Michael Lawler

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of William Vincent Motto, a lifelong resident of Nyack, New York, who passed away on May 8, 2025, at the age of 87. Bill spent more than 41 years with Orange and Rockland Utilities as a line foreman and gave nearly 70 years of dedicated volunteer service to the Orangetown Fire Company No. 1. He served as captain, as a longtime commissioner for the Nyack Fire Department, and as a driver, always stepping up for his neighbors and his community. He was also a devoted family man. Bill and his wife, Beverly, were married for nearly 65 years, raising three daughters and building a life grounded in love, faith, and hard work. Whether it was woodworking, fishing, or taking his annual trip to South Bend to cheer on Notre Dame, Bill lived a full and meaningful life. His commitment to service, his love of family, and his deep roots in Rockland County are what made him such a respected figure. I extend my condolences to Beverly, their children and grandchildren, and all who knew and loved him. May he rest in peace. In Memory of Frank ``Butch'' Hagen

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Frank ``Butch'' Hagen, a proud veteran, a devoted public servant, and a beloved resident of Rockland County. Born in the Bronx in 1950, Frank spent his life in service to others, first in the National Guard and the Army, and later as a village trustee and deputy mayor in Suffern. He was a steady presence in local organizations like The American Legion and the Lions Club, always showing up and always giving back. More than anything, Frank was a family man. He raised four boys with heart, humor, and grit. His sons remember him not just for his selflessness but for the joy he brought to life. For instance, he led a sled ride down a snowy road in an old plastic boat because if it was fun, it was an option, and Frank made it happen. He kept the peace. He led with love, and he never backed down from a challenge. His life was full, and his legacy will live on through his children, his grandchildren, and all who were lucky enough to know him. I was proud to call him a friend, and his memory will always be a blessing to the Suffern community. Paying Tribute to Officer Joseph Gravino

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a remarkable man from my district, Officer Joseph Gravino of Orangeburg, New York, who passed away suddenly on May 23 at just 37 years old. Joe served the NYPD with distinction for 12 years, most recently as part of the Strategic Response Group. He faced every challenge with calm resolve, earning the trust of his colleagues and the gratitude of the city he served. He protected New Yorkers with honor, courage, and a deep sense of duty. Yet, Joe's greatest role was at home as a husband to his beloved wife, Katie; and as a devoted father to their three children, Anthony, Juliana, and little Dominic. Whether coaching a Little League game, showing up for a dance recital, or simply spending time together, Joe gave his heart fully to his family. Being described by those who knew him well, Joe Gravino was simply full of love. Today, the people of Rockland County and the city of New York mourn his loss. May his memory be a source of strength to his family and community in the coming months and years.

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Bill Layton, a devoted father, a sharp political mind, and a respected leader in New Jersey Republican politics. Having served as a strategist before coming to Congress, I understand firsthand how demanding yet rewarding the work was that Bill dedicated his life to. Bill wasn't just effective. He was principled. He believed in earning trust, building coalitions, and doing the hard work behind the scenes that helps good people win and serve their communities well. He shaped a generation of leaders in south Jersey, and he did it with a steadiness and clarity that many of us, as politicians, aspire to. Furthermore, I am proud to have his son, Will, now serving in my office as part of my legislative team. Will carries his father's same intellect and quiet strength. It is a daily reminder of the example Bill set, not just the politics, but in being a true mentor for anyone who actually is paying attention. To the Layton family: Bill's legacy lives on in the work being done today in New Jersey, in this Chamber, and beyond.

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, when I ran for Congress, I said that I would never support a tax bill that did not adequately lift the cap on SALT. This bill does that. It increases the cap on SALT by 300 percent. I would remind my Democratic colleagues when they had full control in Washington, they lifted the cap on SALT by exactly zero dollars, zilch, zip, nada. There was not $1 of increase in tax relief for hardworking New Yorkers. To all my New York colleagues on the other side of the aisle: Before you speak out and say that you don't support a 300 percent increase on the cap on SALT, the fact is that this bill adequately addresses the cap on SALT and provides tax relief to hardworking middle-class families.

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the life and legacy of Vincent C. McMahon, a proud son of New City, a veteran of the United States Army, and a decorated lieutenant of the FDNY. Vincent lived a life of service to his country, his city, and his community. He was a member of the elite 75th Ranger Regiment, a 25-year firefighter with the FDNY, and a first responder at Ground Zero after the attacks on September 11. Vinny never turned away from a call to serve. He gave everything, including his health, for the safety and well-being of others. Beyond the uniform, Vincent was a brother, a husband, a neighbor, and a friend. He was a fixture at the Pearl River Elks, The American Legion, and the Knights of Columbus, and he never stopped giving back. To his wife, Haley, and his entire family, on behalf of a grateful community and Nation, thank you for sharing Vinny with all of us. We will never forget his sacrifice, and we will carry forward his example of courage and commitment. May he rest in peace.

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 rise today to honor a remarkable constituent and community leader Allan Seebach, Sr., of Tappan, New York. Allan is a lifelong resident of Tappan and a U.S. Navy veteran who served our Nation during the Korean war. His service didn't stop when he returned home. In fact, it was just getting started. He joined the Volunteer Fire Association of Tappan in 1950, and for nearly 75 years, he has been a cornerstone of the department. Allan served as chief of the Tappan Fire Department from 1965 to 1968 and again from 1972 to 1974. He later became fire commissioner, a role he held for 27 years, 13 of them as chairman of the district. Allan's leadership, mentorship, and tireless dedication to the safety and well-being of his neighbors have left a lasting mark, not only on the department, but on the entire Tappan community. As one local fire leader put it, Allan Seebach is the Tappan Fire Department. I thank Allan for everything he has done for the people of Tappan, of Rockland County, and of New York's 17th District. His legacy of service is the best of who we are, and I am proud to call him a friend.

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to honor the remarkable career and lasting legacy of Congresswoman Nita Lowey. As the first woman to chair the House Appropriations Committee, she shattered barriers and paved the way for so many others during her 32 years in the House of Representatives. Nita was a tireless advocate for the Hudson Valley, and she was committed to getting things done on behalf of her community. Along with Congressman Latimer, we now represent portions of the district she once served. I know I speak for George in saying that we are proud to follow in her footsteps. Her commitment to bipartisanship is something I have tried to carry forward in her honor. Nita knew that real solutions come from working across the aisle, and her ability to build consensus led to critical investments in education, healthcare, and infrastructure that benefited New Yorkers and Americans across our country. Mr. Speaker, I thank Nita Lowey for her extraordinary leadership and her unwavering belief in a better future for all Americans. May her memory be a blessing, especially for her husband, Stephen; her children; and her beloved grandchildren. Nita will be sorely missed.

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Gia Deborah Gentile, a remarkable young woman from Hawthorne, New York, who tragically passed away on March 9 at just 14 years old after a brave and tireless battle with neuroblastoma. Though her life was far too short, Gia's legacy is one of kindness, compassion, and selfless service. Whether it was through her role on the student council, her leadership on the Westlake High School varsity cheer team, or her dedication to the Service Club, Gia led by example, always putting others before herself and inspiring those around her. Even while facing the most difficult of challenges, Gia's heart of gold never wavered. She continued to serve and support others, embodying a spirit of positivity, empathy, and generosity that touched everyone she encountered. As her parents, Carmine and Dana, and her siblings, Jordana and Tino, continue to grieve this unimaginable loss, we keep them in our thoughts and prayers. Gia's memory will forever shine brightly in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her. May Gia rest in peace and may we all strive to live each day in the spirit of kindness that she exemplified.

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, as the great George Costanza said: ``It's not a lie if you believe it.'' That is what we have heard today from my Democratic colleagues, a bunch of lies that maybe they sincerely believe. The reality is this bill does not touch Social Security, it does not touch Medicare, and it does not touch Medicaid. Those programs are fully funded and protected. Our veterans are fully funded and protected. Fiscal year '24 was a total of $1.665 trillion. Fiscal year '25, of which we are voting to complete with this CR, is $1.658 trillion. The reduction of $7 billion is because community project funding that has already been paid and that has already been approved as part of fiscal year '24 is not going to be double paid. So we are saving $7 billion by removing it, as it should be. Why would we pay for projects that have already been paid for? The fact is that we have to keep the government funded and open. Why anyone would vote to shut the government down is beyond me. When Joe Biden was President of the United States, I voted every time to keep the government funded and open. The idea that we are going to shut it down because the priorities changed--guess what, Mr. Speaker. The administration changed. That is the reality of elections. Donald Trump won in November, Republicans won the House and the Senate, and so, yes, budgets will change. The fact is that we have to keep the government open. I would remind my colleagues that the reason we are in this situation is because Senate Democrats under Chuck Schumer passed exactly zero appropriations bills on the Senate floor, zero. There was nothing to negotiate. They couldn't pass a bill. They refused to pass a bill.

Mr. LAWLER. They refused to pass a bill. We passed appropriations bills on the floor last year. We were ready to conference. We were ready to negotiate. Chuck Schumer failed in his responsibilities. It is now incumbent on us to pass a CR through the House and for the Senate to do its job and keep the government open and funded.

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Alice Roker, a dedicated public servant and a beloved pillar of the Yorktown community. Alice made history as the first Black woman elected to office in Yorktown, serving as town clerk and a longtime member of the town board. She left an indelible mark, serving with grace, integrity, and an unshakeable commitment to the people she represented. Alice was a mentor, a problem solver, and a bridge builder, always putting the needs of her community ahead of politics. Even after leaving office, she continued to offer guidance and wisdom to those who followed in her footsteps, ensuring that Yorktown remained a great place to live, work, and raise a family. Her passing is a profound loss, but her impact will live on in the countless lives she impacted. My deepest condolences go out to her family, friends, and the entire Yorktown community. May we honor her memory by carrying forward her dedication to service and kindness. May Alice Roker rest in peace.

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service of Sergeant Gregory E. Walz of the Town of Pound Ridge Police Department. Greg dedicated his life to serving others. Before his career in law enforcement, he worked as an EMT and paramedic, providing lifesaving care across Westchester County. In 2008, he joined the Pound Ridge Police Department, where his skill, dedication, and leadership left a lasting impact. Throughout his career, Greg was a mentor, protector, and friend to so many. His expertise saved lives, and his commitment to public safety earned him the respect of his fellow officers and the community he served. As a police officer, Greg was honored with the Top Cop award by Westchester County for his outstanding efforts in traffic safety through DWI enforcement. In 2016, he was promoted to detective, where he took on investigative work and played a key role in training new officers. Just this month, Greg was promoted to sergeant, a testament to his unwavering commitment to Pound Ridge. His passing is a tremendous loss to the Pound Ridge community, and my thoughts are with his wife, Lisa, his family, and his loved ones. Today, we honor his service, his sacrifice, and his legacy. May he rest in peace.

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Madam Speaker, today I rise to honor the life of Christopher Katz, a young man of extraordinary dedication, courage, and service. At just 22 years old, Christopher had already built a legacy of leadership, mentorship, and commitment to his community and country before he was tragically taken too soon. A native of Crompond, New York, Christopher was a standout athlete at Walter Panas High School where he played football and baseball. His love for sports extended beyond the field. He mentored young athletes, coaching with the same dedication and passion that defined his life. Christopher pursued his dream of serving others, earning a degree in criminal justice from Temple University and serving as a military police officer in the U.S. Army Reserve. In November, he joined the U.S. Capitol Police, training to protect all of us here. Tragically, his journey was cut short in a car accident in Georgia while training with fellow recruits. His kindness, bravery, and commitment to service left a lasting impact on all who knew him. Today, we honor his memory, and may his legacy continue to inspire us all.

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Madam 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, today, I rise to celebrate an extraordinary milestone in the life of Alfred ``Al'' Magnatta, who will turn 100 years old on January 27. Al's legacy is one of unwavering dedication and service to his country and community, a true embodiment of the American spirit. Al served as a B-17 aerial gunner in the United States Army's 8th Air Force Division during World War II, completing 25 missions while stationed in England. Returning home in 1946, Al joined the Congers Fire Department and rose through the ranks, serving as chief from 1960 to 1962 and later as Rockland County deputy fire coordinator, a role he held for over six decades. Over 79 years of continuous service, Al has responded to countless emergencies, from the 80-hour freight train fire in 1974 to drills at Indian Point and more. His leadership, commitment, and resilience have been instrumental in shaping fire safety standards across Rockland County and New York State. At 100 years young, Al remains the Congers Fire Department's oldest active member, continuing to respond to calls and serve his community. Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring Al Magnatta, a hero, a leader, and an inspiration to us all. I wish Al a happy birthday.

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the life and legacy of Miles Taylor, a cherished leader and beloved member of the Nyack community, who passed away suddenly at the age of 60. A 1982 graduate of Nyack High School, Miles dedicated over 25 years as the school's track and cross country coach, mentoring countless student athletes, and leaving an enduring mark on their lives. Just this past October, he was inducted into the Nyack High School Athletic Hall of Fame, a testament to his exceptional contributions to the school and its athletic programs. Beyond his commitment to athletics, Miles served his community as a lifelong member of the Nyack Fire Department, joining at just 16 years old and eventually rising to the rank of chief. His dedication to public service, both on and off the track, exemplified the spirit of selflessness and leadership. Miles Taylor's sudden passing is a profound loss for the entire Rockland County community. May his memory be a blessing to those who knew him, especially his family, his student athletes, and the Nyack community.

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I would note that the gentleman from Massachusetts is talking about the Prime Minister. What about the President of the United States? We have seven Americans still being held hostage; four deceased, three presumed living. Where is Joe Biden? Where is the President of the United States to make sure that American hostages are being brought home? It is shameful the way this administration has allowed these hostages to languish. They have not put adequate pressure on our allies. They have failed miserably in their responsibility to get Americans home. When, in fact, there have been cease-fires and when, in fact, hostages have been released, Americans have not been released. It is shameful. I rise in support of the Illegitimate Court Counteraction Act to reimpose sanctions on officials working for the International Criminal Court. This institution has continually abused its authority and demonstrated blatant hostility toward our allies and American values, as Israel has continued to defend itself against terrorists in the Middle East, over the objections of this administration, by the way. Let's be clear, Sinwar and Nasrallah would still be alive if Netanyahu listened to this administration. The ICC has joined the U.N. in showing a clear bias against Israel. This culminated in the ICC seeking arrest warrants of the Prime Minister and other members of his cabinet. The Israelis have been working tirelessly for over a year to rescue hundreds of hostages still held by Hamas and to defend their own people from further attacks. The ICC's actions amount to a little more than a political smear campaign cloaked in a veneer of international law. This pattern of behavior from the ICC is not new. This is the same body that has repeatedly targeted the United States and our servicemembers, attempting to investigate and prosecute Americans who have risked their lives to defend our freedom around the world.

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this critical measure and ensure that the U.S. remains steadfast in defending our allies, protecting our existence, and upholding the tenets that have long defined our leadership on the world stage.

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, we are approaching Christmas and Hanukkah, and Americans all across this country care about this debate. They care about the specifics, but what they won't understand is when you vote ``no'' to continue funding the government to provide the services that they rely on. This is a clean CR. If you don't like it because it doesn't have a whole list of ornaments on the Christmas tree, I am sorry, but the fact is that we are keeping the government funded. By the way, I would remind my Democratic colleagues, we could actually do our appropriations work if my senior Senator from New York passed a single, solitary appropriations bill on the Senate floor. He passed exactly zero. The fact is, we have to keep the government funded. That is our responsibility. The Speaker pro tempore. The time of the gentleman has expired.

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, we have to keep the government funded. Live to fight another day. The fact is that we are not shutting the government down before Christmas. I think everyone here has a responsibility to keep the government open and funded, and it requires a ``yes'' vote on this CR. It requires a ``yes'' vote on disaster relief. It requires a ``yes'' vote on providing our farmers the support that they need to put food on the table for the American people.

Mr. LAWLER

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of John Waldie Gullen, a lifelong Lewisboro resident and World War II veteran who passed away on December 1, less than 3 weeks after friends, family, and neighbors gathered to celebrate his 100th birthday. John Waldie Gullen was born on November 12, 1924. He attended a one- room schoolhouse on Schoolhouse Road and graduated from Katonah High School in 1943. After graduating, he joined the U.S. Army, eventually deploying and fighting in the European theater, where he served as a combat infantryman from 1944 until 1946. He was a proud member of the 70th Infantry Division, known as the Trailblazers, and his heroic actions helped turn back Germany's last offensive operations of the war in northeastern France, earning him the Bronze Star medal. Upon returning home, he married his high school sweetheart, Barbara Miller, with whom he was faithfully married for 72 years. He was the father of two sons, a grandfather of four grandchildren and great- grandfather of five. John Waldie Gullen's life was marked by service on and off the battlefield. He continued to serve in the Army Reserves upon returning home from the European theater of World War II, and he was a member of the South Salem Volunteer Fire Department for 80 years. A successful businessowner and real estate investor, Mr. Gullen helped found the Lewisboro Lions Club in 1958. His service to his country, community, and family spanned decades, and he was an inspiration to the many who knew him. I was proud to be among those blessed to have met him. Mr. Speaker, I ask that when the House adjourns today, it does so in the memory of John Waldie Gullen, a true hero of our Greatest Generation. Honoring the Life of Marie Lorenzini

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to honor the life and legacy of Marie Lorenzini, a beloved leader and devoted public servant from Nyack, New York, whose passing is deeply felt by all who knew her. Marie's service to the village of Nyack spanned decades, including her roles as trustee, deputy mayor, and liaison to the Nyack Parks Commission. In fact, she was the second longest serving trustee in the history of Nyack. Even after leaving the village board, she continued her work as a parks commissioner, leaving an indelible mark on the community she cherished. Known for her quick wit, warm smile, and big heart, Marie dedicated herself to serving others, whether through her commitment to her church, her work with the Nyack Soup Angels, or her unwavering advocacy for her neighbors. Her passion, humor, and friendship enriched the lives of all who had the privilege to know her. Marie was truly one of a kind. While her loss leaves a profound void, her legacy of service and love for her community will live on in Nyack and beyond. May her memory always be a blessing. Honoring the Life of Joseph William Cotter

Mr. LAWLER. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honor the life of Joseph William Cotter, a visionary leader and beloved father who passed away unexpectedly on October 25, 2024, at the age of 66. Joe was a proud father to Lydia and William, a devoted partner to Jane Carroll, and a son of both Purdys and New York City. A graduate of Williams College and NYU Stern School of Business, Joe cofounded National Resources in 1988, transforming urban and industrial sites into thriving communities. His innovative spirit and ability to see potential where others could not defined his life's work. Joe was a man of many passions, an all-England rugby player at King's College, a basketball leader at Oxford, and an eternal optimist with a global perspective. His intellect, wit, and boundless energy brought people together, whether on the field, at home, or in his professional life. Joe's legacy lives on through his family, his transformative projects, and the countless lives he touched with his warmth and vision. May his memory inspire us to dream big and to find joy in every step of the journey. Joe will be missed by all who knew him in our Hudson Valley community that he impacted so greatly for so many years.