Mariannette Miller-Meeks

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I thank Chair Bilirakis for yielding. I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 1721, the Critical Infrastructure Manufacturing Feasibility Act. This bipartisan legislation that I co-lead with Representative Schrier directs the Secretary of Commerce to conduct a comprehensive study examining the feasibility of manufacturing critical infrastructure products here in the United States. At a time when we have a President who is going to make good on the promise to onshore manufacturing and have a resurgence of manufacturing in the United States, there is nothing more important we can do than to reauthorize the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and pass H.R. 1721. The challenges we face regarding our supply chains and manufacturing capabilities have been brought into sharp focus in recent years. We cannot continue to allow foreign competitors, particularly China and the Chinese Communist Party, to control our supply chains and create economic vulnerabilities. Consider our infrastructure and emerging technologies. We have seen how foreign control of critical minerals needed for solar panels and battery production has created bottlenecks in our renewable energy transition and also in the manufacturing of vehicles. Similarly, the components required for data centers that power our artificial intelligence, or augmented intelligence capabilities, are largely manufactured overseas, creating significant vulnerabilities in these strategically important sectors. These examples demonstrate with painful clarity that our Nation's critical infrastructure, spanning 16 designated sectors including energy, communications, transportation, healthcare, military, and more, cannot be dependent on foreign supply chains. This bill takes a measured, data-driven approach to addressing these vulnerabilities. Within one 1 year of enactment, the Secretary of Commerce would be required to identify high-demand critical infrastructure with manufacturing constraints, do a cost-benefit analysis of domestic production, and determine the feasibility of such production. By supporting this bill, we are taking an important step toward rebuilding American manufacturing capability in strategic sectors. We are creating a roadmap for revitalizing rural communities that have been sidelined for far too long while critical infrastructure components are manufactured overseas. This legislation not only shields America from global supply chain disruptions but also identifies which rural areas are well positioned to become manufacturing hubs. The strength of our Nation is enhanced when the materials used in our critical infrastructure and the products Americans purchase are produced domestically and American made. When manufacturing happens on American soil, we retain the innovation, the intellectual property, the economic benefits, and the long-term prosperity that comes with it in rebuilding the middle class. I urge my colleagues to support this commonsense, bipartisan measure to strengthen America's critical infrastructure, create opportunities for American workers, and enhance our economic security.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the commissioning of the USS Iowa, the Navy's newest Virginia-class, nuclear-powered, fast-attack submarine. I had the honor this weekend to attend the ceremony at Naval Submarine Base New London, alongside Governor Kim Reynolds, veterans, and the families of over 140 crew members. It was a powerful moment marking the beginning of a new era. The USS Iowa is the third naval vessel to bear that name following a battleship that served with distinction in World War II, both in the Atlantic and the Pacific, in the Korean war and in the Gulf. That proud legacy now continues beneath the sea. The legacy of the Gray Ghost and the new USS Iowa nuclear-class submarine begins its mission. A new legend for the USS Iowa began on Saturday. It is indefatigable. It is undeterred. It is undetected, and it is unstoppable. To the crew, I thank them for their service and remember to be Iowa nice to one another. To all those who may cross her path and our adversaries, fear the Ghost.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to wish my firstborn child, Jonathon, of whom I am an incredibly proud mom, a very happy birthday. Happy birthday, Son. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to wish my amazing nephew Joseph Martino a happy 18th birthday. Happy birthday, Joseph. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to wish my incredibly talented nephew Matthew Martino a wonderful 18th birthday. Happy birthday, Matthew. Mr. Speaker, I think that is enough birthdays.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the SAVE Act because American elections should only be decided by American citizens. That is not controversial. It is common sense. Think about it. Democrats have no problem requiring ID to board a plane, buy a six-pack, drive a car, or even adopt a pet. Just a few years ago, they demanded proof of vaccination just to eat at a restaurant or pick up food. When it comes to the most sacred act in our Republic, voting, they fight tooth and nail against requiring proof of citizenship. Why? It is blatant hypocrisy, and the American people see right through it. The SAVE Act ensures that only American citizens can register to vote and vote in Federal elections. It protects the integrity of our system and restores faith in democracy. In fact, in Iowa, every single time we have passed election integrity laws, the percentage of people voting has increased. With President Trump back in the White House, it is time to secure our elections and put American citizens first. Let's pass the SAVE Act now. Supporting the Congressional Agricultural Trade Caucus

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, today I am happy to announce that I have officially joined the bipartisan Congressional Agricultural Trade Caucus. The State of Iowa leads the Nation in corn, pork, and soybean production. Expanding access to international markets is essential for our rural communities to succeed. In the past, bad trade deals and overregulations from Washington have held our producers back. By joining the Agricultural Trade Caucus, alongside Representatives Adrian Smith, Jim Costa, Dusty Johnson, and Jimmy Panetta, I will continue to fight to remove unfair trade barriers, open new markets for Iowa products, and promote policies that keep our local family farms strong and competitive. Yesterday, when Secretary Rollins was in our State of Iowa, she remarked upon our productive farmers and ranchers and added she will be going on six trade trips internationally over the next 6 months. For Iowans, agriculture isn't just a way of life. It is the backbone of our economy, and I am deeply committed to supporting Iowa's hardworking farmers and producers.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service of Alvin ``Al'' Van Zee, a devoted veteran and public servant from Pella, Iowa. As the longest serving commissioner on the Marion County Commission of Veterans Affairs, Al dedicated more than 20 years to ensuring Iowa's veterans received care, support, and the recognition they deserved. A proud veteran himself, Al's service didn't end when he left the military. Through his work on the commission and his involvement on the Van Veen-Van Hemert American Legion Post No. 89, he was a tireless advocate for those who wore our Nation's uniform. His wisdom, compassion, and unwavering commitment left a lasting impact on his community. Al's legacy is one of service, honor, and deep devotion to both our country and to those who serve our country. May his family and loved ones find comfort in knowing his impact will endure for generations. We are grateful for his life, his service, and his unwavering dedication. Rest in peace, Al.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today after 5 minutes of fiction to bring a little Iowa reality to Washington, D.C. Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate Stephen Buchanan, who secured the 197-pound national wrestling title at the NCAA championships in Philadelphia. His victory was witnessed by President Donald Trump, highlighting the significance of this achievement. Stephen's journey is one of transformation. Transferring to Iowa for his final season, he found not just a team but a family. Under the guidance of Coaches Tom and Terry Brands, Stephen's passion for wrestling was reignited, propelling him to become a four-time all- American and now a national champion. Stephen's triumph not only adds to Iowa's storied wrestling legacy but also serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes nationwide. Stephen Buchanan exemplifies the power of dedication, resilience, and a community support system. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Stephen on this well-deserved honor. His achievement made the Hawkeye Nation proud. Honoring 100 Great Iowa Nurses

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor 33 outstanding nurses from Iowa's First Congressional District who have been named among the 2025 100 Great Iowa Nurses. These dedicated professionals are at the heart and soul of our healthcare system, showing up every day with compassion, strength, and an unwavering commitment to their patients. As a former nurse, I understand the immense challenges they face and the dedication required to provide exceptional care. I am incredibly proud to see so many from our district recognized for their hard work, sacrifice, and service. Mr. Speaker, I thank the nurses being honored today and all of those across Iowa for their tireless efforts to make our communities healthier, stronger, and better places for everyone. Their work truly makes a lasting difference. Honoring the Life and Legacy of Glen Keppy

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of a great Iowan, Glen Keppy. A lifelong resident of Eldridge, Glen dedicated his life to family, farming, and his community. His passion for agriculture was unmatched. Whether raising award-winning livestock, advocating for Iowa pork producers, or mentoring the next generation of farmers, Glen's impact stretched far beyond the fields. Glen served his neighbors through organizations like the North Scott Rotary, Farm Bureau, and 4-H, always leading with integrity and kindness. I saw this firsthand at his visitation last Thursday when there were more people there than I have ever seen at a visitation in my lifetime. Glen's leadership in agriculture took him all the way here to Washington, D.C., where he served as a political appointee in the George W. Bush administration, working on behalf of rural America. Yet, no matter how far his work took him, his heart remained in Iowa, where he welcomed thousands of students to his farm to share his story of agriculture. Glen's legacy is one of hard work, service, and an unwavering love for his family. Mr. Speaker, may his wife, Jean, and their children and grandchildren find comfort in knowing his spirit lives on in the land he nurtured and in the lives he touched. God bless Glen Kempy. Mr. Speaker, I wish a happy birthday to my brother Fred. Happy birthday, Fred. I also wish my amazing daughter, Taylor, a very happy birthday. Happy birthday, Taylor.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of a dear friend and a former Iowa State Representative, James Fredrick Hahn. James was a public servant who dedicated his life to bettering his community and the State of Iowa. James was a true Iowan. He was a farmer in Muscatine County. He was hardworking, principled, honorable, and had impeccable integrity in the likes of John Wayne. Throughout his time in the Iowa Legislature, James fought for the values that make our rural State great. He was a champion for rural communities, farmers, and agriculture, and supported policies that put Iowans first. His leadership and integrity left a lasting impression and impact on Iowans, and his legacy will never be forgotten. Beyond his service in office, James was a family man and a friend to many. His kindness, wisdom, and dedication to serving Iowa will be remembered by all. Mr. Speaker, my prayers are with his family, friends, and everyone mourning his passing. May we honor his memory by continuing to serve with the same commitment and passion that he did. Recognizing Will Ryan

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding young Iowan, Will Ryan, for his nomination for the Big Ten's prestigious Jackie Robinson Community Service and Impact Award. Will is not only a standout junior on the University of Iowa's track and field and cross-country teams, but he is also a community leader. Will's commitment to giving back started early by volunteering to feed the homeless as a middle schooler. That spirit of service has not only grown but has continued. Today, when he is not setting records on the track, he is dedicating his time to the University of Iowa's Stead Family Children's Hospital. His connection to Stead is personal. Having spent a week there in high school, he saw firsthand the incredible care and support that the hospital provides. This experience inspired him to give back, ensuring that other children received the same comfort and encouragement that he once did. Will embodies what it truly means to be a Hawkeye. Will is determined, compassionate, and committed to making a difference. Mr. Speaker, I am proud of the leader he has become, and I can't think of anyone more deserving of this honor. I congratulate Will on receiving this award. Congratulating Fred Miller on His Birthday

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I wish my brother, Fred, a very happy birthday. Happy birthday to Fred.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend President Donald Trump for the executive actions he has taken to secure our southern border. Thanks to his leadership, illegal crossings have dropped to the lowest level we have seen in decades. Our communities have suffered for too long under Joe Biden's failed open-border policies. Crime has surged, fentanyl has poured in, and American jobs have been undermined. Biden's refusal to enforce our immigration laws created a national security crisis, but now with President Trump back in office, we are witnessing the power of real enforcement. His executive actions are restoring order, protecting American families, and putting our country first. Biden let chaos reign while Trump is bringing security back to our borders. We must never allow radical left policies to threaten our Nation's safety again. America deserves a leader who enforces the law, defends our borders, and stands up for its citizens, and that leader is Donald Trump. Republicans Stand Up for Women and Girls

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I should be standing here today celebrating the Senate's passage of the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act, a bill that simply ensures fairness and common sense in athletics. Instead, Senate Democrats made their priorities clear. Mr. Speaker, 45 Senate Democrats voted against protecting women's sports, 45 Senate Democrats voted against keeping women's spaces safe, and 45 Democrats voted against protecting women. Despite the fact that 80 percent of Americans agree that men do not belong in women's sports, Senate Democrats still chose to ignore reality and put our daughters at risk. This isn't about politics. This is about fairness, safety, and protecting the integrity of women's sports. This is about a level playing field. If it wasn't obvious before, now it is. Republicans are the party that stands for women. We are the party that defends their right to compete on a level playing field, and while Democrats try to erase the very definition of womanhood, we will never back down. They can slow us down, but they will not stop us. We will keep fighting until every woman and girl in this country has the protections they deserve. America's daughters deserve better than what Senate Democrats did last night.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the late Dave Heaton, a beloved Iowan, whose passing on February 12 at age 84 has left his wife Carmen; daughter, Mary Elizabeth; the city of Mount Pleasant; and Iowa in mourning. Dave graduated from Iowa Wesleyan College in Mount Pleasant, and he enlisted in the U.S. Army Reserve and served with an engineering battalion in Washington, Iowa. He taught social studies and government at Van Buren High School, and he also was an assistant coach for the girls' basketball team and a defensive coach for the football team. Before public service, Dave and his wife, Carmen, ran the Iris Restaurant for 42 years, and Dave's family in Sigourney, Iowa, ran restaurants as well. The Iris Restaurant was a community hub where he carved roast beef and listened to everyone who entered. Known as the best boss, he made it into southeast Iowa's finest dining spot. For 24 years, Dave served in the Iowa House of Representatives, where his pragmatic compassion shaped mental health, human services, and education policy. As chair of the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee, he turned conviction into progress. His reach extended to education, working with school boards, and inspiring leaders like Jesse Howard. Healthcare in general, but also mental health, were his focus, and later in life he served on the board of directors of the National Alliance of Mental Illness. He was a giant of a man: mentor, friend and neighbor. Always humble and always selfless, Dave Heaton's legacy of dedication, kindness, and service defines what public life should be. Iowa stands stronger because of him. Rest in peace, Dave. You will definitely be missed.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I feel compelled to remark on the outrage of my colleagues and others over the special government employee status granted to Elon Musk by the executive branch. We are hearing a lot of, oh, he is unelected or he is unaccountable. Let me remind my colleagues and those voices that the vast majority of government employees who review and authorize grants, disburse billions of dollars, issue rules and laws, or even handle our Nation's pandemic response, like Dr. Anthony Fauci, are unelectable and unaccountable to the voters. How about the IRS bureaucrat Lois Lerner? How can we forget ACORN? None of my colleagues on the other side of the aisle were calling for accountability or investigations when Dr. Fauci was forcing his mandate on 300 million Americans. None of them were expressing outrage when unelected bureaucrats were forcing 6-year-olds to wear masks or closing down schools or forcing Head Start students to continue to wear masks long after the rest of America had stopped wearing them and closing down churches and small businesses across the country. Who can forget the government employee who leaked the pending Dobbs court decision? No conservative has forgotten Lois Lerner of the IRS denying 501(c) status to those volunteer citizens wanting to protest the Obama administration. These government employees yield tremendous power with no oversight, often making decisions behind closed doors that affect millions of Americans. Elon Musk was hired by the President of the United States, or brought on, to undercover waste, fraud, and abuse in our government. That is it. Every move being made by him and DOGE is being made in the public eye as an audit and not in the shadows. Let's be clear because this really is not about accountability. It is about the fear of a system that might be held accountable and expose corruption.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, from 712 to 205 to the Super Bowl, former Iowa Hawkeye and current Philadelphia Eagle Cooper DeJean is now a world champion. The rookie quarterback helped lead the Eagles to their second Super Bowl victory, returning his first professional career interception for a touchdown against the reigning champion Kansas City Chiefs. If that wasn't special enough, it was also Coop's 22nd birthday. What a way to celebrate a birthday than with a first career interception to a touchdown and winning the Super Bowl. Cooper, a proud native of Odebolt, Iowa, grew up wanting to be a University of Iowa Hawkeye player. He even wore shoes with the 712 area code during the biggest game of his life. During his time with the Hawkeyes, he earned All-American honors and was regarded as one of the Nation's best quarterbacks. His NFL success comes as no surprise to those of us who watched him play in Iowa. With last night's performance, Cooper solidified his place as one of the greatest Hawkeyes ever, and he did it in his rookie season. All of Hawkeye Nation and Iowa are proud of Coop. He will always be a Hawkeye. God bless and Go Hawks. Honoring Iowa City Veterans Administration Medical Center and Heidi Kaufman

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the incredible work being done by Heidi Kaufman and the dedicated team at the Iowa City Veterans Administration Medical Center. Their innovative use of aromatherapy in the PACU, or post-anesthesia care unit, is transforming the recovery experience for our veterans. Through their pioneering efforts, this team has introduced a noninvasive, natural solution to combat postoperative nausea and vomiting. In a recent study, 12 out of 47 patients reported complete relief from nausea using only aromatherapy. Although that is a small amount, it is not pharmaceutical, it is nonaddictive, and the cost is extremely low. This achievement is a testament to their compassion, skill, and commitment to improving patient care, and it can go far beyond the PACU. Heidi and her team have proven that sometimes the simplest solutions can make the most profound impact. Their work not only enhances the recovery process but also brings comfort and healing to those who have served our country. We are deeply grateful for their dedication to our veterans and the innovative care they continue to provide. We thank Heidi for her work. Special Government Employee Status of Elon Musk

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I feel compelled to remark on the outrage of my colleagues and others over the special government employee status of Elon Musk from the executive branch and constant remarks that he is unelected and unaccountable. Let me remind my colleagues and those voices, the vast majority of government employees that review and authorize grants, that disburse funds, and that, in fact, issue rules or laws are unelected and unaccountable to the voters.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 36.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, what you see next to me is a tiny speck of fentanyl, just a few milligrams, a dose so small it could fit on the ear of Lincoln on a penny, yet that speck is enough to take a life and destroy a family. In 2023, over 107,000 Americans died from drug overdoses or poisoning, with fentanyl responsible for nearly 75 percent of those deaths. As a State senator, I eliminated preauthorization for medicated assisted treatment for substance use disorder. In Congress, I have the Alternatives to PAIN Act. I have also helped veterans to get access to substance use disorder treatment. This poison is flooding our streets and killing our children, parents, and neighbors. It is killing my constituents in Iowa. That is why we must pass the HALT Fentanyl Act. This bill would make the temporary classwide scheduling order for fentanyl-related substances permanent, ensuring law enforcement has the authority to seize these deadly drugs before they destroy more lives. If we fail to act, traffickers will continue to exploit loopholes, pushing even deadlier drugs onto our streets. The time for action is now. Lives are on the line. We must pass this bill to protect our families and stop this crisis.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I stand before you today with a heavy heart to honor the life and legacy of a dear friend, a true servant of our State, and an extraordinary public servant, Representative Martin Graber. His unexpected passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. For all who knew him, Martin was more than a colleague. He was a friend, mentor, and dedicated leader. A proud veteran with 32 years of service in the Iowa National Guard and a distinguished representative of Iowa House District 100, Martin was a man of integrity, always putting the people of southeast Iowa first. His commitment to faith, community, and service will never be forgotten. To his beloved wife, Coni, their daughters and granddaughters, his entire family, and the rodeo family, we extend our deepest condolences. Martin's genuine care and unwavering dedication to those he served left an indelible mark on all of us. Mr. Speaker, may God bless his memory, and may we continue to honor his spirit of service as we move forward.

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, it is a new era in American history. I congratulate President Donald Trump and Senator, now-Vice President J.D. Vance on their inauguration. This is the beginning of a golden age where we will secure our borders, lower prices, unleash American energy, and drain the D.C. swamp. Under President Trump's leadership, we will restore safety by securing our borders and putting American citizens first--no more open borders or out-of-control illegal immigration. We will cut the costs that are crushing families across this Nation and especially in Iowa. By unleashing American energy, we will lower gas prices and, subsequently, food prices and reduce our dependency on foreign energy. Let's be clear. We are here to drain the D.C. swamp. It is time to root out waste, inefficiency, and corruption that has held this Nation back for too long. I pray for their success and that God blesses their leadership and guides their efforts to make America stronger, safer, and more prosperous for everyone than ever before. I also wish President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump a wonderful and happy 20th anniversary. Celebrating Clara Petersen

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate a remarkable woman from West Branch, Iowa, Clara Petersen, who recently turned 100 years old. While this milestone is extraordinary on its own, Clara's life and legacy are made even more remarkable by her service to our country during World War II. She proudly served in the Coast Guard, and the Iowa City VA Healthcare System honored her with a plaque to recognize her incredible dedication. Clara's humble spirit and sense of humor shine through as she fondly recalls her time in service, joking that she joined in 1945 to help get that darn war over with. As she, herself, will tell you, her greatest achievements are not in her service but in the joys of family, getting married, raising children, and cherishing a family she calls the greatest in the world. Clara's century of life is a testament to the strength and heart of our Nation. We are grateful for her service and her example. Supporting the Most Vulnerable

Mrs. MILLER-MEEKS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to reaffirm my unwavering commitment to protecting life and supporting both mothers and babies. Every life is precious, and it is our responsibility to defend the most vulnerable among us. As a mother, a doctor, and a Member of Congress, I have always been dedicated to ensuring that children have the opportunity to grow, thrive, and fulfill their potential. I am proud to share that I earned an A+ on the Susan B. Anthony Pro- Life America National Pro-Life Scorecard for the 118th Congress. This score reflects my consistent pro-life voting record, cosponsorship, and efforts to protect the sanctity of life. This week, people from all around the country are coming to Washington, D.C., to celebrate life and advocate for those who cannot speak for themselves. In addition to defending life, we must ensure that mothers have the support and resources they need to make the best choices for themselves and their children. Mr. Speaker, today I wish a happy 15th birthday to my best buddy and nephew, Andrew Martino. I hope he has a wonderful day.