John Katko

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to be the sponsor of H.R. 4358, the Preliminary Damage Assessment Improvement Act, along with the gentleman from South Carolina (Mr. Cunningham). Preliminary damage assessments, or PDAs, play a critical role in assessing and validating the impact of a disaster. PDAs establish a foundation for further assistance requests and are essential to the overall disaster relief process. Inaccurate PDAs can impact the types of Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, assistance available to communities following a disaster. Although FEMA is currently required to designate officials to support States and local communities in the PDA process, inconsistencies and turnovers in staffing can endanger access to critical relief. H.R. 4358 requires FEMA to report on FEMA's role in the PDA process, including staffing and training. The bill also directs FEMA to take measures to ensure FEMA teams involved in damage assessments are appropriately trained and consistent. Whether FEMA is responding to flooding in my district on Lake Ontario's southern shore, which happens often, or hurricanes in South Carolina's Lowcountry or natural disasters in any other impacted community nationwide, consistency and dependability are crucial. I want to thank the American Flood Coalition for working with Representative Cunningham and me on this important legislation. In closing, H.R. 4358 will help communities across the country recover from disasters by improving the consistency, dependability, and accuracy in the preliminary damage assessment process for FEMA disaster relief. Mr. Speaker, I urge support of this legislation.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the 100th Anniversary of Nixon Gear, a division of Gear Motions Inc., located in Syracuse, New York. Since its inception, Nixon Gear has consistently grown and adapted to changing times. Today, Nixon Gear has an impeccable reputation, provides good-paying jobs for Central New Yorkers, and serves as one of the premier custom gear manufacturers in the United States. In 1920, George Nixon founded Nixon Broach and Tool Company with the intention of selling special machining and tooling. As operations began focusing on gear manufacturing, in 1924 the company changed its name to Nixon Gear. In 1969, with plastics and electronics replacing metal gears, Nixon Gear adapted again, buying its first gear grinding machine to produce these new products. In 1977, Nixon Gear was purchased by Gear Motions, allowing the company to transform into a precision gear grinding operation. After years of sustained growth and expansion, Nixon Gear outgrew its facility, and in 1992 moved into a 45,000 square foot, state-of-the-art building on Milton Avenue in Syracuse. The move empowered Nixon Gear to improve its efficiency, and grow its operations, and invest in new precision gear grinding. Over the years, Nixon Gear has evolved internally as well. The company has gone through changes in ownership, and today is led by Dean Burrows, President of Nixon Gear and Gear Motions. In 2010, Gear Motions became a 100% Employee Owned Company, allowing its employees to have a larger role in the direction of the business. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in honoring the 100th Anniversary of Nixon Gear. By continuing to evolve and grow, Nixon Gear today is an industry leader and a vital part of Central New York's local economy.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Adeline Fagan, who passed away on September 19, 2020, at the young age of 28, following a courageous battle with COVID-19. Growing up in central New York, Dr. Fagan always knew she wanted to practice medicine, and she was always helping people. That was her passion. She was a standout student at Bishop Ludden High School, my alma mater, and at St. Joseph's and the University of Buffalo. She traveled to Haiti four times on missions to serve those who lived in areas where access to healthcare was limited. Dr. Fagan later moved to Houston, Texas, to complete a residency as an OB/GYN doctor, working rotations in the emergency room where she was routinely exposed to COVID-19 patients. Tragically, Dr. Fagan fell ill with COVID-19 and passed away last month. Members of our community have come together to remember her life and tremendous work as a daughter, sister, friend, and healthcare provider. And it is my honor to do so before this body now. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in honoring the life of Dr. Fagan, a true hero, and all those who continue their service among these challenges.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the career of my good friend and former colleague, Grant Jaquith, who upon his appointment as a Judge on the United States Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims, has resigned from the Department of Justice after serving 31 years. I was proud to serve alongside Mr. Jaquith while working for the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of New York and have always known him to be a dedicated public servant, staunch defender of the law, a stalwart advocate for victims and their families, and a genuinely good person. After graduating with a Juris Doctor from University of Florida College of Law in 1982, Mr. Jaquith began his career as a Judge Advocate on active duty in the U.S. Army. He then went on to join the Department of Justice, where he served as a line prosecutor, supervisor, and eventually, as the 49th U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of New York. Over the course of his career, Mr. Jaquith prosecuted many high- profile cases that strengthened national security and helped combat violent crime, organized crime, the opioid crisis, and financial fraud. I had the privilege of working with Mr. Jaquith on a number of these cases and saw first-hand how his dogged determination and keen intellect spelled trouble for criminals. The impact he had on my career was profound and his guidance made me a better prosecutor and person. For his work, Mr. Jaquith earned a number of awards, including the Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys Director's Award for Executive Achievement. As a supervisor, Mr. Jaquith developed scores of young prosecutors, always stressing thoroughness, hard work, determination and above all ethical conduct. Through his efforts, the U.S. Attorney's office for the Northern District of New York became known as one of the premier offices in the country. As U.S. Attorney, Mr. Jaquith continued to take a leadership role in the many successes of the office. He also took a national leadership role by serving on several subcommittees of the Attorney General's Advisory Committee, including Border and Immigration, Native American Issues, and Servicemembers and Veterans Rights. He also served on the Attorney General's Advisory Committee's Healthcare Fraud Working Group. Outside of work, Mr. Jaquith is a dedicated husband to his wife Rosemarie. Together, they have six children, and five grandchildren. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in recognizing the highly distinguished career of Grant Jaquith. A dedicated public servant, I wish Grant the best as he enters the next phase of his career as a Judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Mr. Joseph Soccio, who passed away on September 19, 2020 at the age of 97. A U.S. Army Air Force and Air Force veteran, loving husband, father, and grandfather, Mr. Soccio will be dearly missed. In 1941 Mr. Soccio graduated from West Senior High School, as part of the first graduating class. Shortly after, he entered the U.S. Army Air Force, proudly serving his country during World War II. During the War, he served as Crew Chief on a B-24 Liberator Bomber, and attained the rank of Sergeant. After World War II, he went on to re-enlist in the U.S. Air Force, serving his nation again in the Korean War. Following his military service, Mr. Soccio returned to Central New York to work for Alco Products. He spent 30 years with the company, and led its Mechanical Laboratories Division. Outside of his work, Mr. Soccio was a man of faith, and a longtime member of St. Alphonsus Church in Auburn. He enjoyed gardening, coaching youth baseball, and was an avid hunter. Most of all, he loved his family deeply. He is survived by his three children, four grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House to join me in honoring the life of Mr. Joseph Soccio. A cherished member of our Central New York community, Mr. Soccio will be deeply missed. I ask my colleagues to keep him and his family in mind as we celebrate his life.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, in celebration of National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week, I rise today to honor LiteracyCNY. In Central New York, LiteracyCNY is making a tremendous impact on our community by working to boost literacy rates for adult students who read, write, or speak English below the 6th grade level. Founded by Ruth Colvin in 1962, for more than 70 years LiteracyCNY has helped thousands of adults in Onondaga County improve their literacy and English skills by offering free reading and writing instruction. However today, there's still more work to be done. According to the Programme for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies, there are approximately 60,000 adults in Onondaga County with limited literacy skills and English proficiency. Without these skills, individuals in our community are unable to fully participate as citizens, parents, or employees. In recent years, LiteracyCNY has continued to make progress, enrolling more than 350 students on an annual basis, with approximately 80 percent of their students making measurable gains on standardized tests. Even amid the COVID-19 pandemic, LiteracyCNY has continued their important work. The organization adapted to changing circumstances and provided learners with instruction via teleconferencing. In addition to its work on reading and writing, LiteracyCNY provides students with lessons to help them thrive in their daily lives. The organization offers information and referrals to human and emergency services, and makes individuals aware of local job opportunities. LiteracyCNY also works to raise awareness about the issue of adult literacy and volunteers advocate to policymakers on behalf of their students in Central New York. Madam Speaker, as we celebrate National Adult Education and Family Literacy Week, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in honoring the contributions of LiteracyCNY. Through its work to boost literacy rates, this organization is helping adults in Central New York achieve career success, teach their children, and reach their full potential.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, there are seven legislative days remaining on the House calendar before this Chamber is scheduled to recess for more than a month. As every Member of this body knows, Americans are counting on us to use this time to respond to the sustained impact of the pandemic on our communities. Unfortunately, our constituents are left waiting as partisanship continues to block compromise and political interests continue to stand in the way of efforts to deliver relief to our constituents. For this reason, I support efforts to defeat the previous question and bring up commonsense legislation to support America's small businesses during this unprecedented crisis. The Paycheck Protection Program has been a critical, bipartisan success and an important example of what we can achieve when we work together for the good of the American people. In my district alone, PPP loans have delivered critical assistance to thousands of local businesses and helped save nearly 200,000 jobs. Although these loans played a pivotal role in helping small businesses navigate the immediate impact of the pandemic, many still face a dire economic outlook and uncertain road to recovery. Absent congressional action, entrepreneurs and business owners across this great country will have no choice but to close their doors. If the previous question is defeated, my colleagues will bring up legislation to authorize a second round of PPP loans for America's most vulnerable businesses and extend the program through the end of 2020. Critically, this bill will also set aside funds for our smallest businesses and make necessary simplifications to the loan forgiveness process. These provisions are not only critical to protecting our country's 30 million small businesses and the jobs they create; they represent a commitment to relief measures both parties can agree on. Considering these changes would represent a critical first step in bringing bipartisan relief measures to the floor and delivering comprehensive relief for every American. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote to defeat the previous question.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, I am a Republican, and I rise in strong support of the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act. I was proud to join Chairman Nadler and Representatives Herrera Beutler, McBath, and Scott in introducing this bill. Simply put, no mother-to-be or mother in this country should have to choose between being a parent and keeping her job. Unfortunately, current Federal law lacks adequate protections to ensure pregnant workers are able to remain healthy in the workplace. With 30 States having already passed laws to provide these protections, the need and support for a Federal standard is clear. This bipartisan bill provides pregnant workers with an affirmative right to reasonable accommodations in the workplace, while creating a clear and navigable standard for employees to follow. These accommodations, as simple as providing an employee with extra restroom breaks or a stool to sit on, should not be controversial. The arguments against this bill made by some Members of my own party are based on inaccuracies and wrongfully detract from the importance of this commonsense policy. Reflecting the widespread support for this legislation, the bill has received numerous endorsements from the business community, as well as over 180 women's health, labor, and civil rights organizations. Madam Speaker, I include in the Record a letter of support from a coalition of business groups, including the Chamber of Commerce, the Society for Human Resource Management, and the National Retail Federation. September 14, 2020. To Members of the U.S. House of Representatives: We urge Congress to pass the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (H.R. 2694). This bill would provide pregnant employees with important workplace protections while also making sure employers have clear and flexible options to ensure pregnant employees can remain at work for as long as they wish to do so. The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA), as passed by the House Education and Labor Committee, is a balanced approach that clarifies an employer's obligation to accommodate the known limitations of employees and job applicants that accompany pregnancy. The PWFA uses an interactive, reasonable accommodation process similar to the Americans with Disabilities Act and specifies a pregnant employee may take leave only after the employer and employee have exhausted the possibility of other reasonable accommodations. This bipartisan bill is a strong reminder that through good faith negotiations, legislative solutions to important workplace questions and problems can be found. We believe that Congress should pass the PWFA with no changes. Sincerely, H.R. Policy Association, International Franchise Association, National Retail Federation, Retail Industry Leaders Association, Society for Human Resource Management, U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, an excerpt from that says that this bipartisan bill is a strong reminder that through good faith negotiations, legislative solutions to important workplace questions and problems can be found. It is high time for our Nation to provide women in the workforce with the basic rights and respect they deserve. I strongly urge my colleagues to support passage of this important legislation.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Chief James ``Jeb'' Bealer, who tragically passed away on March 22, 2020. A loving husband, proud father and grandfather, and a 50-year member of the Howlett Hill Fire Department, Chief Bealer will be dearly missed. After graduating from Marcellus Central Schools and SUNY Cobleskill, Chief Bealer went on to serve with the Howlett Hill Fire Department. Starting as an Assistant Secretary, he worked his way up the ranks and was eventually named Chief of the Department. An active member of the Howlett Hill Fire Department for 50 years, Chief Bealer was only the second person in the Department's history to reach this milestone. In addition to his work with the Howlett Hill Fire Department, he also gave his time to the Onondaga County Fire Chiefs Association, Onondaga County Fireman's Association, New York State Association of Fire Chiefs, Firemen's Association of New York, and Western Section Line Officers Association. Outside of his career in firefighting, for 35 years Chief Bealer worked for the Town of Onondaga Highway Department and most recently worked as a bus driver for West Genesee Central Schools. Personally, Chief Bealer was dedicated to his family and friends. He was married to his wife Denice for 48 years, and together, they have four children and ten grandchildren. A role model to his family, Chief Bealer inspired his granddaughter to join the Howlett Hill Fire Department. Before his passing, he was set to present her with an award, celebrating her successful completion of fire training. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House to join me in honoring the life and career of Chief James ``Jeb'' Bealer. A cherished member of our Central New York community, Chief Bealer will truly be missed. I ask my colleagues to keep him and his family in mind as we celebrate his life.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Mr. Eric Jason Amberge, who passed away on July 13, 2020. A veteran, proud volunteer, and beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, Mr. Amberge will be dearly missed. After graduating from SUNY Fredonia with a degree in Electrical Engineering, Mr. Amberge entered the United States Air Force. During his time in the military, Mr. Amberge was stationed at Griffiss Air Force Base in Rome, NY, where he served as a Lead Systems Engineer and Air Defense Initiatives and Program Manager, at the Advanced Planning System in Rome Laboratory, Airforce System Command. After 10 years in the Air Force, Mr. Amberge retired as a Captain and was awarded the Meritorious Service Medal for Outstanding Service, a distinction given to those who preform volunteer service that far exceed the duties required by a member of the Armed Services. Following his retirement from the Air Force, Mr. Amberge went on to receive an MBA from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. During his career as an engineer, he worked for Kodak, Oracle, APG Technologies, and Aquila Technologies. Outside of work, Mr. Amberge was an avid volunteer who was passionate about honoring local veterans. He served as Commander of the Skaneateles American Legion Post No. 239 and as the Director of Honor Flight Syracuse, an organization that transports local veterans to Washington, DC, allowing them to visit the national memorials dedicated to their service and sacrifice. Throughout his life, he also remained dedicated to his wife, children and step-children, mother, siblings, and grandchildren. A man of strong faith, Mr. Amberge was an avid student of scripture and strived to always treat others with dignity and respect. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House to join me in honoring the life of Mr. Eric Jason Amberge. A cherished member of our Central New York community, Mr. Amberge will truly be missed. I ask my colleagues to keep him and his family in mind as we remember his life.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, I rise today regarding the determination by the Committee on Ethics on the matter regarding David Schweikert, our colleague. As I was preparing my remarks today, I thought about my second or third day in Congress when I was standing at the back of the well looking out at this grand room. Speaker Boehner came up to me. And Speaker Boehner said to me, You are a prosecutor, right? And I said, Yes. And he said, You have done it for 20 years in the Federal system? And I said, Yes. He said, Well, you are going to be one of the designated prosecutors in case someone has an ethics issue. You are going to be one of the ones we are going to use. And he walked away. And as he walked away, I thought about two things: I thought, I hope it never happens that they may need my services. And an honor it was, but regardless of the honor it was that he tapped me. And the second thing was about what a privilege it is to be in the House. Whether Republican or Democrat, we all have the great privilege of serving in the United States House of Representatives. And with that privilege comes great responsibility to abide by the rules of this institution, which are in place so that we may best serve our constituents and our country. While there is no joy in bringing this action to the floor today, as my colleague and friend, Dean, stated, I appreciate the bipartisan work done by the members who served on this subcommittee. Moreover, I applaud the diligence of the nonpartisan staff members who Dean named, and who worked tirelessly throughout this process to ensure fairness and to uphold the standards imposed upon every Member of Congress. The investigation was conducted thoroughly and without one hint of bias. Importantly, I believe the bipartisan manner in which it was conducted demonstrates that the processes in place to hold Members of Congress accountable do indeed work and are taken very seriously by both parties. Madam Speaker, in closing, I commend everybody who was involved in this investigation, and I commend the House for having these rules.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Congressman John Lewis. Our Nation mourns his loss. An icon of the civil rights movement, John Lewis dedicated his life to fighting for equality. He was an American hero who never wavered in his pursuit to make our country a more fair and just place. During my first term in Congress, I met John Lewis when we sat near each other at the President's State of the Union Address my first time. We became friends after that and often spoke on the House floor and in his office. While we served on different sides of the aisle, he was always willing to hear and consider the perspectives of others. It was an absolute honor to serve alongside him in Congress. John will forever be remembered for his strong leadership, his commitment to peaceful action, and the tremendous sacrifices he made to enact change. I wish the family, loved ones, and all who knew and admired him peace during this difficult time.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, I was not present for the following votes due to a family emergency. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY on Roll Call No. 124, and NAY on Roll Call No. 126.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, I was not present for the following votes due to a family emergency. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 123; YEA on Roll Call No. 125; YEA on Roll Call No. 127; YEA on Roll Call No. 128; and YEA on Roll Call No. 129.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the career of Officer John M. Praskey, who will celebrate 50 years of service in law enforcement on June 29, 2020. Throughout his career, Officer Praskey has demonstrated profound courage and a strong commitment to public safety. Officer Praskey began his career in law enforcement when he graduated from the New York State Police Academy on October 30, 1970. Ascending the ranks in the New York State Police, he was promoted to Sergeant in September 1978 and again in October 1984 to Station Commander. As a State Trooper, he has served a leading role in several homicide, armed robbery, and attempted murder cases. Notably, during the tragic events of September 11th, 2001, Officer Praskey directed and coordinated New York State Police response efforts in New York City. Following his retirement from the New York State Police after 34 years, Officer Praskey joined the Liverpool Police Department as a part-time police officer. With the Liverpool Police, he has received numerous awards and has taken many actions that have garnered him the respect of his colleagues and the community. In 2006, Officer Praskey was dispatched to a house fire on Wyker Circle where a man was trapped inside. Arriving ahead of the Fire Department, without hesitation, Officer Praskey entered the burning house and rescued the resident. More recently, in 2018, while handling an investigation into a stolen bicycle, he arranged for a bicycle to be donated to the victim after learning he depended on it for transportation. Similarly, when Officer Praskey came across a stranded motorist that had run out of fuel, he gave the individual $10 of his own money for gas. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in recognizing the career of Officer John M. Praskey. As a dedicated public servant, I wish Officer Praskey the best in his continued service.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the career of Officer Ben Berry, who retired in April after more than 20 years with the U.S. Probation Office. Throughout his career, Officer Berry demonstrated a profound commitment to public safety and the improvement of the U.S. Probation Office. At the beginning of his career in law enforcement, Officer Berry served as a United States Army Officer, Probation Officer for the State of Florida, and a Federal Probation Officer for the Northern District of Florida. In 1999, Officer Berry moved to Central New York where he took a job working as a U.S. Probation Officer in Northern District of New York, Syracuse office. Working his way up the ranks, he held the position of Senior U.S. Probation Officer Sentencing Guidelines Specialist and was later promoted to Supervising U.S. Probation Officer, where he oversaw the Investigations Unit. A proficient marksman, he also served as the Lead Firearms Instructor. In this role, he trained and certified officers in the use of firearms, and helped develop and improve the firearms training program. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in recognizing the career of Officer Ben Berry. As a dedicated public servant and a leader in the U.S. Probation Office, I wish Officer Berry the best in his retirement.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service of Mr. Thomas H. Rhodes as he celebrates his 100th birthday on June 18th. Throughout his life, Mr. Rhodes has demonstrated exemplary patriotism through his service in World War II, and longstanding devotion to his family and community. During World War II, Mr. Rhodes proudly served his country as a U.S. Marine and participated in several major conflicts including the battles of Pearl Harbor, Midway, Peleliu, New Britain, and New Guinea. After the war, he returned to Central New York to continue his service at Griffiss Air Force Base in Rome, New York. Following completion of his military service, Mr. Rhodes was honorably discharged as a Sergeant. Today, he remains an active member of the Marine Corps League, an organization that aims to serve communities nationwide, preserve the traditions of the U.S. Marine Corps, and strengthen bonds between former servicemembers and their families. Outside of public service, Mr. Rhodes is known for his commitment to his family. He was devoted to his late wife, Bridget ``Peggy'' Rhodes, and remains a dedicated father to their four children, and proud grandfather to 12 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren. Active in his community, Mr. Rhodes regularly appears in Fayetteville and Manlius parades and is a life-long member of the Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House to join me in recognizing Mr. Thomas H. Rhodes's 100th birthday. Mr. Rhodes's life has been one marked by admirable devotion to his family and country. I wish him health and happiness in the future.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the career of Mr. Armond ``Skip'' Scipione in recognition of his retirement from the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of New York after more than 40 years in public service, as the USAO NDNY Law Enforcement Coordination Manager. Mr. Scipione has demonstrated a profound commitment to his community and country during his long career in law enforcement and service in the U.S. Air Force and New York Air National Guard. A graduate of East Syracuse-Minoa High School and Onondaga Community College, Mr. Scipione began his career in law enforcement in 1980 as a police officer for the Town of DeWitt Police Department. He subsequently went on to serve as an Investigator for the Onondaga County District Attorney's Office, where he prepared cases for over 100 homicide trials. In 2004, he was hired by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of New York as the Law Enforcement Coordination Manager. Mr. Scipione served in this role for 16 years, working to facilitate and support law enforcement efforts to increase safety and enhance the quality of life for our community. In addition to his service in law enforcement, Mr. Scipione served his country in the U.S. Air Force and in the New York Air National Guard. During this time, he was deployed overseas on several occasions, and notably, supported efforts in Kuwait during Operation Desert Shield. Outside of public service, Mr. Scipione is a devoted husband to his wife, Cindy, and a dedicated father to their three children. He is a proud grandfather to four grandchildren and dog owner to his German Shepherd, Amish. Madam Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the House to join me in recognizing Mr. Armond ``Skip'' Scipione. As a dedicated public servant, I wish Mr. Scipione the best in his retirement.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, as the House of Representatives considers further legislation in response to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID- 19) pandemic, I rise to call for the equitable distribution of federal relief to tribal nations. Despite the dire impact this crisis has had on tribes in my district in Central New York, these communities have been underserved by current distribution mechanisms for federal relief. In March, Congress passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act to address the significant public health and economic impacts of the ongoing pandemic. Critically, this legislation allocated $8 billion for payments to tribal nations in response to increased expenses and revenue shortfalls caused by COVID-19. These funds are critical to helping tribal governments maintain essential services during this crisis, however, the population-based distribution model currently being used by the U.S. Treasury has limited relief for tribes in my district. Across New York State, the COVID-19 pandemic has closed the doors of many economic enterprises operated by tribal nations. With these conditions likely to persist in the months ahead, tribes will face sustained shortfalls in revenue typically used to maintain health care, nutrition, education and public safety services for their communities. The costs of disruption are especially dire for tribes with relatively smaller populations, which have received limited support under the current allocation formula for CARES Act funding despite facing a virtual cessation of economic activity. To address this disparity, economic impact must be accounted for in any additional relief provided by Congress or the Administration to our nation's tribes. For example, utilizing available information such as employment or expenditure data would help to ensure substantive federal support for tribes of all sizes. These efforts would represent a critical step in ensuring the wellbeing of tribal communities in Central New York and across the country.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, I rise to honor the life and service of Mr. James Arrigo as he celebrates his 96th birthday. Throughout his life, Mr. Arrigo has demonstrated exemplary patriotism through his service in World War II, and longstanding devotion to his family. After graduating from North High School in 1942, Mr. Arrigo enlisted in the United States Air Force, proudly serving his country in World War II. During the war, he was stationed in Japan, working as a bombardier with the 20th Air Force 313th Wing. In December of 1945, Mr. Arrigo was discharged as a 1st Lieutenant, after flying 35 missions over Japan. Following completion of his military service, Mr. Arrigo returned home to Central New York and on April 7, 1947 married Mary Ann Cali. Together they lived in North Syracuse and raised two children. After many years working as a self-employed barber at Jimmy's Barbershop, Mr. Arrigo retired at the age of 82. In addition to working as a barber, Mr. Arrigo served as a Town of Clay councilman from 1966 to 1970 and served as an active member of the Town of Clay Men of Rotary. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in honoring the life and service of Mr. James Arrigo. Mr. Arrigo's life has been one marked by admirable devotion to his family and country.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Mr. Chair, I rise in support of H.R. 1230, the Protecting Older Workers Against Discrimination Act. This bipartisan and commonsense legislation will level the playing field for older workers in Central New York and across the country by restoring the ability to combat age discrimination in the workplace. Speaking with Central New Yorkers, I have heard from many older workers who have expressed concern over the prevalence of ageism in the workplace. My constituents are not alone either. According to a recent AARP report, 3 in 5 older workers have experienced age discrimination in the workplace. Despite this statistic, the recent 2009 Supreme Court's decision in Gross v. FBL Financial Services, Inc., has weakened federal protections against age discrimination, making it more difficult for older Americans to prove age discrimination and rectify these instances. For this reason, I am proud to support the Protecting Older Workers Against Discrimination Act. Under this bipartisan legislation, we will take the necessary steps to protect older workers against age discrimination in the workplace by restoring the pre-2009 legal standards for age discrimination claims. Mr. Chair, age should never be a factor in employment decisions. Whether an older worker is forced out of a job or receiving lower pay due to age, older workers in Central New York and in the United States must be protected from age discrimination in the workplace. Troubling statistics published by AARP make it clear that age discrimination in the workplace is an issue that must be addressed by Congress. I urge my colleagues in the House to act in a bipartisan manner to protect older workers against age discrimination by supporting the Protecting Older Workers Against Discrimination Act.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Chester B. Piatkowski, who passed away on December 27, 2019, at the age of 96. A veteran and devoted public servant, Chester Piatkowski will be dearly missed by his family and community. After graduating from Vocational School in Verona, NY, Chester Piatkowski enlisted in the United States Navy, proudly serving his country in World War II. During the war, he was stationed in England, working as an Aviation Petty Officer 2nd Class, repairing PBY planes. After the war, Chester Piatkowski served as a Police Officer with the City of Syracuse, eventually rising to the rank of Sergeant. A proficient marksman, Chester Piatkowski oversaw firearms training for the Syracuse Police Department, and competed in police pistol competitions across New York State, winning several first-place trophies. Throughout Chester Piatkowski's life, he remained very proud of his American and Polish heritage. He was active in the Polish American Legion Post 14, Seniors at the Syracuse Polish Home, and enjoyed taking Polish language classes. Additionally, he was a member of the American Legion Post 113, the Police Retirees Association, and the Holy Name society at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in honoring the life of Chester B. Piatkowski. A veteran and devoted public servant, Chester Piatkowski's legacy will always be remembered and cherished. I encourage my colleagues to keep his family in their prayers during this truly difficult time.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Oswego Police Officer, Daniel Balloni, for his heroic actions to save a woman from the freezing Oswego River. On December 29, 2019, at 1:17am, police responded to the Oswego River after local residents called 911 to report screams coming from the river. As officers began investigating on the west side of the river, Officer Balloni, who was not originally dispatched to the call, went to the east side to see if he could help. Officer Balloni and his colleagues located a young woman in the freezing water struggling to stay alive. After several failed attempts by the officers to rescue her using a floating ring, Officer Balloni removed his gear and jumped in the frigid water, grabbing the ring and the woman. Aided by his fellow officers, Officer Balloni was able to bring the woman to shore. Shortly thereafter, paramedics arrived on the scene and transported the woman to a local hospital where she was treated for hypothermia and is now recovering. Officer Balloni risked his own safety and suffered from hypothermia during this rescue. His actions reaffirm that first responders in our community and nationwide put the safety of our communities ahead of their own. I am tremendously grateful for the heroic actions of Officer Balloni, members of the Oswego Police Department, and all of those who work every day to keep us safe. Madam Speaker, today I am proud to honor Officer Daniel Balloni for acting to save the life of a young woman. Every day, first responders like Officer Balloni put their lives on the line to serve and protect our community. I thank him as well as the first responders in Central New York and across the country for their service.

Mr. KATKO

Mr. KATKO. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Mr. Robert B. Daley who passed away on December 15, 2019, at the age of 87. A veteran, dedicated teacher, loving husband, father, and grandfather, Mr. Daley will be dearly missed by his family, friends, and community. After graduating from St. Lucy's High School in Syracuse, Mr. Daley went on to study at Le Moyne College where he earned his bachelor's degree in 1954. Mr. Daley was a lifelong advocate of Le Moyne College. It was at Le Moyne that Mr. Daley and my father became fast friends. My family is forever grateful that Mr. Daley introduced my father to my mother, Mary Lou, and was rewarded by being best man at their wedding. Following graduation, Mr. Daley went on to enlist in the United States Army. While in the Army, Mr. Daley was stationed at Schofield Barracks in Honolulu, Hawaii. Upon completing his tour of duty in 1957, Mr. Daley returned to Central New York to work for Bristol Labs and later, at Jamesville-Dewitt High School, where he taught Chemistry and Earth Science for 34 years before retiring. Following his retirement, Mr. Daley continued to be active in the education field, consulting for Syracuse University. In this role, he observed teachers in various Central New York school districts, working to mentor the next generation of teachers. Throughout Mr. Daley's career, he has been a dedicated volunteer, helping build homes for Habitat for Humanity, assisting with the New York State Science Olympiad, and supporting numerous activities for St. Ann Catholic Church of Manlius, where he was an active member. Madam Speaker, I ask that my colleagues in the House join me in honoring the life of Mr. Robert B. Daley. A devoted family-man, career educator, and patriot, I wish his family peace during this incredibly difficult time.