Member of Congress
Robert Latta
- Role
- Current Representative
- State
- OH
- Party
- Republican
Speeches
RATEPAYER PROTECTION ACT2026-09-15
Mr. LATTA
Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman, the chairman of the full Committee on Energy and Commerce, for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 9340, the Ratepayer Protection Act, led by the gentleman from Colorado's Eighth Congressional District. This legislation passed out of our Energy and Commerce Committee with a 52-0 vote. Mr. Speaker, the goal here is very simple: Data centers should pay their own way. That is why this legislation is so important. We must ensure that American families and small businesses are protected from electricity price increases caused by large loads like data centers. The increase in data center development raises important questions about how these facilities will affect local electric grids in nearby communities. H.R. 9340 encourages States to establish a standard that requires large data centers to cover the full costs necessary to service their loads. Over the last 5 years, electricity rates have steadily increased across the country. While data center demand growth is exploding, at the same time, record amounts of baseload generation are prematurely leaving our grids. This is a problem that must be addressed. H.R. 9340 ensures that States can hold AI companies responsible for their own costs and that hardworking American families aren't on the hook for the bill. Mr. Speaker, I urge the House to pass the Ratepayer Protection Act.
SPECIAL RECOGNITION OF CALVIN RETTIG BEING NAMED HANCOCK COUNTY VETERAN OF THE YEAR2026-09-10
Mr. LATTA
Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate SSgt. Calvin ``Cal'' Rettig, who has been named Hancock County Veteran of the Year. This honor recognizes Cal's decades of service to his family, community, and the Nation. Cal was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1944, where he trained for a frontline unit. He was tasked with detecting the enemy and relaying intelligence back to the artillery. His unit was initially sent to the Philippines to begin night patrols. Following the bombing of Japan, his group occupied Tokyo, where Cal served on security and police patrol as a staff sergeant until his release in 1946. Cal married his wife, Bernice, on the day he returned home. The two of them had met in 1941 and dated until he left for the war. They were married for sixty-five years. They raised three children, and their family has since grown to include twenty grandchildren and twenty-five great-grandchildren. After his discharge, Cal built two full careers. From 1948 to 1966, he managed the Farm Bureau lumber yard. After the lumber yard, he spent the next twenty-two years at Whirlpool as a mold setter. He also farmed 340 acres throughout both careers. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating SSgt. Rettig on being named the Hancock County Veteran of the Year. On behalf of the people of the Fifth Congressional District of Ohio, I recognize the devotion and compassion that Cal has for his community, and I thank him for his service to our Nation.
SPECIAL RECOGNITION OF FOUR COUNTY CAREER CENTER UPON THE RIBBON CUTTING FOR ITS WELDING AND ELECTRICAL TRADES EXPANSION2026-08-13
Mr. LATTA
Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Four County Career Center in Archbold, Ohio, as it celebrates the ribbon cutting for its new Welding and Electrical Trades Expansion. This new facility marks a significant investment and a renewed dedication to the future workforce of Northwest Ohio. Four County Career Center opened in 1969 as the first career center in Ohio built entirely with local funds. Today, it serves hundreds of students from Defiance, Fulton, Henry, and Williams counties, providing hands-on training across dozens of technical programs. The school's reach extends beyond high schoolers, offering workforce development programs to many adults each year. The new expansion adds state-of-the- art labs for welding, fabrication, and electrical trades, which will help Four County continue to prepare its students for the workforce of tomorrow. Its completion reflects the collaboration of many individuals, businesses, and organizations throughout the region. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Four County Career Center's Board of Education and administration on this achievement. Career-technical education plays a vital role in preparing our next generation for the workforce, and this expansion will help ensure that Four County's students have access to the training they need to succeed. On behalf of the 5th Congressional District of Ohio, I wish Four County Career Center all the best in their continued success.
SECURING COMMUNITY UPGRADES FOR A RESILIENT GRID ACT2026-06-29
Mr. LATTA
Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Kentucky, the chair of the full committee, for recognizing me today. I rise in support of H.R. 7257, the SECURE Grid Act, which I sponsored with the gentlewoman from California's Seventh Congressional District. State energy security plans, or SESPs, provide States with an opportunity to identify threats and vulnerabilities in their respective energy networks. This collaborative process ensures that States can stay on the cutting edge of an evolving threat landscape. While the initial exercise of SESPs has meaningfully assisted States in managing their energy systems, there is room for improvement to enhance visibility and threat detection and to holistically consider disparate vulnerabilities across the sector. The SECURE Grid Act achieves this goal by ensuring States incorporate security and resilience of distribution networks. Distribution networks bring wholesale power directly to homes and businesses to keep the lights on and keep our businesses up and running. Any threat to the distribution system is a threat to our communities. Importantly, the legislation also brings industry experts to the table during the development of SESPs to ensure State governments are equipped with the resources and operational understanding of the complex infrastructure. In addition, the bill affirms the important leadership role of State governments to protect their energy systems while fostering collaborative partnerships with Federal counterparts. Given the States' authority and understanding of their own unique energy needs, it is imperative that they are empowered to develop their own plans while working collaboratively with Federal partners. This legislation comes at a timely moment in our Nation's history. Throughout the 119th Congress, the Energy Subcommittee of the House Energy and Commerce Committee has held several hearings with experts and administration officials to examine the state of our Nation's energy systems. Each day, it becomes ever more apparent that our reliance on energy is growing because of AI advancements, reshoring of manufacturing facilities, and general economy-wide electrification. Families across the country can be burdened by high energy costs, and we know that there is nothing more expensive than a blackout. We also know that adversarial nations and nefarious actors are actively seeking out any vulnerability in our interconnected energy infrastructure to sow chaos and cause harm to everyday Americans. To combat these efforts, the legislation requires proactive information sharing, constant vigilance, and clear visibility into the widening threat landscape. The SECURE Grid Act ensures that State energy offices and their respective Governors are able to put processes in place to detect, mitigate, and respond to potential attacks targeting critical infrastructure. The everyday lives of families and businesses are wholly reliant on a secure, reliable, and affordable energy system. Mr. Speaker, for the reasons stated, it is important that the House pass H.R. 7257, the SECURE Grid Act. Again, I thank the gentlewoman from California's Seventh District for her help on this legislation.
RECOGNIZING GAVIN MINICH ON HIS OFFER OF APPOINTMENT TO ATTEND THE UNITED STATES MILITARY ACADEMY2026-06-18
Mr. LATTA
Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay special tribute to an outstanding student from Ohio's 5th Congressional District. I am pleased to announce that Gavin Minich of Bloomdale, Ohio, has been offered an appointment to the United States Military Academy in West Point, New York. Gavin's offer of appointment permits him to attend the United States Military Academy this fall with the incoming Class of 2030. Attending one of our Nation's military academies not only offers the opportunity to serve our country but also guarantees a world-class education while undertaking one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of his life. Gavin brings a tremendous amount of leadership. service, and dedication to the incoming Class of 2030. While attending Elmwood High School, he participated in National Honor Society, Quiz Bowl, student government, debate club, and was on the honor role. Throughout high school, Gavin was involved in cross country, indoor track, and track and field, earning his varsity letter. I am confident that he will carry the lessons of his student and athletic leadership to the Military Academy. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Gavin Minich on his offer of appointment to the United States Military Academy. Our service academies offer the finest military training and education available, and I am positive that Gavin will excel during his career at the Military Academy. I ask my colleagues to join me in extending their best wishes to him as he begins his service to our Nation.
RECOGNIZING TREVER BLACKBURN ON HIS OFFER OF APPOINTMENT TO ATTEND THE UNITED STATES MILITARY ACADEMY2026-05-13
Mr. LATTA
Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, it is my great pleasure to pay special tribute to an outstanding student from Ohio's 5th Congressional District. I am pleased to announce that Trever Blackburn of LaGrange, Ohio, has been offered an appointment to the United States Military Academy in West Point, New York. Trever's offer of appointment permits him to attend the United States Military Academy this fall with the incoming Class of 2030. Attending one of our Nation's military academies not only offers the opportunity to serve our country but also guarantees a world-class education while undertaking one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of his life. Trever brings a tremendous amount of leadership, service, and dedication to the incoming Class of 2030. While attending Keystone High School, he participated in football, basketball, and baseball, earning his varsity letter in all three. After high school, he attended the Military Academy Preparatory School in West Point, New York. I am confident that he will carry the lessons of his student and athletic leadership to the Military Academy. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Trever Blackburn on his offer of appointment to the United States Military Academy. Our service academies offer the finest military training and education available, and I am positive that Trever will excel during his career at the Military Academy. I ask my colleagues to join me in extending their best wishes to him as he begins his service to our Nation.
RECOGNIZING CENTRAL INSURANCE'S 150TH ANNIVERSARY2026-05-07
Mr. LATTA
Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Central Insurance of Van Wert, Ohio, on the occasion of its 150th anniversary. This milestone is a testament to the company's enduring commitment to its policyholders, agents, employees, and the community it has proudly called home since its founding. Formally incorporated in 1876 as Van Wert County Mutual Fire Insurance Company, Central Insurance started out as a small, community- based mutual insurer formed by neighbors to help neighbors share risk at a time when formal insurance was still emerging in rural America. Central's operations soon began to stretch beyond Van Wert County. By 1883, the company had become an interstate operation, and the name Van Wert County Mutual Fire Insurance Company was limited. In 1884, the name was changed to The Central Manufacturers' Mutual Insurance Company. By its 25th anniversary in 1901, the company had expanded operations into six states. As transportation transformed American life in the early twentieth century, Central adapted its offerings to include automobile insurance. Its regional footprint expanded further in the following decades, with branch offices established in Boston, Atlanta, and Dallas. Today, Central Insurance serves hundreds of thousands of individuals and businesses across the country. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Central Insurance on this extraordinary milestone. For 150 years, Central Insurance has exemplified the very best of American business and served with integrity and dedication. We wish Central Insurance all the best in their future endeavors.
FARM, FOOD, AND NATIONAL SECURITY ACT OF 20262026-04-29
Mr. LATTA
Mr. LATTA. Mr. Chair, I urge my colleagues to support this amendment and the overall bill, and I yield back the balance of my time.
Mr. LATTA. Mr. Chair, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Chair, I rise in support of my amendment, which I am pleased to lead with the gentlewoman from Illinois' Second Congressional District. For years, large parts of my district and rural areas across America have lacked access to fast broadband connections. Reliable internet access is more than just being able to stream your favorite TV shows and movies. It is the crucial link that connects us all. Our people, Nation, and economy run on reliable internet connections. Agriculture producers in Ohio and across America also know that reliable broadband connections are essential to their operations. After all, it helps deploy technologies that increase their productivity, produce higher yields, and minimize operating costs. Today's smart agriculture technology, from autonomous tractors to distributed soil sensors, rely on internet connections to share data. In fact, our ag producers use information in real time to make smarter decisions on how to optimize inputs and whether and when to plant or harvest. When terrestrial or cellular networks are not available, satellite broadband steps in to make these technologies work. However, it is not just advanced satellite broadband capabilities that improve precision agriculture. Earth-imaging satellites also provide important information that helps farmers and ranchers identify visual trends that may require immediate attention. In order to ensure our regulations maximize those opportunities, our amendment would require the FCC to review its current satellite rules to determine if rural changes can be made to promote precision agriculture. I am committed to ensuring our agricultural producers have the tools at their disposal to help them to increase productivity while minimizing costs. This amendment is an excellent step forward in that mission. Mr. Chair, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. LATTA. Mr. Chair, I have an amendment at the desk.
RECOGNIZING ADAM BUELL ON HIS OFFER OF APPOINTMENT TO ATTEND THE UNITED STATES MILITARY ACADEMY2026-04-29
Mr. LATTA
Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay special tribute to an outstanding student from Ohio's 5th Congressional District. I am pleased to announce that Adam Buell of Pandora, Ohio, has been offered an appointment to the United States Military Academy in West Point, New York. Adam's offer of appointment permits him to attend the United States Military Academy this fall with the incoming Class of 2030. Attending one of our Nation's military academies not only offers the opportunity to serve our country but also guarantees a world-class education while undertaking one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of his life. Adam brings a tremendous amount of leadership, service, and dedication to the incoming Class of 2030. While attending Pandora- Gilboa High School, he participated in National Honor Society, Quiz Bowl, and Big Brothers Big Sisters, and was on the honor roll. Throughout high school, Adam was involved in cross country, basketball, and track and field, earning his varsity letter in all three. I am confident that he will carry the lessons of his student and athletic leadership to the Military Academy. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Adam Buell on his offer of appointment to the United States Military Academy. Our service academies offer the finest military training and education available, and I am positive that Adam will excel during his career at the Military Academy. I ask my colleagues to join me in extending their best wishes to him as he begins his service to our Nation.
RECOGNIZING ELI CHEVALIER ON HIS OFFER OF APPOINTMENT TO ATTEND THE UNITED STATES NAVAL ACADEMY2026-04-29
Mr. LATTA
Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay special tribute to an outstanding student from Ohio's 5th Congressional District. I am pleased to announce that Eli Chevalier of Sycamore, Ohio, has been offered an appointment to the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland. Eli's offer of appointment permits him to attend the United States Naval Academy this fall with the incoming Class of 2030. Attending one of our Nation's military academies not only offers the opportunity to serve our country but also guarantees a world-class education while undertaking one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of his life. Eli brings a tremendous amount of leadership, service, and dedication to the incoming Class of 2030. While attending Mohawk High School, he participated in academic team, Spanish Club, Mentor Club, and was President of National Honor Society. Throughout high school, Eli was involved in football, basketball, and track and field, earning his varsity letter. I am confident that he will carry the lessons of his student and athletic leadership to the Naval Academy. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Eli Chevalier on his offer of appointment to the United States Naval Academy. Our service academies offer the finest military training and education available, and I am positive that Eli will excel during his career at the Naval Academy. I ask my colleagues to join me in extending their best wishes to him as he begins his service to our Nation.
RECOGNIZING MICHELE SMITH ON HER OFFER OF APPOINTMENT TO ATTEND THE UNITED STATES AIR FORCE ACADEMY2026-04-29
Mr. LATTA
Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay special tribute to an outstanding student from Ohio's 5th Congressional District. I am pleased to announce that Michele Smith of Avon, Ohio, has been offered an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Michele's offer of appointment permits her to attend the United States Air Force Academy this fall with the incoming Class of 2030. Attending one of our Nation's military academies not only offers the opportunity to serve our country but also guarantees a world-class education while undertaking one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of her life. Michele brings a tremendous amount of leadership, service, and dedication to the incoming Class of 2030. While attending Avon High School, she participated in National Honor Society, Orchestra, Leo Club, CLIMB Club, and was on the honor roll. Throughout high school, Michele was involved in cross country, high school swim team, and club swim team, earning her varsity letter in swimming. I am confident that she will carry the lessons of her student and athletic leadership to the Air Force Academy. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Michele Smith on her offer of appointment to the United States Air Force Academy. Our service academies offer the finest military training and education available, and I am positive that Michele will excel during her career at the Air Force Academy. I ask my colleagues to join me in extending their best wishes to her as she begins her service to our Nation.
RECOGNIZING JACK BUELL ON HIS OFFER OF APPOINTMENT TO ATTEND THE UNITED STATES MILITARY ACADEMY2026-04-29
Mr. LATTA
Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay special tribute to an outstanding student from Ohio's 5th Congressional District. I am pleased to announce that Jack Buell of Pandora, Ohio, has been offered an appointment to the United States Military Academy in West Point, New York. Jack's offer of appointment permits him to attend the United States Military Academy this fall with the incoming Class of 2030. Attending one of our Nation's military academies not only offers the opportunity to serve our country but also guarantees a world-class education while undertaking one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of his life. Jack brings a tremendous amount of leadership, service, and dedication to the incoming Class of 2030. While attending Pandora- Gilboa High School, he participated in student government, National Honor Society, Quiz Bowl, and Big Brothers Big Sisters, and was on the honor roll. Throughout high school, Jack was involved in cross country, basketball, and track and field, earning his varsity letter in all three. I am confident that he will carry the lessons of his student and athletic leadership to the Military Academy. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Jack Buell on his offer of appointment to the United States Military Academy. Our service academies offer the finest military training and education available, and I am positive that Jack will excel during his career at the Military Academy. I ask my colleagues to join me in extending their best wishes to him as he begins his service to our Nation.
RECOGNIZING RICK McCOY UPON HIS RETIREMENT2026-04-27
Mr. LATTA
Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate a dedicated public servant, Rick McCoy, who will be retiring after thirty-five years of service as the Director of the Van Wert County Emergency Management Agency. Rick's commitment to public safety has helped the county's residents weather any emergency that has come their way. Throughout his thirty-five years of service, Rick has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the safety and resilience of Van Wert County and its residents. He has led the agency through countless emergencies, natural disasters, and unforeseen crises, ensuring that communities received the swift and coordinated responses they needed in their most vulnerable moments. Under Rick's leadership, the agency grew into a model of preparedness and professionalism, forging strong partnerships with local, state, and federal partners to protect lives and property. His steady hand and tireless dedication have left Van Wert County a safer and better-prepared county. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in paying special tribute to Rick McCoy upon his retirement. On behalf of the people of the 5th Congressional District of Ohio, I recognize the dedication and leadership that Rick has shown through his decades of service to his community. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors.
RECOGNIZING JERRY GREINER UPON HIS RETIREMENT2026-03-26
Mr. LATTA
Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate a dedicated public servant, Jerry Greiner, who will be retiring after thirty-seven years of service as the founding Director of the Northwestern Water and Sewer District. Over the course of his career, Jerry's commitment to expanding access to clean water and modern sewer services, has had a lasting impact on the health, quality of life, and economic vitality of the region. Jerry was hired by the Wood County Commissioners in 1988 to manage the county's sanitary engineer's office. When the Northwestern Water and Sewer District was established in 1993, he became its first and only director. Under his leadership, the district grew from serving a few thousand customers to connecting more than 20,000 customers across Wood County and the neighboring counties of Hancock, Henry, Lucas, and Sandusky. Today, the district employs seventy-nine people, manages $230 million in assets, distributes 6.5 million gallons of water daily through nearly 500 miles of waterlines, and serves fourteen municipalities and twenty-four townships in Wood County alone. Throughout his tenure, Jerry was instrumental in attracting major employers to the region, including First Solar, the CSX rail hub, UPS, and others, by ensuring reliable water and sewer infrastructure were in place to support economic growth. In 2023, the district was recognized as Wood County's Corporate Citizen of the Year by the Wood County Development Commission. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in paying special tribute to Jerry Greiner. On behalf of the people of the 5th Congressional District of Ohio, I recognize the dedication and leadership that Jerry has shown through his decades of service to his community. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors.
RECOGNIZING ISABELLA ZAHN2026-03-12
Mr. LATTA
Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, it is with a great deal of pride that I rise to pay a very special tribute to an outstanding high school athlete from Ohio's 5th Congressional District. Isabella Zahn, a senior at Coldwater High School, has represented her school ably on her way to achieving three Division III State Titles for the 200 Meter Dash, 400 Meter Dash, and Girls Long Jump at the State Track and Field Meet. Isabella overcame the challenges posed by intense competition in her effort to win the title. In pursuing the State Championship, Isabella defeated her opponents with an impressive time of 23.04 seconds in the 200 Meter Dash, 52.89 seconds in the 400 Meter Dash, and a jump of 18-08.50 in the Girls Long Jump. Her hard work and dedication, both on and off the track, in achieving this accomplishment is truly outstanding. She has achieved an impressive season, bringing pride to her school and community. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in paying special tribute to Isabella Zahn of Coldwater High School. On behalf of the people of the 5th District of Ohio, I am proud to recognize this great achievement.
HOMEOWNER ENERGY FREEDOM ACT2026-02-25
Mr. LATTA
Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, returning to the legislation before us, we are here to debate H.R. 4758, the Homeowner Energy Freedom Act. Again, I thank the gentleman from Texas' 12th Congressional District for sponsoring this legislation. This legislation is about reversing the damage caused by President Biden's Inflation Reduction Act's aggressive regulatory agenda and taxpayer-funded spending spree. Whatever happened to the free market? What has happened to consumer choice? Housing affordability is a critical issue facing the American people. Look at the numbers. The costs associated with IRA programs this bill seeks to repeal significantly add to the price of new homes and lead to higher energy bills for the American people. According to the Federal Reserve, median home prices have skyrocketed over the past decade, with the largest increase from 2020 to 2022, which saw a 40 percent increase in median homes. When you talk about the home rebates that we are talking about here today and who is getting them, it provides taxpayer subsidies for households earning over 150 percent of the median household income for the area. The data from 2024 shows that the median income in the District of Columbia was $104,800, meaning that households in Washington making up to $156,000 can receive taxpayer subsidies to upgrade their appliances. In the same numbers in 2024, median income for Massachusetts was $113,900, meaning that households making up to $170,850, which is nearly double the nationwide median household income, qualify. H.R. 4758 brings the dream of homeownership back to millions of Americans. By the way, let's talk about electricity costs again. We talk about this a lot, reliable power, affordable power. Look at the increases. Where is it? It starts in Maryland and goes to Maine. It is California. If I lived in those States, as I said before, I would call my legislators in those States and say: What are you doing out there? What is the Governor doing? Look where those States are and look where the affordability crisis is in this country. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this legislation, and I yield back the balance of my time.
Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Goldman), the sponsor of the bill.
Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 4758, the Homeowner Energy Freedom Act, sponsored by the gentleman from Texas' 12th Congressional District. The Homeowner Energy Freedom Act repeals disastrous policies from the Inflation Reduction Act that were used to subsidize expensive mandates and implement backdoor fossil fuel bans. Today, in the United States, the dream of home ownership is out of reach for far too many Americans. In fact, 75 percent of households today cannot afford a medium-priced home. Mr. Speaker, provisions of the Inflation Reduction Act to force States to implement green energy building codes only serve to make matters worse. It is estimated that building codes associated with the HOMES rebate program raises the cost of a single-family home by $31,000. These building codes effectively prevent the use of natural gas and require expensive equipment to accommodate EV chargers and other intermittent energy sources. It is important to remember that upwards of 60 percent of homes utilize natural gas appliances and that the number rises to more than 75 percent in colder climate States. These aren't just talking points. They are real-world impacts. Take Kansas City, for example. After adopting the latest IECC building codes, the city saw a 22 percent decrease in construction permits, while the surrounding communities saw a 117 percent increase. The data is clear. The cost of a new home goes up when Democrats get their green mandates in place. If the Biden administration's so-called energy efficiency regulatory agenda was cost effective for the American people, why did they also have to have a billion dollar slush fund to pay for it? Instead of a one-size-fits-all mandate from Washington, House Republicans are focused on limiting the authority of the Federal Government, making it easier to build affordable homes and taking advantage of abundant natural gas reserves beneath our Nation. Importantly, H.R. 4758 builds on the important work of the Working Families Tax Cut law by officially putting an end to these egregious authorities so future abuses cannot occur. By passing this legislation, House Republicans are continuing to address the affordability for hardworking American households and responsibly protecting finite taxpayer resources. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this legislation, and I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on H.R. 4758.
Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, pursuant to House Resolution 1075, I call up the bill (H.R. 4758) to repeal provisions of Public Law 117-169 relating to taxpayer subsidies for home electrification, and for other purposes, and ask for its immediate consideration in the House.
AFFORDABLE HOUSING OVER MANDATING EFFICIENCY STANDARDS ACT2026-01-09
Mr. LATTA
Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. Mr. Speaker, one of the things that Energy and Commerce has been working on for years is to make sure that we have more power out here for the American people. Just this week in the Energy Subcommittee, we had another hearing on nuclear power to make sure that we are bringing nuclear power back online in this country. We have got to make sure we have energy out there for the American people so they can go out there and make sure that when they turn on that switch, it is not too expensive. Once again, let's look at this map of the United States. It is kind of interesting, Mr. Speaker. If I live in California or Michigan or from Maryland up to Maine, why is it that their kilowatt hours are more expensive than the rest of the country? It needs to be talked about, Mr. Speaker. They need to talk to their State Governors, and they need to talk to their legislators and regulators. They are raising the prices for their citizens in those States. We have to make sure we understand what is happening here. We have to do our part this Congress, but let's look at these States. We are making sure we are working hard in the Energy and Commerce Committee to ensure those rates are low for Americans. As we have heard from both sides of the aisle today, H.R. 5184 is a commonsense reform to unlock the construction of manufactured housing and increasing housing affordability for all Americans. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 5148, the Affordable HOMES Act, and I yield back the balance of my time.
Mr. LATTA. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.