Zachary (Zach) Nunn

Mr. NUNN of Iowa

Mr. NUNN of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for his hard work on this year's National Defense Authorization Act. To my Navy allies who have just spoken prior, I am glad to have a little air support in the room here as a combat veteran with the U.S. Air Force. I thank all of our men and women currently serving in uniform. Their hard work is not only the reason that we do this, but it is the best defense we have for our Nation. I am grateful that this bill contains our effort to lead with real technology advancements in the National Defense Authorization Act, including our greatest ally, Israel, which is why I am proud that our portion of the NDAA was included. This effort will break through traditional procurement barriers to allow partnership that will focus on both efficiency in weaponry, technology, and innovation, as well as lethality to be able to defend our country, both on the field as well as modernizing the future of warfare and national defense. Mr. Speaker, I am most emphatic that the leadership of this bill truly recognizes our junior enlisted force, one of the most professional in the world. As a commander, it is a privilege to be able to sign on to the largest pay increase for our junior troops ever, at nearly 15 percent. Mr. Speaker, I urge passage of this bill and thank the chairman for his leadership.

Mr. NUNN of Iowa

Mr. NUNN of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor and congratulate an exceptional educator, Julie Pickard, on being named the 2024 Herzog Foundation's Teacher of the Year. Representing the great state of Iowa, Julie's dedication to the academic and spiritual growth of her students exemplifies the values of Christian education. Her work is a shining example of the impact one teacher can have on shaping future generations, not only through the curriculum but through faith and character. Julie has spent her career ensuring that students receive a well- rounded education, rooted in both knowledge and integrity. Her passion for teaching, coupled with her unwavering commitment to serving her community, makes her truly deserving of this national recognition. This prestigious award speaks to the respect and admiration she has earned from her colleagues, students, and the wider educational community. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to commend Julie Pickard for her incredible accomplishments. On behalf of the people of Iowa, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and wish her continued success in shaping young minds and hearts for years to come.

Mr. NUNN of Iowa

Mr. NUNN of Iowa. Madam Chair, I have an amendment at the desk.

Mr. NUNN of Iowa. Madam Chair, I rise in support of H.R. 3334, the Sanctioning Tyrannical and Oppressive People within the Chinese Communist Party Act, and the good work by the Committee on Foreign Affairs. I present my amendment, amendment No. 1. The illegal production, distribution, and sale of fentanyl has contributed to a surge of overdoses across the world and severe addiction right here in the United States, as well. Cheap but deadly fentanyl is flooding into the United States across our open southern border, wreaking havoc on communities across our country and locally in our neighborhoods, killing a record number of Americans, including in Iowa's Third District, my hometown. In Iowa alone, over the last 2 years, we have seen a 34 percent increase in drug death overdoses, with fentanyl implicated in more than 83 percent of those. Among Iowans, those 25 and under, drug overdoses have increased by 120 percent in the last 24 months alone, a staggering figure. Fentanyl, tragically, is the leading cause of death of Americans my age down to my high school daughter's age. This epidemic kills over 150 young people in America a day, a catastrophic death toll by any measure. At the source of the crisis is the Chinese Communist Party. They are the primary source for fentanyl production worldwide, including what ends up here in America. The chemical compounds of this deadly drug are manufactured under Beijing's control and then are sent to cartels and laboratories within Mexico. Mules from Mexican cartels move this deadly fentanyl across the wide- open border on America's southern States and disperse it out to every community in America, where it kills our friends, neighbors, and families and guts our very communities. The longer that we allow China to go unchecked as the main producer and funding source for these dangerous drugs, this crisis will continue to get worse and more deadly. It is time that we put this heartbreaking madness to an end. That is why I offer my amendment, which would add any Chinese state-owned enterprise that knowingly produces chemicals for the manufacturing of fentanyl to the list of sanctioned entities here in the United States. We must stop this crisis at the source and keep our fellow Americans safe. My heart goes out to every family who has been impacted by this, and tragically at this point, nearly every American has felt or known someone who has been impacted by the fentanyl crisis, including the Kidd family that joined me here in this very Chamber at this year's State of the Union who lost their child to Chinese- manufactured fentanyl. I urge everyone on both sides of the aisle in both Chambers to take action on this by supporting this amendment. I thank my colleagues for their work in standing up to China to protect our communities and fight for our kids. Mr. Chair, I do not believe this needs to be a partisan issue. The fact is simple: Fentanyl is killing Americans in every single congressional district in every single community across this country. We know how to stop it, and this is an amendment that can move it forward. Mr. Chair, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. Ogles).

Mr. NUNN of Iowa. Mr. Chair, I believe that we can all fight this scourge at the source, not only to save Americans, to save lives, but to push back against those who would profit off the death of our country. This is a bipartisan issue. This is a good issue for America. Most importantly, it is the best safeguard we can do to stop fentanyl in its tracks. Mr. Chair, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. NUNN of Iowa

Mr. NUNN of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the exceptional work demonstrated by Shelly McLaren, who selflessly dedicates her life to ensuring individuals feel comfort following life-altering events across the State of Iowa and the United States. This remarkable woman demonstrates an exceptional volunteer commitment to serve our communities. As the team lead for the Iowa chapter of Crisis Response Canines (CRC), a national nonprofit that provides comfort visits and crisis response support following traumatic incidents, she has made an indelible mark on Iowa communities and beyond. Her dedication to rigorous training has earned both her and her canine partner, Jacks, the highest certifications. Embracing the credo ``Purpose Beyond Oneself,'' she is committed to selflessly caring for those experiencing life-altering traumatic events. She consistently shows an unparalleled ability to mobilize swiftly in response to crises, coordinating with operations leaders to support those impacted by critical incidents. During these interactions, she and Jacks bring their healing, compassionate presence to individuals enduring the most traumatic events of their lives. Their deployments include responding to the January 4, 2024, shooting in Perry, Iowa; assisting in Minden and Greenfield, Iowa, following spring 2024 tornadoes; and most recently, aiding multiple counties in northwestern Iowa after severe storms and flooding. When not responding to tragic events, she and Jacks are a well-known and respected team, visiting community organizations and attending special events. Her work has inspired others to join, creating a ripple effect that strengthens the community's ability to respond to crises effectively. The countless lives touched by her compassion and dedication serve as a testament to the lasting impact of her volunteerism. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating this remarkable woman and Jacks for their service to the State of Iowa and the Third Congressional District.

Mr. NUNN of Iowa

Mr. NUNN of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 4790, and I thank our chairman, the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Huizenga), for leading this very important bill. The rising cost of living and inflation are making it hard for everyone, particularly those in ag States like Iowa. Over half of Iowans rely on some type of retirement account just to plan for their future--their kids' future, their future retirement, their ability to buy a first-time home. However, some investment managers are now letting politics guide their decisions, not free market principles. They are working not to improve returns for their investors, retirees, or every American, but working in a way to align their politics before actual market-based principles. That is why I believe we must pass this bill, which includes my Protecting Americans' Savings Act, and eliminate these tragic conflicts of interest. We cannot allow unelected bureaucrats, administrators, or political activists to gamble with Americans' hard-earned and well- invested future. The retirement savings that are being led here ensure that our companies do what is best for all Americans, including my constituents back home in Iowa, not the political motivations of a few. Mr. Speaker, I urge passage of this legislation. I thank Mr. Huizenga for his strong leadership and work in making sure that this can come to the floor and pass.

Mr. NUNN of Iowa

Mr. NUNN of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I am privileged to take this opportunity today to honor and congratulate a distinguished member of our military on his well-deserved retirement. Colonel Doug Houston, a native of Fort Dodge, Iowa, and an alumnus of Fort Dodge High School and Iowa State University, began his professional career as a Police Officer with the Cedar Rapids Police Department--serving from 1992 through 2002. He enlisted in the Iowa Army National Guard's Headquarters & Headquarters Company 224th Engineer Battalion in 1997 at the age of 27. Upon completion of Initial Entry Training, Doug enrolled in the Iowa Military Academy's Officer Candidate School, commissioning in August 1999, and branching Engineer. Doug led Soldiers as a Platoon Leader, served as a Company Executive Officer, Detachment Commander, and then as a Company Commander of Company C 224th Engineer Battalion, which had armories in Mount Pleasant and Keokuk. In October 2004, then-Captain Houston mobilized with his 111 Soldier Company in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, spent 10 weeks at Fort Sill, Oklahoma preparing for deployment, and then deploying to Camp New York in Udairi, Kuwait, and on to Camp Habbaniyah, Al-Anbar Province, Iraq in January 2005. Important to note that the Al-Anbar Province was known as the most dangerous place in the world throughout 2005 Doug's company performed a relief in place of Company C 153rd Engineer Battalion, and began conducting route clearance operations in support of the I Marine Expeditionary Force and its Ground Support Element, the 1st Marine Division, from January through March 2005, and then for the II Marine Expeditionary Force and its Ground Support Element, the 2nd Marine Division, from April to December 2005, throughout Multi-National Forces-West--known at the time as area of operation Topeka. Colonel Houston regards his 2004-2005 deployment as the Commander of Company C 224th Engineer Battalion as a space in time which held the most impact in his career. Doug was responsible for the 111 Soldiers assigned to his company in addition to the explosive ordnance disposal and joint tactical air control teams attached to him during route clearance operations Doug's unit supported all combat units in Multi- National Forces-West during their 12 months in-theater In addition to both the 1st & 2nd Marine Divisions, Company C supported Marine Regimental Combat Teams I, 2, 7, 8, the 11th & 13th Marine Expeditionary Units, the 2nd Brigade Combat Team 2nd Infantry Division and their subordinate battalions, including the 1st Battalion 506th Infantry in Habbaniyah, the 155th Brigade Combat Team ``Mississippi Rifles'', and the 2nd Brigade Combat Team 28th Infantry Division, as they sought to destroy the insurgency in Al-Anbar Province. Doug's unit was engaged in combat operations throughout the Al-Anbar Province, including the cities of Anah, Baghdadi, Fallujah, Habbaniyah, Hadithah, HaqIiniyah, Hit, Husaybah, Karmah, Khalidiyah, Kubaysah, Al-Qaim, Ramadi, Rawah, Rutbah, Trebel, and Waleed. In addition, Captain Houston was responsible for maintaining open lines of communication with his rear detachment Soldiers and Family Support Groups in Mount Pleasant and Keokuk. On January 30, 2005, the Iraqi people participated in a historic event--their first free election in that Nation's history. Then-Captain Houston and a reinforced platoon of Company C engineers conducted route clearance operations on this historic date near the City of Hit, which straddles the Euphrates River, and has a population of more than 50,000. Marines from Regimental Combat Team 2 were tasked with ensuring security at polling station in Hit, and it was the mission of Doug's unit to ensure freedom of movement throughout the city by clearing the area of roadside bombs. On election day, as Doug's engineers approached the South side of Hit along the main highway, they discovered a series of roadside bombs and began investigating them with the Buffalo mine clearing vehicle's hydraulic arm. While investigating these improvised explosive devices, Doug's unit came under small arms fire from multiple locations inside the City of Hit. Several vehicles in the element were struck by insurgent's rounds. Doug and his Soldiers located the enemy firing positions, returned engaged with small arms and crew served weapons systems, and suppressed the enemy Within minutes, the enemy began firing 60-millimeter mortars on the convoy of vehicles which was stopped on the road as the engineers investigated the IEDs. After approximately a dozen mortars were fired with increasing accuracy, the engineer element broke contact and moved North approximately two kilometers on the highway, leaving the excavated IEDs on the roadside. Prior to leaving the Buffalo arm operator was able to secure the remote trigger for the IEDs which rendered them inoperable and essentially unexploded ordnance. Captain Houston sent two squads to go back to area and overwatch the IEDs that were left to ensure insurgents were not able to regain control of them. Over the next half hour, the engineers received additional rounds of inaccurate mortar fire. After a short period of no mortar or small arms fire, Captain Houston directed the two squads to go secure the ordnance and return to the unit's new position. The combat engineers secured four South African 155- millimeter artillery rounds which were later destroyed using C4 explosives north of Hit and away from any structures or Iraqi citizens. This mission was a crucible moment for many in the element, as it was the first time they had received direct and indirect fire from insurgents with the express intent of killing them. They responded with precision in the most disciplined and military manner, positively identifying where the enemy was located before returning fire. The Soldiers not engaged in returning fire calmly focused on their individual responsibilities from the Buffalo arm operator to the radio operators, to the vehicle drivers scanning other sectors and prepared to take evasive action if necessary. Events of this day, and many similar moments during the deployment for Company C 224th Engineer Battalion, became the glue for a bond across this company that still endures today--nearly 20 years later. Doug maintained the leadership lessons of this deployment throughout the remainder of his career. Lessons on mission accomplishment, teamwork, motivating others, critical thinking, integrity, personal courage and many others formed the foundation for an officer who sought out difficult jobs and made a difference within the Iowa Army National Guard and the Soldiers with whom he served. Doug's legacy will continue through the many officers and enlisted he mentored throughout his career. Captain Houston was nominated by the 224th Engineer Battalion, the 67th Troop Command, and The Adjutant General of Iowa as Iowa's nominee for the 2005 General Douglas MacArthur Leadership Award. On May 17, 2006, then-Captain Houston and his family traveled to Washington, DC where Army Chief of Staff General Peter Schoomaker recognized him and seven other company grade officers from across the United States Army National Guard, and 28 total U.S. Army warrant officers, lieutenants, and captains with the General Douglas MacArthur Leadership award during a ceremony in the courtyard at the Pentagon. Recipients of the General Douglas MacArthur Leadership award demonstrate MacArthur's ideals of ``Duty, Honor, Country'', and have a proven record of extraordinary performance, leadership and achievement Doug Houston epitomizes those ideals. Following company command in 2007 Doug transitioned to the Iowa Army National Guard Recruiting & Retention Battalion where he served as an Operations and Training Officer--leading Non-Commissioned Officers and working the vital mission of enlisting the next generation of Soldiers. He was promoted to Major while in this position. In January 2010, Doug began a tour as the Training Officer of the 671st Troop Command. In 2012 he was assigned as the Executive Officer for The Adjutant General of Iowa and served in this capacity for 19 months. In June 2013 Doug returned to Recruiting and Retention as the Battalion Commander and was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel. He completed this tour in August 2015. Doug was then assigned as the Active Guard/Reserve (AGR) Manager and Human Resource/Equal Opportunity Officer for the Iowa National Guard where he was responsible for managing this part of the full-time support force of the Iowa Army and Air National Guard. In January 2018 he was reassigned as the Iowa Army National Guard Deputy Director of Personnel (G1), serving in that capacity until March of 2021 when he was selected as the Director of Personnel and promoted to Colonel. In December 2022, he was appointed as the Chief of Staff, Iowa Army National Guard as his final assignment, retiring in August 2024 with over 27 years of service. Colonel Houston earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Iowa State University, a Master of Education from Graceland University, and a Master of Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College. Doug's military schools include Engineer Officer Basic and Advanced Courses, Combined Arms Service and Staff School, Intermediate Level Education (ILE)-Common Core (resident), ILE-Advanced Operations Course, the Recruiting and Retention Force Leadership Course, and the U.S. Army War College. Doug and his lovely wife of 30 years, Angela, have three children, Sydney-28, Jack-26 and Evan-23. They reside in Johnston, Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I invite you and my colleagues to join me in applauding Colonel Doug Houston. Let's all extend our thanks and best wishes as he steps into his well-earned retirement.

Mr. NUNN of Iowa

Mr. NUNN of Iowa. Mr. Chair, I have an amendment at the desk.

Mr. NUNN of Iowa. Mr. Chair, I rise in support of H.R. 1516, including my amendment. As a career counterintelligence officer, I have faced off against China on more than one occasion, and I have seen how the Chinese Communist Party exploits data and manipulates minds. Specifically, the so-called Thousand Talents Program is one of the Chinese Communist Party's premier espionage initiatives. Launched in 2008, the program targets Chinese citizens with expertise in elite programs like the C9 or their top universities and has a track record of competition in entrepreneurship, professions, and research. These experts often specialize in fields vital to China's global standing, including engineering, mathematics, and next-generation technology, and while it is a complement to China, it is not a complement when they begin targeting the United States. These individuals target U.S. institutions to receive an education at our universities often backed and paid for by U.S. taxpayers and then take the knowledge that they have learned back home to Beijing and start operating as agents of China. The CCP designated the Thousand Talents Program to recruit 2,000 highly qualified overseas talents within 5 short years. Since its inception, the program has reportedly recruited more than 15,000 people, many of them serving as espionage agents. There are massive incentives for these individuals to steal intellectual property right here at home. In exchange for the information gathered in the U.S., these scholars receive large salaries, research funding, lab space, and other lucrative rewards upon returning to China. If the U.S. is to remain a global leader and innovation sectors continue to be undaunted, we must ensure that American research and solutions stay out of the hands of our near-peer competitors and certainly our enemies. My bipartisan amendment adds the highly concerning Thousand Talents Program to the list of Chinese entities of concern ensuring that no Homeland Security funding goes to higher education institutions that have contracts or affiliations with the Thousand Talents Program--or to put it in another term, espionage. Not only will this protect taxpayer funds, but it will protect America's economy, intellectual property, and national security from CCP counterintelligence operations. I urge everyone to not only support this amendment but to support the good work being done by this committee. I thank my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for standing up to China when they do wrong. Mr. Chair, I thank the Chair and the leadership that has been done on both sides of the aisle in moving this forward in further advancing America's security here at home. Mr. Chair, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. NUNN of Iowa

Mr. NUNN of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the exceptional work demonstrated by American Legion Post No. 682, and to celebrate the unveiling of their Veteran's Memorial Brick Wall. For years, American Legion Post No. 682 has selflessly served the veterans of our community. As a combat veteran, I believe taking care of America's heroes when they return home must be a top priority, and American Legion Post No. 682 has courageously stepped up to the task. One such way they are honoring America's heroes is with the unveiling of their Veteran's Memorial Brick Wall, a memorial constructed to showcase the community's love and recognition of those who have given all for their country. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating this impressive achievement and congratulate American Legion Post No. 682 on the unveiling of their Veteran's Memorial Brick Wall.

Mr. NUNN of Iowa

Mr. NUNN of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Major Matthew D. Willey for his retirement from the United States Air Force after 20 years of distinguished service. Major Willey enlisted in the Air Force after graduating from the University of Iowa in 2003 Throughout his career, he consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, dedication, and a strong work ethic. In 2009, he commissioned and cross-trained in the Tactical Air Control Party Officer career field. He has deployed multiple times in support of Operation Resolute Support, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom. Among his many accomplishments, he notably became the first in his career field to receive the Air Force Commendation Medal with Valor in August of 2011. This prestigious award is reserved for those who display extraordinary heroism in the face of extreme danger. While in Afghanistan, Major Willey's detachment was ambushed by insurgents, and he was forced to cross open fire to call in a danger close strafing run. This display of remarkable bravery and selflessness resulted in the elimination of 15 insurgents without a single American casualty. His quick thinking and courageous actions serve as a profound example for all. Major Willey has continued to excel as a leader, not only in combat but also in his roles as Flight Commander, Assistant Director of Operations, and Director of Operations, accumulating over 14 awards and decorations throughout his illustrious 20-year career. But he hasn't stopped there, he has spent these last two years of service here in the great state Iowa, striving to cultivate and shape the minds of young men and women, both as students as well as cadets. Through his role as Assistant Professor of Aerospace Studies as well his role as Operations Officer at Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps Detachment 250 at Iowa State University, he dedicates himself to the task of producing the highest quality and highest caliber of students and officers for not only the United States Air and Space Force but for this nation. Major Willey not only reflects great credit upon himself, but he reflects great credit up the United States Air Force and his country. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing Major Willey for his unwavering dedication to our country. His service before self, exceptional military achievements, and steadfast roles as a spouse, father, and friend have not only enhanced our national security but also stand as a testament to the values of bravery, devotion, and compassion. I join Major Willey's family, friends, and colleagues in celebrating his retirement and extend to him my heartfelt best wishes for the future.

Mr. NUNN of Iowa

Mr. NUNN of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and celebrate the exceptional work demonstrated by Elder Corporation, a company that consistently goes above and beyond for our service members. In 1960, with grit, determination, and a single rubber-tired Ford tractor, J. Elder's father and grandfather founded RG Elder. Today, Elder Corporation takes on some of the largest excavation projects in Iowa, laying groundbreaking work across the metro area. Elder Corporation employs service members and veterans throughout the state, offering unwavering support, promoting their well-being, and fostering a deep sense of appreciation for their contributions. They even go so far as to ensure that lawns are mowed, and driveways are shoveled, allowing the families of service members to focus on what truly matters. As a Colonel in the U.S. Air Force, I understand firsthand the profound impact a supportive employer can have on the families of service members. I extend my sincerest thanks to Elder Corporation and wish to honor them for their steadfast dedication to Iowans, whether they are here in our great state or deployed around the world. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the tremendous work that Elder Corporation has done for our service members.

Mr. NUNN of Iowa

Mr. NUNN of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 2969) to establish an Independent Financial Technology Working Group to Combat Terrorism and Illicit Financing, and for other purposes, as amended.

Mr. NUNN of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on the bill.

Mr. NUNN of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the Financial Technology Protection Act of 2023. Blockchain technology and digital assets are here to stay, and we need an environment in which they can grow in the United States without being exploited by our adversaries. The transparent and traceable nature of this technology improves law enforcement's abilities to combat cybercrime and to recover funds fueling our enemies today. These insights have led to massive forfeitures and seizures of illicit funds and high-profile prosecutions that help every American. Last year the U.S. Government utilized this technology to recover over $30 million in stolen funds from the Lazarus Group, a North Korean hacking entity. In the same year, the Israeli Government and their authorities used blockchain to recover roughly $1.7 million from the Hezbollah terrorist group financed by Iran. Mr. Speaker, as a former national counterintelligence officer for cyber, I have also seen firsthand how this technology can be exploited by terrorist groups and our adversaries for illicit money and laundering, a direct threat to U.S. national security. That is why I introduced the Financial Technology Protection Act, along with my colleague on the other side of the aisle, Representative Himes from Connecticut. This bipartisan bill establishes a working group of key Federal Government departments, intelligence agencies, private organizations and their innovation, as well as private-sector experts to combat terrorism and illicit financing on digital platforms. The working group will consist of experts to develop legislative and regulatory proposals to tackle anti-money laundering and address security risks, as well as prevent illicit financing activity right here in the United States. These efforts are critical in protecting our financial systems from bad actors and our adversaries alike, including those nation-states like the People's Republic of China and the Russian Federation. Passing this legislation, I believe, is crucial in strengthening America's national security, protecting our digital assets, and ensuring the next generation of financial and internet technology is built right here in America. This is a commonsense piece of legislation, and it passed out of the Financial Services Committee unanimously. I would also like to thank our colleagues across the rotunda, including Senator Budd for his leadership on this legislation. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support my bipartisan Financial Technology Protection Act for the sake of America and our innovative future, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. NUNN of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. De La Cruz) not only for her incredible work in Texas but for what she is doing on the Financial Services Committee to really help protect our Nation. Mr. Speaker, if the gentleman from North Carolina (Mr. Nickel) has no additional speakers, I am prepared to close, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. NUNN of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, this has been a great work of bipartisanship that impacts not only the future of our country but your and my futures, the future of America, and the future of all the young children today watching this take place. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. De La Cruz), my very good friend.

Mr. NUNN of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time to close. Mr. Speaker, I thank all of my colleagues on the House Committee on Financial Services. This has truly been a team effort. Mr. Speaker, I remind the entire body, as well as my fellow Americans, that blockchain technology, digital assets, and other financial technology products are here to stay, and they will be an intricate part of our future. Together, we need an environment where they can grow safely, right here in America. We must move them smartly, innovatively, and made in the U.S. At the same time, we must stay one step ahead of bad actors, terrorists, and others who want to exploit our financial system to engage in illicit activity or, worse, terrorism or state-sponsored threats. Mr. Speaker, this bill moves us in the right direction, and so I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 2969. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. NUNN of Iowa

Mr. NUNN of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 7280) to require the Inspector General of the Department of Housing and Urban Development to testify before the Congress annually, and for other purposes, as amended.

Mr. NUNN of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from North Carolina (Mr. Nickel) for his comments. I associate myself with many of his remarks and recognize there is a great opportunity to continue to work forward in a bipartisan way to help address particularly the rural housing shortage across America. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as she may consume to the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. De La Cruz).

Mr. NUNN of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on this bill.

Mr. NUNN of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. De La Cruz) and her bill, H.R. 7280, the HUD Transparency Act. Mr. Speaker, our country is suffering from an affordable housing crisis, particularly in rural areas, like rural Texas, rural Iowa, and even rural North Carolina. Across the country, there is a shortage of over 7.3 million affordable and available rental homes for low-income renters. In my home State of Iowa, 10.6 percent of the population lives below the poverty line, and the average household income is no more than $10,000, or less than the national average. These housing problems are the result of bad policies at the agency overseeing housing, HUD. With 8,500 nationwide employees and an annual budget of more than $75 billion, it is concerning that the HUD inspector general has highlighted many unacceptable problems at the agency, such as substandard housing conditions and even life-threatening issues with HUD-funded units. It is common sense to require the inspector general of HUD to testify before Congress at least once per year. We owe it to the families served by HUD and to American taxpayers to create the platform required to be able to continue to shine a bright light on these important issues. Congresswoman De La Cruz' bill is a positive step forward. It supports the opportunity for the inspector general of HUD to come before us to detail what is happening and help us find those critical solutions. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support the HUD Transparency Act, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. NUNN of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time to close. Mr. Speaker, I recognize the incredible work of the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. De La Cruz). In only her freshman year, she is already standing on the front line of taking care of not only her constituents but recognizing this threat across the country, the challenges it poses, and offering a real solution that has earned overwhelmingly bipartisan support from the House Financial Services Committee and the team there. Mr. Speaker, I urge all of my colleagues on the House floor today to support H.R. 7280, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. NUNN of Iowa

Mr. NUNN of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 170th anniversary of the Rising Sun Church of Christ in Pleasant Hill, Iowa. Over the past 170 years, the Rising Sun Church of Christ has been a cornerstone of the community, providing spiritual guidance, support, and a sense of belonging to countless individuals and families. Their mission-based approach centers around building family legacies rooted in Christ's truth emphasizing unity in essentials, liberty in non- essentials, and love in all things. Over the years, the church has grown and evolved, embracing new generations while honoring its rich history and traditions. This impressive milestone is a testament to the enduring faith and dedication of the church's congregation and leadership. I ask my colleagues to join me in thanking the Rising Sun Church of Christ for their commitment to faith, family, and their community and congratulate them on this momentous occasion.