Michael Lawler

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the people of Rockland County and the 17th Congressional District and on behalf of the people of New York City and Queens and the NYPD, please honor Major Sorffly Davius with a moment of silence.

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that when the House adjourns today, it adjourn to meet at 9 a.m. tomorrow.

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to remove the gentleman from Washington (Mr. Smith) as cosponsor of H.R. 1007 because he was inadvertently added to the legislation by my staff.

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, for decades, Presidents and Members of Congress of both parties have talked about peace in the Middle East. Stability in the Middle East and freedoms for all who live there is something that all of us should be able to agree on, and almost everyone also agrees that Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon and that Iran is the greatest state sponsor of terrorism. Unfortunately, 53 of my colleagues from across the aisle last week chose not to support that belief by voting against a resolution that declared Iran the greatest state sponsor of terrorism. For the first year of this term, President Trump has prioritized putting in place maximum pressure on the Iranian regime and prioritizing negotiations to stop their uranium enrichment, to stop their nuclear ambitions, to stop their ballistic missiles program, and to stop their financing of terrorism. Unfortunately, the regime refused to negotiate in good faith. Two weeks ago, President Trump executed Operation Epic Fury to take their ballistic missiles program off the table for them. This offensive also destroyed their air defense system and their naval capabilities. Look where our partners and allies in the region are. They are opposed to a nuclear Iran. They are opposed to an Iranian regime that possesses dangerous intercontinental ballistic missiles, and they support the United States maximum pressure campaign. That is because they know this military engagement did not happen in silo. This was not a war of choice. The fact is Iran has been at war with the United States for 47 years. The regime has chanted ``death to America'' for 47 years. The regime is responsible for the deaths of thousands of Americans, thousands of Israelis, and thousands of Muslims. Mr. Speaker, you see them lashing out indiscriminately and striking civilian targets in Arab states. Why? It is because they are the face of evil, and they are the greatest force for terrorism around the globe. This comes after the regime funded Hamas' attack on Israel on October 7. It comes after they funded constant Houthi attacks and funded Hezbollah. Where did they get this financing from? They get it from the illicit oil trade, the oil trade in which China is the biggest purchaser of Iranian petroleum. I was proud last Congress working alongside then-Senator and now- Secretary of State Marco Rubio in passing the SHIP Act so that we could actually enforce sanctions against the Iranian regime and their illicit oil trade. It comes on the heels of a regime in Iran that has sought to destroy the United States and Israel and our partners. Maximum pressure means strength in the face of these egregious and tragic offenses. My bill, the Enhanced Iran Sanctions Act, builds on the Trump administration's existing sanctions regime to give them more tools to cripple the illicit oil trade and to cripple this unholy alliance between China, Russia, Iran, Venezuela, Cuba, North Korea, and other bad actors. Now, it does so by authorizing the administration to place secondary sanctions on enablers of Iran's illicit oil trade that have financed their proxies, that have financed their missiles program, and that have financed their nuclear ambitions and their uranium enrichment. This includes essentially any company that has engaged in a transaction involving the processing, refining, export, or transfer of Iranian oil. This includes foreign banks, financial institutions, insurance companies, flagging registries, and more. If someone is knowingly providing financial support to the Iranian regime's largest influx of cash, we should know about it, and we should stop it. That is what this bill does. This bill expands the authorities to cripple this oil network, to stop the financing of ballistic missiles, to stop the financing of uranium enrichment, to stop the financing of Iran's nuclear ambitions, and to stop their financing of terrorism. This is a multifaceted approach. We saw under the Biden administration an administration that not only did not enforce sanctions against Iran, but it also allowed the illicit oil trade to explode to the tune of hundreds of billions of dollars. Those funds are what funded October 7. That is what funded the death and destruction that we have seen across the Middle East. We saw under the Obama Administration an attempt to appease the Iranian regime, to drop off pallets of cash in the hopes that somehow that would stop them from pursuing nuclear weapons, that that would somehow stop them from possessing enriched uranium, and that that would somehow stop them from financing terrorism. Peace through strength means understanding that sometimes you must take action and that sometimes you must use military force. After the regime refused to negotiate in good faith and was mass-producing ballistic missiles at such a rate that it would be almost impossible in the future to stop their nuclear ambitions, President Trump took action. This was not an illegal war. This was not a war of choice. Republicans and Democrats have said ad nauseam that Iran cannot get a nuclear weapon. Sadly, it seems some of my colleagues would be okay if they did so, as long as Donald Trump wasn't President. Some of my colleagues hate Donald Trump so much that they care more about the fact that he is President than they do about the fact that he is stopping the Iranian regime's 47-year reign of terror. I have listened to some of my colleagues over the last 2 weeks in amazement. They have completely reversed their positions on so many issues, including 53 who just last Congress voted to say that Iran is the greatest state sponsor of terrorism but now no longer believe that. You have candidates running for Congress who are saying that the United States is the terrorist regime. It is insanity. The fact is that we have a responsibility to stop this regime cold, to cut the head off of the snake. That is precisely what we are doing through military action and through a sanctions regime that has crippled Iran's capabilities. There is more work to be done, and that is why we are passing this legislation. I thank Chairman Mast and Ranking Member Meeks for supporting this through committee. I thank President Trump and the administration for supporting this bill today. Mr. Speaker, it is a testament that, even if there are disagreements, we can find bipartisan support. We can find a path forward. We should be giving this administration and future administrations every tool necessary to ensure that Iran never gets a nuclear weapon.

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, this past weekend, President Trump launched military operations against the terrorist Iranian regime, alongside our ally, Israel, killing the Ayatollah and many of his top lieutenants in the IRGC and the council of clerics. This operation came after almost a year of negotiations to reach a diplomatic solution to end Iran's nuclear ambitions, ballistic missiles program, and funding of terrorism. Time and again, we were left emptyhanded because of the regime's unwillingness to honestly negotiate in good faith. After exhausting all potential diplomatic means, only then did the President initiate Operation Epic Fury. It is also important to point out that this engagement is not a new war. The Iranian regime has been at war with America for 47 years. They have been attacking Americans, our military, our allies, and our partners. They advocate for death to America. They hate us. They hate America. They hate Israel. They hate Europe. They hate the West. They massacre their own people for simple public dissent and peaceful protest. They send money to Hamas, Hezbollah, the Houthis, and other terror proxies around the world with the express interest of killing Americans and Israelis. They funded the October 7 terrorist attack that murdered and kidnapped not just Israelis but Americans. The Ayatollah and his conspirators paid the ultimate price. This is the maximum pressure campaign President Trump advocated for. This is how we secure our national security so that Americans can be free and safe and our allies in the Middle East can be free and safe. The long-term strategic benefits here in regard to peace and stability are immense. The only way to ensure peace and economic prosperity in the Middle East is to eliminate the single greatest threat to it. As far as the War Powers Act goes, the President is fully compliant. Congress was notified. Congress was briefed. The fact is that the President has 60 to 90 days to conduct this operation. If Congress sees fit at that time, we will address it. Mr. Speaker, to try to unilaterally end this operation puts our national security at risk, puts our troops at risk, and puts our allies at risk. Iran is belligerently striking Arab partners as we speak. They are hitting civilian sites and trying to kill American soldiers. In fact, they have killed six. Many of my colleagues said nothing when Barack Obama engaged in a 7- month campaign in Libya. In fact, when a War Powers Resolution was on this floor, many opposed it, including Chuck Schumer, the Senate minority leader.

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, the fact is that when we look back, Presidents of both parties have acted under Article II and without the express authorization of Congress. Former Speaker Nancy Pelosi said it best when she said that Barack Obama could conduct the operation in Libya for 7 months and did not require congressional authority. Stop being hyperpartisan hypocrites and acknowledge the simple fact that the President is legally justified. Vote ``no'' on this War Powers Resolution.

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of my good friend and a dedicated public servant, Denis Troy, who passed away at the age of 78 from a courageous battle with cancer. A proud Bronx native and Manhattan College alumnus, Denis and his wife, Bea, lived in Pearl River for over 34 years, raising their four children and constantly giving back to their community. Denis was one of those people who did not just serve his community. He lived for it. From his years on the Orangetown Board and in the county legislature, to the countless nights and weekends he gave to youth sports; veterans; and local organizations, including his beloved AOH Division III, Denis showed us what real public service looked like by always putting his community first. Beyond the titles and accomplishments, Denis was simply a good man. He was generous with his time, steady in his values, and always supportive and encouraging, especially to those of us who were lucky enough to call him a friend. Orangetown and Pearl River are better places because of Denis, and his legacy will never be forgotten. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family and all who had the pleasure of knowing him. I thank Denis for his many years of mentorship and friendship. Denis, I will miss you. You are loved.

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate a true Hudson Valley institution, Sparky's in Garnerville, New York, as it marks its 50th anniversary on February 13, 2026. Since 1976, Sparky's has become more than a place to grab breakfast or lunch. It is a gathering place for generations of families, friends, and neighbors across Haverstraw and Rockland County. Opened by Louie and Jeannie Nicolakis, Sparky's was built on hard, long hours, and a simple but powerful idea: to create a place where everyone feels welcome. Louie and Jeannie invested everything they had into this vision, and the community has been better for it ever since. After Louie's passing, Jeannie carried that legacy forward, devoting her life to serving her customers and giving back to the community, eventually being recognized with New York State's Empire Award in 2019 for her community contributions, one of the highest honors for a small business. For 50 years, Sparky's has been a place where everyone is treated like family, where stories are shared over coffee, and kindness is always on the menu. I congratulate Jeannie and everyone at Sparky's Diner on this incredible milestone and wish them many more years of success serving the Hudson Valley, and I look forward to coming back for another coffee, eggs, bacon, and toast.

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the extraordinary service and well-earned retirement of Cardinal Timothy Michael Dolan, whose leadership has profoundly shaped the Catholic faith in New York and across our Nation. Since becoming archbishop of New York in 2009, Cardinal Dolan has been a steadfast advocate for religious freedom, Catholic education, and the dignity of every person. He has led with conviction, compassion, and humor, reminding us that faith must also always be lived out through service. Under his leadership, the Archdiocese of New York was strengthened in meaningful ways, including the reopening of dozens of Catholic schools, ensuring that families across our State continue to have access to education rooted in faith, values, and community. Beyond New York, Cardinal Dolan has become a respected national voice for the church, guiding conversations with clarity, humor, and grace, and bringing people together in moments of challenge and celebration alike. I am honored to call Cardinal Dolan a friend. While he will be deeply missed as the leader of the Archdiocese of New York, I wish him the very best in his retirement and have no doubt that his voice and his witness will continue to inspire for years to come. Honoring Life of Alfred ``Al'' Magnatta

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Alfred ``Al'' Magnatta, who passed away just a week before what would have been his 101st birthday. At a young age, Al answered the call to serve his country during World War II, enlisting in the U.S. Air Force. Serving as a B-17 aerial gunner with the Eighth Air Force was an experience that forever shaped his life. After returning home to New York, Al continued to serve his community by joining the Congers Fire Department, eventually serving as their fire chief, becoming the oldest fire chief in the department's history and its longest serving member. Al continued to serve his community by providing leadership at the county level, helping guide emergency response efforts, mentoring future firefighters, and shaping fire service standards. Throughout his decades of service, he responded to countless emergencies and earned the respect of all who served alongside him. Al represented the very best of our community, and I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy will never be forgotten. May he rest in peace. Commending Chief Daniel Hyman

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an extraordinary act of courage and public service by Ramapo Town Police Chief Daniel ``Dan'' Hyman, whose quick actions saved the life of a fellow neighbor. While off duty, Chief Hyman noticed smoke coming from a home. After seeing a resident attempt to escape the fire, he immediately sprang into action. Without hesitation, he secured a ladder, climbed to the window the resident was attempting to escape from, and calmly coached the individual to safety. His quick thinking, bravery, and selfless action helped save a life from what would have been a tragedy. Chief Hyman joined the Ramapo Police Department in 1989 and has served his community with integrity, valor, and professionalism for more than three decades. His actions represent the very best of public service and our community. I commend Chief Hyman for leading by example and for reminding us what true heroism looks like in our communities. Recognizing Robi Schlaff

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the extraordinary career of Robi Schlaff, a devoted public servant who has spent her career protecting women, children, and families across Westchester County. Since 2013, Robi has served as director of the Westchester County Office for Women, overseeing critical programs that support victims of domestic and family violence. She also serves as executive director of the Westchester County Family Justice Center, where she helped build a coordinated, victim-centered model that has become a statewide example. Earlier in her career, Robi practiced family law, representing children and survivors of domestic violence and served as a mediator in family court. She has been instrumental in developing initiatives such as the Domestic Violence High-Risk Team and the Pace Women's Justice Center, earning national recognition, including the End Violence Against Women International Game-Changer award. In addition, she worked alongside Pete Grannis in the New York State Assembly and the Department of Environmental Protection. As Robi retires from her role, I am proud to recognize her unwavering commitment to protecting our communities. Having worked with her in County Executive Astorino's administration, I am deeply grateful for her public service and her friendship. I wish her all the best in her well-earned retirement.

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life of Oliver ``Ollie'' Jenkins, a proud Bronx native whose presence left a lasting mark on his family and community. Born and raised in the Bronx, Ollie came from a close-knit, hardworking family whose small businesses were fixtures in their neighborhood. Those values stayed with him throughout his life. In 1971, Ollie answered the call to serve our country, enlisting in the United States Army and serving honorably, including time stationed in Germany. Like too many veterans, he later carried the invisible wounds of service, facing PTSD with courage and the steadfast support of those who loved him. Ollie was gentle, kind, and unforgettable, known for his laugh, his jokes, his love of karate and Bruce Lee, and for proudly representing the Bronx everywhere he went. He was a devoted father and grandfather; a loyal brother, uncle, and neighbor; and a familiar, beloved presence in our community. Ollie leaves behind a family who cherished him deeply, especially his daughter, Colby, and a legacy built in love, perseverance, and deep faith. May his memory be a blessing to all who knew him.

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Lenard Conklin, a devoted son of Stony Point who lived a life defined by service, tradition, and deep community roots. Lenard was a lifelong resident, living in the very home his great- grandfather built on Gate Hill Road. Lenard was known as the last hay baler of Rockland County. Lenard proudly served our Nation during the Vietnam war as a Navy Seabee, his dream position. In 2024, he was honored on the Hudson Valley Honor Flight, Mission 34, in Washington, D.C. His commitment to hard work and service continued at home, where he spent 31 years at Algonquin Gas before retiring from the Stony Point Sewer Plant. Whether sharing stories of his time in service, his love of the Catskill Mountains, his passion for trout fishing and hunting, or doting on the love of his life, Nora, his presence made a difference in the lives of everyone he met. I extend my deepest condolences to his siblings, stepdaughters, grandchildren, and the countless friends who knew him. May God bless his memory.

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Madam Speaker, had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 32.

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an extraordinary milestone for one of our community's most cherished institutions, Helen Hayes Hospital, celebrating over 125 years of service as of last year. Founded in 1900 as one of our Nation's earliest hospitals dedicated to caring for children with physical disabilities, Helen Hayes Hospital has grown from a small cottage in Tarrytown to a nationally recognized leader in rehabilitation right in the heart of West Haverstraw. For generations, families across the Hudson Valley and far beyond have turned to Helen Hayes during some of their most challenging moments, including my grandmother who was recovering from a heart attack. Time after time, the doctors, nurses, therapists, and staff have delivered world-class care rooted in compassion, expertise, and a deep commitment to every patient's recovery. From treating children affected by tuberculosis and polio to helping today's patients rebuild their lives after strokes, spinal cord injuries, brain injuries, and complex surgeries, Helen Hayes Hospital has never wavered in its mission. Mr. Speaker, I thank every member of their team, past and present, for the life-changing work they have done for our community for the last 125 years.

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and thank someone whose impact on my office and on me personally cannot be overstated, my chief of staff, Nate Soule, as he concludes his service to New York's 17th Congressional District. When I first ran for the New York State Assembly in 2020, before there was a congressional office or a seat in this Chamber, Nate took a leap of faith and helped build a campaign from the ground up. Together, we delivered a victory many said was impossible, defeating an incumbent in a district with a 2-1 Democratic enrollment advantage. That race was the foundation for everything that has followed. In Albany, Nate served as my chief of staff and helped lead one of the most active offices in the State assembly. Our team delivered real results for the Hudson Valley and built a reputation for being accessible, responsive, and relentless when it came to constituent services. When I was elected to Congress, Nate once again stepped up, first as deputy chief of staff and communications director and now as my chief of staff. Through every transition, he has brought discipline, sound judgment, and an unwavering commitment to the people we serve. Nate understands that public service is not about titles or headlines. It is about doing the work, telling the truth, and delivering for the people who sent us here. His counsel is steady and measured, his loyalty unwavering, and, above all, his friendship cherished. Through Nate's vision, his hard work, and his invaluable leadership, our office has not only been more effective but has set a standard for what public service can and should be. I have no doubt that he will bring the same integrity and dedication as he embarks on a new chapter. Doina and I wish Nate and his wife, Lauren, the very best. Honoring the Life of Anthony ``Tony'' DeFeciani

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Anthony ``Tony'' DeFeciani, who passed away peacefully on December 23, 2025. Born and raised in Haverstraw, Tony was a proud New Yorker, attending Haverstraw High School and participating in the marching band, where he was voted the most musical in his senior year. Following graduation, Tony enlisted in the United States Navy and proudly served during the Korean war. He was awarded the Bronze Star after more than 30 years of service. Returning home, Tony worked at Bear Mountain, Lederle Laboratories, and New York Telephone/Verizon, retiring after 30 years of professional service. Tony also gave back to his community as a volunteer firefighter with the Haverstraw Fire Department Relief Hose Company No. 3 for 60 years, serving as fire chief. Tony was an avid gardener and fisherman, built his own boat, and ran Rainbow Gardens, known locally for its tomatoes. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Tony shared 66 years of wonderful marriage with his beloved wife, Joan. Together, they raised six children. He cherished every moment with his family and community and will be deeply missed. Honoring Life of Theodore Schultz

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Theodore ``Ted the Great'' Schultz, who passed away peacefully on January 10, surrounded by his family. Born in Nyack, Ted was raised on his grandfather's farm in Pomona and attended Spring Valley High School, where he earned the rank of Eagle Scout. A talented athlete, he wrestled and played football, earning the nickname ``Tank,'' and went on to attend Illinois Wesleyan University, where he played football for 4 years and later earned his MBA from Washington University. It was at Illinois Wesleyan that Ted met his wife, Carol. They settled in Pearl River, New York, where they raised their children, Traci and Craig, before later moving to Stony Point. Ted built a remarkable career at Ted Schultz Auto Sales, relocating the dealership to Nanuet and growing it into a nationally ranked Ford dealership while earning numerous President's Awards. Beyond work, Ted enjoyed time with friends, boating on the Hudson River, and spending time with his grandchildren. His legacy lives on through the lessons he passed on to his family, his friends, and the many lives he touched. May he rest in peace. Recognizing S.W. Johnson Fire Department

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the S.W. Johnson Fire Department in Rockland County on an incredible milestone of 150 years of dedicated service to our community. Since its formation in 1876, S.W. Johnson has been 100 percent volunteer, embodying selflessness, courage, and a commitment to protecting our neighbors. One of the department's most treasured pieces of history is its steamer, a Button manufactured in 1896 by the company that would become American LaFrance. This remarkable piece of equipment reflects the rich legacy and enduring dedication of S.W. Johnson and the fire service today. I say thank you on behalf of New York's 17th Congressional District to the many firefighters who have given their time and bravery to this firehouse over the years. Congratulations to S.W. Johnson on 150 years of dedicated service. Their commitment, bravery, and volunteer spirit are an inspiration to us all.

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 2683) to provide for control of remote access of items under the Export Control Reform Act of 2018, as amended.

Mr. LAWLER. 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 this measure.

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of my bill, the Remote Access Security Act. Mr. Speaker, export controls exist to limit critical technology developed in the U.S. from falling into the hands of our adversaries. Export controls are a major tool of the administration to protect sensitive tech and bolster our own national security, and these rules have never been more timely or important as China seeks to enhance their chip and AI development. Unfortunately, there is a major loophole in our export control regime. As the laws and regulations are written, physical export controls do not apply to remote access of items. This means that still to this day, the CCP can access our tech through the cloud and utilize it for their own malicious purposes. Our export controls are only as strong as the weakest link, and right now, the CCP has a real tool to sidestep these prohibitions. We need action now. My bill defines ``remote access'' and adds remote access provisions into existing law. It provides the Commerce Department with the authority to regulate controlled items through the cloud and finally close this loophole. The Remote Access Security Act received unanimous support in the House Committee on Foreign Affairs during markup, passing with a bipartisan vote of 51-0. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman Mast, as well as my bipartisan co- leads, Speaker Johnson, and Leader Scalise for helping to move this bill to the floor today. Mr. Speaker, I urge all of my colleagues to vote for this much-needed and commonsense bill, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Huizenga), the chairman of the South and Central Asia Subcommittee.

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Washington (Mr. Baumgartner), a cosponsor of this bill.