Ben, we thank him for his public service; we thank his family for sharing him with us; and we wish him much success and happiness in his future endeavors.

Mr. HUFFMAN

Mr. HUFFMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in memory of Frederick Leonard Bollinger, who passed away on September 22, 2020, at the age of 103. A native of Sebastopol, California, Frederick was a decorated Army sergeant who served in the European theater during World War II where he earned numerous battle stars and a Bronze Star for valor. Following his military service, Frederick returned home to Sebastopol where he would work on his family's ranch until the late 1970s. At the time of his death, Frederick was one of the oldest living veterans of World War II in the region he called home. The Bollinger family ranch was sold in 1978 and following the sale, Frederick would go on to volunteer at the Luther Burbank Experimental Gardens, where he helped maintain the nursery for decades. In addition to his fame as one of the region's oldest living WWII veterans, there's a widespread belief in Sonoma County that Frederick may have been the area's last living links to the famed botanist Burbank. In his retirement, Bollinger also joined such organizations as the Native Sons of the Golden West and Veterans of Foreign Wars. He spent lots of time traveling to World War II reunions--and jumping on cruise ships, a favorite vacation outing of his. On the occasion of his 100th birthday, the County of Sonoma declared October 12 would be known as Frederick Bollinger Day. Madam Speaker, please join me in commemorating the life of a bona fide World War II hero and a beloved member of his community. He will be missed.

Mr. HUFFMAN

Mr. HUFFMAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Kathrin (Kate) Sears for her outstanding career in public service as Marin County's District 3 Supervisor. Kate has been a resident of Southern Marin for most of her life, and it is the place where she developed the principled values that have guided her private and public careers. She earned a bachelor's degree in Asian studies at Carleton College in Minnesota, a master's degree in Chinese studies at the University of Washington, a doctorate in political science from the University of Michigan, and a law degree from Harvard University. In 2005, after working as an attorney in a private practice for 16 years, Kate joined the Consumer Law Section of the California Attorney General's Office. In 2011 Governor Jerry Brown appointed Kate to the Marin County Board of Supervisors after the heartbreaking death of long-standing Supervisor Hal Brown. She was reelected in 2012 and 2016. Throughout her tenure on the Board of Supervisors, Kate represented the residents of Marin, its renowned public lands and the environment with passion and skill. She worked to improve public transportation, strengthen services for older adults, and increase affordable housing opportunities. Kate has helped to plan and implement key Marin initiatives including BayWAVE and Drawdown: Marin. As Chair of Marin Clean Energy, Kate worked to develop energy efficiency programs and expanded electric vehicle charging stations in Marin. From Angel Island to Muir Woods, Kate has also fought for Marin's parks and open spaces. I am proud to have worked with her to find compromise in resolving community issues, including through the Muir Woods Parking Reservation System. Kate is a champion for the people and places of Marin County and leaves an appreciable legacy as she retires from the Board of Supervisors. Madam Speaker, I respectfully ask that you join me in honoring Kate for an accomplished tenure, and extend to her best wishes in her future endeavors.

Mr. HUFFMAN

Mr. HUFFMAN. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on the measure under consideration.

Mr. HUFFMAN

Mr. HUFFMAN. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 5040) to direct the Director of the Bureau of Land Management to study the effects of drone incursions on wildfire suppression, and for other purposes, as amended.

Mr. HUFFMAN

Mr. HUFFMAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, this bill comes to us from Congressman Don Young, but it is called the Young Fisherman Development Act because it is all about fostering the business skills and development of young people in this industry. It is one of many reasons why I am proud to support this bill, which passed out of the Natural Resources Committee by unanimous consent. I am grateful to our colleague from Alaska for sponsoring it. This bipartisan bill to assist fishing communities builds on the example of bipartisan ocean bills that we have passed in the House these past few weeks, including the Sea Grant reauthorization. I am proud to have led that effort and look forward to seeing it signed into law soon. It is difficult for many young men and women to get started in the commercial fishing industry these days. That was the case even before the pandemic. Entry-level positions are challenging to find. For those who are attempting to start up on their own, there are staggering obstacles to overcome: boats, licenses, docking fees, and numerous other expenses that pose a high cost of entry and lots of financial risks. To compound all of these difficulties, we have the pandemic, which has forced so many restaurants to close, upending the entire distribution system for seafood, severely impacting the industry and further straining young fishermen and -women. Like Congressman Young, I represent many fishing communities. I have heard firsthand from those in my district and across the country about the barriers the young entrants face when starting off in the commercial fishing industry. Supporting this new generation will help ensure that our country's rich coastal heritage and seafood economies continue to thrive. This bill fosters a new generation in the American commercial fishing industry, doing several things by creating a national grant program through NOAA Sea Grant to support training, education, and workforce development. Under this program, universities, fishing associations, Tribes, and others can compete for grant funding. They can use those funds to train young commercial fishermen and -women in business practices and sustainable fishing. This program will help teach skills in navigation; electronics; vessel and engine care; technology and engineering related to conservation fishing gear; direct marketing, supply chain, and traceability; financial and risk management; and much more. It is a very important bill, and I urge my colleagues to support it. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. HUFFMAN. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on the measure under consideration.

Mr. HUFFMAN

Mr. HUFFMAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 5459, the Rocky Mountain National Park Ownership Correction Act, introduced again by my colleague, Joe Neguse. In the 1970s, a tiny 0.18-acre plot of land containing the Forsyth family cabin was erroneously transferred to Rocky Mountain National Park when the Park Service purchased land surrounding a private inholding. Since the error was discovered, the Park Service has been working with the Forsyth family to correct the legal ownership and exchange parcels, and the family is currently using its cabin through a special use permit. This bill would permanently resolve this ownership issue and ensure the intent of the original purchase is met by authorizing an equal value land exchange between the Forsyth family and the Secretary of the Interior. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank Representative Neguse for his efforts to resolve this longstanding ownership issue, and I urge my colleagues to support this legislation. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. HUFFMAN

Mr. HUFFMAN. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material in the matter under consideration.