Darin LaHood

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to congratulate WJBC as they reach a monumental milestone. For 100 years, WJBC has been the voice of McLean County. The hosts have dedicated themselves to providing residents of Central Illinois with timely and reliable news to keep the public informed. Local radio station's are more important than ever. They bring a unique, personal, and powerful form of communication to their audience. WJBC serves as a bridge between communities, providing a unique space where local stories, issues, and voices can be heard. WJBC has welcomed Presidents, governors, politicians, celebrities, and local voices to keep us informed about public events and connect our community. The station has been home to legendary on-air personalities, including Don Newberg, Don Munson, Steve Vogel, Ken Behrens, Dick Luedke, Scott Laughlin, and current morning host Scott Miller, who have all enriched the lives of listeners and made significant contributions to the communities and organizations across Central Illinois. This is a monumental moment for WJBC, and I congratulate them on their 100 years of success. I look forward to listening to WJBC for many more years to come.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to honor and congratulate Gary Manier for his 24 years of service as the Mayor of Washington, Illinois. Mayor Manier is a proud Washington native and graduated from Washington Community High School in 1972. Gary attended Illinois Central College and, upon graduation, started what would eventually become a 42-year career at Caterpillar, Inc. until his retirement in 2015. Before becoming Mayor of Washington, his career of public service began on the Washington Community High School Board, where he served as both Vice President and President. In April of 2001, Manier was first elected as Mayor of Washington in a competitive election with four other candidates. Throughout his decades long tenure as Mayor, Gary accomplished many projects on behalf of the city of Washington. These include, but are not limited to, the opening of the Five Points Community Center, a new Washington City Hall and police station, implementation of incentives to attract business investments in Washington, improvement of local streets and major roads, and an upgrade of the city's sewer system to accommodate the growth of the community. One of the most pivotal times of Mayor Manier's tenure came after the historic and devastating EF-4 tornado on November 17, 2013. Tragically, the city of Washington suffered loss of life, approximately $1 billion in property damage to more than 1,100 homes, and the priceless loss of cherished personal belongings. I know many in Washington hold Mayor Manier in high esteem for his strong, critical leadership during that extremely challenging time for the community. Mayor Manier has earned numerous accolades including the President's Servant Leader Award from Eureka College, being named Washingtonian of the Year in 2014, and being elected twice as the Second Vice President of the Illinois Municipal League. Undoubtably, Mayor Manier's leadership will leave a lasting impact on the city of Washington and Central Illinois. It is my pleasure to congratulate him on his retirement and wish him, his wife Lada, daughter Brooke, son Chase, and their seven grandchildren the best in the future.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of my bill, the Electronic Filing and Payment Fairness Act. This commonsense bill, which has been included in the ``National Taxpayer Advocate 2025 Purple Book'' of legislative recommendations, would amend the tax code to apply the ``mailbox rule'' to electronic submissions of payments and documents to the Internal Revenue Service. As the chairman articulated, under current law, if a taxpayer physically mails a payment or tax return to the IRS that is postmarked on the due date, that payment or tax return is considered timely even if it is received a week later. If a taxpayer submits the same payment or return to the IRS electronically on the due date, however, it is considered late if the IRS receives or processes it the following day. This disparity punishes taxpayers electing to correspond with the IRS electronically, which should be the preferred method of communication in this day and age. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman Smith for his leadership and for making tax administration and improved efficiencies a priority within the Ways and Means Committee. Mr. Speaker, I also thank my bipartisan co-leads on this bill, Representatives DelBene, Feenstra, Schneider, Fitzpatrick, and Panetta. This is a great step in our effort to modernize the IRS and make it more user-friendly, especially for the roughly 90 percent of taxpayers already filing electronically. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman Smith for his leadership on this very important topic. I rise in strong support of H.R. 1156, the Pandemic Unemployment Fraud Enforcement Act. This bill extends the statute of limitations for CARES Act unemployment fraud from 5 to 10 years to provide law enforcement agencies with more time to go after the fraudsters and international criminal organizations. Nearly 5 years after the CARES Act was signed into law, we are facing the expiration of the statute of limitations for holding criminals accountable. Congress must act quickly. We cannot retroactively change criminal liability for Federal crimes. As chairman of the Work and Welfare Subcommittee, we have done considerable oversight to investigate the size and scope of unemployment fraud throughout the pandemic. GAO estimates between $100 billion and $135 billion, with a b, was lost to fraud, yet only $5 billion has been recovered. This February, our subcommittee held a hearing with fraud experts from across the country. One of our witnesses said that as much as 70 percent of the fraudulent unemployment benefits went to Russian mobsters, Chinese hackers, and Nigerian scammers. A recent DOJ case involved a Pennsylvania man obtaining $59 million in public benefits and laundering the proceeds to China. As a member of the House Select Committee on China, cases like this are deeply concerning to me and confirm our worst fears regarding the attacks on our institutions by hostile nations such as China and the CCP. Witnesses also told us that fraud is continuing to happen. Fraudsters are now targeting the disaster unemployment benefits using stolen identities of California fire victims. The Pandemic Unemployment Fraud Enforcement Act is a commonsense bill that doubles the statute of limitations so we can recover hundreds of billions of stolen taxpayer dollars. Prosecuting bad actors has a ripple effect that will deter crime and prevent additional losses to the Federal Government and American taxpayers. The DOJ has more than 1,600 open, uncharged COVID-19 criminal matters, and the Department of Labor inspector general has yet to investigate 157,000 UI fraud hotline complaints. This bill is simple. Once the statute of limitations expires, these cases will go cold and criminals will go unpunished. Let me be clear. A vote against this bill is a vote to surrender to fraudsters and criminals. Don't let the criminals and fraudsters win. I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to honor the life and legacy of Craig Roberts of Alton, Illinois, who passed away on February 15, 2025, at the age of 62. Born and raised in Illinois, Craig graduated from Western Illinois University with a bachelor's degree in communications, marketing, and political science in 1984. Craig's passion for politics and government along with his personal attachment to Illinois led him to begin his career in state government. During this time, Craig worked as the Republican Staff Director on Issues Development for the Illinois House of Representatives, Assistant to the Illinois Lieutenant Governor, and the Executive Assistant for Programs and Policy Development for the Illinois Secretary of State. For over a decade, Craig served the state of Illinois and left a lasting impact on many through his commitment to our state government. In 1997, Craig made the transition to the United States House of Representatives. Here he worked as long-tune Chief of Staff for Representative John Shimkus for 24 years while also serving as President of the House Chiefs of Staff Association from 2015 to 2020. Craig ended his career in the House as a Special Advisor to the House Administration Committee and afterward held the role of Senior Vice President at Milne, Wiener & Shofe Global Strategies. Craig was a long-time mentor to up and coming Hill staff, supported numerous Members of the Illinois delegation as they transitioned to Congress, and was a true example of what dedicating your life to public service really means. Craig was undoubtably a dedicated and impactful figure in both the state of Illinois and here in Washington and while his legacy will live on, he will be truly missed as a friend to so many. I want to offer my condolences to the Roberts family and their loved ones on the loss of a great man who will be fondly remembered by all those who knew him.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, I had to miss votes today to travel back to Illinois. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 61 and YEA on Roll Call No. 62.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor Dr. Keith D. Thibo, who celebtates forty years pastoring at Bay View Baptist Church in Washington, Illinois and fifty years in full-time ministry on Match 2, 2025. Born and raised in Michigan, Pastor Thibo first attended Bob Jones University before transferring to Maranatha Baptist Bible College in Watertown, Wisconsin. In May of 2010, he received his Doctorate of Divinity from Hyles-Anderson College. Pastor Thibo met and married his wife, Christine, on December 20, 1978. He was called to Bay View Baptist Church in March of 1985 and, with the support of his wife and daughters, he founded King's Kids Clubs, a children's Bible memorization program. King's Kids Clubs has impacted over 2,000 churches in over 100 countries around the world and thousands of young people. Pastor Thibo has also authored four books on Bible Doctrine and Apologetics. His ministry has not only shaped the lives of his congregants but has made a lasting impact on faith worldwide. Pastor Thibo's remarkable life of service, faith, and leadership will continue to inspire all who have been touched by his ministry. Please join me in thanking Pastor Thibo for his many years of service.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Mr. Bennet ``Ben'' Chiotti, of Roanoke, Illinois, who passed away on February 9 at the age of 93. Ben was born in Saluzzo, Italy, in 1931, where he grew up under the oppression of the Italian Fascist regime. One of four brothers, Ben immigrated to the United States as a teenager with little money and speaking very little English, hoping to pursue the American Dream. After immigrating, Ben went on to serve in the United States Army during the Korean war before settling in Roanoke, Illinois, outside of Peoria, where he lived for 70 years. Ben was an active community member and local businessowner. He started Roanoke Plumbing, Heating and Cooling in 1968, a business still run today by his family. Ben was married to his late wife, Evelyn, of Metamora, Illinois, for nearly 50 years. Ben is survived by his older brother, Louis, who is currently 100 years old, four children, and many grandchildren. I offer my sincere condolences to the Chiotti family and their loved ones on the loss of a great husband, father, grandfather, and veteran of our Nation. Ben's commitment to his community will leave a lasting legacy and impact on central Illinois for years to come.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for his leadership on this bill. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the United States- Taiwan Expedited Double-Tax Relief Act. In today's global economy, it is customary for the United States to enter into tax treaties with like-minded allies to lessen potential double-tax burdens and encourage cross-border investment. The United States currently has tax agreements with over 60 foreign tax jurisdictions. Yet, due to its unique political status, even as our seventh largest trading partner, we do not have a formal tax arrangement in place with Taiwan. This bipartisan legislation before us today would finally change that. This bill makes necessary changes to our tax code to provide much-needed certainty to businesses and workers between our two countries. As a member of both the Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee and our Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party, I know how important our relationship with Taiwan is, both in terms of trade and national security. This bill will open the door for us to continue to develop a strong economic partnership, especially in the technology and semiconductor sectors, and help the United States reduce our reliance on China. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman, Speaker Johnson, and all the members of the Ways and Means Committee for bringing this legislation to the floor today.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to recognize David Zimmerman for his decades of service to the Central Illinois community. Zimmerman served on the Tazewell County Board for 27 years and was the Chairman of the Board for the last 16 years. Zimmerman graduated from Illinois State University with a degree in Political Science and began his service to the Tazewell County Board in 1997. Before becoming Chairman, Zimmerman held many responsibilities as a Board Member including Finance, HR, Insurance Review, and Land Use Chair. During his tenure on the Board, Zimmerman positively influenced the lives of his constituents by improving the well-being of Tazewell County. Outside of his work on the Tazewell County Board, Zimmerman has served the people of Central Illinois through different public service roles. Examples Include the Greater Peoria Economic Development Commission Executive Board, United Counties Council of Illinois Vice- President, Tazewell County and Peoria Salvation Army Board Member, and Berean Prison Ministry Board Member, among others. A strong leader within the Central Illinois community, Zimmerman was also recognized in the Peoria Magazine through their ``40 Leaders Under 40'' award. David Zimmerman's decades long efforts have left a lasting impact on the Greater Peoria community and the state of Illinois. His commitment to our community is truly inspiring and I wish him the best in all future endeavors.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate my fellow Peorian, Omer Osman, on his retirement as secretary of the Illinois Department of Transportation. Omer comes from very humble beginnings. Born in the country of Sudan the fourth of 11 children, he learned English by watching American Westerns and soap operas on television. He moved to the United States as a young man for college and graduated from Southern University, where he studied civil engineering before beginning a career in Peoria, Illinois. Osman began at IDOT, the Illinois Department of Transportation, as a civil engineer in 1989 and worked his way up the ranks, becoming, in 2019, Illinois' 13th transportation secretary. In 2021, he was the first person of color to be confirmed in the role. Along the way, he became a proud graduate of Bradley University, located in my district, with a master's degree in civil engineering in 1995. In his role as transportation secretary, Omer oversaw over 80 airports, an expansive waterway infrastructure system, and 300,000 miles of roads, bridges, and railroads that transport 25 percent of the country's freight, which passes through Illinois. The bottom line is that Secretary Osman has lived the American Dream and has been an integral part of preserving and growing the infrastructure we have today in Illinois. His legacy will last for years to come. It is my privilege to congratulate my good friend on his retirement and wish him and his lovely wife, Magda, and their three children all the best.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor and congratulate Omer Osman on his retirement from the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) after 35 years of service to the people of Illinois. Secretary Omer Osman was born in Kerma, Sudan, the son of Zumrawi and Fatima Osman. He was the fourth of eleven children, all receiving a college education. Osman received his bachelor's degree in engineering from Southern University followed by his master's degree in engineering from Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois. Beginning as a civil engineering trainee in Peoria, Osman quickly ascended to the position of District Bureau Chief of Operations, followed by Region 5 Engineer, Chief Engineer, Director of Highways, and Deputy Secretary. On June 1, 2019, he was confirmed as the Secretary of the Illinois Department of Transportation, the thirteenth person to hold that title and the first person of color. In his capacity as Secretary of Transportation, Osman had the responsibility for oversight of 80 airports, an expansive waterway infrastructure, 300,000 miles of roads and bridges, and a railroad system that transports 25 percent of the country's freight passing through Illinois. Secretary Osman is credited by the Administration with increasing diversiety at all levels of the Department of Transportation, as well as improving access to department partnerships for minority and female owned businesses. Secretary Osman's accomplishments during his tenure leading the Illinois Department of Transportation include, but are not limited to, the new Mississippi River Bridge and Route 24 widening, relocation of Illinois Route 3 in East St. Louis, the Interstate 74 Mississippi River Bridge in the Quad Cities, the interstate 74/155 interchange reconstruction in Morton, the Interstate 74 Murray Baker Bridge, the Illinois Route 13 expansion between Carbondale and Interstate 57 in Marion, and the rehabilitation of the US 150 Illinois River Bridge in Peoria. Secretary Omer Osman will forever be known as one of Peoria's greatest public servants. It is my privilege to congratulate him on his retirement and we wish him, his wife Dr. Magda Osman, sons Khalid and Waleed, and daughter Nadeen the best in the future.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, I had to miss votes on December 6, 2024, to travel back to Illinois. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 492.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to recognize David Zimmerman for his decades of service to the Central Illinois community. Zimmerman served on the Tazewell County Board for 27 years and was the chairman of the board for the last 16 years. Zimmerman graduated from Illinois State University with a degree in Political Science and began his service to the Tazewell County Board in 1997. Before becoming chairman, Zimmerman held many responsibilities as a board member including Finance, HR, Insurance Review, and Land Use Chair. During his tenure on the Board, Zimmerman positively influenced the lives of his constituents by improving the well-being of Tazewell County. Outside of his work on the Tazewell County Board, Zimmerman has served the people of Central Illinois through different public service roles. Examples include the Greater Peoria Economic Development Commission Executive Board, United Counties Council of Illinois Vice- President, Tazewell County and Peoria Salvation Army Board Member, and Berean Prison Ministry Board Member, among others. A strong leader within the Central Illinois community, Zimmerman was also recognized in the Peoria Magazine through their ``40 Leaders Under 40'' award. David Zimmerman's decades long efforts have left a lasting impact on the Greater Peoria community and the state of Illinois. His commitment to our community is truly inspiring and I wish him the best in all future endeavors.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, I had to miss votes today due to travel from Illinois to Washington. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 466 and YEA on Roll Call No. 467. personal explanation

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize Jason Anderson for his 20 years of impactful service as Economic Development Director for the City of Rochelle. In this role, Anderson worked with Illinois businesses and others in the Rochelle community to attract increased economic investment and improve public infrastructure in Rochelle. Anderson graduated from Texas A&M University with a degree in Business Administration. Before becoming the Economic Development Director, Anderson served in many roles, including Northern Illinois Regional Director for former U.S. Senator Peter Fitzgerald. Through Anderson's tenure, the City of Rochelle saw robust improvement in their economy and infrastructure. Since 2005, there has been $1.3 billion in capital investments made by businesses and 2,200 jobs created in Rochelle. Highlights of this economic growth include investment projects from companies like Wheatland Tube and the CHS Ethanol plant as well as the construction of the Rochelle Business Technology Park. Additionally, the City of Rochelle has received over $125 million in funding for infrastructure over the past two decades. Anderson's work as Economic Development Director focused specifically on infrastructure modernization of the railroad and airport. In Anderson's 10 years overseeing Rochelle's airport it received almost $11 million in funding and the Rochelle railroad's yearly revenue quadrupled under Anderson's vision. Jason Anderson's tireless work has left a lifelong impact on the Rochelle community and the state of Illinois. His commitment to our community is truly inspiring and I congratulate Jason on 20 years of service to Rochelle and wish him the best in all future endeavors.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to recognize Sister Judith Ann Duvall for her 18 years of honorable service as the major superior of the Sisters of the Third Order of St. Francis and as Chairperson of the OSF Healthcare system in Illinois. Sister Judith Ann was born just outside of St. Louis, Missouri as the middle child in a modest Catholic family. She entered the convent in September of 1964 and then went on to receive her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Northern Illinois University, a master's degree in Catholic doctrine from St. John's University in New York City; and a Bachelor of Science in Business Management and Administration from Bradley University. Since entering the convent, Sister Judith Ann has devoted her life to her vocation and the advancement of the mission of OSF. During her time with OSF, Sister Judith Ann worked tirelessly in support of improving the healthcare system in Illinois. Under Sister Judith Ann's leadership, OSF experienced dramatic growth. The OSF Healthcare system grew from 6 hospitals to 16 hospitals across the state and has expanded its employment level from 13,000 to 25,000 employees. In 2013, she helped Peoria welcome the OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home which provides individuals facing chronic illness with compassionate and merciful caregivers during their journey to eternal life. Additionally, Sister Judith Ann worked to build a strong relationship between the Children's Hospital of Illinois and Easter Seals. This partnership and collaboration, stemming from Sister Judith Ann's work, has inspired innovation for children's healthcare across Central Illinois. In recognition of her dedication to Catholic healthcare and leadership, Pope Benedict XVI granted Sister Judith Ann the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice Cross in October of 2012. Additionally, Sister Judith Ann's incredible service and leadership to the Peoria area, through OSF Healthcare, earned her the Pere Marquette Award and the Edythe A. Cohen Business and Industry Award. Sister Judith Ann's tireless work has greatly impacted the Peoria community and the state of Illinois. Her commitment to her vocation and service to others is truly inspiring. Congratulations to Sister Judith Ann on 18 years of service to the Third Order of St. Francis and to OSF Healthcare. We are grateful for her dedication to our community.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life and legacy of Tyrone ``Ty'' Fahner of Northfield, Illinois, who passed away on September 16, 2024, at the age of 81. Born in Detroit, Michigan, Ty Fahner received a bachelor's degree from the University of Michigan, a law degree from Wayne State University, and a master's degree in criminal justice from the Northwestern School of Law. Ty's sharp legal mind and passion for public service led him to great accomplishments in both the public and private sectors. Upon graduation, Ty began work in the private law practice for a short period of time before becoming an Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois. In 1976, Ty Joined Illinois Governor Jim Thompson's administration as Director of Law Enforcement, focusing on Chicago government corruption and the reorganization of state law enforcement agencies. In 1980, Governor Thompson appointed Ty as the Illinois Attorney General. From 1980 until 1983, Ty proudly served the Illinois community, primarily investigating a sting of Tylenol poisonings across the state. Ty later returned to private practice, serving as Co-Chairman of the prestigious Mayer Brown law firm from 1998 until 2001, and Chairman from 2001 until 2007. Ty also held positions as the Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the John G. Shedd Aquarium, Director at the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital, Chairman of the Illinois Republican Party finance committee, and President of the Civic Committee of the Commercial Club of Chicago. Ty was undoubtedly an impactful, dedicated figure within our Illinois community. I want to offer my condolences to the Fahner family and then loved ones on the loss of a great man. Ty's leadership, commitment, and dedication have made a lasting impact on the Illinois community that will last for generations.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to recognize the City of Pekin, Illinois, which I'm proud to represent in Congress, as it celebrates its 200th anniversary. Pekin's history began with Pioneer Jonathan Tharp building a small log cabin in 1824 on the high east bank of the Illinois River in what would become Pekin, Illinois. The families of Gideon Hawley, William Haines, Nathan Cromwell, Dr. John Warner, William Brown, Thomas Snell, Isaac Perkins, William Carpenter--among others--joined the Tharps in settling and establishing the new community. Pekin, fondly referred to by its early inhabitants as the ``Celestial City'', embraces the inspiration its founders received by Chinese culture and geography in its namesake (Peking, current Beijing), with Pekin and modern-day Beijing existing on or about the same latitude. Since its earliest days, Pekin's proximity to railroads and the Illinois River has made it ideal for agribusiness and manufacturing--providing for its abundant growth and early establishment as the largest city and the current county seat in the County of Tazewell. Abraham Lincoln freed his first slave, Nance Legins-Costley of Pekin, in Tazewell County, and Pekin is the birthplace of such prominent national figures as U.S. Senate Minority Leader Everett McKinley Dirksen; U.S. Assistant Secretary of Defense and Advisor to Robert McNamara, John T. McNaughton; Journalist Richard Stolley of LIFE Magazine, and Astronaut Scott Altman. Today, Pekin remains a closely-knit and primarily service-oriented community, with dozens of churches, civic and service organizations, and nonprofit agencies striving to make a difference in the Pekin community and beyond. The founding pioneer settlers of Pekin believed strongly that it was imperative to provide their youth with a strong education, and the Pekin Public Schools have diligently nurtured the children of the Pekin community since its first school opened in 1830. Pekin is perhaps best known today for its annual Marigold Festival that draws visitors from all over the state and the nation, gathering primarily in its iconic Mineral Springs Park. Community members have successfully led an 18-month endeavor to raise over $1.2M in private funds and to build a performing arts venue in Mineral Springs as a major Bicentennial gift to the City, its residents, and many future generations. Pekin continues to make exceptional efforts to preserve and understand its past while embracing its future, led by organizations such as the Pekin Public Library and the Tazewell County Genealogical and Historical Society: Its year-long 2024 Bicentennial celebration has been among the highest of such achievements. Today, we celebrate the City of Pekin and its residents for their passion and dedication to their community. I extend my sincere congratulations to the City of Pekin, Illinois for a successful 200 years, and I wish them even more success in the years to come.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize New Trier High School girls' soccer team for winning the 2024 Class 3A state title. The New Trier Trevians defeated the St. Charles North Stars in a thrilling state championship that ended in a 4-3 penalty kick victory. Just six minutes into the match, the Trevians took a 1-0 lead. Shortly before the halftime whistle, the North Stars answered with a goal of their own making the score 1-1. In the second half, both teams scored once again, sending the match into a dramatic extra-time period. Incredibly, the extra-time period saw both teams score their third goals one after the other which therefore required a penalty shootout to determine the state champion. The Trevians' freshman goalie came up with a consequential penalty save to secure New Trier the 2024 Class 3A girls soccer state championship. With this state championship, the New Trier girls' soccer program has achieved their seventh state championship title. All these championships have been won under the leadership of Coach Jim Burnside--who with 611 victories, is the winningest coach in IHSA girls soccer history. The New Trier girls' soccer team has made all northern Illinois proud with their accomplishments this season, finishing with a 25-2-4 record. Each member's commitment to their team and their community is truly inspiring. Congratulations to Coach Burnside and the New Trier Trevians for their remarkable state championship win. The Trevian players include: #0 Annie Fowler--Fr-GK; #1 Caroline Hague--Jr.-GK; #2 Kennedy Colegrove--Jr.-D; #3 Sybil Evans--Sr.-MF/F; #4 Abby Morton--So.-D; #6 Quinn Brahm--So.-F; #7 Maeve Driscoll--So.- MF; #8 Addy Randall--Fr.-MF; #9 Maria Petrakis--Sr.-MF; #10 Annie Paden--Sr.-MF; #11 Noa Boeing--Fr.-MF: #12 Clara Deliduka--Sr.-D/MF: #15 Charlotte Dellin--Sr.-F/MF: #16 Basie Shannon--Sr.-D/MF; #17 Christina Tobon--Jr.-D; #18 Josie Noble--Sr.-F/MF; #19 Eleni Kanellos-- So.-MF/D; #20 Jaime Elias--Sr.-F/MF; #21 Bea Cirulis--Fr.-D; #22 Honor Dold--Jr.-D; #23 Claire Gallagher--Fr.-D; #24 Olivia Wilson--Jr.-D.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, I had to miss votes today due to travel from Illinois to Washington. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 440, YEA on Roll Call No. 441 and YEA on Roll Call No. 442.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize the Hanover volunteer Fire Department of Hanover, Illinois for celebrating their 135th anniversary. In the 1800's, Hanover's file protection was virtually non-existent. The Hanover community rallied together to organize a fire company and purchased a Button hand fire engine in the summer of 1889. Later in 1890, a 414-pound fire alarm bell was gifted to the fire company by the ladies of Hanover and a tower was built on the North side of the town hall to house it. On January 29, 1924, a new volunteer fire company was organized by twenty-two men. In the summer of 1942, the War Public Works Fire Station was built and was used by the Hanover Fire Department until another building, located at 201 Fillmore Street, was completed in 1970. The Hanover Fire Department remains at that Fillmore Street location to this day. The illustrious history of the Hanover Fire Department is a testament to the strong spirit of community present in Illinois and demonstrates the importance of first responders and their service. As a Member of Congress, I will continue to support Illinois communities like Hanover and their emergency first responders who honorably serve their communities. For 135 years, the Hanover Fire Department has served the residents of Hanover and Hanover Township and is possibly the oldest and largest volunteer fire department in Illinois. Today, we celebrate the Department and commend its multitude of volunteer fire fighters for their dedication to Hanover. I extend my sincere congratulations to the Hanover Volunteer Fire Department of Illinois for a successful 135 years, and I wish them even more success going forward.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Missouri (Mr. Smith) for his leadership and guidance in bringing this bill through the Committee on Ways and Means and to the floor here today. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of this bill, Supporting America's Children and Families Act. As chairman of the House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Work and Welfare, I am proud that this important legislation demonstrates our bipartisan commitment to supporting vulnerable children and parents. H.R. 9076 includes two pieces of legislation. Title I contains the Protecting America's Children by Strengthening Families Act, which I am proud to have introduced alongside the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Davis), my fellow Illinoisan, ranking member, and friend, to reauthorize and improve the title IV-B program. The bill authorizes and reforms this critical child welfare program to support the safety and well-being of children in foster care. The second bill, introduced by the gentleman from Oklahoma (Mr. Hern), my friend, will ensure States and Tribes have the tools necessary to continue to collect child support on behalf of millions of families across the country. This combined legislation is the result of a yearlong investigation and five committee hearings to learn from stakeholders, parents, States, and Tribes. Based on that work, we have been able to include bipartisan reforms that will improve child welfare and strengthen child support enforcement across the country, all with the net result of a reduction in direct Federal spending of $136 million over 10 years. I repeat: a reduction in direct Federal spending of $136 million over 10 years. I take seriously the Subcommittee on Work and Welfare's responsibility to ensure we have a strong safety net for the nearly 400,000 children in foster care who have experienced the trauma and hardships of abuse and neglect. This 5-year reauthorization modernizes the program and expands what we know is working. In government, we often add to programs over time in our quest for improvement. Regrettably, though, this approach often results in fragmented and complex systems that burden administrators and hinder families from receiving the support they desperately need. This legislation before us tackles that issue and represents the most significant reform and investment in child welfare since 1993. Bills which were the foundation of what we are voting on here today were introduced by 19 Members from both sides of the aisle. This bill will specifically save taxpayer dollars through early intervention to keep families together, whenever possible, and reduce the need for foster care. It removes ineffective requirements and ensures States are accountable for matching Federal funds. It frees up more time for States and caseworkers to focus on families by requiring HHS to reduce administrative burdens by 15 percent. It expands access for Tribal communities by streamlining funding. It builds support systems for the 2.5 million grandparents and relatives serving as kinship caregivers, and strengthens post-adoption services to ensure children waiting for adoption find stable, loving homes. This child welfare reauthorization has been endorsed by more than 200 organizations, including our county, State, and Tribal partners, as well as organizations representing former foster youth with lived experience. Title II of the legislation before us includes the Strengthening State and Tribal Child Support Enforcement Act, which I am proud to have cosponsored with the gentleman from Oklahoma (Mr. Hern), the gentleman from Arizona (Mr. Schweikert), the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Smucker), the gentlewoman from Washington (Ms. DelBene), and the gentlewoman from Wisconsin (Ms. Moore). A key tool used to collect past-due child support is the Treasury Offset Program. This program allows States to collect past-due obligations by intercepting Federal tax refunds from noncustodial parents. Last year, 5 percent, or $1.5 billion, was collected for families through this program. Unfortunately, a statutory conflict threatens to cut off access to this important child support enforcement tool for 42 States. Absent a legislative change by October 1 of 2024, States and the Federal Government face hundreds of millions in new costs, and millions of families could lose vital child support payments. The legislation before us today will formally authorize State use of contractors while maintaining protections on the privacy of Federal taxpayer information. Further, this bill authorizes Tribal access, providing much-needed parity for Tribal enforcement agencies. I thank the gentleman from Oklahoma (Mr. Hern) for his leadership on this bill. This legislation has garnered endorsements from State and Tribal organizations across the country, including 26 sitting Governors. The well-being and safety of America's children and struggling families is an area of common interest for both Republicans and Democrats. This legislation demonstrates what we can achieve when we work together. I thank the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. Davis) for his continued partnership and leadership on these issues. Mr. Speaker, in closing, I acknowledge all of the members of the Subcommittee on Work and Welfare and the full Committee on Ways and Means for their valuable contribution and input on this important legislation.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman Smith for his leadership on this bill. I rise today in strong support of our bill, H.R. 5861, the BRIDGE for Workers Act. This bipartisan bill demonstrates our joint commitment in Congress to supporting American workers. Unemployment insurance is meant to help people without a job get through a rough patch and find new opportunity to support themselves and their families. Reemployment Services and Eligibility Assessment grants allow States to provide services to recipients of unemployment benefits who are identified as those who could return to work more quickly. These grants are used for job skills training, resume preparation, English as a second language classes, and career exploration to connect unemployed workers to in-demand jobs. Reemployment services have been demonstrated to improve employment outcomes and reduce the number of weeks that participants receive unemployment benefits. In addition, the program strengthens program integrity by ensuring claimants are complying with eligibility rules. The bill before us today would make a technical correction to clarify that reemployment services provided through these Federal grants can be provided to all unemployment insurance claimants, not just those most likely to exhaust their benefits, as has been interpreted by the Department of Labor. I thank my bill's co-lead and fellow Illinoisan and friend, Danny Davis, the ranking member of the Work and Welfare Subcommittee, for his work on this bill, which passed out of the Committee on Ways and Means with unanimous bipartisan support. This legislation provides the permanent flexibility States need to make reemployment services a successful tool for those who have lost their job through no fault of their own. This really is a bridge to help workers. I urge my colleagues to support it.

Mr. LaHOOD

Mr. LaHOOD. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman from California (Mrs. Kim) for yielding me the time. I echo the comments of both of my colleagues who spoke today. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of our bill, H.R. 7438, the FIFA World Cup 2026 Commemorative Coin Act. FIFA stands for Federation of International Football Association. As the co-chair of the Congressional Soccer Caucus, I am proud to lead the coin bill effort with my co-chairs of the Soccer Caucus, the gentleman from Washington (Mr. Larsen), the gentleman from Nebraska (Mr. Bacon), and the gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. Castor). I am also very honored that the U.S. Soccer Federation, which operates the men's and women's team, is based in my home State of Illinois. Also, in my district, I have seven colleges and universities that have men's and women's soccer. The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be the largest sporting event in the history of the world. It will be hosted jointly by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, the first time that three countries have hosted the World Cup. We expect nearly 6 million fans to attend the matches in the United States alone. Half will be traveling to the United States from other countries. As has been noted, this is the first World Cup in 100 years where we expand it to 48 teams from the current 32 teams. Hosting the tournament, which includes 104 matches in 16 cities, 11 of those cities in the United States, will bring generational opportunities to elevate soccer and build greater economic benefits in the States, cities, and local communities throughout the country. Soccer is a global sport, one that continues to rapidly grow in the United States, and provides healthy outlets and opportunities for youth of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. The FIFA World Cup 2026 Commemorative Coin Act will help support legacy programs for youth in underserved and rural communities across the Nation, ensuring kids engage in physical activity and sport. The proceeds of the coin will support the growth of soccer throughout the United States with a focus on youth in rural areas, inner cities, and underserved communities. It is an exciting time for soccer in the United States. The Soccer Caucus was proud to pass a resolution in 2017 supporting the United States' bid to host the 2026 World Cup, and I am proud to bring this bill to support the legacy of the World Cup to the floor here today. Madam Speaker, I thank all of my colleagues who signed onto this bill, 290 Republicans and Democrats, who are supportive of our 2026 World Cup in the United States, along with Mexico and Canada. The Soccer Caucus will continue to work with our partners across the Federal Government and in the soccer community to ensure a safe, smooth, and exciting World Cup here in the United States in 2026. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bill.