Nicolas LaLota

Mr. LaLOTA

Mr. LaLOTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Jason Lynn Potter for 25 years of outstanding service to our Nation, both in uniform and as a civilian defense leader, and to congratulate him on retirement. As a distinguished Navy veteran, Jason served aboard USS Cape St. George and USS Rushmore, and on a Joint Special Operations task force in the Philippines. Following his military service, he served 10 years as a Senate professional staff member on the Committee on Armed Services and the Committee on Appropriations, providing oversight of naval shipbuilding and procurement. Most recently, Jason served as Deputy Assistant Secretary for ship programs and Acting Assistant Secretary of the Navy for research, development, and acquisition, where he drove our fleet's modernization. Mr. Speaker, I ask the House join me in congratulating Mr. Potter as he retires from Federal service. His profound patriotism, excellent leadership, and tireless work ethic leave an enduring legacy that has strengthened our national defense.

Mr. LaLOTA

Mr. LaLOTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Mr. Jason Lynn Potter for his 25 years of outstanding Navy Active Duty and Federal service, including this past year serving as both the Principal Civilian Deputy and Performing the Duties of the Assistant Secretary of the Navy (Research, Development, and Acquisition). Prior to this appointment, he served as the Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Ship Programs, where he was responsible for the executive oversight of all naval shipbuilding programs, major ship conversions, and the modernization and disposal of in-service ships. Mr. Potter began his distinguished career with the Department of the Navy as a naval officer. His assignments included serving as Navigator aboard USS Cape St. George (CG 71), Communications and Repair Officer aboard USS Rushmore (LSD 47), naval liaison to the Joint Special Operations Task Force--Philippines, and analyst on the 2010 Navy Quadrennial Defense Review Integration Group. Following his military service, Mr. Potter distinguished himself as a congressional professional staff member in the United States Senate for 10 years, serving on both the Appropriations and Armed Services Committees. In these roles, his responsibilities included oversight of Navy shipbuilding; Navy and Air Force procurement accounts; various research, development, test, and evaluation accounts; Defense Production Act purchases; National Defense Stockpile transactions; and defense acquisition law. Mr. Speaker, I ask the House of Representatives to join me in expressing our deepest gratitude to Mr. Jason Lynn Potter for his exemplary dedication to our Nation as he retires from Federal service. Throughout his twenty-five years of public service, both in uniform and as a civilian leader, Mr. Potter has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the defense of our Nation and the safety of our service members. His profound patriotism, stellar leadership, and tireless work ethic leave an enduring legacy that has strengthened our National Defense.

Mr. LaLOTA

Mr. LaLOTA. Mr. Speaker, during consideration of the National Defense Authorization Act, I inadvertently voted ``aye'' on Grothman Amendment No. 316 when my intention was to vote ``no.'' I regret this error. Had I been able to vote as intended, I would have voted ``no'' on Grothman Amendment No. 316.

Mr. LaLOTA

Mr. LaLOTA. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. LaLOTA. Mr. Speaker, as my colleagues and I have described during this Special Order, Long Island's success has never happened by accident. Rather, it has always been driven by gritty, proud, hardworking people willing to invest in their communities and build a stronger future. For the last 100 years, the Long Island Association has helped lead that effort, and I have no doubt it will continue to do so for generations to come. I once again congratulate the Long Island Association on its centennial anniversary, thank its leadership and members for their enduring service to our region and wish them continued success ahead. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. Messmer). Recognizing Ken Eppler, Outstanding Hoosier

Mr. LaLOTA. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from New York (Mr. Suozzi).

Mr. LaLOTA. Mr. Speaker, tonight, I am honored to host a Special Order in recognition of the 100th anniversary of the Long Island Association. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an institution that has helped shape Long Island's economy, strengthened its communities, and championed its future for the past century. For 100 years, the Long Island Association has served as the leading voice of Long Island's business community, bringing together employers, entrepreneurs, nonprofit organizations, educators, labor leaders, and public officials around a shared mission: ensuring Long Island remains one of the best places in America to live, work, raise a family, and build a business. Founded in 1926 as the Long Island Chamber of Commerce, the organization emerged during a period of tremendous growth with an ambitious mission: to promote Long Island's unique strengths and expand economic opportunity throughout the region. That mission has endured, even as Long Island has evolved from a collection of agricultural communities and seasonal destinations into one of the Nation's most dynamic regional economies. Today, Long Island is home to world-class manufacturers, innovative life science companies, internationally recognized research institutions, thriving small businesses, and vibrant downtowns. Throughout that transformation, the Long Island Association has been a steadfast advocate for policies that encourage investment, innovation, and job creation. Whether advancing critical infrastructure projects, strengthening workforce development, or helping businesses navigate extraordinary challenges--from the aftermath of September 11 to Superstorm Sandy to the COVID-19 pandemic--the LIA has consistently demonstrated thoughtful leadership and an unwavering commitment to our region. Its work continues today as Long Island confronts many of the challenges that will define our next century, including affordability, housing, infrastructure, energy reliability, and maintaining a business climate that allows employers of every size to succeed. New York's exceptionally high tax burden only makes those challenges more difficult. Meeting those challenges is essential, not only for today's economy but for ensuring that future generations can continue to build successful careers and rewarding lives on Long Island. Mr. Speaker, I will also recognize the outstanding leadership of the Long Island Association, who are joining us in the gallery this evening: Chairman Lawrence J. Waldman; Acting President and Chief Executive Officer Stacey Sikes; and members of the board of directors, including Billy Haugland, Katherine Heaviside, and Luis Vazquez. Their leadership and the dedication of countless other board members, staff, volunteers, and business leaders over the past century have positioned the Long Island Association for continued success in the years ahead. As someone privileged to represent New York's First Congressional District, I know that Long Island's greatest asset has always been its people--the entrepreneurs, workers, educators, researchers, veterans, community leaders, and innovators whose talent and determination make our region exceptional. For a century, the Long Island Association has brought those voices together in pursuit of a stronger regional economy and a brighter future. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Long Island Association on this extraordinary centennial anniversary. On behalf of the United States House of Representatives and the people of New York's First Congressional District, I thank the association, its leadership, its members, and everyone who has contributed to this remarkable legacy. May its second century be as successful as its first. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from New York (Ms. Gillen).

Mr. LaLOTA. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on the topic of this Special Order.

Mr. LaLOTA

Mr. LaLOTA. Mr. Chairman, Long Islanders face some of the highest tax burdens anywhere in the Nation. At the same time, America, with our $38 trillion in debt, needs to start to freeze and cut spending wherever possible. When we deal with these financial issues, lawmakers in this body would be wise to protect important government services. Thankfully, the fiscal year 2026 Financial Services and General Government bill, which is on the floor today, cuts spending by $140 million and sends a clear message that Washington is doing its part to ease, not add to, our tax and deficit burden, all while protecting important government services. That is why I rise today in strong support of this bill. As vice chair of FSGG, and under the strong leadership of Chairman Cole and Chairman Joyce, our subcommittee worked to deliver a disciplined funding package that addresses the real pressures facing families and businesses back home. This legislation provides $26.5 billion in discretionary funding to support economic growth, protect individual liberties, and ensure the institutions upon which Americans rely work more effectively for them. This bill strengthens our financial system and economic security. It responsibly funds the Department of the Treasury, including critical investments in cybersecurity, financial crimes enforcement, and oversight of our adversaries' investments. It preserves community development funding to help small businesses and manufacturers on Long Island grow, create jobs, and strengthen supply chains without raising taxes. This legislation also protects taxpayers by modernizing, not weaponizing, the IRS. It cuts excessive enforcement funding by more than $1 billion and prohibits the IRS from targeting Americans for exercising their First Amendment rights. The bill also strengthens our defenses against foreign criminal networks. In addition to nearly $300 million for the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas program, the bill strengthens the Treasury's counterterrorism and financial intelligence efforts, cutting off funding streams used by cartels, traffickers, and foreign bad actors.

Mr. LaLOTA. Mr. Chairman, the FY26 FSGG bill reflects the values Americans sent us here to uphold. I urge support of the bill, and I thank the chairman for his leadership.

Mr. LaLOTA

Mr. LaLOTA. Mr. Speaker, I send to the desk a privileged resolution and ask for its immediate consideration in the House.

Mr. LaLOTA

Mr. LaLOTA. Mr. Speaker, one in ten American adults lives with a disability, yet there are only about 16,000 accredited service dogs nationwide. These dogs provide more than assistance--they offer independence, dignity, and healing for children, adults, and especially our veterans carrying both visible and invisible wounds. This is why I rise today to recognize September as National Service Dog Month. Organizations like Canine Companions, Paws of War, and America's VetDogs, headquartered in my home state of New York, are leading the way. They prepare and place service dogs that make life-changing impacts, while continuing to stand behind each partnership well beyond the first match. This month is an opportunity to educate the public about the vital role service dogs play and the protections in place to guarantee their access. It is also a time to honor the trainers, volunteers, and families who make this work possible. As a Navy veteran, I've seen firsthand the impact these dogs have on our service members. So I want to thank all of those organizations who are doing this important work. We see them. We thank them. We stand with them, and we support them. I encourage all Americans to join me in celebrating service dogs and the life-changing bond they share with those they serve.

Mr. LaLOTA

Mr. LaLOTA. Mr. Speaker, the fundamental question this bill addresses is: Should a Federal contract intended for women go to men and fraudsters, or should a Federal contract intended for women-owned small businesses actually go to women? Fortunately, even though we Republicans and Democrats disagree on a lot in this Chamber, we agree that the contracts meant for women should go to women. Yet, right now, under Federal law, companies can simply self- certify--check a box claiming to be a woman-owned small business--and still count toward the Federal Government's goals. That means bad actors can game the system, take contracts they don't deserve, and rob real women entrepreneurs of the opportunities meant for them. That is wrong, and that is exactly the kind of Washington loophole I am working to close. Self-certification invites fraud. In fact, the Small Business Administration's own inspector general has repeatedly warned about the risks of fraud under self-certification. This was especially apparent with the SBA's COVID-19 lending programs, where fraudulent self- certification led to billions of dollars in losses. That is why I am proud to support the WOSB Accountability Act, a bipartisan effort that ensures contracts meant for women go to women. This legislation is straightforward, Mr. Speaker. It puts an end to the days of businesses just claiming they are women-owned without having to prove it. Under this bill, only certified and verified women-owned small businesses would count toward the Federal Government's contracting goals, just like it should be. It is high time we address this issue and empower women in business by ensuring the system works for them, not against them. Mr. Speaker, I thank Ranking Member Velazquez, my fellow New Yorker, for partnering with me on this important piece of legislation. It is time we stop allowing fraudsters to steal opportunities meant for legitimate women entrepreneurs. I urge all of my colleagues to support the WOSB Accountability Act.

Mr. LaLOTA

Mr. LaLOTA. Mr. Speaker, America's small businesses shouldn't have to hire a lawyer to apply for and win a simple government contract. Yet that is exactly what Washington's bureaucratic process demands today. That is why I am honored to champion the Plain Language in Contracting Act, which will reduce the burden on small businesses when trying to secure government contracts. My legislation ensures Federal agencies use clear, straightforward language in solicitations, thereby removing barriers, increasing transparency, and giving small businesses a fair shot. Time and again, small business owners tell us the government contracting process is so complex, they ultimately walk away. Bidding on a contract is hard enough, but when the language is challenging and understanding it requires an advanced degree, it is easy to see why. A study conducted by the Naval Postgraduate School, which analyzed 1 million DOD contracts, found less than 3 percent were in plain English. Most were rated difficult or very difficult to read. There is no other way to describe it. It is unacceptable. Furthermore, of the 33 million small businesses operating in America, 74,000, only 0.22 percent, successfully secure Federal contracts. Mr. Speaker, 0.22 percent is just 1 in every 446 contracts. That is all. When small businesses are shut out from opportunities because they are overwhelmed by the language, we don't just lose a bidder. We lose innovation. We lose local job creation. Oftentimes, we lose a better price. The government should facilitate small businesses and not be a barrier. Federal agencies should speak in terms that are clear, consistent, and accessible to the American people. The Plain Language in Contracting Act does just that. This bill creates a level playing field and ensures every small business can compete for a government contract without needing a lawyer. I thank Chairman Williams and his staff, my colleagues from both sides of the aisle, and the entire Small Business Committee for supporting this commonsense solution. Mr. Speaker, I urge all Members to support this bill. McGARVEY. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from California (Mr. Tran).

Mr. LaLOTA

Mr. LaLOTA. Madam Speaker, I regret to have missed these votes. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 115 and YEA on Roll Call No. 116.

Mr. LaLOTA

Mr. LaLOTA. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, a weekend or two ago in Suffolk County, I stood with nearly 1,000 Long Islanders at a Vietnam war Veterans Day ceremony. The theme of the day was simple but powerful: Welcome home. Welcome home after serving in a war that was unpopular at home. Welcome home after surviving brutal jungle and guerrilla warfare. Welcome home after losing more than 58,000 brothers and sisters in arms. Welcome home to a nation and a healthcare system that wasn't ready to care for your wounds, seen and unseen. Today, Vietnam veterans across my district and across the country are still fighting. This time, the enemy isn't on a battlefield overseas. It is a silent killer, bile duct cancer, caused by a parasite known as the liver fluke. Multiple studies have confirmed what these veterans have suspected for decades. Those who served in Vietnam face a much higher risk of contracting, suffering from, and dying from this disease. Here is the most disappointing part, Mr. Speaker. The Department of Veterans Affairs continues to hide behind a familiar excuse: We don't have enough data. Let me tell you what we do have. In 2018, the Northport VA Medical Center on Long Island, right in the heart of my district, conducted the first of its kind study on this issue. From a small sample of 50 Vietnam veterans, 24 percent tested positive for exposure to the liver fluke parasite. That study raised the alarm and called for further research, standardized treatment, and expanded access to care for affected veterans at VA facilities across the country. Instead of urgent action, we got bureaucratic delay. It wasn't until 2024, 6 years later, that a second followup study was finally completed. What did it find? Exactly what our veterans had been saying all along. Marines who served in Vietnam were 30 percent more likely to die from this disease than those who served elsewhere. Still, the VA refuses to acknowledge this as a service-connected condition. Mr. Speaker, that is unacceptable. We have seen this pattern before with Agent Orange, the blue water Navy, and now, again, with liver fluke: Delay, denial, deflection. In response, I introduced H.R. 4424, the Vietnam Veterans Liver Fluke Cancer Study Act, a bipartisan bill requiring the VA, in partnership with the CDC, to conduct a nationwide study and finally confront the truth: Bile duct cancer caused by the liver fluke parasite is a service-related illness. Since the VA won't act, Congress must because our Vietnam veterans deserve more than parades and speeches. They deserve answers, care, and our action. Mr. Speaker, every day we wait, more veterans die without the care they deserve. Let's not repeat the failures of the past. Mr. Chairman, I thank Chairman Bost for his support of this legislation. I urge all of my colleagues to join me in standing with those who once stood for us. They answered the call. Now, it is our turn.

Mr. LaLOTA

Mr. LaLOTA. Mr. Speaker, America's small businesses are the backbone of Main Street America, yet too many of them face roadblocks when trying to do business with the Federal Government's largest buyer, the Department of Energy. That is why I proudly introduced the DOE and SBA Research Act, which strengthens the relationship between America's small businesses and the Department of Energy. This legislation creates a partnership between the Department of Energy and the Small Business Administration for joint research. It expands opportunities for entrepreneurs to fuel innovation and drive economic growth, and it provides small businesses with a clear, more direct path to collaborate with our national labs on groundbreaking research and technology development. Brookhaven National Laboratory in my district is a perfect example of how small business and Department of Energy partnerships can transform a region into a premier center for scientific innovation. The partnerships made possible by the DOE and SBA Research Act will empower Main Street America to contribute to cutting-edge research, drive the Department of Energy's mission, fuel American ingenuity, and keep America at the forefront of scientific innovation and technological advancements. I thank my colleagues, Representatives Morrison and Thanedar, for joining me in introducing this important bipartisan legislation. This legislation passed the House with unanimous support last Congress. Unfortunately, we couldn't get it over the finish line in the Senate in time, so I thank Chairman Williams for his important leadership in getting it back to the floor and across the finish line a second time in the House. We will get it done this time. I urge my colleagues to support this commonsense legislation.

Mr. LaLOTA

Mr. LaLOTA. Madam Speaker, I thank the chairman of the House Natural Resources Committee for yielding and for supporting this bill but most importantly for supporting the 9/11 families. Madam Speaker, September 11, 2001, was not just a day of immense loss, it was a day that changed our Nation forever. Nearly 3,000 innocent lives were taken from us in an act of unimaginable evil. First responders, driven by duty and selflessness, rushed into danger, and many never returned. Families were shattered, communities forever altered, and the scars of that day remain with us even now. From that darkness came an incredible light, the resilience of the American spirit. We vowed on that fateful Tuesday morning never to forget and promised to honor the victims and the heroes that gave everything in the face of terror. Today, we have a chance to uphold that promise. The 9/11 Memorial & Museum stands as a sacred place, a place of reflection, education, and unity. It is where generations can learn about the courage and sacrifice that defines us as a nation. It tells us the stories of firefighters who climbed up while others ran down, the passengers on flight 93 who fought back, and everyday Americans who became heroes. However, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum remains a top target for terrorists and faces financial challenges stemming from the COVID-19 shutdown that threatens its ability to keep up its essential work. My bill, the 9/11 Memorial and Museum Act directs the Department of Homeland Security to award a one-time grant to the National September 11 Memorial & Museum for the security, operation, and maintenance of its facilities and grounds. As a condition of receiving this grant, the museum must provide free admission for active and retired members of the Armed Forces, individuals who were registered first responders to the 9/11 terrorist attacks, and the family members and victims of the attacks. It also provides for dedicated free admission hours for the general public at least once a week and allows for annual Federal audits of the 9/11 Memorial & Museum's financial statements. This ought not to be a partisan issue. This is about honoring our history, protecting our legacy, and teaching future generations the lessons of 9/11. We must not let the memory of that day fade. We cannot allow the heroism, the sacrifice, and the unity that followed be forgotten. Supporting this bill means standing with the families of the fallen, with our first responders, and with every American who still carries the weight of that day on their hearts. I urge my colleagues to join me in ensuring that we keep our promise. Let's pass the 9/11 Memorial and Museum Act and uphold our commitment to the American people.

Mr. LaLOTA

Mr. LaLOTA. Mr. Speaker, my constituents need more SALT, and Congress must deliver it in this year's budget. The State and local tax deduction is the number one Federal tax issue for Long Islanders. It protects taxpayers from being taxed twice on the same income and ensures fairness in our tax system. My Democrat colleagues claim SALT relief is a handout for the wealthy. Nothing could be further from the truth. My district has one of the highest costs of living in the Nation where what is considered a high income elsewhere barely covers expenses. My Republican colleagues argue SALT relief subsidizes bloated State budgets, but the facts don't lie. States like New York, New Jersey, and California send billions more to Washington than we get back. Meanwhile, States like Kentucky and South Carolina and dozens of other red States receive much more than what they contribute. We Long Islanders aren't asking for any special treatment, we just want our fair share. A higher SALT cap means tax fairness. It means economic equity, and it means relief for hardworking families. Let's get it done.

Mr. LaLOTA

Mr. LaLOTA. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Tennessee for yielding. I was anxious about the chairman of the Homeland Security Committee yielding because his alma mater team, West Point, lost to my alma mater Annapolis this weekend 31-13 at the premier football game, so I appreciate the chairman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, the fight against fentanyl and xylazine is a battle that we cannot afford to lose, and right now the United States is at a crossroads. Our communities are grappling with a devastating crisis as lethal drugs like fentanyl and xylazine continue to wreak havoc across our country. Today, we have a chance to deliver solutions. The amended version of my DETECT Fentanyl and Xylazine Act is back before us and it is a stronger, more comprehensive tool to tackle this epidemic. Every year, over 100,000 precious American lives are lost to drug overdoses. In 2023 alone, opioids were responsible for more than 81,000 deaths. Fentanyl, accounting for nearly 90 percent of synthetic opioid fatalities, claimed tens of thousands of lives, shattering families and leaving communities in mourning. These numbers are tragic reminders of the lives we are losing every day. Now, xylazine, a tranquilizer known on the streets as tranq, is being mixed with fentanyl, creating an even deadlier and harder to detect combination. This toxic mix does not spare anyone. It claims lives regardless of age, race, or socioeconomic status. From suburban Long Island to urban centers and rural America, this crisis is everywhere, Mr. Speaker. Earlier this year, the House passed the DETECT Fentanyl and Xylazine Act with overwhelming bipartisan support. Since then, our Senate colleagues have worked to refine and enhance the legislation to better address the growing threat. Their amendments make a strong bill even stronger by ensuring our efforts are as coordinated and effective as possible. The updated bill includes important improvements. One, it mandates greater collaboration between the Department of Homeland Security and the Drug Enforcement Administration, ensuring that expertise and resources are shared in this fight. Two, it prioritizes accuracy, efficiency, and innovation in drug detection technologies, including improving reference libraries to ensure no deadly substance escapes detection. Three, Mr. Speaker, it aligns research priorities with specific threats, incorporating not only DEA reports but also the latest Homeland Threat Assessment to address emerging challenges. Finally, four, it preserves the authorities of Federal agencies managing detection equipment and reference libraries, maintaining a seamless response across departments. These changes reflect the urgency and complexity of the crisis that we as a nation face. This legislation will empower our law enforcement officers, public health workers, and communities by developing cutting-edge technology to detect and intercept dangerous substances; strengthening partnerships between Federal, State, and local agencies; and staying ahead of drug traffickers' tactics through innovation and advanced research. This bill is more than just policy. It is a commitment to saving American lives. Mr. Speaker, every overdose prevented means a family spared from grief, a child with a parent, and a community with hope. I express my deep appreciation for my good friend, Congressman Lou Correa, for joining me in championing this important legislation. His steadfast dedication to this cause along with Senators John Cornyn, Jon Ossoff, and Kyrsten Sinema's thoughtful contributions are getting the bill over the finish line and onto the President's desk. I also thank the many organizations representing law enforcement professionals, public health advocates, and local communities. Their input has been invaluable. Mr. Speaker, the clock is ticking, and lives are at stake. Let us come together once again to pass the amended DETECT Fentanyl and Xylazine Act and send it to the President's desk. Let us give our law enforcement the tools that they need, and let us stand with our communities. Let us take a giant leap toward ending this deadly epidemic.

Mr. LaLOTA

Mr. LaLOTA. Madam Speaker, for far too long, my constituents who live in Flanders, Riverside, and Northampton have faced unnecessary challenges caused by shared ZIP Codes. Misdelivered mail, delays in receiving essential medications, and confusion over geographic identity have disrupted their daily lives for decades. Last week, we took meaningful steps to address these persistent issues by ensuring that each of these communities has access to reliable mail delivery and U.S. postal services. H.R. 8753, which I proudly supported, directs the United States Postal Service to designate single, unique ZIP Codes for these communities. This simple, commonsense fix will go a long way in improving the quality of life for my constituents in Flanders, Riverside, and Northampton. By taking this step, we sent a clear message that every community, no matter how large or small, deserves accurate and dependable services from their government. I thank the residents of Northampton, Riverside, and Flanders for their unwavering determination to bring this issue to our attention. This is a battle these communities have been fighting for more than a decade. I am proud to see it finally coming to fruition here in the House. Importance of Strong Federal Investment in Research and Education

Mr. LaLOTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to underscore the importance of strong Federal investments in research and education, which are critical to maintaining America's position as a global leader in innovation and progress. Stony Brook University, located in my district, is a prime example of the extraordinary advancements that come from such support. As one of the Nation's leading public research institutions, Stony Brook excels in quantum physics, artificial intelligence, and healthcare. Their groundbreaking work drives economic growth on Long Island, throughout New York State, and across the Nation while pushing the boundaries of scientific discovery. Stony Brook's role as a quantum internet testbed and its status as a hub of transformative research demonstrates the immense potential of continued Federal investment in higher education. Institutions like Stony Brook don't just shape our present. They are laying the groundwork to become the next premier research institution, setting the standard for excellence in education, research, and innovation. I am committed to ensuring that institutions like Stony Brook have the resources needed to thrive, securing our Nation's leadership in education, research, and innovation. Let's go. Governor Hochul's Commuter Tax

Mr. LaLOTA. Madam Speaker, Governor Hochul's so-called congestion pricing is just a commuter tax that unfairly targets hardworking Long Islanders. With families already struggling under New York's crushing tax burden, this plan adds insult to injury, forcing suburban communities to subsidize the wasteful and mismanaged MTA. The MTA loses nearly $700 million annually to fare evasion--over $300 million on buses alone--and doles out six-figure overtime to hundreds of employees. Instead of addressing these failures, Hochul and her New York City allies want suburban New Yorkers like my constituents to fill a $15 billion budget funding gap without any reforms or accountability. Hochul suspended this ill-conceived commuter tax before the election but shamelessly brought it back afterward, breaking the trust of so many New Yorkers. Long Island deserves better--real accountability, fairness, and policies that reflect our priorities, not another slap in the face from Albany's one-party, antisuburban agenda. Welcoming Kai Li Home

Mr. LaLOTA. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate an extraordinary moment of triumph and resilience. After 8 long years of wrongful detention in China, my constituent and Huntington resident Kai Li is finally back on American soil and has been reunited with his family. This long-awaited news brings immense relief and joy to his family and every Long Islander who has followed his adversity. Kai's release ends an unimaginable ordeal and highlights the unwavering strength of his family, especially his son, Harrison, who tirelessly advocated for his father's return. I was honored to bring Harrison as my guest to this year's State of the Union to amplify his family's story. Kai's release is not only a victory for the Li family but for all of America. The United States must remain steadfast in our commitment to bring home every wrongfully detained American. Kai Li's return reminds us of the power of persistence and the importance of standing firm against injustice. Welcome home to Kai, whose courage and determination inspire us all.

Mr. LaLOTA

Mr. LaLOTA. Mr. Speaker, I regret to have missed this vote. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 499.