Doris Matsui

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the retirement of Colonel Chad W. Caldwell after a distinguished career with the United States Army of Engineers and over 25 years of service to our Nation. Colonel Caldwell most recently served as Commander of the Sacramento District, South Pacific Division. A graduate of West Point, he holds advanced degrees in structural and civil engineering and has served in key command and academic roles both stateside and overseas. Throughout his career, Colonel Caldwell exemplified integrity, discipline, and excellence. He began his service in 1999, first assigned to Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, and went on to hold a variety of leadership positions, including company commander in Iraq and Afghanistan, and as the first commander of the 5th Brigade Engineer Battalion at Fort Carson. His leadership helped strengthen our national defense and bolster critical infrastructure in California and beyond. His influence will be felt for years to come through the projects he led and the soldiers he mentored. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in thanking Colonel Chad W. Caldwell for his years of faithful service and in wishing him and his family all the best in this new chapter of life.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to amend the rule to make in order the amendment at the desk that protects against any cuts to Medicaid and SNAP.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I thank the ranking member for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak in opposition to S.J. Res. 31. Once again, Republicans are gutting our most fundamental pollution regulations. This bill overturns air quality regulations for the most polluting industrial facilities in the country, giving a green light for polluters to pump more cancer-causing pollutants into the air we breathe. Without these safeguards, nearly 2,000 of the Nation's largest polluters would get a free pass. Oil refineries, chemical manufacturers, pesticide producers, they would all be allowed to shut off their pollution controls and start spewing some of the most dangerous chemicals directly into our air: lead, mercury, arsenic, benzene. When inhaled, these pollutants are known to have significant health impacts, including cancer, birth defects, infertility, organ failure, and developmental disorders in children. The science is clear. Pollution kills. Study after study has shown that air pollution is linked to higher rates of hospitalizations and death. Every year, air pollution kills over 100,000 Americans, and nearly half of Americans now live in areas with harmful levels of pollution, up 20 percent from just last year. This is a health crisis in the making. Republicans aren't cutting red tape. They are sentencing thousands of Americans to die in communities across our country. This isn't a partisan issue. This affects everybody. Red States and blue States, Republican and Democrat, every American deserves clean air. Yet, my Republican colleagues would rather prioritize their donors in the oil and chemical business instead of protecting the health of their own constituents. Let's not forget, while Republicans are attacking Americans' access to clean air, they are also ramming through their big, ugly reconciliation bill, which slashes funding for pollution reduction and prevention programs, ends clean energy and climate programs, and strips away healthcare from almost 14 million Americans. The Republicans' agenda will make Americans sicker and poorer, sending more Americans to the hospital, and ensuring fewer Americans can afford the healthcare they need. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote for clean air. Vote ``no'' on S.J. Res. 31.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise to share the impacts of Republicans' big, bad bill. I don't want us to forget that healthcare is a matter of life and death, and the proposed Medicaid cuts are a death sentence for people like Jessica, who lives in my district. Jessica fled an abusive relationship when she was 25. Then she found out she was pregnant. Only through Medicaid, Jessica was able to access prenatal care. Then, late in her pregnancy, her doctor discovered a knotted umbilical cord. She was rushed into surgery. Thankfully, Jessica gave birth to a healthy baby. Without Medicaid, Jessica might not be a mom today. She and her daughter might not have survived. These massive cuts will force hospitals and birthing facilities to close. That means that no one has a safe place to give birth. The result is a tragic domino effect for moms and kids.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Madam Speaker, I rise today to speak in opposition to H.J. Res. 87. Heavy diesel trucks are some of the most polluting vehicles on the road. Even though they make up just 10 percent of all vehicles, heavy- duty vehicles produce more than half of all pollution and smog-forming NOX. The soot and smog pollution from these vehicles kill thousands of Americans every year. For over 50 years, California has had the authority to set its own stronger vehicle emissions rules because California has, to quote the Clean Air Act, ``compelling and extraordinary circumstances'' that justify stronger emissions standards than the Nation as a whole. This was true in 1970, and it is still true today. According to the American Lung Association's 2025 State of the Air report, 5 of the top 10 most polluted cities in America are in California, and that includes my district. I-5 and I-80, which crisscross my district, are both major heavy-duty trucking corridors. The diesel emissions along these corridors create serious air quality issues that directly affect the health and well-being of my constituents. Not only that, these emissions are also a significant contributor to severe weather events. California receives the brunt of climate change's most severe impacts, from wildfires to atmospheric rivers to droughts. In Sacramento, we have faced deadly flooding from more intense winter storms as well as longer and more extreme droughts, and the foothills above Sacramento are still scarred from the many wildfires we have seen in recent years. California's emission standards are a matter of life and death for my constituents. To protect my constituents, I spent much of my career in Congress fighting for stronger emissions standards. I am once again stunned by the hypocrisy of my Republican colleagues, who claim to defend States' rights while they do everything in their power to stop California from setting its own statewide emissions standards. This is even more absurd because the Government Accountability Office, GAO, has already ruled that the EPA waiver for California's emissions standards is not eligible for repeal under the Congressional Review Act. In other words, the legislation we are debating here today is a pointless political exercise, a waste of time because perhaps my colleagues have nothing better to offer today. The President is playing with tariffs, sending the cost of groceries soaring, and kneecapping American manufacturers. My Republican colleagues will maybe stop debating this meaningless resolution and reassert congressional authority over tariffs. They can end the tariffs this week and bring down costs for families. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote ``no'' on H.J. Res. 87.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak in opposition to H.J. Res. 88. It shouldn't be controversial to say that air pollution is dangerous. Every year, particulate-matter pollution kills more than 50,000 Americans. Study after study has linked air pollution to higher rates of cancer, heart disease, diabetes, cognitive decline, and, of course, respiratory conditions. The evidence is overwhelming that clean air saves lives. If my colleagues are like me and grew up in California, then Members know the impacts of air pollution. I remember what it felt like to breathe smog and particulate pollution before we had the strong pollution standards that we have today. In California, we have been dealing with the impacts of air pollution for a long time. California's unique geography, with its valleys, coastal basins, and surrounding mountain ranges, creates natural barriers that trap pollutants and contribute to unique air pollution challenges. As a State, we have long recognized the dangers of air pollution, and we have been a pioneer in addressing the root causes. In fact, California's efforts to control air pollution predate Federal efforts in 1967. In 1967, California was the first State to establish a State air pollution control agency. The country soon followed with the Clean Air Act of 1970, which created the EPA and established the First national air pollution standards. In light of California's unique air pollution challenges and our State's early leadership in tackling air pollution, the Clean Air Act grants California the authority to set its own stronger vehicle emission standards. Over the last 50 years, California has used this authority more than 100 times to update and strengthen our pollution standards, and these actions have actually saved countless lives across California. Yet, this resolution would strip California's rights to manage deadly air pollutants within our own State, stripping away our right to protect ourselves. Why? Why are Republicans trying to degrade California's air quality? It is my constituents, my neighbors, and my fellow Sacramentans who will suffer if Republicans succeed in killing California's emission standards. Mr. Speaker, I ask again: Why are Republicans willing to put the health and safety of our communities at risk? I think the real answer is that California's leadership helps to support automotive innovation. The catalytic converter and electric car are thanks to California's visionary leadership and re-imagining a future without air pollution. Mr. Speaker, the oil industry is afraid of electric vehicles. Once again, Republicans are doing the bidding of oil lobbyists. Once again, the majority is on the wrong side of history, fighting to hold back the future for as long as they can. It is shameful and indefensible. Mr. Speaker, for this reason, I urge my colleagues to vote ``no'' on H.J. Res. 88.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Madam Speaker, I rise today to speak in opposition to H.J. Res. 89, which would nullify California's Low NOX rule. My Republican colleagues will talk about the supposed EV mandate and how California is forcing the rest of the country to drive EVs. This is obviously ridiculous. California's regulations are for California. We aren't forcing anyone else to do anything. It is especially ridiculous to call California's Low NOX rule an EV mandate. The Low NOX rule for heavy-duty trucks does not mandate zero-emission vehicles. It is specifically and narrowly targeted to reduce NOX production which is a primary ingredient in forming smog. Anyone who grew up in California knows the health impacts of smog. Thick clouds used to hang over our city, burning our eyes and lungs. We have come a long way since then, thanks to our State's strong pollution regulations. California cities still take 5 of the top 10 spots for the worst smog pollution. Smog increases the incidence of asthma and other respiratory conditions, especially among children and the elderly. It is linked to a host of other metabolic, cardiovascular, and developmental impacts. These impacts add up. Reducing smog-forming NOX is expected to have health benefits for California, saving approximately $36.8 billion in avoided health costs. That is not just dollars and cents. That is thousands of lives that will be saved if this regulation goes into effect. California has long been a global leader in the fight against air pollution, recognizing early on the serious health risks posed by dirty air. For 50 years, we have worked hard to protect our communities through strong, forward-thinking air pollution regulations. After establishing the first tailpipe emission standards in 1966, California established the first NOX standards in 1971, followed by the first particulate matter standards in 1982. California was also the first State to outfit vehicles with catalytic converters, a decision that transformed efforts to reduce harmful smog-forming emissions from vehicles. The country has benefited greatly from California's leadership, not because California forced the rest of the country to follow suit but rather because the country saw the health benefits that California has enjoyed. None of this would have been possible without California's leadership and California's authority under the Clean Air Act to set our own air pollution standards. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote for clean air and vote ``no'' on H.J. Res. 89.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I thank Representative Dingell for yielding me time, and I thank the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Latta), my friend, for his bipartisan partnership on this important issue. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the NTIA Reauthorization Act. We introduced this bill to ensure America continues to stand as a global leader in communications and technology. The National Telecommunications and Information Administration, or NTIA, plays a vital role in ensuring the United States' strong technological leadership. This Federal agency is integral for getting people connected, ensuring we can communicate in emergencies, and bolstering our cybersecurity infrastructure. Yet, Congress has not reauthorized NTIA in over 30 years. The pace of innovation and demand for connectivity has increased dramatically over the last few years. We need strong leadership and expertise to help us meet this demand. NTIA advises on the rapid deployment of artificial intelligence and manages the efficient uses of our airways. NTIA is also charged with carrying out the bipartisan infrastructure law's historic $65 billion investment to expand affordable and reliable high-speed internet access to communities across America, communities like the Sacramento region where, just 20 minutes outside the city, rural areas still suffer major gaps in broadband coverage. Progress to close the digital divide, however, is currently at a standstill. This critical broadband funding must not be delayed. We cannot risk changes that waste taxpayer dollars and strand Americans with less affordable and more expensive internet. We need NTIA to get back to helping our communities access Federal funding. This includes giving our States the flexibility to move ahead with their plans to expand affordable internet to the tens of millions of Americans who still lack access. While I am glad and very happy to co-lead this bipartisan bill to modernize NTIA's mission in areas like Federal spectrum management and international negotiations, I know there is a lot of work ahead. Today, we must pass this legislation to empower NTIA to keep the United States as the leader of global tech. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote in favor of this legislation.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I thank Representative Dingell for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the FUTURE Networks Act, and I thank Representatives Allen and Walberg for our joint effort in making this a very bipartisan bill. I introduced this bill to ensure America continues our leadership and standard setting in the global technology race. Mr. Speaker, 6G is going to be a global evolution in the way we communicate. If we lead the race for next-generation wireless, then this global technology will be based on our values, democracy, open markets, and transparency. If we fall behind, our foreign adversaries will have a new way to expand their reach. That means less openness, less security, and more top-down control. This risk is real. Already, China is leading in the 6G patent race, filing about 35 percent of patents globally. To stay the global leader, America must invest in innovation and convene our best and brightest to map the road ahead. This is increasingly true as artificial intelligence redefines our society and drives rapid change, including in our communications infrastructure. Mr. Speaker, 6G networks will leverage AI to meet the connectivity demand of American consumers and businesses. Mr. Speaker, 6G also can support smart cities and supercharge augmented reality applications for education, healthcare, and manufacturing. Given such transformative potential, we must be proactive and make sure America sets the gold standard for this next-generation technology. That is why I am so glad to see this bipartisan bill moving forward today. The FUTURE Networks Act ensures our brightest minds in industry, government, and academia are collaborating on the strategically vital development of 6G. The race to 6G is not just about faster phones; it is about national security, the economy, and America's standing on the world stage. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote in favor of suspending the rules and passing this important legislation.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and honor Colonel Mark C. Johnson for his exemplary and distinguished 30 years of service to our Nation. A native of Sacramento, California, Colonel Johnson has represented the great state of California and the city of Sacramento with honor, dedication, and distinction throughout his remarkable military career. Colonel Johnson is a graduate of the United States Military Academy, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Systems Engineering and commissioned as an Aviation Officer. He also holds advanced degrees in National Security from the United States Naval War College and the United States Army War College. Throughout his career, Colonel Johnson has served with unparalleled distinction in a variety of command and staff positions, demonstrating his expertise and leadership across the Joint, interagency, and special operations communities. His command assignments include leading the 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division; the 3rd Battalion, 158th Aviation Regiment (Assault); B Company, 3rd Battalion, 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne); and B Company, 1st Battalion, 10th Aviation Regiment (Assault). Colonel Johnson's staff assignments are equally impressive, including serving as Chief of Staff for the Office of the Chief, Legislative Liaison; Director of Aviation for U.S. Army Forces Command; and as a Strategic Planner for U.S. Special Operations Command, among many others. Colonel Johnson has deployed in support of numerous national security and civil support operations, including Operation Joint Endeavour, Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, Operation Atlantic Resolve, Operation Inherent Resolve, and Operation Freedom's Sentinel, His leadership extended to critical domestic operations, where he commanded aviation task forces supporting Defense Support to Civil Authorities for Hurricanes Florence and Michael, as well as southwest border security operations. For his service, Colonel Johnson has received numerous awards and decorations, including the Legion of Merit (2), Bronze Star (2), Defense Meritorious Service Medal (2), Meritorious Service Medal (5), Air Medal (3), and others. He also earned the Combat Action Badge, Master Aviator Badge, Master Parachutist Badge, Air Assault Badge, and the Army Staff Identification Badge. As a testament to his skill, he holds qualification ratings in the OH-58, UH-60, MH-60, CH-47, and MH- 47 helicopters. Mr. Speaker, I thank Colonel Johnson for his selfless dedication, unwavering leadership, and steadfast commitment to our country. As he concludes his 30 years of honorable service, I extend my deepest gratitude to him, his wife, Becky, and their children, Jake and Sarah, for their sacrifices and contributions to the strength and security of our Nation. I wish them all the best as they embark on the next chapter of their lives, and I know that Colonel Johnson will continue to be an inspiration and source of pride for California, Sacramento, and our entire Nation.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of my bill, H.R. 8946, the Reversionary Interest Conveyance Act. This bill provides a technical correction that will help unlock the innovative potential of Sacramento. It provides the BLM with the clear authority to convey 8\1/2\ acres of former railroad right-of-way in Sacramento. This will allow the city of Sacramento, Sacramento State University, and their partners to continue moving forward on the Sacramento Center for Innovation, a research park that will allow Sacramento to retain and grow the level of talent the region needs to attract investment and business. We support our innovators, our educators, and our businesses because we know that these economic drivers don't just support job and community growth today, they sustain them for generations. Because of this, I really support this bill. It is something that is very, very needed. I thank the chair and ranking member for their support of this bill. I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, today, I recognize International Plasma Awareness Week (IPAW) from October 7-11 and celebrate the three million plasma donors whose gift saves the lives of more than 120,000 Americans with rare diseases. Plasma protein therapies, including recombinant analogs and plasma-derived therapies, increase life expectancy, improve quality of life, and reduce life-threatening complications for people living with rare, life-threatening, chronic, and genetic diseases. Plasma--the straw-colored, liquid portion of blood--contains proteins necessary for carrying out critical functions in the human body. For example, immunoglobulins also known as antibodies defend your body from infections and fight disease, and clotting factors regulate bleeding. If a person has insufficient levels of any one plasma protein, their body cannot carry out these vital functions, causing a variety of chronic and life-threatening medical conditions. Many people living with rare, life-threatening, chronic, and genetic diseases, like primary immunodeficiency, neurological disorders, hereditary angioedema, pulmonary disorders, bleeding disorders, and infectious diseases such as tetanus, hepatitis, and rabies, rely on plasma-derived treatments. Unlike traditional pharmaceuticals, plasma protein therapies cannot be synthesized in a laboratory. Plasma and its lifesaving proteins can only be obtained via human plasma from a donor. As the co-chair of the Congressional Rare Disease Caucus, I understand how critical plasma donors and donation centers are in saving the lives of hundreds of thousands of Americans with rare diseases. This is why in 2020, I introduced the Continuing Access to In-Home IVIG Act which extends and expands access to Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG) treatment administered in the home for Medicare patients with primary immunodeficiency diseases. This was subsequently included in the 2021 government funding package and enacted into law. More recently, I introduced the PI Post Acute Access Act, which would expand IVIG treatment access to Medicare beneficiaries with primary immunodeficiencies living in skilled nursing facilities. Without plasma donors who make more than 47 million plasma donations annually at over 1,100 International Quality Plasma Program (IQPP) certified plasma collection centers, countless patients would be unable to access these lifesaving therapies. That's why International Plasma Awareness Week is held annually each October to raise global awareness about source plasma collection, recognize the valued contributions of donors, and increase understanding about plasma protein therapies and the rare diseases they treat. I invite my colleagues to join me in celebrating International Plasma Awareness Week (IPAW) and recognizing plasma donors and donation centers for their heroic and lifesaving contributions.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I thank the ranking member for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 1513, the FUTURE Networks Act. To maintain U.S. leadership in wireless communication, we need to be proactive in our preparations for the next generation of networks. This bill would direct the Federal Communications Commission to bring together industry leaders, public interest groups, and government experts to establish a 6G task force. 6G is going to be a global evolution in the way we communicate--not only for people, but for devices, factories, infrastructure, and more. It will be a global network of networks, handling information from nearly every sector of our economy. The race to 6G isn't just about faster phones. It is about national security, the economy, and America's standing on the international stage. If we lead, this global technology will be based on our values: democracy, open markets, and transparency. If we fall behind, America's foreign adversaries will have a new venue to expand their reach. This means less openness and more top-down control. That is why I am so glad to see this bipartisan bill moving forward today. It will ensure our brightest minds in industry, government, and academia are advising the U.S. on the strategically vital development of 6G. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote in favor of suspending the rules and passing this legislation.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Chair, I was unable to be physically present for all votes today. Had I been present, I would have voted: NAY on Roll Call No. 297, NAY on Roll Call No. 298, NAY on Roll Call No. 299, NAY on Roll Call No. 300, NAY on Roll Call No. 301, NAY on Roll Call No. 302, NAY on Roll Call No. 303, NAY on Roll Call No. 304, NAY on Roll Call No. 305, NAY on Roll Call No. 306, NAY on Roll Call No. 307, NAY on Roll Call No. 308, NAY on Roll Call No. 309, NAY on Roll Call No. 310, NAY on Roll Call No. 311, NAY on Roll Call No. 312, NAY on Roll Call No. 313, NAY on Roll Call No. 314, NAY on Roll Call No. 315, NAY on Roll Call No. 316 and NAY on Roll Call No. 317. Amendment No. 62 Offered by Mr. Steube

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I was unable to be physically present for all votes on May 8th. Had I been present, I would have voted: YEA on Roll Call No. 194, and YEA on Roll Call No. 195.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to Join the Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce in recognition of the 2023 Al Geiger Memorial Award Honoree, West Sacramento City Council Member Quirina Orozco, for her ongoing exemplary public service to the Sacramento region. Council Member Orozco is an excellent leader in our community who demonstrates that the Sacramento region's approach to everything from economic development, innovation, community outreach, and advocacy can and should be a model for the rest of the country. Council Member Orozco's commitment to public service illustrates the very reason why I love my congressional district. Our leaders have always sought to innovate, to push the envelope, and--most importantly--to deliver for out constituents. Even before her time in elected office, Council Member Orozco had demonstrated a commitment to public service, serving in the White House while crafting federal education policy and later as an advisor to then Lt. Governor Cruz Bustamante on tribal community and veteran issues. To this day, Council Member Orozco continues her service to the public as a prosecutor for the Sacramento County District Attorney's Office, with a focus on sexual assault and child abuse cases. Council Member Orozco's commitment to our community has been an ongoing facet of her life--a commitment that the West Sacramento community is both grateful for and counting on. As a member of the West Sacramento City Council, Council Member Orozco has continued to champion the West Sacramento chapter of the Downtown Streets Team to create opportunities for unhoused individuals who are seeking to break out of the cycle of recurring systemic trauma and incarceration. Council Member Orozco's support was critical for the West Sacramento Home Run program, which provides community members with access to high-quality early learning for young children, college savings accounts, and internships. Council Member Orozco's service continues to demonstrate how diligent and focused advocacy can create real change in our communities. Mr. Speaker, today we honor West Sacramento City Council Member Quirina Orozco for her extraordinary service to the City of West Sacramento and the Greater Sacramento Region for many more years to come.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 30th anniversary of the Women's Cardiovascular Medicine Program at the University of California, Davis, and to acknowledge National Red Dress Day, which seeks to raise awareness about heart disease being a leading cause of death for women in America. Established in 1994, the UC Davis Women's Cardiovascular Medicine program and clinic was the nation's first program dedicated to women's cardiovascular health. Since then, the program has continued to lead the industry in cardiovascular care in the Sacramento region, providing personalized, equitable, and women-centered care to tackle cardiac conditions unique to women. The remarkable clinical team offers a comprehensive and preventative range of care options that include, but are not limited to, dietary counseling, cardiac rehabilitation, and risk factor analysis, diagnosis, and treatment. In addition to the program's clinic providing care to women with cardiovascular conditions, it also trains the next generation of healthcare workers. Students are given the opportunity to directly engage with women with heart disease through resident rotations and the opportunity to shadow leading experts in women's heart care. The UC Davis Women's Cardiovascular program is a great representation of how the Sacramento community leads the nation on some of the most critical issues of our time. Some of this program's many feats include collaborating with the California Department of Public Health to draft California's Master Plan for Stroke Prevention, now designated as a model women's heart program by the United States Department of Health and Human Services. Mr. Speaker, today we honor the Women's Cardiovascular Medicine Program at UC Davis Health for 30 years of excellence in women's heart care and education.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise to express my opposition to H.R. 4468, the Choice in Automobile Retail Sales Act of 2023, which would prevent the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from finalizing the proposed rule titled ``Multi-Pollutant Emissions Standards for Model Years 2027 and Later Light-Duty and Medium-Duty Vehicles'' and further prohibit EPA from prescribing any regulations for new motor vehicles that would directly or indirectly result in the limited availability of new vehicles powered by any given engine technology. EPA's vehicle emissions standards save lives. By 2030, these standards are projected to prevent 40,000 premature deaths and 34,000 hospital visits annually. However, H.R. 4468 would force Americans to breathe dirty, polluted air, needlessly putting tens of thousands of lives at risk. This bill would lock in dirty, fossil-fuel-burning vehicles for the foreseeable future, at a time when the American people are already experiencing the deadly effects of climate change. More fossil fuel cars mean more frequent and intense floods, stronger hurricanes, more dangerous wildfires, and more extreme heatwaves. Simply put, we are out of time. We must reduce climate pollution now. California has long been a global leader in the fight against air pollution. We established the first vehicle emissions standards and the first greenhouse gas standards in the country because we know that strong air quality standards mean healthier communities and a livable climate. I am a proud Californian and a proud champion of strong vehicle emissions standards. In July of 2023, I led 94 of my colleagues in a letter urging EPA to finalize the strongest feasible emissions standards for new light- and medium-duty vehicles, which would cut harmful emissions from passenger cars and pick-up trucks by more than 50 percent between 2026 and 2032. H.R. 4468, however, would not only prevent EPA from implementing the proposed light- and medium-duty vehicle emissions rule--it would gut EPA's authority to regulate vehicle pollution altogether. It is disgraceful. We are faced with a choice between new zero-pollution technologies or doubling down on dirty fossil fuels. The choice is clear. I strongly oppose H.R. 4468, and I urge my colleagues to oppose this dangerous legislation.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I was unable to be physically present for votes today. Had I been present, I would have voted ``yea'' on rollcall No. 698, ``nay'' on rollcall No. 699, ``yea'' on rollcall No. 700, ``nay'' on rollcall No. 701, ``yea'' on rollcall No. 702, ``nay'' on rollcall No. 703, and ``yea'' on rollcall No. 704.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and support International Plasma Awareness Week (IPAW), October 2-6, both in the United States and around the world. Patients across the globe rely on medicines made from donated human plasma to lead productive, healthy lives. The need for plasma donation is ongoing--plasma is the starting ingredient for numerous lifesaving therapies to treat individuals living with rare diseases. This week, patients, plasma donors, and plasma donation centers will join together to raise global awareness of the crucial need for plasma, recognize the contributions of plasma donors, and call attention to the many rare diseases treated with plasma protein therapies. Donors and patients alike will observe IPAW through a range of events seeking to enhance awareness of plasma-derived therapies and recombinant analogs, collectively known as plasma protein therapies. These are unique biologic medicines that are either infused or injected to treat a variety of rare, life-threatening, chronic, and genetic diseases. This includes bleeding disorders, hereditary angioedema, immune deficiencies, pulmonary disorders, neurological disorders, and infectious diseases such as tetanus, hepatitis, and rabies. Plasma protein therapies have significantly improved the quality of life, markedly improved patient outcomes, and extended the life expectancy of patients across the country. Healthy, committed donors provide the human plasma essential to manufacture these lifesaving therapies. There are now over 1,100 plasma collection centers in the U.S. that have demonstrated their commitment to donor safety and quality by earning International Quality Plasma Program (IQPP) certification. As the co-chair of the Rare Disease Congressional Caucus. I understand that hundreds of thousands of Americans with rare diseases rely on plasma protein therapies that are only available because of the commitment of dedicated plasma donors. For example, Americans living with primary immunodeficiencies (PI) require intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) treatments derived from plasma donors. Without timely care, even the most common infections can present the risk of serious illness or death for these patients. That is why I introduced the PI Post Acute Access Act, which would expand access to IVIG treatment for Medicare beneficiaries with PI in skilled nursing facilities. I have long advocated to ensure access to IVIG treatments, and I will continue to fight to ensure all Americans, including rare disease patients, have access to the innovative treatments they need. I ask that my colleagues in the House of Representatives join me and rise in commemoration of International Plasma Awareness Week, honoring those committed donors and donation centers that make and collect needed and lifesaving contributions.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak in opposition to H.R. 1435. California has long been a global leader in the fight against air pollution. Whether it is greenhouse gases, smog, or other harmful pollutants, California has often been the first State to protect our citizens from the terrible health impacts of dirty air. You get a lot of criticism when you are a leader, and Californians are no strangers to criticism. Time and again, that criticism fades as the rest of the country, and often other countries, see the benefits of California's emissions policies. In 1966, California established the first tailpipe emissions standard in the Nation. The country soon followed with the Clean Air Act of 1970, which created the EPA, and established the first national air pollution standards. The Clean Air Act also recognized California's leadership by explicitly affirming California's authority to set more stringent emission standards. Thanks to that authority, California continued to lead the fight against air pollution and adopted the first NOX standards and the first particulate matter standards for motor vehicles. In 2004, California adopted the first greenhouse gas pollution standards for vehicles. The EPA followed in 2010 with the first national standards for greenhouse gas pollution from vehicles. Now, the impacts of climate change, caused by fossil fuel pollution, are becoming more numerous and deadlier. More frequent and more intense floods, hurricanes, wildfires, and heat waves threaten to make our communities unlivable. This bill, however, enshrines the internal combustion engine in the Clean Air Act. We are leading the Nation with cutting-edge vehicle emission standards that will reduce greenhouse gas pollutants and lead the world in the fight against climate change. This bill is a love letter to Big Oil, legally mandating that Americans think first of the internal combustion engine before considering air quality or public health. We have a chance to stop climate change before it is too late, but this bill would keep dirty gas and diesel cars on the road forever, dooming our children to face the worst impacts of climate change. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote ``no'' on H.R. 1435.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, it is with profound sadness that I rise to honor the life and service of my former intern, Mari Tisera, who passed away on June 6, 2023, at the age of 20. Mari's legacy will be remembered through her passion and dedication for helping marginalized and underserved communities and her kindness to all those she knew. Mari Tisera was born on July 29, 2002, into a family that emigrated from Argentina to the United States 2 years earlier. Mari's family moved to the United States in order to provide Mari and her 3 older brothers better opportunities and a stronger future. Raised in Front Royal, Virginia, Mari was a standout student at Wakefield Country Day School in Huntly, Virginia, where she excelled in a variety of academic subjects, served her community, and was a fierce athlete. Some of Mari's many accomplishments include being chosen by all the coaches in her volleyball league for the Delany Athletic Conference All-Conference Team and working hard as a leader in student government. A first- generation Argentinian American, Mari enjoyed volunteering at a local elementary school as a Spanish to English translator for summer school students who were learning English as a second language. Mari attended George Mason University, where she studied Spanish and Government and was a sweetheart for Zeta Psi, a position that she was very proud of because of the love and goodness that she was contributing to the fraternity. She dreamed of being a lawyer and had always been passionate about the ethics of law and government. Mari's dedication to serving all communities and for standing up for what is right continued in college. She organized marches for women's, LGBTQ, and Black rights, and continually fought for the rights of the unhoused. It was wonderful having Mari serve in my Capitol Hill office at the end of 2021 and the beginning of 2022. She worked hard, was eager to learn, and served my constituents and all visitors with kindness and warmth. I know that Mari has said that all of us in the office had a positive impact on her, but she also had a positive impact on all of us who worked with her that we will never forget. Mari wanted to come back and work in our office after she graduated, and it would have been an honor to have her back on our team. Mr. Speaker, today we honor Mari Tisera and the many hearts that she has touched as a daughter, sister, aunt, friend, leader, and advocate. Her vibrant spirit, enduring determination, and genuine kindness should serve as an example to all of us of what it means to be a good person in this world.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honor of Superintendent Chris Evans of the Natomas Unified School District Board of Trustees. With over 30 years of dedication to academia and consistent investment to close the achievement gap, Mr. Evans' contribution to Sacramento is indelible. Mr. Evans has been in public education since his graduation from Sacramento State University in 1993. He spent years as a social studies teacher, coach, and an athletic director before his work in administration. As principal of Valley High School where he was recognized as leading one of Newsweek's Best High Schools in America, Mr. Evans soon became the Assistant Superintendent of the Fresno Unified School District--the fourth largest district in California, During Mr. Evans' twelve-year contribution with Natomas Unified School District, he has transitioned students to virtual learning during the COVID-19 pandemic and maneuvered a rising student population of over 5000 since his initiation. With IB programs available for students in grades TK-12, Natomas Unified is mauiculating passionate learners that are built for intercultural awareness and respect for all. I recognize Mr. Evans' commendable diligence through the expansion of the Career Technical Programs, increasing high school graduation rates, and student acceptances to Universjty of California schools and California State University schools. The Natomas Unified School District has been integral for Mr. Evans' collaboration and perseverance to growing independent learners and instilling a comprehensive and engaging curriculum. Mr. Speaker, today we celebrate the retirement of Chris Evans, for enriching the Sacramento Area with academic success in the public sector. We wish Mr. Evans prosperity as a founder for Action-Oriented Leaders and look forward to witnessing his future successes as a torchbearer in the Sacramento Area. I thank all those involved with supporting our youth with the tools they deserve to thrive in life. Mr. Evans' investment in our community and public service is not unnoticed.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize my good friend, Dr. Herbert Kik Ming Yee, for being honored posthumously with the dedication of the Chinese Railroad Workers' Experience exhibit by the California State Railroad Museum. This underscores the positive impact he has made in California and the Nation. A descendant of Gold Rush pioneers, Herbert was born in Toishan, in the Guangdong Province of China in 1924. At age 6, he immigrated to the United States on the SS President Cleveland through Angel Island. In 1943 while attending Stanford University, he met the love of his life, Inez Fong, and together raised 4 sons, who all entered the dental and medical profession. In 1948, Herbert graduated from the College of Physicians and Surgeons in San Francisco as a dental surgeon. He spent over half a century in the dental profession, including as the dentist for California Governors Pat Brown and Ronald Reagan, who both appointed him to the California State Board of Dental Examiners. A man for all seasons, Herbert's influence spanned numerous fields. In dentistry, he served as the head of the California State Board of Dental Examiners, the American Dental Association Council on Dental Education, and the International College of Dentists (ICD). In banking, he served as Chairman of the Board of Sacramento Valley Bank and on other boards. In education, he served as a Regent of the University of the Pacific (UOP). In civic and veteran organizations, he served as the leader of the Sacramento American Cancer Society, Sacramento Pioneer Association, and the Sacramento Chinese Benevolent Association. In government, he had enduring friendships with California Secretary of State March Fong Eu, United States Senator Hiram Fong, and President Ronald Reagan. A philanthropist and committed community member, Herbert has funded numerous major projects across the Sacramento region. At the UOP School of Dentistry, he endowed a scholarship. Through the Herbert K. Yee and Inez F. Yee Foundation, he sent gifts to the Asian Community Center, California Museum, and the California State Railroad Museum Foundation, among others. He also built a school, cultural center, and library near his village in Toishan. Recognized with distinction, Herbert has been inducted into the California School Board Foundation Hall of Fame, named the California Dental Association's Humanitarian of the Year, received the President's Volunteer Service Award, and received the Congressional Gold Medal, the nation's highest civilian award. A trailblazer with an extraordinary life, he paved the way for future generations and exemplified the American dream. On behalf of the constituents of California's Seventh Congressional District, I would like to congratulate Dr. Herbert K. Yee and his family for its generations of service to the people of California.

Ms. MATSUI

Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate GeminiBio's Reed Facility Grand Opening. I ask my colleagues to rise and join me in celebration of this new facility. Gemini Bio-Products LLC is an FDA- registered provider of biological products and chemical reagents to the global cell culture community. Founded in 1985, GeminiBio serves the global biotechnology industry, from basic research to commercial production, with a focus on helping customers accelerate the development of life enhancing biotherapeutics by streamlining and improving their cell culture and process liquid manufacturing workflows. The company's products are organized into two core verticals--Cell Culture Solutions and Process Liquid Solutions. Located in West Sacramento, California, GeminiBio has invested in three distinct expansion projects starting in 2019 and now has 57,000 square feet of cGMP manufacturing space segregated between animal origin-free and animal component manufacturing. In Q1 of 2023, GeminiBio finished its 25,000 square foot cGMP facility that is dedicated to upstream and downstream media and buffer manufacturing. In May of 2023, GeminiBio opened their new 32,000 square foot fully validated cGMP facility--warehouse and manufacturing space. GeminiBio is an ISO 13485 certified, FDA registered Class 1 Medical Device Manufacturer, aligned with 21 CFR Part 820. Throughout its growth, GeminiBio has maintained the personalized service on which its reputation was built. GeminiBio is committed to manufacturing and providing customers with products that consistently' meet or exceed all industry and regulatory requirements or expectations. Mr. Speaker, today I am proud to continue to advocate for Greater Sacramento region's growing biotech and cell and gene therapy industries and we celebrate the Grand Opening of GeminiBio's Reed Ave. Facility. I thank all those involved for investing in our community.