Pablo José Hernández Rivera

Mr. HERNANDEZ

Mr. HERNANDEZ. Mr. Chair, had I been present, I would have voted No on Roll Call No. 230. Amendment No. 27 Offered by Mr. Perry

Mr. HERNANDEZ

Mr. HERNANDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Jose Ronaldo Jarabo, known to many of us as Rony, whom we said goodbye to on June 29, 2025. He was a son of Puerto Rico, a brilliant speaker, a sharp parliamentarian, and a courageous defender of Puerto Rican democracy. Rony began his activism during difficult times--the four-year period from 1969 to 1972. The Popular Democratic Party (PPD) had just lost the elections for the first time, and Rony was one of many young people who stepped up to renew the institution. At 25, he was one of the young people who organized the march on July 25, 1969, under the slogan ``growth without assimilation.'' The march took place against all odds. Munoz Marin opposed it; Rafael Hernandez Colon supported it. And the young people, with Rony among them, prevailed with dignity. From then on, he stood out as one of the brightest young talents in the Popular Party. He finished second in a youth public speaking contest in 1970--something my grandfather never failed to remind him of, jokingly. He lost to Papo Vazquez, and as Hernandez Colon wrote, Rony claimed, half seriously and half-jokingly, that he lost because Papo brought a claque that applauded him louder. I saw them laugh about it years later at a Popular Youth event. In 1972, Rony successfully ran for representative by accumulation, a position he held until his retirement in 1992. He won the support of his caucus to preside over the House on three occasions, although he did not prevail the first time, and he is the only one since Ernesto Ramos Antonini to have presided over the body for two consecutive terms. My grandfather said that Rony had a gift for words like few others, and that he had what it takes to be governor. And although he did not hold that position, he did hold a permanent place in the history of our country. I met Rony in the halls of the Capitol when I was just 13 years old. Despite my age, he never treated me like a child. He spoke to me as adults speak to each other, with respect, affection, and purpose. I remember him at every public event, with his lively greeting and that fiery rhetoric that came from his soul. I offer my deepest condolences to his family and friends, as well as my brotherly embrace. May Rony's legacy not only be a memory in the halls of the Capitol, but a force that inspires us to be better speakers, better thinkers, better public servants. Rest in peace, Rony. Mr. Speaker, for the benefit of my constituents, I include in the Record my remarks in Spanish. El 29 de junio, despedimos a un hijo de Puerto Rico, a un orador brillante, a un parlamentario agudo, a un defensor valiente de la democracia puertorriquena: Jose Ronaldo Jarabo, o como muchos lo conocimos, Rony. Rony empezo su activismo en tiempos dificiles--el cuatrienio de 1969 a 1972. El Partido Popular Democratico (PPD) acababa de perder por primera vez las elecciones, y Rony fue de los muchos jovenes que se abrieron paso para renovar la institucion. A sus 25 anos, fue uno de los jovenes que organizaron la marcha del 25 de julio de 1969, bajo la consigna de ``crecimiento sin asimilacion''. Marcha que se celebro contra viento y marea. Munoz Marin se oponia; Rafael Hernandez Colon la respaldaba. Y los jovenes, con Rony entre ellos, se impusieron con dignidad. Desde entonces, se destaco como uno de los talentos jovenes mas brillantes del Partido Popular. Llego segundo en un concurso de oratoria juvenil en 1970--algo que mi abuelo nunca dejo de recordarle en tono de broma. Perdio ante Papo Vazquez, y como dejo escrito Hernandez Colon, Rony alegaba, medio en serio y medio en chiste, que perdio porque Papo llevo una claque que lo aplaudia mas duro. Los vi reirse de eso, anos despues, en una actividad de la Juventud Popular. En 1972, Rony aspiro con exito a representante por acumulacion, posicion que ocupo hasta retirarse en 1992. Obtuvo el respaldo de su caucus para presidir la Camara en tres ocasiones, aunque en la primera no prevalecio y es el unico, desde Ernesto Ramos Antonini, que ha presidido el cuerpo por dos terminos consecutivos. Mi abuelo decia que Rony tenia el don de la palabra como pocos, y que tenia madera de gobernador. Y aunque no ocupo ese cargo, lo que si ocupo fue un lugar permanente en la historia de nuestro pais. Yo conoci a Rony en los pasillos del Capitolio, cuando tenia apenas 13 anos. A pesar de mi edad, nunca me trato como a un nene. Me hablaba como se habla entre adultos: con respeto, con afecto, y con proposito. Lo recuerdo en cada actividad popular, con su saludo animado y ese verbo encendido que le salia del alma. A su familia, les ofrezco mi mas sentido pesame. A sus amigos, mi abrazo fraterno. Que el legado de Rony no sea solo un recuerdo en los pasillos del Capitolio, sino una fuerza que nos inspire a ser mejores oradores, mejores pensadores, mejores personas de estado. Descansa en paz, Rony.

Mr. HERNANDEZ

Mr. HERNANDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Ramon Luis Rivera on his remarkable 96th birthday. Ramon Luis was the transformative mayor of Bayamon, Puerto Rico, from 1976 to 2000. A member of my opposition party, he won the hearts of voters across party lines as he led his city for nearly three decades. I offer my congratulations to the mayor. Mr. Speaker, I will speak in Spanish very briefly, for ease of my constituents. (Spanish translation of the statement made in English is as follows:) Hoy, me paro aqui para honrar la vida de Ramon Luis Rivera padre en su cumpleanos numero 96. Ramon Luis Rivera fue el alcalde transformador de Bayamon, Puerto Rico, desde 1976 hasta el 2000. Un miembro del partido de oposicion al mio, se gano el corazon de electores y constituyentes mas alla de lineas partidistas mientras conducia los destinos de su ciudad por alrededor de tres decadas. Felicidades, senor alcalde.

Mr. HERNANDEZ

Mr. HERNANDEZ. Mr. Chair, I rise today in strong support of Congresswoman Kiggans' amendment No. 79, which ensures sufficient VA medical care for veterans in the U.S. territories, Commonwealths, and Freely Associated States. This amendment is critical for places like Puerto Rico where over 79,000 veterans reside on the island and have served our Nation with honor and distinction. Yet far too often, they face unequal access to the care they have earned, whether it is limited specialty services, understaffed facilities, or long wait times for off-island referrals. The same is true in Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, and the Northern Mariana Islands, as well as the Freely Associated States in the Pacific. Veterans in these communities, no matter where they live, should have access to quality medical care owed to them. This amendment sends a clear message: Our commitment to veterans does not stop at the mainland. It reinforces the principle that all who served deserve timely, high-quality care, regardless of where they live. I thank the gentlewoman from Virginia (Mrs. Kiggans) for her leadership, and I urge my colleagues to support this amendment.

Mr. HERNANDEZ

Mr. HERNANDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of women everywhere, but particularly women in Puerto Rico. Every 4.5 days, a woman is murdered in Puerto Rico. That is not a statistic. That is a national shame. It is the sound of silence after a scream, the echo of a child left without a mother, and the consequence of a government that has delayed action for too long. During a recent district work period, I met with Coordinadora Paz para las Mujeres and they shared that between 2019 and 2025, we have lost 435 women: mothers, daughters, sisters, and neighbors to gender- based violence. Mr. Speaker, 87 percent of intimate partner femicides this year involved firearms. However, shelters are still underfunded, legal aid is limited, and survivors are turned away. The government has not taken decisive action. Coordinadora Paz para las Mujeres is a nonprofit that has tackled gender-based violence in Puerto Rico for over 35 years. It is now at risk of losing the Federal funding that sustains its work. According to Executive Director Vilma Gonzalez Castro, the impact would be devastating as 80 percent of their budget comes from Federal sources. For organizations like CPM, these cuts would not just reduce services, but could mean total elimination. This is not just a Puerto Rico issue. This is an American crisis. Today, I urge my colleagues to protect and expand Federal funding for domestic violence shelters, emergency services, and trauma-informed care. I ask that we not just count the dead but honor them through policy. We must stop confusing austerity with justice. Cutting these services does not save money. Cutting these services costs lives. Let us act with urgency, with dignity, and with the full force of Federal responsibility because all of this will ultimately save lives. Pell Grants in Puerto Rico

Mr. HERNANDEZ. Mr. Speaker, in Puerto Rico, over 134,000 students rely on Pell grants to access higher education. That is $783 million in Federal aid. More than just a number, it is the key to success for students and their families to help pay for tuition, textbooks, and other basic expenses in order to be successful in obtaining their degrees. These grants open doors to universities, community colleges, technical institutes, institutions that, in turn, train the very people who serve our communities: our teachers, our engineers, our healthcare workers, our middle class, the core of our society. Yet, these lifelines are under threat. Republicans have proposed billions in cuts from Pell grants and changes to PLUS loans to help pay for tax breaks for billionaires at the expense of education opportunities. They are willing to help the most well-off in our society at the expense of our students. In Puerto Rico, such a decision will not just hurt individuals. It will ripple through every public hospital, every rural clinic, and every school. It will weaken the very infrastructure that sustains life on the island. Health services provided by students in higher education would be reduced dramatically across the whole Nation, as I learned from meeting with officials from the Carlos Albizu University during a recent district work period. Let's be clear: Pell grants are not charity. They are a covenant, a promise that talent, not income, should determine your future. To break that promise is not just bad policy. It is a betrayal of American ideals. Mr. Speaker, I urge this Congress to protect Pell grants. Our whole collective future depends on it.

Mr. HERNANDEZ

Mr. HERNANDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to address the betrayal by the government of Puerto Rico to our immigrant communities. This photo shows a Dominican dish known as ``three blows''--it includes fried egg, fried salami, and fried cheese. Needless to say, it breaks your heart. But it doesn't break your heart as much as the three blows of betrayal that the immigrant community in Puerto Rico has received at the hands of its government. On January 19, the Governor of Puerto Rico said that immigrants on the island had nothing to worry about because ICE wasn't going to conduct raids outside the border with Mexico. On January 26, the first raid occurred. Documented immigrants were detained, in violation of their rights. That was the first blow. On January 27, the Governor said she was going to cooperate with the President's immigration policies. That was the second blow. And yesterday, it came to light that the Department of Transportation and Public Works--which since 2013 has issued driver's licenses to individuals without questioning their immigration status--was sharing immigrant information with immigration agencies. That was the third blow. Let me be clear: We all want immigrants to have their paperwork in order. We all want those who break the law to face consequences. But no one can defend a government deceiving its most vulnerable community. No one can defend a government asking for personal information to issue a driver's license and then handing it over to the federal government so they can be investigated and deported. We are talking about human beings. We are talking about children who could lose their parents. We are talking about elderly people who could lose the children who care for them. The Government of Puerto Rico will say that, if it doesn't cooperate, it would lose federal highway funds. A lie. The federal government--the Constitution of the United States--assigns the power of the purse to Congress, and the executive branch cannot freeze funds that Congress has allocated for a specific purpose. The Government of Puerto Rico can defend its self-government and its immigrant community's rights in court. Twenty states have already done so. Twenty. They sued the federal government for conditioning federal funds on cooperation with immigration enforcement. And the Government of Puerto Rico? Coward. In that lawsuit, the 20 states cited at least eight legal precedents in favor of jurisdictions that resisted similar pressure from the federal government. Eight precedents. And the Government of Puerto Rico? Coward. History will have no mercy: the Government of Puerto Rico betrayed Dominicans, Haitians, Venezuelans, and so many other immigrants to please Donald Trump. As a friend told me: they gave them three blows and threw them into the stew. Mr. Speaker, for the benefit of my constituents and the communities affected, I will offer my remarks in Spanish. (Spanish translation of the statement made in English is as follows:) Esta foto es de un plato dominicano conocido como el ``tres golpes''--contiene huevo frito, salami frito y queso frito. De mas esta decir que lastima el corazon. Pero no lastima el corazon tanto como los tres golpes de traicion que la comunidad de inmigrantes de Puerto Rico ha recibido de manos de su gobierno. El 19 de enero, la gobernadora de Puerto Rico dijo que los inmigrantes en la isla no debian preocuparse porque ICE no iba a hacer redadas fuera de la frontera con Mexico. El 26 de enero, ocurrio la primera redada. Detuvieron inmigrantes documentados, en violacion a sus derechos. Ese fue el primer golpe. El 27 de enero, la gobernadora dijo que iba a cooperar con las politicas migratorias del presidente. Ese fue el segundo golpe. Y ayer, salio a relucir que el Departamento de Transportacion y Obras Publicas, que desde el 2013 otorga licencias de conducir a las personas, sin cuestionar su estatus migratorio, estaba compartiendo la informacion de inmigrantes con las agencias de inmigracion. Ese fue el tercer golpe. Voy a ser claro: Todos queremos que los inmigrantes esten con sus papeles al dia. Todos queremos que quien viole la ley enfrente consecuencias. Pero nadie puede defender que un Gobierno engane a su comunidad mas vulnerable. Nadie puede defender que el Gobierno les pida informacion personal para darles una licencia de conducir y que luego entregue la misma al gobierno federal para que los investiguen y los deporten. Estamos hablando de seres humanos. Estamos hablando de ninos que podrian perder a sus padres. Estamos hablando de ancianos que podrian perder a sus hijos cuidadores. El Gobierno de Puerto Rico dira que, si no coopera, perderia fondos federales para carreteras. Mentira. El gobierno federal--la constitucion de los Estados Unidos-- asigna el poder de la cartera al Congreso, y la rama ejecutiva no puede congelar fondos que el Congreso asigno para un proposito especifico. El Gobierno de Puerto Rico puede defender sus derechos de su gobierno propio y el de su comunidad inmigrante en los tribunales. Veinte estados ya lo han hecho. Veinte. Demandaron al Gobierno federal por condicionar fondos federales a cambio de cooperacion con inmigracion. qY el Gobierno de Puerto Rico? Cobarde. En esa demanda, los 20 estados citan al menos ocho precedentes judiciales en favor de jurisdicciones que han resistido presiones similares del Gobierno federal. Ocho precedentes. qY el Gobierno de Puerto Rico? Cobarde. La historia no tendra misericordia: el Gobierno de Puerto Rico traiciono a los dominicanos, a los haitianos, a los venezolanos y a tantos otros inmigrantes para complacer a Donald Trump. Como me dijo un amigo: les dieron tres golpes y los tiraron a mondongo.

Mr. HERNANDEZ

Mr. HERNANDEZ. Mr. Speaker, Puerto Rico faces an energy crisis. In anticipation of a generation shortfall this summer, which was announced months ago, the government said that it would pursue the option of deploying barges to provide temporary energy generation. I am no fan of fossil fuels but an even lesser fan of blackouts, so I supported the government's decision. However, a few weeks ago, the government walked back that plan. It cited objections from Federal agencies, claiming the barges were not viable because they couldn't withstand hurricane-force winds. Based on that, the proposals were disqualified from the bidding process. Then began the rumors of irregularities, lobbying, and conflicts of interest. The discomfort made its way to Washington, and some of my Republican colleagues crossed the aisle to share with me their concerns. Soon after, one of the companies disqualified from the bidding process issued a public statement calling for transparency. They pointed to political ties and potential undue influence. I believe that a demand for transparency is fair and that a demand for transparency should be nonpartisan. That is why, yesterday, I joined my Republican colleague, Chairman Mark Green of the Homeland Security Committee, in sending a bipartisan letter to multiple Federal agencies. We are requesting explanations for the rejection of the barge proposals and the decisionmaking process behind it. Let me be clear: This is not about siding with one company over another. It is about transparency. It is about oversight. It is about whether Federal agencies, knowingly or not, were used to manufacture a pretext to favor certain interests. The people of Puerto Rico don't deserve blackouts, and we need to make sure that there are no deals being made in the dark during those blackouts. Mr. Speaker, in the interest of my constituents, I will repeat my remarks in Spanish. (Spanish translation of the statement made in English is as follows:) Senor Presidente, Puerto Rico enfrenta una crisis energetica. Ante la proyeccion de un deficit de generacion electrica para este verano, el gobierno habia anunciado que buscaria suplir las necesidad energetica mediante barcazas temporadas. Yo no soy fanatico de los combustibles fosiles--pero soy menos fanatico de los apagones. Por lo tanto, respalde esta iniciativa del gobierno. Pero hace unas semanas, el gobierno dio marcha atras. Alego que las agencias federales habian senalado que las barcazas no eran viables porque no resistirian vientos huracanados. Y con ese argumento, las propuestas fueron descalificadas del proceso de subastas. Fue entonces cuando comenzaron los rumores--sobre irregularidades, sobre cabilderos, sobre conflictos de interes. Y la incomodidad llego hasta Washington. La incomodidad causo que varios colegas republicanos cruzaran el pasillo de este hemiciclo para expresarme directamente sus preocupaciones. Nosotros entendemos que, si una de las companias descalificadas, luego publico una declaracion publica exigiendo transparencia, lo menos que podemos hacer es exigir transparencia. Esa compania senalo posibles vinculos politicos e influencias indebidas de cabilderos. Por eso, ayer me uni a un colega republicano, el presidente del Comite de Seguridad Interna, Mark Green, para enviar una carta bipartidista a varias agencias federales solicitando explicaciones sobre la descalificacion de la propuesta de las barcazas y el proceso de evaluacion que se siguio. Ahora quiero ser claro: esto no se trata de favorecer a una compania sobre otra. Se trata de transparencia. Se trata de supervision. Se trata de saber si agencias federales fueron utilizadas--con o sin su conocimiento--para fabricar un pretexto para descalificar estas companias para favorecer ciertos intereses. El pueblo de Puerto Rico no merece apagones. Pero el pueblo de Puerto Rico tampoco merece que se hagan acuerdos a oscuras durante esos apagones. Y este congreso esta disposicion de averiguar si las cosas se estan haciendo correctamente y del lado correcto es que estaremos siempre.

Mr. HERNANDEZ

Mr. HERNANDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and commend Carolina Cruz Martorell, an exceptional young woman from San Juan, Puerto Rico, whose accomplishments stand as a testament to the values of service, initiative, and perseverance. Carolina has been awarded the Bronze Medal by the Congressional Award Program, one of the highest civilian honors conferred by the United States Congress to youth who demonstrate exemplary commitment to personal development and community engagement. In addition to the Bronze Medal, Carolina has earned the Congressional Award's Bronze, Silver, and Gold Certificates, as well as recognition as a STEM Star, distinguishing her as a leader in both academic excellence and service to others. Through countless hours dedicated to volunteer work, physical fitness, and the pursuit of personal goals, Carolina has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to bettering herself and the world around her. Her service initiatives have had a tangible and meaningful impact on her community, particularly in advancing educational opportunities for younger students and promoting science and technology outreach in underserved areas. Whether through mentoring, community programming, or advocacy, Carolina embodies the spirit of civic engagement and the boundless potential of Puerto Rico's youth. Mr. Speaker, Carolina is a role model, not only for her peers in Puerto Rico, but for young people across the Nation. Her achievements are a source of pride for our island and an inspiration for all who believe in the power of service and personal growth. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Carolina Cruz Martorell on this well-deserved recognition and in wishing her continued success in all her future endeavors.

Mr. HERNANDEZ

Mr. HERNANDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ashley Barlow, an extraordinary young woman from Dorado, Puerto Rico, who has earned the prestigious Gold Medal from the Congressional Award Program. Ashley's achievements in athletics, community service, personal development, and cultural exploration are a testament to her dedication, resilience, and compassion. Ashley devoted countless hours teaching children to swim and promoting water safety. She also participated in humanitarian efforts-- traveling to West Virginia to build wheelchair ramps and repair homes, and later to Colombia to help construct a school for underserved children. Her passion for service is evident both locally and abroad. As a competitive swimmer, Ashley excelled on both her club and varsity teams. She committed herself not only to physical training but also to holistic wellness, taking specialized nutrition courses and applying her knowledge to enhance her performance and recovery. Her commitment to growth extends beyond athletics. During her ``Virtual Gold Medal Expedition,'' Ashley explored diverse cultures through educational tours and interviews with locals in Australia. These experiences broadened her global perspective and deepened her appreciation for different communities. Ashley Barlow's impressive achievements and character embody the spirit of the Congressional Award. She represents the best of our youth--committed to bettering herself and the world around her. It is with great pride that I honor Ashley as a 2025 Gold Medalist. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Ashley Barlow on her remarkable accomplishments and in wishing her continued success in all her future endeavors.

Mr. HERNANDEZ

Mr. HERNANDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with deep respect and reverence to honor the memory of all Puerto Rican soldiers who have fallen in combat while serving under the flag of the United States of America. These brave men and women, generation after generation, answered the call of duty and gave the ultimate sacrifice--their lives--in defense of the ideals of liberty, justice, and democracy. Since World War I, following the enactment of the Jones-Shafroth Act in 1917--which granted U.S. citizenship to the people of Puerto Rico-- our island has sent forth its sons and daughters with a steadfast commitment to defend this Nation and its most fundamental principles. During World War II, approximately 65,000 Puerto Ricans served in various capacities, including combat and support roles, across multiple theaters of war. In the Korean War, the legacy of the heroic 65th Infantry Regiment--known as the ``Borinqueneers''--was forever solidified. This segregated unit, composed primarily of Puerto Rican soldiers, met the perils of combat with exceptional valor. Because of their courage and determination, the ``Borinqueneers'' received numerous commendations for their service during the Korean War, including two Korean Presidential Unit Citations, 2,771 Purple Heart Medals, 606 Bronze Stars, 256 Silver Stars, nine Distinguished Service Crosses, and the Medal of Honor. In 2014, this Honorable Chamber awarded them the Congressional Gold Medal--one of the Nation's highest civilian honors. In the Vietnam War, approximately 48,000 Puerto Ricans served, with over 455 making the ultimate sacrifice. Puerto Rican service members have continued to serve honorably in conflicts such as the Gulf War, operations in the Balkans, Iraq, Afghanistan, and in various humanitarian and peacekeeping missions globally. These individuals were not only soldiers; they were fathers, mothers, sons, daughters, brothers, students, farmers, laborers, professionals, and dreamers. Each of them carried with them the cultural identity and dignity of our people. Their lives and sacrifices are living proof that the greatness of a Nation is also measured by the courage and commitment of those who defend it--regardless of their place of birth or the language they speak. This coming Monday, May 26, 2025, we will commemorate Memorial Day under the theme: ``Past, Present, and Future--Honor, Sacrifice, and Legacy.'' These words embody the spirit of this solemn day and the shared responsibility we all bear to preserve the memory of our heroes, to recognize their enduring impact on our institutions, and to sow the seeds of their legacy in future generations. Today, I enter into the Record the eternal gratitude of the people of Puerto Rico. Every flag flown at half-staff, every family photo placed with reverence on a shelf, every name etched in stone is a solemn pledge that we will never forget their service, their sacrifice, or their profound love of country. May the United States Congress, and our grateful Nation, forever honor the memory of Puerto Rican soldiers who have fallen in battle. May their legacy continue to guide us in the ongoing pursuit of a more just, more free, and more inclusive society--one for which they gave their lives.

Mr. HERNANDEZ

Mr. HERNANDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with great pride to recognize and celebrate the extraordinary contributions of Dominican writers during the official observance of the Casa Dominicana Week of the Dominican Author, to be held from May 12 to May 17, 2025. This historic celebration is made possible through the joint efforts of the Dominican Ministry of Culture, Dominican Consulate in Puerto Rico, UNESCO Dominican Republic, and PEN International Dominican Republic. It is also thanks to the collaboration of the Senate of Puerto Rico, House of Representatives of Puerto Rico, and the Municipal Legislature of San Juan. The written word is among the most powerful expressions of a person's soul. Through literature, authors preserve memory, provoke thought, and illuminate the human condition. Dominican literature in particular stands as a vibrant testament to the cultural richness, resilience, and creativity of a people whose stories transcend borders and generations. Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic share a deep connection and culture. Our common Spanish language reflects a historical struggle. Literature serves as a testament to our history and the relationship we have shared between both countries for centuries. This week, as the representative of Puerto Rico in Congress, I join the Dominican Republic to honor a distinguished group of Dominican writers, both from the homeland and the diaspora, who have made exceptional contributions to the arts and the global literary community. In addition, the Dominican community makes essential contributions to Puerto Rican society as business owners, athletes and great citizens. Today, I am pleased to recognize the contributions of the following Dominican honorees to the Caribbean and global literature: Carlos Roberto Gomez Beras, Miguel Angel Fornerin, Eugenio Garcia Cuevas, Doris Melo, Antonio Nelson Soto, Miguel Patino, Ramon Dario Jimenez. Sebastian Robiou Lamarche, Ana A. Marchena Segura, Giovanni di Pietro, Israel Mercedes, Romelinda Grullon, Nelson del Castillo, Dulce Elvira de los Santos. Grace Pena, Rosario Guzman, Pamela Bernal, Dorothy Bell Ferrer, Rafael Mendez Tejada. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I commend these distinguished authors on their well-deserved recognition, and I wish them continued success in their future endeavors.

Mr. HERNANDEZ

Mr. HERNANDEZ. Mr. Speaker, in March, I stood on this floor and sounded the alarm that Puerto Rico's energy crisis was about to get a lot worse starting in May due to selective power outages as a result of a lack of generation capacity. I acknowledged then that the Government of Puerto Rico had a plan A to bring in barges with temporary generation capacity and to repair all generation plants. I offered to support those goals and put my office at the local government's disposition to help accomplish them. I also said we needed a plan B in case plan A failed. I proposed three immediate steps: to demand transparency from the utility companies about outages; to promote energy conservation through education and incentives; and to provide backup power for the most vulnerable in the island. Here we are. Last week, the government announced that the generation barges are no longer viable. One of the repaired units failed. This week, over 100,000 customers lost power in a selective outage announced by LUMA, the utility company, that very same day, leaving them unprepared. Where is plan B? It doesn't exist. Worse yet, the government is walking away from over $300 million in Federal appropriated funds for solar panels, and it is walking away from a $1 billion lawsuit against oil companies, a lawsuit that sought to compensate our people for environmental harms. Yesterday, DHS Secretary Noem did not assure the people of Puerto Rico that the tens of billions of dollars that have been assigned for its reconstruction will be honored. As I said in March, this administration, both the Puerto Rico administration and the Federal administration, did not create the energy crisis, but they are responsible if it worsens. They are responsible for fixing it, and right now they are failing. I will not stop working. This month I led 14 of my colleagues in urging the Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water to increase funding for the Department of Energy to support the resiliency and the modernization of Puerto Rico's grid. I also requested language to expedite delivery of generation assets to the island. I sincerely hope that the Government of Puerto Rico and the Government of the United States corrects the course. No matter what, I will keep fighting for the people of Puerto Rico and for its energy future. Mr. Speaker, I will briefly speak in Spanish, for the benefit of my constituents: (English translation of the statement made in Spanish is as follows:) I sincerely hope that the governments of Puerto Rico and the United States correct the course they are on regarding the energy crisis facing the island. But no matter what, I will continue working for the well-being and the future of the people of Puerto Rico and for a solution to their energy crisis. Yo sinceramente espero que los gobiernos de Puerto Rico y Estados Unidos corrigan el curso que llevan en torno la crisis energetica que enfrenta la isla. Pero no importa que, yo seguire trabajando por el bienestar y el futuro del pueblo de Puerto Rico y la solucion a su problema energetico.

Mr. HERNANDEZ

Mr. HERNANDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life of Cirilo Tirado Delgado, who passed away this month at the age of 86. Mr Tirado was a respected public servant, educator, and attorney in the great Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. He served in the Puerto Rico House of Representatives from 1973 to 1984, worked in the executive branch from 1984 to 1988, and returned to the legislature as a Senator from 1988 to 1996. After that, he practiced law in the town of Guayama. I would like to extend my condolences to his widow, children, and grandchildren. May he rest in peace.

Mr. HERNANDEZ

Mr. HERNANDEZ. Madam Speaker, last Friday, I opened my district office in Caguas, Puerto Rico. I had about 10 other colleagues join me, and when I finished my speech and turned to greet my constituents, the power went out. I won't lie, my immediate reaction was not all that negative. I was sort of glad that it happened while my colleagues were there so that they could see the reality that many Puerto Ricans live with on a daily basis. Now, I am afraid that that reality is about to get a lot worse. The power companies in charge of generation and distribution of energy in the island have warned us that there will be a severe generation deficit between May and October due to a major generation unit's breakdown. As a result, we might face up to 125 selective power outages during that time. Last year, the average client faced about 10 hours without power due to these selective outages. This year, it is expected to be a lot worse. Pause and think about that: 125 blackouts over 6 months in the United States of America. That isn't and shouldn't be normal. The government of Puerto Rico has a plan A. First, demand that Genera PR, the company in charge of generation, fix the broken power plants before May. An alternative is that we get barges and land units to generate temporary electricity to meet the height and demand during the summer. I will do what I can to support the government's efforts to address this challenge. I have already urged President Trump to declare a Federal emergency to support Puerto Rico's electric grid crisis, and I have told the power companies that I am willing to support their requests for temporary generation units. However, I also believe that the government needs a plan B in case all of this fails. The government needs to prepare the people of Puerto Rico for the possibility that power will go out virtually every day during this summer. What can the government do? It can demand that utility companies be transparent about their planned interruptions so that the people know what to expect and can plan accordingly. It can educate and incentivize less energy consumption to prevent the need for these selective outages. It can begin preparing vulnerable populations and providers of essential services with backup sources and energy assistance. I want it to be clear that the current government is not responsible for the energy generation crisis, but it will be responsible for how it handles it. The government must be brave and honest with the people, not laid back and blindly optimistic because it views LUMA, the distribution company, and Genera, the generation company, as ultimately responsible. The government must care not about who gets the blame for the problem but about actually addressing the problem. We must prepare before it is too late. Failure to prepare will have unfortunate consequences. Honoring the Life of Cirilo Tirado Delgado

Mr. HERNANDEZ. Madam Speaker, I also rise to honor the life of Cirilo Tirado Delgado, who passed away last week, a few days shy of his 90th birthday. Mr. Tirado was a respected public servant, educator, and attorney in the great Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. He served in the Puerto Rico House of Representatives from 1973 to 1984, worked in the executive branch from 1984 to 1988, and returned to the legislature as a senator from 1988 to 1996. After that, he practiced law in the town of Guayama. I extend my condolences to his window, children, and grandchildren. May he rest in peace.

Mr. HERNANDEZ

Mr. HERNANDEZ. Mr. Speaker, some Puerto Rican officials will be in D.C. this week lobbying for statehood for Puerto Rico. Last November, 51 percent of Puerto Ricans refused to vote for statehood. That day, the people of Puerto Rico elected me with a clear mandate to focus on economic development and reconstruction, not on political status. The government of Puerto Rico can spend its time however it wants. I cannot and will not spend mine on the issue of status. I would rather talk about the status of our supply chain and how Puerto Rico can help strengthen it. I would rather talk about the status of our electric grid and all of the steps that we need to take to fix it. I would rather talk about an agenda that unites Puerto Ricans, Democrats, and Republicans. Mr. Speaker, unity, not division, is the path forward.

Mr. HERNANDEZ

Mr. HERNANDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I move that the House do now adjourn.

Mr. HERNANDEZ

Mr. HERNANDEZ. Mr. Speaker, during the past weeks, the Federal Government has been cruel to its workforce. It has offered deferred resignations. It has laid off employees. It has sent employees confusing information. As Jorge Santiago-Rivera, a labor leader from the Department of Veterans Affairs on the island, has said: The truth is that, yes, we live under fear. We live under uncertainty. I worry about the well-being of our Federal workers. I worry, in particular, about the well-being of the 13,000 Federal employees who reside in Puerto Rico, but I also worry about the thousands of veterans who rely on the VA for their healthcare needs in Puerto Rico. Why? Because the lack of structure and logic behind these cuts directly affects them. As Mr. Santiago asks: If you lose 10 emergency workers from the ER, who helps the patients? Unsurprisingly, the VA is now scrambling to deny deferred resignation requests. In the past, it has had to rehire workers that it laid off. The VA is not the only Federal agency on the island affected by this chaotic, irresponsible, negligent program of Federal cuts. The IRS reportedly laid off around 200 workers. The National Park Service, the USDA, and the national Forest Service are also laying off employees. Brenda Reyes Tomassini, a labor leader from the EPA, another agency affected, described it best: It is devastating, truly, a brutal level of anxiety. What makes this even worse is the process. Some of these employees have worked for the Federal Government for 15 or 20 years. They transferred to new positions, so they appeared as if they were on probation and have been terminated. That is unacceptable. Members of this Congress have not received accurate information about what is happening. I will be the first one to acknowledge that government waste exists. It exists at the Federal level, the State level, and the municipal level, but protecting our veterans is not government waste. Protecting our national parks and protecting our national forests, like El Yunque, is not government waste. Protecting the employees who work hard to ensure that millionaires and billionaires don't cheat on their taxes is not government waste. It is what government is for. In the coming days, my office will be taking action. We will share resources for Federal employees so that they know their rights. We will host a tele-townhall to hear directly from affected workers. We will demand transparency from the agencies responsible for these layoffs. I also urge the Government of Puerto Rico to step up to provide these workers the assistance that the government of Puerto Rico usually provides to workers who are laid off in the tourism or manufacturing sectors. To the workers affected, I send a clear message: I know that being laid off is painful. It hurts your finances. It hurts your stability. It can even hurt your sense of self-worth, but let's be clear: You are not the problem. Your government is the problem. I see you, hear you, and will fight for you.

Mr. HERNANDEZ

Mr. HERNANDEZ. Mr. Speaker, last week, I met with priests and leaders of the Haitian immigrant community in Puerto Rico. I heard their accounts of what has been happening since ICE began its raids. The stories were devastating and demoralizing. Mr. Speaker, imagine living in Puerto Rico for 40 years, building a life, raising children, and contributing to our economy, and facing the fear of being unfairly deported to a country you barely know, one devastated by violence and disaster. Mr. Speaker, imagine being a documented resident of Puerto Rico and being placed under arrest, simply because you looked or sounded like an undocumented immigrant. Mr. Speaker, imagine needing medical care but being too afraid to leave your home and seek help out of fear of being detained and deported. This is not justice, and as our former Governor, Luis Munoz Marin, once said: Injustice towards some is injustice towards all. Beyond the ethical concerns, beyond the moral concerns, and beyond the emotional concerns that these injustices raise, there are practical consequences that I urge the administration to consider. The persecution of documented immigrants hurts our communities, our economy, and our businesses. Businesses in Puerto Rico and across the United States are suffering because immigrants are too afraid to go to work, seek services, or even buy food. I have heard stories of construction workers who don't show up to work and of local restaurants that have suddenly changed their business model from dining-in to delivery. Barrio Obrero, a Dominican neighborhood in San Juan, is not what it used to be. We are doing our best to protect immigrants and ensure they are treated with dignity and respect. That is why on January 27 I sent an oversight letter, along with the chair of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, Adriano Espaillat, to demand answers from DHS and ICE on wrongful tactics used by agents that have caused considerable distress within communities in Puerto Rico and across the country. To date, DHS and ICE have not adequately answered our questions. On January 29, I personally called the Puerto Rico Association of Mayors and asked them to provide as much assistance as legally possible to protect our immigrant communities. On February 6, I joined Congressman Espaillat in introducing H.R. 1061, which would prevent immigration enforcement at sensitive locations, such as churches and schools, so that migrants can safely visit. Our message to the immigrant communities in Puerto Rico and the United States is simple: You are not alone, and we will keep fighting for you. Now for the interests of my constituents, I will repeat my remarks in Spanish. (Spanish translation of the statement made in English is as follows:) Senor Presidente, La semana pasada me reuni con sacerdotes y lideres de la comunidad inmigrante haitiana en Puerto Rico. Escuche sus relatos sobre lo que ha estado ocurriendo desde que ICE comenzo sus redadas. Las historias eran devastadoras y desmoralizantes. Imagine vivir en Puerto Rico por 40 anos--construir una vida, criar hijos, contribuir a nuestra economia--y enfrentarse al temor de ser deportado injustamente a un pais que apenas conoces, un pais devastado por la violencia y los desastres. Imagina ser un residente documentado de Puerto Rico y ser arrestado-- simplemente porque ``parecias'' o ``sonabas'' como un inmigrante indocumentado. Imagina necesitar atencion medica, pero tener demasiado miedo de salir de tu hogar y buscarla por temor a ser detenido y deportado. Esto no es justicia, y como dijo una vez nuestro exgobernador Luis Munoz Marin, ``en la larga historia de los pueblos, lo que es injusto para algunos, es injusto para todos''. Mas alla de las preocupaciones eticas, morales y emocionales que generan estas injusticias, hay consecuencias practicas que insto a la administracion a considerar. La persecucion de inmigrantes documentados perjudica nuestra economia, nuestros negocios y nuestras comunidades. Los negocios en Puerto Rico y en Estados Unidos estan sufriendo. Hemos oido historias de trabajadores de la industria de construccion que no llegan a su lugar de trabajo. Hemos oido historias de restaurantes que han tenido que cambiar su modelo de negocio de cenar en el restaurante a hacer entrega. Los negocios en Puerto Rico, en lugares como Barrio Obrero, se han visto profundamente afectados, y las comunidades no son lo que eran antes. Estamos haciendo todo lo posible para proteger a los inmigrantes y garantizar que sean tratados con dignidad, con respeto y como seres humanos. Por eso, el 27 de enero, lidere una carta junto con el presidente del Caucus Hispano del Congreso, Adriano Espaillat, exigiendo respuestas de DHS y de ICE sobre las tacticas erroneas utilizadas por los agentes en estas redadas. Hasta la fecha, no hemos recibido respuestas satisfactorias. El 29 de enero, llame personalmente a la Asociacion de Alcaldes y les pedi que brindaran toda la asistencia posible, dentro de la legalidad, a nuestras comunidades inmigrantes. Y el 6 de febrero, me uni al congresista Espaillat para presenter el Proyecto de ley con el fin de proteger los lugares sensibles de redadas. Nuestro mensaje para las comunidades inmigrantes en Puerto Rico y en Estados Unidos es simple: no estan solos y seguiremos luchando por ustedes.

Mr. HERNANDEZ

Mr. HERNANDEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the courageous and dedicated men and women of the Puerto Rico Police Department as we commemorate Police Week from February 17 to February 23, 2025. Every day, law enforcement officers put their lives on the line to protect our communities, uphold the rule of law, and ensure that justice prevails. Their sacrifices often go unnoticed, but today, we take a moment to express our deepest appreciation for their service and commitment. While no institution is without its challenges, we must acknowledge the unwavering dedication of our police officers who work tirelessly to make our communities safer. Their role is not only to enforce the law but also to serve with integrity, fairness, and a deep sense of responsibility. In Puerto Rico, we have exceptional law enforcement professionals who have demonstrated exemplary service. I want to take this opportunity to highlight some of the distinguished members of the Puerto Rico Police Department's Puerto Nuevo Precinct 282, who have gone above and beyond in 2024: Director of the Year: Captain Ruben Gomez Sanabria Outstanding Male Officer: Agent Daniel Ayala Almodovar Outstanding Female Officer: Agent Gretchen M. Arroyo Rivera Distinguished Officers: Agent Nicasio Lima Candelano Agent Jeannette Gonzalez Vazquez Agent Marangelly De Leon Sustache Outstanding Civilian Personnel: Ms. Grisel Morales Guadalupe These individuals exemplify the highest standards of public service and professionalism. Their dedication reminds us of the importance of supporting our law enforcement officers with the resources, training, and respect they deserve. As we mark Police Week, let us reaffirm our commitment to those who serve and protect. Let us work together to ensure that law enforcement agencies have the tools they need to carry out their mission while fostering trust and accountability within our communities. Mr. Speaker, today and every day, I stand with the brave men and women of the Puerto Rico Police Department, and I urge my colleagues to join me in honoring their service.

Mr. HERNANDEZ

Mr. HERNANDEZ. Mr. Speaker, yesterday I introduced an amendment during the House Natural Resources Committee markup to strengthen Congress' oversight of the Financial Oversight and Management Board for Puerto Rico, specifically addressing net metering policies and the PREPA bankruptcy. Though the amendment didn't pass, it received bipartisan support from Representatives Tom McClintock, Nydia Velazquez, Darren Soto, and others. It is critical that Congress ensures transparency and accountability in Puerto Rico's financial and energy decisions. The FOMB's stance on net metering harms our people, and the PREPA bankruptcy remains unresolved. After 7 or 8 years of questionable Federal oversight, it is time to hold the overseers accountable. I will continue to fight for fairness and transparency for Puerto Rico, and I urge my colleagues to join me.

Mr. HERNANDEZ

Mr. HERNANDEZ. Mr. Speaker, the administration recently announced sharp cuts to Federal grant funding for universities, medical centers, and other research institutions. These cuts will devastate our students, our professors, and our seniors. What concerns me the most is these cuts will devastate Puerto Rico. Why? The NIH, the target of these cuts, funds critical medical research. During the past year, the NIH has supported 73 projects and provided up to $53 million for Puerto Rico's universities, hospitals, and research centers like Centro Medico in San Juan. These cuts threaten local programs studying diseases that disproportionately affect Puerto Ricans, like diabetes, Alzheimer's, cancer, and other rare diseases. These cuts will hinder scientific research and progress. These cuts will hinder people's access to healthcare. These cuts will set us back vis-a-vis China and our geopolitical rivals. The government cannot treat people like numbers on a spreadsheet. We can't cut corners on healthcare and education. We can't fall behind our global rivals. We must protect the NIH. Now, for the benefit of my constituents, I will repeat my remarks in Spanish. (Spanish translation of the statement made in English is as follows:) Senor presidente: La Administracion anuncio recientemente recortes drasticos en la financiacion de subvenciones federales para universidades, centros medicos y otros instituciones de investigacion. Estos recortes devastaran a nuestros estudiantes, nuestros profesores y nuestros adultos mayores. Lo que mas me preocupa: estos recortes devastaran a Puerto Rico. rPor que? Los NIH, el objetivo de estos recortes, financian investigaciones medicas cruciales. Durante el ultimo ano, los NIH han apoyado 73 proyectos y proporcionado hasta $53 millones a universidades, hospitales y centros de investigacion en Puerto Rico como el Centro Medico en San Juan. Estos recortes amenazan programas locales que estudian enfermedades que afectan desproporcionadamente a los puertorriquenos, como el cancer, la diabetes, el Alzheimer y otras enfermedades raras. Estos recortes obstaculizaran la investigacion y el progreso cientifico. Estos recortes dificultaran el acceso del pueblo a la atencion medica. Estos recortes nos haran retroceder frente a China y nuestros rivales geopoliticos. El gobierno no puede tratar a las personas como cifras en una hoja de calculo. No podemos recortar en salud y educacion. No podemos quedarnos atras frente a nuestros rivales globales. Debemos proteger a los NIH.

Mr. HERNANDEZ

Mr. HERNANDEZ. Mr. Speaker, imagine it is New Year's Eve, and you are full of hope and optimism. This will be your year. You might finally get that promotion or you will graduate. You might finally lose those extra pounds. All of a sudden, the power goes out. You are used to it. It is maybe the first time it happens that day. It probably isn't the first time it happens that week. It certainly isn't the first time it happens that year. The hours go by, and the power doesn't come back. The clock strikes 12, you hear the fireworks, you hear the countdowns, but when you try to turn on the power, it doesn't turn back on. That was the sad reality of nearly 1.2 million Puerto Ricans on New Year's Eve. That is the sad reality that many thousands of Puerto Ricans will face on an average day. Why? Because of an outdated power grid and a slow recovery process after Hurricane Maria. Puerto Rico's energy crisis is not a partisan issue. The left can treat it as a humanitarian crisis. The right can see it as an obstacle to making America great again. The center can view it as both. It is a problem and it needs a solution, which is why I, alongside Representatives Torres and Soto, sent a letter to the administration in support of our Republican Governor's request for a federal emergency declaration to address this crisis. We urge the administration to act. We urge the administration to unblock the Federal resources that Puerto Rico needs to address this problem. We urge the administration to empower the people of Puerto Rico to be able to overcome this issue. Now, for the benefit of my constituents, I will repeat my remarks in Spanish. (Spanish translation of the statement made in English is as follows:) Senor presidente, Imagina que es la vispera de Ano Nuevo. Estas lleno de esperanza y optimismo. Este sera tu ano. Vas a terminar la escuela; conseguiras ese ascenso; tal vez, finalmente, perderas esas libras de mas. Y, de repente, se va la luz. Puede que sea la primera vez que pasa ese dia, pero probablemente no es la primera vez que pasa esa semana y, sin duda, no es la primera vez que pasa ese ano. Lamentablemente, ya estas acostumbrado. Pero pasan las horas y la luz no regresa. El reloj marca la medianoche, ves los fuegos artificiales, escuchas la cuenta regresiva, pero no puedes encender las luces. Recibes el nuevo ano con un sentimiento de desesperanza, frustracion y desconsuelo. Esa fue la triste realidad de casi 1.2 millones de puertorriquenos el 31 de diciembre. Esa es la triste realidad de miles de puertorriquenos muchas veces al ano. qPor que? Por una red electrica anticuada y una recuperacion lenta despues del huracan Maria. Este no es un asunto partidista. La izquierda puede verlo como un asunto humanitario. La derecha puede verlo como un obstaculo para ``Make America Great Again''. El centro puede verlo como ambas cosas. No importa; esto es un problema y necesita una solucion. Por eso, junto a los representantes Torres y Soto, envie una carta al presidente Trump en apoyo a la solicitud de la gobernadora republicana de Puerto Rico para que se declare una emergencia federal debido a la crisis energetica de la isla. Instamos a la administracion a actuar. Los instamos a declarar un estado de emergencia, liberar recursos federales, y empoderar a Puerto Rico a enfrentar este reto.

Mr. HERNANDEZ

Mr. HERNANDEZ. Madam Speaker, this past weekend, Venezuelan dictator Nicolas Maduro boldly declared his intention to invade and liberate Puerto Rico. As Puerto Rico's Representative before the United States Government, I want to let Mr. Maduro know an overwhelming majority of Puerto Ricans support a relationship of permanent union or permanent association with the United States, be that as a State or as a U.S. Commonwealth. That same overwhelming majority also defends the right of a respectable patriotic minority to advocate and fight for the island's independence through peaceful and democratic means. That respect for differing views is a hallmark of our democratic values, something Mr. Maduro clearly does not understand. The future of Puerto Rico will be decided by Puerto Ricans in a peaceful and democratic manner, the same way that the future of Venezuela should be decided by the Venezuelan people in a peaceful and democratic manner. I will address my constituents in Spanish. (Spanish translation of the statement made in English is as follows:) Este pasado fin de semana el dictador venezolano Nicolas Maduro anuncio su intencion de invadir y liberar a Puerto Rico. Una mayoria abrumadora de los puertorriquenos respalda la union o asociacion permanente con los Estados Unidos, a traves del estatus del Estado Libre Asociado o de la aspiracion de convertir a Puerto Rico en un estado de la union. Esa mayoria abrumadora respalda el derecho de una minoria respetable y patriotica de impulsar pacifica y democraticamente el derecho de Puerto Rico a su independencia. Esa tolerancia por las diferencias es uno de los valores fundamentales de nuestra cultura democratica, algo que Nicoas Maduro es incapaz de comprender. Maduro, el futuro de Puerto Rico lo decidiremos pacifica y democraticamente los puertorriquenos, asi como el futuro de Venezuela lo deben decidir pacifica y democraticamente los venezolanos.