John Joyce

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the career of Johnstown Fire Department Chief Robert Statler who retired after 40 years of distinguished public service. Chief Statler joined the Johnstown Fire Department 29 years ago as a firefighter. Throughout the years, he fulfilled the responsibilities of driver, captain, training officer, and assistant chief before he was promoted to chief in 2019. Before joining the Johnstown Fire Department, Chief Statler began his impressive legacy of public service as a fourth-generation volunteer firefighter with the Windber Fire Department. In addition to the leadership that he provided to Johnstown as fire department chief, he also served as co-city manager, emergency director, and liaison between the firefighters and city management. Throughout the Johnstown community, he is known as a faithful colleague and a consistent professional. On behalf of everyone in the 13th Congressional District of Pennsylvania, I express gratitude to Chief Statler for his devotion to public safety and offer best wishes for a life of enrichment through all of his future endeavors.

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. This important legislation will strengthen Medicaid by cutting waste, fraud, and abuse to ensure that the most vulnerable Americans have access to the critical services on which they rely. Pregnant women, children, seniors, and disabled Americans need and deserve Medicaid benefits, not illegal immigrants or able-bodied adults simply choosing not to work. This bill also fixes a provision in the Inflation Reduction Act to ensure that new, innovative therapies for rare diseases are brought to market, restoring the hope of future cures for millions of Americans. In November, the American people sent a clear message with the election of President Donald Trump. Now, it is our job in Congress to deliver this One Big, Beautiful Bill and produce results for the American people. I encourage all of my colleagues to support this legislation.

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, last week, House committees moved the last sections of President Trump's one big, beautiful bill out of their respective committees. In the Energy and Commerce Committee, I was proud to support our legislation to unleash American energy, foster innovation in our telecommunications industry, and strengthen Medicaid programs by ensuring that it works best for the intended groups: children, pregnant women, seniors, and those with disabilities. This legislation also fulfills President Trump's campaign promises of ending taxes on tips, overtime, and Social Security, and permanently extends President Trump's 2017 tax cuts, which ushered in unprecedented growth. This one big, beautiful bill also further backs President Trump's incredible progress securing our southern border by funding 700 miles of new border wall construction, nearly 1,000 miles of new river barriers, and additional frontline personnel at our southern border. President Trump's historic victory in November came with a mandate from the American people. Now, it is our time in Congress to fulfill these promises, and I look forward to doing just that on the House floor this week by passing the one big, beautiful bill. indicting the sinaloa cartel

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, just 1 month into President Trump's term in office, he signed a historic executive order to designate the Sinaloa Cartel as a foreign terrorist organization. This action allows for further collaboration among law enforcement agencies and additional resources from the Federal Government to track down and punish these criminals. President Trump also started a narcoterrorism unit within the Department of Justice. Its sole focus is tracking down and capturing the cartel leaders who have ravaged our Nation with their poisons. Just last week, the Trump administration formally indicted the leaders of the Sinaloa Cartel on charges of narcoterrorism, drug trafficking, and money laundering. While this might be the first action taken by the unit, it sends a clear message to the cartel leaders who have waged war on the citizens of this great country by trafficking deadly poisons that have taken the lives of millions of Americans. This ends now, and I fully support President Trump's actions to hold these terrorists to account. Congratulating Bedford High School Battle Robotics Teams

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Kowen Long, Bryce Wentz, Gavin Glass, Greg Covert, and Sean Cessna with the Bedford High School battle robotics team on winning the national championship at the National Robotics League Tournament in Springfield, Ohio. Participants in the competition design, build, and then compete with their robotic creations. Through this experience, students learn how to work on a team while also gaining practical, hands-on experience in science and technology, engineering, and math. Two additional teams representing Bedford High School also had impressive showings, finishing in the top 15 at the event. I commend the Bedford High School students on all three robotics teams and the teams' advisers, Cody Buterbaugh and Wes Tritt, for their achievements that show their skills in mechanical and electrical engineering. Their teamwork and successful application of critical thinking, project management, and communication skills showcase the value of hands-on technical education. thanking nancy bull

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the incredible career of almost two decades of my district director, Nancy Bull, who tirelessly advocates for the people of Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District. Nancy started her career with Representative Bill Shuster in 2008 as a constituent services representative before becoming deputy district director in 2016. In 2019, I was honored when Nancy joined my team as director of constituent services before later becoming the district director in 2023. Nancy has truly elevated my ability to connect with and serve my constituents. During the time she has spent with Pennsylvania-13, she has developed strong relationships with my constituents, meaning she has that wealth of understanding and knowledge that allows her to connect with so many individuals in southwestern and south central PA. As I travel throughout Pennsylvania-13, one thing remains a constant: Everyone knows and respects Nancy Bull. They do this because she cares and listens to the constituents. After her stellar career of serving fellow Pennsylvanians, Nancy is retiring at the end of this week to spend more time with her family and with her fiance, Eric. I thank Nancy. I thank her for her years of hard work and dedication, and I thank her for helping so many constituents in Pennsylvania-13. We will miss her, but we will never be far away.

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, the House Energy and Commerce and the House Ways and Means Committees will hold markups on their respective portions of President Trump's big, beautiful bill this week. This bill is our chance to lock in the agenda that the American people voted for in November by cutting out waste, fraud, and abuse, supporting small businesses, and supporting the American working class. This legislation that we have produced in the Energy and Commerce Committee will strengthen Medicaid for low-income children, for pregnant women, for the elderly, and for those with disabilities. For far too long, illegal immigrants and able-bodied Americans, who can return to the workforce, have been draining funds from the citizens who deserve and need Medicaid. This ends now. The Ways and Means Committee is also delivering on President Trump's agenda by permanently extending the President's 2017 tax cuts. Our small businesses will continue to prosper. Also included in this big, beautiful bill is the removal of taxes on tips. It removes taxes on Social Security. It removes taxes on overtime, finally giving relief to the American middle class. Additionally, this legislation also removes the tax-exempt status on university endowments like the more than $50 billion endowment that Harvard controls. The American people voted for an agenda that roots out waste, fraud, and abuse of our programs and gives the middle class the economic boost that they need. Today, marks the beginning of delivering on President Trump's agenda. Honoring our Courageous Law Enforcement Officers

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, this week is National Police Week, where we have an opportunity to honor the courageous law enforcement officers who put their lives on the line each and every day to protect us. On the House floor this week, we will address the Law Enforcement Officers Safety Reform Act, legislation to allow our active and retired law enforcement officers the ability to conceal carry firearms where it may normally be restricted. Our law enforcement officers are committed to protecting their communities and their fellow citizens, and they receive rigorous training throughout their careers. By allowing these brave men and women the opportunity to conceal carry where it is normally restricted, these local heroes will have the ability to respond to emergencies whether they are on duty or not. Last Congress, I proudly supported this legislation on the House floor, and this Congress I look forward to seeing this commonsense legislation pass the House and the Senate so that President Trump can finally sign this into law. Honoring Police Chief Robert Glenny of Gettysburg

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the service of Gettysburg Police Chief Robert Glenny as he makes the next step in his career. Chief Glenny attended Juniata College before beginning his 35-year career as a law enforcement officer with the last 6 years spent as the chief of police in the Gettysburg Police Department. Before arriving in Gettysburg, Chief Glenny started his career in the Ferguson Township, Pennsylvania, Police Department, where he spent 26 years on the force. During his time in Ferguson Township, Chief Glenny held roles that included patrol officer, traffic enforcement, and police sergeant. Then, after a brief stop in Colorado to serve as the police chief there, Chief Glenny returned to Pennsylvania to proudly serve the people of Gettysburg. During this time, Chief Glenny worked tirelessly to improve public safety and to build strong relationships within the community. As he moves on to his next position, the chief of police is held in high esteem in Gettysburg. Madam Speaker, I thank him for his leadership and his ability to serve his community and wish him all the best in his next endeavors. Honoring John Massimilla

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the career of the president of WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital, John Massimilla. For 35 years, John has worked in Pennsylvania healthcare, working to ensure that patients throughout the Commonwealth have access to the care that they need. Throughout my time in Congress, I have had the privilege of visiting John Massimilla and the WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital multiple times, and I am always thankful for his insight and commitment to the community. John always looks to increase the hospital's ability to implement innovative treatments, truly elevating the level of care at the hospital. Additionally, under John's leadership, the WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital has implemented state-of-the-art security systems. Throughout his career, he has exemplified what a true healthcare administrator brings to the equation. Madam Speaker, I congratulate John on his retirement.

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, this week, we celebrate National Small Business Week, a time to highlight the incredible successes of American small businesses throughout our country. Main Street businesses are truly the backbone of our economy, and I have had the privilege of visiting so many small businesses throughout Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District, such as the Inn at Herr Ridge in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, owned by Steve Wolf; The Family Table Restaurant, owned by Luke and Chloe Fogle in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania; and the Cove Creek Outfitters in Bedford, owned by Bob and Eric Turkovich. Mr. Speaker, in Congress, it is critical that we continue our support for these small businesses by renewing President Trump's tax cuts so that American businesses can flourish once again. President Trump has made it easier for American businesses to thrive by stripping back needless regulations. By renewing President Trump's tax cuts, we can once again ensure that businesses will continue to grow for years to come. In Appreciation of Daniel Prachthauser

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, over the last 2 weeks, two forest fires have ravaged Michaux State Forest in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania. The fires have scorched thousands of acres of forest, forcing the evacuation of nearby residents. More than 150 brave firefighters responded to this fire. One of Pennsylvania's firefighters is the son of Jonathan and Bridget Prachthauser, a second-generation firefighter and currently a student at Shippensburg University. Daniel Prachthauser was with Vigilant Hose Company No. 1 throughout these firefighting endeavors. Daniel is part of the Vigilant Hose Company's live-in program that offers state-of-the-art, dorm-style living, which allows students who are professional firefighters to continue their volunteer services while they pursue their education. This program not only allows local students to continue their service in the community but also serves the Vigilant Hose Company by allowing it to stay fully staffed so that they can more efficiently and rapidly respond to emergencies. On behalf of everyone in Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District, I personally thank Daniel for his devotion and his service to the community. In Recognition of Ashlie Crosson

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, during this year's National Appreciation of Teachers Week, I rise to recognize Ashlie Crosson of Reedsville, Pennsylvania, who was named the 2025 National Teacher of the Year. Ashlie is an English teacher at Mifflin County High School, where she instructs students in advanced placement language and composition classes. She also advises the journalism program, which publishes the school newspaper and district magazine. Ashlie approaches teaching with the goal of helping each of her students develop their communication and problem-solving skills, expand their worldview, and use their voices for the betterment of society as a whole. Ashlie's tireless dedication to her students is helping to prepare the next generation of creators, leaders, and innovators. Ashlie is truly a source of pride for the entire Mifflin County School District and for her community. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of everyone in Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District, I congratulate Ashlie on her selection for this prestigious award and express gratitude for her enduring commitment to the academic achievements of her students and for her school district at large.

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Logan Township Police Chief David Hoover, who retired after 35 years of service in law enforcement in Blair County, Pennsylvania. Chief Hoover began his tenure as an officer in Logan Township in 1992 and was promoted to sergeant and detective sergeant in 2004 and police chief in early 2023. Chief Hoover's achievements include helping to acquire equipment that was needed by officers to effectively perform their duties and supporting the adoption of rules and policies that contributed to a positive work environment for the officers. The mandate of the Logan Township Police Department is to fulfill its public safety mission with honor and integrity and to conform to the highest ethical standards. The leadership of Chief Hoover reflected an enduring commitment to that mandate, and his retirement is a perfect time to recognize his success in perpetuating it. On behalf of everyone in Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District, I congratulate Police Chief David Hoover on his retirement and express fond wishes for joy and contentment in all future endeavors.

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Providence Place Senior Living, of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, on its 25th anniversary. A family-owned company founded by former Pennsylvania governor George M. Leader in 1998, Providence Place serves nearly 1,000 seniors across seven communities in central and eastern Pennsylvania. As Providence Place has grown over the years, the company has maintained an emphasis on three core values--caring service, authentic relationships, and a commitment to providing value. While serving residents with differing levels of need, Providence Place strives to create a culture and environment where all seniors control their lives, have a sense of purpose, and make meaningful contributions to their community and those around them. On behalf of everyone in the 13th Congressional District, I congratulate Executive Director Holly Townsend and her entire team at Providence Place's Chambersburg location on this significant milestone and offer best wishes for continued success.

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to join with residents of the Borough of Ebensburg in Cambria County, Pennsylvania, in commemorating the borough's 200th anniversary. Founded in the 1790's and incorporated decades later, Ebensburg conducted its first borough council meeting on April 27, 1825. Ebensburg was the first permanent settlement on the Allegheny Front. The town was built on lands purchased in 1796 from Dr. Benjamin Rush, who was a signer of the Declaration of Independence. Within a decade, Ebensburg became the county seat. Three log houses remain from Ebensburg's pioneer period, including the Hugh Roberts Homestead, which was built in 1797. The homestead is the oldest structure in Cambria County. As one county official observed, Ebensburg is a town built not only by hands and hard work, but by faith, courage and an unshakable belief in the American spirit. As Ebensburg celebrates this significant milestone throughout the year, worthy tribute is bestowed upon the many generations of residents, business owners, community leaders and government officials who have partnered to fulfill collective goals and aspirations. On behalf of everyone in Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District, I congratulate the Borough of Ebensburg on its 200th anniversary and express fond wishes for continued growth and prosperity.

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Gettysburg Borough Master Patrol Officer Dennis P. Bevenour, who retired after serving the community with distinction for over 16 years. Officer Bevenour joined the Gettysburg Police Department as a Patrolman in September 2008 and was promoted to Criminal Investigator, Intelligence Officer and Master Patrol Officer. He entered law enforcement after a 27-year career in the United States Air Force. His impressive record of public service also includes roles as a volunteer firefighter and Probation and Parole Officer. Officer Bevenour was widely respected by colleagues and supervisors for his expertise in criminal investigations. He was instrumental in securing grant funding to enhance the security of the borough building and to upgrade the police department's records management system. Throughout the Borough of Gettysburg and beyond, Officer Bevenour's legacy of dedication, professionalism and community service will be forever respected and appreciated. On behalf of everyone in Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District, I express gratitude to Officer Bevenour for an extraordinary record of military and public service and offer fond wishes for joy and contentment in retirement.

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak in strong support of H.J. Res. 88, my legislation to reverse California's radical electric vehicle mandate. With one foot out the door, President Biden and his administration provided a waiver approving of California's policy to require all vehicle sales in the State to be electric vehicles by 2035. What makes this policy even more dangerous is that 17 other States, making up 40 percent of the American auto market, are set to adopt these regulations, including my home State of Pennsylvania. If consumers want to purchase an EV, they should be able to, but Californian politicians have no right to remove the choice to buy a gas-powered vehicle from my constituents. The Biden EPA wrongly allowed California to enact an electric vehicle mandate that will ultimately affect the entire United States. What works in Glendale does not work in Gettysburg. Allowing the California waiver to stand impedes on the rights of all other States, even those who do not follow California standards. Not only do EVs not fit the needs of so many American families, but they are incredibly costly, as well. In my district, the average household income is $65,000 a year, while the average price of an electric vehicle is more than $55,000 a year. Prices in the used car market will also surge, as dealers will not have the gas-powered vehicles to sell because of the inventory of unsellable EVs. My constituents simply cannot afford this ridiculous regulation and should not be forced to purchase entirely unaffordable vehicles that do not meet their needs. Our economy was built on an open market and the freedom of consumer choice. Congress cannot allow California to continue its abuse of its standing in the Clean Air Act to limit consumer freedom. It is time that we overturn this dangerous rule. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to pass this legislation to protect our auto industry, to protect our autoworkers, and, most importantly, to protect the freedoms of all of America.

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, this week, the House will vote on several bills under the Congressional Review Act to repeal out- of-touch Biden-era Green New Deal policies. H.J. Res. 88, which I introduced this Congress, will repeal the Biden administration's approval of California's de facto electric vehicle mandate. This policy requires California to end the sale of all internal combustion engines by 2035, and 17 States, including the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, are set to adopt this regulation. Let me be clear: No one should be forced to buy a product purely because of government regulations. We cannot allow Gavin Newsom and California Democrats to decide what vehicles my constituents in central Pennsylvania are allowed to purchase. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues in both the House and the Senate to pass this legislation so that President Trump can end this mandate and save our American auto industry. Harvesting Critical Mineral Resources

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, for years, my colleagues and I in the House and Senate have been sounding the alarm on China's control of the critical mineral resources that our Nation relies on. Our Nation is rich in natural resources, and we need policies that allow us to utilize them and limit our reliance on countries like China and Russia. Now, President Trump is finally setting us on the right path by signing an executive order to expedite our Nation's ability to harvest the deepsea bed mineral resources that are just off our shorelines. This executive order will expedite the review process for exploration permits and implement a cross-government plan to advance our Nation's ability to harvest these critical resources. Working together with our allies and industry partners, President Trump's actions will create a strong supply chain for these minerals and counter China's influence in this important industry. Modernizing Our Workforce Programs

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, as President Trump bolsters our domestic manufacturing, returning production to the U.S., American companies need the workforce to support these industries. Last week, President Trump signed an executive order to modernize our workforce programs to better prepare the American people for these high-paying jobs in the trades. This Presidential action will support more than 1 million apprenticeships per year, meaning that talented students in vocational programs throughout our country will be able to further their careers with hands-on training while being paid. In my district, I have had the privilege of visiting vocational schools such as the Colonial Career and Technology Center in New Oxford and the Bedford County Technical Center in Everett, and I am proud to see President Trump continue to support the future of these talented students with this executive order. Soon, the American workforce will be even stronger than ever. Honoring Michaux State Forest Firefighters

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the courageous firefighters who have put their lives on the line to fight the two wildfires in Pennsylvania's Michaux State Forest. More than 170 firefighters have responded to the emergency, including Vigilant Hose Company No. 1 in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania. While their work is yet to be finished, these brave men and women have already contained more than 90 percent of the Hammond's Rock fire and are nearing 50 percent containment for the Thompson Hollow fire. On behalf of the entire 13th District of Pennsylvania, I thank these firefighters for their courage in the face of danger, and I pray for their continued safety as they continue to fight these fires.

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Martinsburg Police Chief Kerry L. Hoover, who is retiring on May 2, 2025, after a distinguished 37-year career with the Martinsburg Police Department in Blair County, Pennsylvania. A native of Martinsburg and graduate of Central High School, Chief Hoover began his career with the Martinsburg Police Department as a patrolman in 1988. He was promoted to Lieutenant in 1990 and chief of police in 2002. At 6 feet, 8 inches tall, Chief Hoover is someone who everyone in Martinsburg looked up to, both literally and figuratively. Tributes to Chief Hoover have echoed universal respect and praise for his leadership and gratitude for his enduring commitment to maintaining the highest professional standards of law enforcement. Joining with the citizens of Martinsburg, I express appreciation to Chief Hoover for outstanding service that has been central to the community's collective sense of safety and security throughout his tenure. On behalf of everyone in Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District, I congratulate Police Chief Kerry Hoover on his retirement and express fond wishes for joy and contentment in all future endeavors.

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Williamsburg Police Chief Rowdy Kagarise, who is retiring on April 30, 2025, after a distinguished 23-year career with the Williamsburg Police Department. Chief Kagarise holds distinctions as the longest-serving Chief of Police in Williamsburg and the first ever to retire from the department. His primary goal has always been to help ensure that Williamsburg remains a safe community to live in. Admired for a common-sense approach and communication skills that many times defused tense situations during police interventions, Chief Kagarise began his career with the department as a part-time police officer in 2001. A Williamsburg native, he was appointed officer-in- charge in 2010 and chief of police in 2011. In describing his philosophy on police work in Williamsburg, Chief Kagarise commented that, ``It all comes down to caring about this community.'' On behalf of everyone in Pennsylvania's 13th Congressional District, I congratulate Police Chief Rowdy Kagarise on his retirement and express fond wishes for joy and contentment in all future endeavors.

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania

Mr. JOYCE of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Graphics Universal of Greencastle, Pennsylvania, for 60 years of success as a leading provider of diversified design and commercial printing services. A family-owned business, Graphics Universal has distinguished itself with an inspiring corporate philosophy that was established by Gary and Nancy Gembe when they purchased the company in 1970. That philosophy is based on treating clients as long-term partners, fostering a rewarding work experience for staff, adhering to the highest standards of integrity and maintaining respect for the environment. Gary and Nancy's son Garon Gembe proudly expands upon their legacy of achievement as Company President. Effectively employing a relationship-centered approach with all stakeholders, the team at Graphics Universal prides itself on a commitment to collaboration, open communication and trusted service. On behalf of everyone in the 13th Congressional District, I congratulate the entire Gembe family on their company's milestone and offer best wishes for continued success.