Nathaniel Moran

Mr. MORAN

Mr. MORAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Bear Creek Smokehouse of Marshall, Texas, which has been named the Small Business Administration's Family-Owned Business of the Year for the Dallas-Fort Worth district. Since its founding in 1943, Bear Creek Smokehouse has stood as a true east Texas success story. For more than 80 years, the Shoults family has poured their time, energy, and faith into building not just a business but a legacy. What began as a small family operation has grown into a nationally recognized name, while never losing its deep roots in our community. The success of Bear Creek Smokehouse is built on the values that never go out of style: hard work, integrity, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Guided by the family's motto, Food, Faith and Family, this fourth- generation business continues to embody the very best of the American entrepreneurial spirit. Their products reflect quality. Their service reflects care. Their impact on east Texas reflects generations of dedication. This recognition is not only a celebration of Bear Creek Smokehouse's accomplishments but also a testament to the importance of family-owned businesses across America. They remind us that when families work together, they can build enterprises that nourish both body and soul, while strengthening the communities they serve. I congratulate the entire staff at Bear Creek Smokehouse and Robbie, Brenda, and Hunter Shoults on this well-deserved honor. I am confident that they will continue to inspire, serve, and succeed for generations to come. Honoring Gilmer Independent School District

Mr. MORAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Gilmer Independent School District. We recently received some fantastic news from the Texas Education Agency. Gilmer Elementary School, Gilmer High School, Gilmer Intermediate School, and the Gilmer Early Childhood Center received an A rating for the 2024-2025 school year. The TEA A through F accountability system evaluates schools and districts based on a range of performance indicators, including students' achievements, academic growth, college and career readiness, and how effectively schools support their most at-risk students. An A rating means that Gilmer isn't just meeting the mark, they are exceeding expectations across the board. This kind of recognition sends a strong message: Great things are happening in our school systems in east Texas. This is a great morale boost heading into the new school year, not just for those inside the school walls but across the community. I am grateful for the strong leadership across Gilmer ISD, including the teachers, the faculty, staff, parents, and students. Together, they work tirelessly to ensure excellence in all of their programs. Gilmer ISD looks to their core principles in all that they do: excellence, achievement, character, and commitment. I look forward to seeing the incredible work that they do this year and the great successes that lie ahead. Go, Buckeyes. Honoring Charlie Cano

Mr. MORAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Charlie Cano. As CEO of Etex, Charlie leads his team to great successes. Charlie is a leader whose work has truly changed lives across rural Texas. I am proud to congratulate him on receiving the Neville Haynes Award, the highest honor from the Texas Telephone Association. For more than a decade, Charlie has led Etex with vision, integrity, and a deep commitment to connecting the unconnected. Under his leadership, Etex hasn't just expanded broadband, it has brought real opportunity to rural east Texas. This award encapsulates a career dedicated to service, advocacy, and the belief that every community, no matter how small or how remote, deserves access to the digital future. Charlie's impact goes far beyond technology. He has raised the standard for what it means to serve customers, neighbors, and friends. I congratulate Charlie on this well-deserved recognition and thank him for providing that leadership that is rooted in community. We know that because of his leadership, anything is possible. Honoring Texarkana College

Mr. MORAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Texarkana College. Earlier this month, the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board released its 2024 accountability measures, and I am proud to share that Texarkana College has earned the number one ranking in the entire State of Texas for 3-year and 6-year student completion rates. This is among all 50 public colleges in the entire State of Texas. Even more impressive, Texarkana College's 3-year completion rate is nearly double the State average. This is truly extraordinary. These are more than numbers. This represents the lives that are changed and our future that is strengthened. When a student completes their education, it opens doors for themselves, for their children, and for generations to come. The effect of this success is felt throughout our workforce, our local economy, and our entire region. This accomplishment did not happen by chance. It is the direct result of years of strategic efforts, innovation, and hard work by President Dr. Jason Smith, Vice President Dr. Dixon Boyles, and every faculty member, support staff, and adviser at Texarkana College, as well as the Texarkana community. They have not only done this once, Texarkana College has ranked number one three times in the past decade and in the top five nine times. This consistency speaks volumes about the leadership, the systems in place, and a heart behind the work being done. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the entire Texarkana community and the Texarkana College. They are making a difference and building the right future for east Texas. Honoring Four Outstanding Members of Mount Pleasant Fire Department

Mr. MORAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Deputy Chief Aristeo Rodriguez, Captain Adam Decker, driver Phil Fry, and firefighter Aaron Williams of the Mount Pleasant Fire Department. Four outstanding members of the Mount Pleasant Fire Department were awarded the Life Saving Medal. This is a distinction reserved for those whose actions directly result in saving lives. These brave men and women exemplify the highest ideals of public service. In moments of danger when every second counts and hesitation can cost lives, they acted with clarity, courage, and incredible skill. Because of these individuals, someone's child, spouse, friend, or loved one is alive today. We often speak about public safety in terms of equipment, training, or response times, and those things are certainly critical, but at the heart of it all is character. These four men embodied the spirit of selfless service. They do not act courageously for recognition. They act because it is who they are. It is what they are called to do day in and day out. They act quietly and humbly with steadiness and steadfastness. On behalf of a grateful city and community and on behalf of a grateful State and Nation, we thank them for their commitment, for their bravery, and for their service. Their extraordinary service has made a true difference in the community. To the four honorees, they are our protectors. They are our heroes. I congratulate them on this incredible award and Godspeed and God's blessings and God's protection for each of them moving forward. Honoring 75th Anniversary of St. John's Episcopal Church

Mr. MORAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 75th anniversary of St. John's Episcopal Church located in Carthage, Texas. On July 29, 1950, a handful of Episcopalians met with Reverend John Fritts in the abandoned theater on the square. This marked the first Episcopal service in Carthage. This marked the birth of St. John's Episcopal Church in Carthage. Within a year, there were enough members to form a mission with the approval of the Bishop of the Diocese of Texas, the Right Reverend Clinton Quin. The congregation was originally meeting in a garage apartment on Sycamore Street, but that didn't last long. When the church was originally being built, a fire destroyed part of the building right before Christmas. The community did not waver. It began meeting in people's homes and continued the work of Christ. This is a true testament of the resilience of the Carthage community. The church has expanded throughout the years to include a parish hall and an education wing, but the congregation outshines the four walls they meet in. St. John's Episcopal Church has remained a pillar of the Carthage community for 75 years and has made a difference in countless lives during that time. As we look to the future, we trust God will continue to guide and strengthen this faithful congregation. We ask over the next 75 years St. John's Episcopal Church be filled with greater service, unity, and spiritual growth in Carthage and beyond; just as they have seen over the past 75 years. Honoring Life of Charlie Kirk

Mr. MORAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the life of Charlie Kirk. Charlie was a faithful servant, not only to the cause of liberty, but more importantly, to the kingdom of God. His voice was strong in the public square, but his true mission was always to direct people to Jesus Christ our Savior and our only hope through His truth. We also lift up his beloved wife, Erika, and their children. May the Lord wrap them in his arms of comfort and peace during this time of personal and national grief. Political violence has no place in America. We are all first and foremost children of God and citizens of one Nation under Him. Before we are Democrats or Republicans, we are Americans, neighbors called to love one another. We each have equal and eternal value in the sight of our creator, and we should each treat each other with that equal and eternal value. Charlie treated others this way as he engaged in debate on tough topics in the public square. He did so in a civil, respectful, and dignified manner, just the way it is supposed to be done. He did so from a heart of love, not one of hate. We should follow his example as we engage in our debates moving forward in this Nation. We should look to how he treated others, how he saw others, and how he sought to preserve liberty and our Republic. May Charlie's witness inspire us to walk humbly, to speak truth boldly, and to fix our eyes upon the eternal promises of God. May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with Erika, their family, and all who mourn his passing. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from Missouri (Mr. Onder). Honoring Charlie Kirk

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

Mr. MORAN

Mr. MORAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Love Thy City event held in Tyler, Texas, a community-wide initiative that reminds us that service to our neighbors doesn't start in Washington, it starts in the heart and in the home as it extends to every corner of this earth. Organized by local citizen-leaders, churches, nonprofits, and volunteers of all ages, Love Thy City is a day of service to others rooted in the great command to love our neighbors. That's a principle that transcends politics and parties. It transcends race and gender and every difference between us. It is our shared responsibility to care for everyone around us just as the Good Samaritan did--not because Government would tell us to, but because the Love of Christ propels us to. Whether it's cleaning up a park, helping a neighbor in need, or simply showing kindness to a stranger, Love Thy City challenges us to use our active faith to lead by example and invest in our communities-- not just with words, but with action. This is what makes East Texas strong; faith, service, and a deep love for God and for one another. I'm proud to honor this effort today and to recognize all those who give their time to love their neighbor.

Mr. MORAN

Mr. MORAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Love Thy City event held in Tyler, Texas, a community-wide initiative that reminds us that service to our neighbors does not start in Washington, D.C. It starts in the heart and in the home, and it extends to every corner of this Earth. Organized by local citizen leaders, churches, nonprofits, and volunteers of all ages, Love Thy City is a day of service to others, rooted in the great command to love our neighbors. That is a principle that transcends politics and parties, race and gender, and every other perceived difference between us. It is our shared responsibility to care for everyone around us just as the Good Samaritan did, not because government would tell us to, but because the love of Christ propels us to. Whether it is cleaning up a park, helping a neighbor in need, or simply showing kindness to a stranger, Love Thy City challenges us to use our active faith to lead by example and invest in our communities, not just with words, but with action. This is what makes east Texas strong: faith, service, and a deep love for God and for others. I am proud to honor this effort today and to recognize all those who give their time to love their neighbor.

Mr. MORAN

Mr. MORAN. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor and to remember those whose lives were lost and who were impacted by the catastrophic floods that struck central Texas in the early morning hours of July Fourth, when children and families were abruptly awakened by the terrifying sounds of water rushing into their campsites and homes, overtaking them in a matter of minutes. It was an unthinkable tragedy. One that has scarred, no doubt, the sorrowful soul of so many in Texas and beyond. As we have come to understand, many of those who were lost were simply children enjoying their time at summer camp, children not unlike my two children, who went to summer camp this year. It is a place meant for joy and laughter and for friendship and lasting memories, but instead brought destruction. Mr. Speaker, 132 precious lives have been lost to date, and with so many more individuals still unaccounted for. The physical and emotional destruction has been overwhelming. Lives have been lost, homes and businesses have been washed away, lifelong belongings destroyed, and an entire community, State, and Nation are left in anguish and in shock. Mr. Speaker, we are heartbroken for the families who lost precious family members. No words can fill the void that these loved ones left in their homes and in their communities. We pray for peace, for comfort, for healing, and for understanding during the long and hard road of grief ahead. We acknowledge, though, that in our humanness we may never fully understand why such tragedies happen, but in that same moment, we acknowledge fully that we serve a great God above who does. I will also take time to extend my deepest gratitude to the courageous first responders as well as our local and State officials who acted swiftly and selflessly in the face of this devastation to save so many other lives. Their dedication and bravery saved countless lives in the face of this devastation. Equally inspiring were the countless Good Samaritans, ordinary citizens who became heroes, risking their own lives to help both friends and strangers in need. Texans are remarkable. As has been said today, in the midst of tragedy, we will see and we do see and we have seen the immense character of the people of Texas, particularly the people of central Texas. In the days and weeks ahead, we pledge to stand in prayer and in sorrow and solidarity with the families who have lost their loved ones and the people of central Texas, particularly those in Kerr County that have been so intently affected by this devastating flood. Mr. Speaker, our prayer today is for hope and for peace for all of those in the difficult days ahead. I am privileged to be able to stand here alongside so many great men and women of character that serve our delegation in the State of Texas. I thank Mr. Roy for his leadership during this time of devastation and tragedy in his district and to say we stand with those families. We ask for God's blessings and peace on each one of them. May God bless them.

Mr. MORAN

Mr. MORAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the courage and sacrifice of those serving in Emergency Medical Services. We pay tribute to the EMS and air medical professionals who have lost their lives in the line of duty. Ms. Jeanne Lackey, Mr. Gerald Morgan, Sr., and Ms. Kathryn Lea Ohnheiser each served with TMF Flight for Life, which provides critical care transport services across East Texas--including in Palestine, Longview, Wills Point, and Mount Pleasant. This program focuses on transporting critically ill and injured patients to specialized care centers. Ms. Lackey, Mr. Morgan, and Ms. Ohnheiser gave their lives in the line of duty on February 13, 1989, as a result of an air medical incident. Mr. James Thomas served with Champion EMS in Tyler, Texas, an organization that provides emergency medical services to 12 counties in Northeast Texas. Mr. Thomas lost his life in the line of duty on May 31, 1988, due to a traumatic injury. Today, I am proud to recognize these four individuals who selflessly served the communities of East Texas. This year's National EMS Weekend of Honor reminds us of the sacrifice, perseverance, and integrity with which they lived their lives. I urge my colleagues to join me in paying tribute to Ms. Lackey, Mr. Morgan, Ms. Ohnheiser, and Mr. Thomas, and in extending our deepest gratitude to their families. May their legacies continue to inspire all of us to serve with honor and dedication.

Mr. MORAN

Mr. MORAN. Mr. Speaker, I was inadvertently detained. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY on Roll Call No. 152, and YEA on Roll Call No. 153.

Mr. MORAN

Mr. MORAN. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise in strong support of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. This bill is our opportunity to deliver on the promises we made to the American people. It is our chance to put working families, small businesses, and communities back at the center of our economic future. In the First District of Texas, the median income is just $62,000. If we fail to pass this bill, a family of four at that income level will see their taxes go up by over $1,100, a staggering 22 percent increase. That is not just a number. That is 6 weeks' worth of groceries. That is money that could be used to fix a truck, invest in a small business, or save for a child's future. If we do pass this bill, we protect that $1,100 of hard-earned income. In fact, we protect every American's money. At its core, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act is about more than dollars and cents. It is about liberty and empowering the American people. It is about giving families, workers, and small businesses the freedom to thrive without government taking more of their money. We have the chance in this moment to expand opportunity, restore dignity and work, and strengthen the American Dream. That is worth fighting for. Let us not fail in this task. Let us pass the one big, beautiful bill.

Mr. MORAN

Mr. MORAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the No Dollars to Uyghur Forced Labor Act. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this critical legislation that would prohibit United States State Department contracts with companies tied to forced labor in the Xinjiang region of China. Our bill would ensure that U.S. funds are not used to finance projects in partnership with companies or organizations that import products mined or manufactured in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of the People's Republic of China. Many basic goods that we consider to be part of our everyday lives as Americans are produced in Xinjiang, including textiles, bricks, cotton, and polysilicon. As home to the majority of China's cotton, coal, and natural gas reserves, and representing one-sixth of China's land mass, the Xinjiang region is central to China's economy. It is considered to be the core hub for China's Belt and Road Initiative, which is China's primary tool to exert economic influence across the globe. China's economy relies in large part on Xinjiang, yet behind its industries lie a horrifying reality: mass detention, forced labor, and brutal oppression of the people who live there. The CCP is oppressing the Uyghur people and other ethnic minorities by detaining them in what they call reeducation centers for forced labor in the Xinjiang Autonomous Region of China. Slavery in any form is morally repugnant. America, known on the international stage as a beacon of freedom and liberty, must not be complicit in the Chinese Communist Party's genocide and oppression of the Uyghur people. The United States must push back on China not only in our words but through our actions. Failing to do so enables the CCP to grow in strength and exert its malign influence over the world. It is past time we enforce accountability against our greatest adversary. The U.S. must act decisively against the companies that profit from these abuses and take a firm stand against totalitarian regimes. The CCP asserts its control over the Uyghur people through threats, intimidation, confinement, and physical and emotional abuse. Failing to confront China empowers gross human rights abuses and allows for the spread of such atrocities to be determined by the CCP. Our legislation will ensure that our State Department plays no part in the forced slave labor of the Uyghur people. America must continue to lead with strength and morality on the world stage and refuse to fund these brutal tactics and cruelty. Passing this critical legislation is the first step. I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes.''

Mr. MORAN

Mr. MORAN. Mr. Speaker, on April 26, after a tragic off-duty accident, the east Texas law enforcement community lost one of its young, rising stars, Tyler Police Officer Sam Lively. I rise today to honor Officer Lively, to mourn alongside his family, and to pray for peace and comfort for all who knew him during his 25 years of life. Officer Lively embodied the very best of east Texas, dedicating his life to serving others and protecting the community he loved as a member of the Tyler Police Department since 2023. His service was underscored by courage, compassion, and commitment. Those who knew him speak of his infectious smile, his natural leadership, and his dogged determination. They also note that despite the departure of his physical presence from this Earth, they know he now resides in his eternal heavenly home because of his faith in Jesus Christ. Sam understood that our hope is not in this world. Instead, he knew with certainty that our hope is only in Jesus. Today, although we mourn his untimely loss, we celebrate his impactful life. Sam Lively will be missed but not forgotten. May he rest in peace, and may God be with his family and the law enforcement community.

Mr. MORAN

Mr. MORAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Kilgore College Rangerettes and celebrate two extraordinary milestones: the 30th anniversary of the 54th line, the Class of 1995, and the 85th anniversary of this world-renowned team. Founded in 1940 by Gussie Nell Davis, the Rangerettes were the first precision dance team to perform during a college football halftime show. With their high kicks, jump splits, and iconic red, white, and blue uniforms, they have set a standard for discipline and excellence for over eight decades. The Class of 1995 holds a special place in this legacy as the first to perform under Director Dana Blair and Assistant Director Shelley Wayne, whose leadership continues to shape the Rangerettes today. Many of these teammates became dance and drill team instructors, passing on the discipline and artistry instilled during their time as Rangerettes. Their sophomore year featured unforgettable moments, including performances in France, at the Texas State Fair Gala, and alongside legends like Willie Nelson. Their finale performance to Donna Summer's ``Last Dance'' remains an emotional highlight, with one teammate saying, ``I could cry thinking about this song.'' As they often say, ``Once a Rangerette, always a Rangerette.'' For 85 years, the Rangerettes have been ambassadors of Texas culture, blending grace and precision to inspire generations. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring the Kilgore College Rangerettes, the Class of 1995, and their lasting legacy of excellence.

Mr. MORAN

Mr. MORAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Kilgore College Rangerettes and to celebrate two remarkable milestones in their storied legacy: the 30th anniversary of the Rangerettes Class of 1995 and the 85th anniversary of this world-renowned team. Founded in 1940 by the visionary Gussie Nell Davis, the Kilgore College Rangerettes were the first precision dance team in the United States to perform during a college football halftime show. Ms. Davis established the team with a bold vision to elevate the collegiate experience and set a new standard of excellence for performance and presentation. From their iconic high kicks and jump splits to their timeless red, white, and blue uniforms, the Rangerettes exemplify the best of Texas culture--blending grace, athleticism, and discipline into a performance style recognized around the world. Over the decades, the Rangerettes have graced stages from the Cotton Bowl and Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade to Presidential Inaugurations, Las Vegas stages, and USO tours abroad. Yet it is their commitment to tradition, poise, and teamwork that has inspired generations of young women and helped shape the landscape of precision dance teams across the country. The Class of 1995 holds a special place in this legacy, and their 30th anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect on their impact, both as performers and as ambassadors of the Rangerette tradition. Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring all the teammates from the Class of 1995, and the entire Kilgore College Rangerettes organization for 85 extraordinary years.

Mr. MORAN

Mr. MORAN. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to introduce Dr. Michael Gossett, pastor of Green Acres Baptist Church in Tyler, Texas, to the United States House of Representatives to serve as the guest chaplain this week and offer a prayer this morning. Dr. Gossett and his wife, Katie, lead the largest congregation of believers in east Texas. They also proudly shepherd a flock of four wonderful children at home. Pastor Michael, as he is known, and Katie are passionate about their call to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ. They are personable and approachable in their style, showing the same love and grace as our risen Lord and Savior. Having been a firefighter for 5 years before entering full-time ministry, this Liberty University alum is tough-minded, disciplined, and steady in his leadership. He is authentic and genuine and always faithful to preach the truth of the inherent Word of God. Because of that, he has been a strong and effective leader for Green Acres since he arrived in 2019. I am proud to call him my friend and proud that he dedicated his life to being salt and light in this lost and dark world. To God be the glory for the great things He is doing through the Gossetts and Green Acres Baptist Church in Tyler, Texas. We welcome Pastor Gossett.

Mr. MORAN

Mr. MORAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 1156, the Pandemic Unemployment Fraud Enforcement Act, introduced by our chairman, Jason Smith. It is clearer by the day that the COVID pandemic gave rise to widespread financial fraud. A prime example of that is the fraudulent unemployment insurance claims that were filed, which totaled between $100 billion and $150 billion, most of which happened as a result of organized crime. Incredibly, to date, less than 4 percent of these stolen funds have been recovered. If we do nothing before March 27, the statute of limitations to bring these criminal cases against these fraudsters will come to an end, and the rest of these taxpayer funds will be lost forever. We cannot allow this to happen, and we must make best efforts to recover these stolen funds. Mr. Speaker, make no mistake, the Pandemic Unemployment Fraud Enforcement Act is supported by both red and blue States across the country. The National Association of State Workforce Agencies, a nonpartisan association representing all States, endorsed extending the statute of limitations so that criminal prosecutions and civil enforcement actions could continue uninterrupted. Mr. Speaker, I include in the Record a letter from the National Association of State Workforce Agencies, dated February 11, 2025, supporting passage of H.R. 1156. National Association of State Workforce Agencies, Washington DC, February 11, 2025. Re Support for H.R. 1156. Hon. Jason Smith, Chairman, Committee on Ways and Means, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Hon. Richard E. Neal, Ranking Member, Committee on Ways and Means, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Dear Chairman Smith and Ranking Member Neal, I am writing on behalf of the National Association of State Workforce Agencies (NASWA), a non-profit and non-partisan association, whose membership is comprised of workforce agencies in all states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. territories. We are writing to support H.R. 1156, the Pandemic Unemployment Fraud Enforcement Act. State unemployment insurance program administrators are dedicated to fighting fraud in both state and federal unemployment insurance programs. With the statute of limitations expiring at the end of March for federal pandemic unemployment insurance programs, we support an extension as proposed in H.R. 1156 to ensure that both criminal prosecutions and civil enforcement can continue uninterrupted. While an extension of the statute of limitations is critical. it is also important to our members that states continue to receive the resources needed to pursue fraud cases and support federal investigations. Thank you for your efforts to improve the integrity of unemployment insurance. Sincerely, Scott B. Sanders, NASWA President & CEO.

Mr. MORAN. Mr. Speaker, this bill gives States the time they need to go after criminals who commit acts of malice and intentional fraud against American taxpayers. As a proud cosponsor of this legislation, I strongly urge my colleagues to stand in support of the American taxpayer and stand in support of passage of this important piece of legislation.

Mr. MORAN

Mr. MORAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the East Texas Symphony Orchestra and to celebrate its February 22nd ``Spirit of America'' concert. Originally founded in 1936 as a non-professional group of lawyers, oil operators, teachers, and students from Tyler Junior College, the ETSO is now a delegation of professional musicians as talented as any who are passionate about sharing high-quality symphonic music with East Texans from Vaughn Auditorium located on the beautiful campus of the University of Texas at Tyler. Under the thoughtful, skilled, and dynamic leadership of Music Director, Richard Lee, the ETSO connects East Texans with the joy, grandeur, and profound beauty of the timeless sounds and experiences that only orchestra music can bring. And, the ``Spirit of America'' concert is another such experience-- with the added elements of history, patriotism, and love of country. Featuring the extraordinary performers from Texas College and Jarvis Christian University, and musical compositions by Aaron Copland and Aaron Dworkin that include the narrated words of two of America's greatest statesmen--George Washington and Abraham Lincoln--this concert will inspire and challenge each of us to remain firm in our principles and steady in our resolve. Thanks to Director Lee, and all the talented composers, musicians, and staff for their hard work in making this concert possible. It was a night to remember.

Mr. MORAN

Mr. MORAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of the United States-Taiwan Expedited Double-Tax Relief Act. Taiwanese companies in America, including those in critical semiconductor sectors, face double tax burdens due to the lack of a U.S.-Taiwan tax agreement. Taiwan is one of our largest trading partners without such a treaty, yet it supports more than 22,000 U.S. jobs and contributed $185 million to U.S. research in 2021. This bill addresses these issues by eliminating double taxation, reducing withholding tax rates, and clarifying residency rules. It strengthens our economic alliance with Taiwan, ensuring a reliable supply chain for semiconductors and reducing dependence on China and our adversaries. In my home State of Texas, Taiwanese tech companies are investing billions in advanced manufacturing, but double taxation threatens their ability to operate effectively. Today's bipartisan bill equips us to expand cross-border investment, safeguard critical supply chains, and push back against China's growing influence. Without this legislation, we will risk alienating Taiwan, one of our strongest partners in the Indo-Pacific region. We also risk ceding more power to China in the Taiwan Strait and isolating ourselves further on the global economic stage. That is simply unacceptable. This bill is critical to reaffirming our commitment to economic growth, national security, and the U.S.-Taiwan partnership. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues in Congress to support this vital legislation to do just that.

Mr. MORAN

Mr. MORAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today before you to reaffirm the House Republicans' efforts to empower and protect American women and girls. By passing legislation such as Congressman Greg Steube's Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act, Congressman Mike Collins' Laken Riley Act, and Congresswoman Nancy Mace's Preventing Violence Against Women by Illegal Aliens Act, we address significant lapses in our justice, legal, and educational systems, and we push back against a radical left agenda that leaves our society in moral tatters. Individually, these bills tackle critical issues, and collectively they create a safer, healthier, and more prosperous Nation for our women and girls. That is really important to me and should be to every American. However, as a father of two girls, specifically, I want my girls to have the opportunity to thrive in a society that gives equality to both men and women, that nurtures their growth, and protects their well-being. I do not want to be part of a society that places them at greater risk and reduces their opportunities in this country. Our daughters should not be forced to adhere to radical policies that undermine truth, safety, and reality, policies that have been pushed for the last 4 years by the Biden-Harris administration. We as a Republican Conference will not sit idly by on this issue, nor have we, as evidenced by the bills that I referenced today. Let me personally thank, again, Congressman Steube, Congressman Collins, and Congresswoman Mace for their dedication to protecting my two daughters and every daughter, mother, and sister across this Nation.

Mr. MORAN

Mr. MORAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise before you today to speak in support of S. 1147, the Jenna Quinn Law. As the proud sponsor of the House companion legislation, I know how critical and vital this legislation is for so many. I thank, at the outset, Senator Cornyn for his hard work on the Senate side on this bill and for his years of leadership protecting children. S. 1147 will authorize the Department of Health and Human Services to allow existing Federal funds to be used by eligible entities for evidence-based, informed training on sexual abuse prevention, education, and reporting. These courses would focus on teachers, school employees, students, caregivers, and other adults who work with children. Furthermore, the bill would ensure that grant recipients coordinate with local educational agencies to train students, professionals, and volunteers who work with children on abuse prevention, recognition, and reporting. These are important matters. This bill, however, does not add to overall spending. We do have a spending problem here in the United States. Rather, it makes existing funding available for these important programs. Over the past year, I have had the privilege of meeting and getting to know the namesake of this bill, Texan Jenna Quinn. Mr. Speaker, you just heard her story. Jenna is a symbol of hope and bravery. She has an inspiring story of overcoming sexual abuse herself, and her unwavering commitment to helping so many like her who have been or presently are victims of abuse is just remarkable. As it stands, our Nation's children face a tragic and silent epidemic, child sexual abuse. As I speak before you now, Mr. Speaker, every 9 minutes, new evidence for a claim of sexual abuse is substantiated. Of all victims under the age of 18, 2 out of 3 are between the ages of 12 and 17. Tragically, child sexual abuse is one of the most underreported crimes in our country. Mr. Speaker, 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 13 boys are subject to this heartbreaking reality. Even more alarming, 90 percent of these children who are victims of sexual abuse know and trust their abuser. The same was true for Jenna Quinn. While child sexual abuse is a criminal epidemic, one part of the solution to this tragedy lies in preventative education. Education, combined with a comprehensive set of preventative policies, is a powerful tool to combat this crisis. School personnel report 52 percent of all identified child abuse cases classified as causing harm to children, more than any other profession or organization, including child protective services and law enforcement. For that, we are profoundly grateful to our educational partners. Each life is precious, and each life deserves protection at all stages. I am confident that the Jenna Quinn bill will strengthen our efforts to prevent the evils of child sexual abuse and help identify children who have experienced this or are currently experiencing it and get it stopped. Most importantly, it will help them in finding pathways to healing. Today, I am grateful that both Republicans and Democrats have come together to pass or will pass this bipartisan, bicameral, and commonsense legislation. I thank Representative Susan Wild on the Democratic side for her hard work on this effort, and I thank Chairwoman Foxx and her staff for their dedication and hard work on bringing this legislation to the floor. I know that there are children whose lives will forever be impacted for the better because of the Jenna Quinn bill. Mr. Speaker, today, I urge my colleagues to support this bill and get it to the President's desk so it can be signed into law.