Burgess Owens

Mr. OWENS

Mr. OWENS. One of the Merit Caucus' core missions is to spotlight exceptional educators, and Utah is blessed with so many. My team recently visited Bluffdale Elementary, a dual language immersion school where students start learning Portuguese in the first grade and stick to it throughout high school. Two inspiring classrooms were taught by Ms. Jessica Bell-Aver's first grade class and Edson Habelo's sixth grade class. Both teachers spoke exclusively in Portuguese, and the students rose to meet the challenge. First graders eagerly answered questions about the calendar and weather in Portuguese. Sixth graders tackled science concepts like ecosystems in fluent Portuguese. This is what happens when we set a high bar. Bluffdale's students are thriving because dedicated teachers believe in their potential and push them to reach them. That is merit in action.

Mr. OWENS

Mr. OWENS. Mr. Speaker, as chairman of the House Merit Caucus, I am proud to recognize a Utah educator who embodies excellence, Ms. Lacey Anderson. Lacey is a special education teacher who refused to accept low expectations for neurodivergent students. Instead, she founded Autism Solutions Academy in West Jordan, Utah, becoming a board-certified behavior analyst and building a school that meets the needs of kids where they are. Her student-first approach provides real options for parents of special needs children. By customizing lesson plans and blending teaching, she makes sure that every student, regardless of ability, has the path to succeed. During a recent visit, I met Sofia, a student who once was nonverbal and withdrawn. Today, she is reading, writing, and thriving because of a teacher who believed in her. That is what real leadership looks like. That is merit in action. When we raise the bar, our kids rise to meet it. Every child in America deserves the same chance.

Mr. OWENS

Mr. OWENS. Mr. Speaker, I thank Blake for the time. Mr. Speaker, this week, we honor the brave men and women who wear the badge, those who serve with courage, professionalism, and heart to keep our communities safe. National Police Week is a time to give thanks and to reaffirm our support for the law enforcement officers, from Utah to D.C., who put their lives on the line every single day. These officers aren't just responding to emergencies. They are neighbors, trusted members of our communities, and our role models. Today, I also want to honor a fallen hero from my home State of Utah, Sergeant Bill Hooser of the Santaquin Police Department. Sergeant Hooser gave his life in the line of duty, and this week his name is being added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial here in our Nation's Capital. Mr. Speaker, may God bless the Hooser family. May He continue to comfort them and be with them always. We will never forget Bill's service or sacrifice. House Republicans are taking action to support those who serve. This week we are advancing commonsense legislation that equips, respects, and protects our law enforcement community. Mr. Speaker, I thank every officer, every family who has lost a hero in the line of duty. Their service matters. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten. We back the blue. We trust our officers, and we will fight to protect those who protect us. God bless our law enforcement community. God bless the Hooser family, and may God continue to bless our great Nation.

Mr. OWENS

Mr. OWENS. Mr. Speaker, in Utah, we believe in opportunity, hard work, and raising kids with the character to stand tall--not just in the classroom, but in life. That means giving them more than screens and participation trophies. It means real challenges, real discipline, and real opportunities to grow. That's why I want to recognize two Utah businesses--Gateway Parks in Spanish Fork and Barn Elite Training in Mapleton--that are stepping up where too many institutions have failed. Gateway Parks is making winter sports accessible to kids who might never get the chance, teaching them confidence, grit, and the value of falling down and getting back up. Barn Elite Training is giving young athletes a place to push their limits, to build mental and physical toughness in an era when both are in short supply. Too many kids today are struggling--with stress, with isolation, and with a culture that pushes them toward passivity instead of purpose. Meanwhile, Washington drags its feet. But these businesses aren't waiting for permission--they're taking action. And as we refocus on Making America Healthy Again, this is exactly the kind of leadership we should be lifting up. I'm proud to recognize Gateway Parks and Barn Elite Training for investing in our youth--because a strong America starts with strong kids.

Mr. OWENS

Mr. OWENS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Utah Pipe Band and the Barclay School of Highland Dance--two groups that embody the spirit of tradition, excellence, and service. For over a century, the Utah Pipe Band has honored our heroes, playing at Memorial Day events across our great state, competing in Highland Games, and standing as a living tribute to history. Last year, they marched on the sands of Utah Beach for the 80th anniversary of D- Day. Before that, they played in Honolulu for the 80th anniversary of Pearl Harbor. Their music isn't just performance, it's a bridge to the past, a reminder of sacrifice, and a call to honor. Their motto, Act well thy part, is more than words--it's a way of life. And it speaks to what makes Utah special: faith, family, service, and a deep respect for the past. I thank them not just for their music, but for what they represent. Our state, our country, and our history are better because of them.

Mr. OWENS

Mr. OWENS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding achievements of the Salt Lake Community College Cross Country Program-- a testament to the determination, resilience, and spirit of Utah's student-athletes. In Richmond, Virginia, at the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Cross Country Championships, the SLCC Bruins made history by sweeping both the men's and women's races, capturing national titles on both sides. This remarkable accomplishment speaks to the extraordinary talent and dedication of the student-athletes and coaching staff. The women's team claimed its second consecutive national championship, dominating the field and finishing 46 points ahead of their closest competitors. Their impressive victory continued just two days later, as they claimed first place in the NJCAA Half Marathon National Championship, a historic feat for SLCC and a significant milestone in women's athletics at the college. On the men's side, the Bruins secured second place in the NJCAA Half Marathon National Championship, demonstrating their competitive edge and depth of talent. These achievements would not have been possible without the leadership of Head Coach Isaac Wood, who was named NJCAA National Coach of the Year, along with Assistant Coaches Kelsey Gilbert, Aiden Carlson, and Tom Gruenewald. Athletic Director Kevin Dustin has also been instrumental in fostering a culture of excellence at SLCC. Mr. Speaker, as Chair of the Higher Education and Workforce Development Subcommittee and a former athlete myself, I know firsthand the importance of athletic programs in shaping character and building future leaders. The success of the Salt Lake Community College Cross Country Program is not just a win for Utah, but an inspiration for aspiring athletes everywhere. I applaud the SLCC Cross Country Program for their extraordinary accomplishments, and I look forward to seeing their continued success in the years to come. Their hard work, resilience, and sportsmanship embody the best of what it means to be a Bruin.

Mr. OWENS

Mr. OWENS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor K9 Officer Andy Maybo of the U.S. Capitol Police, whose tireless work has ensured that our fallen heroes are never forgotten. For years, Officer Maybo has been at the heart of organizing the National Peace Officers' Memorial Service, coordinating with Congress, the U.S. Capitol Police, the Secret Service, and the U.S. Park Police. His dedication has been particularly impactful for Utah's fallen officers, ensuring that their families were properly honored at this important event. In addition to his role in the memorial, Andy served as president of DC FOP Lodge 1 and contributed to several other lodge committees. As Andy steps down from his role on the National FOP Memorial Committee this May, we owe him our deepest gratitude for his leadership and service. His unwavering commitment has made a lasting impact on the families of fallen officers across the nation. I thank Officer Maybo for his years of service and dedication. May God bless him, and may God bless the United States of America

Mr. OWENS

Mr. OWENS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Margaret Peterson, a dedicated public servant and respected leader in West Valley City. Margaret served on the city council for 18 years, always putting families and students first. She is also the founder and Executive Director of the Community Education Partnership, a nonprofit that supports afterschool programs across the city. Under her leadership, the program has reached over 15,000 students from 20 elementary schools, four junior highs, one high school, and several charter schools. It has helped improve academic outcomes, encouraged stronger attendance, and given students a safe place to grow. In 2024, West Valley City honored Margaret with the ``Essential Piece'' award--a heartfelt recognition of her decades of service and the lives she's touched through education and community building. Her example is one we should all aspire to.

Mr. OWENS

Mr. OWENS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Olympus High School Titans on winning the 5A Boys Basketball State Championship. With a commanding 69 to 40 win over Highland High, the Titans capped off a season defined by discipline, grit, and teamwork. This championship reflects the hours of practice, the leadership of their coaches, and the drive of a team that refused to let up. I also want to give a special shout-out to three players from the Millcreek area--Luke Owen, Jack Evan, and Malakai Philip--whose efforts on the court made a lasting impact. Their hard work, and the hard work of the entire team, has brought pride to their school and to our entire community. Congratulations again to the Titans on an outstanding season and a well-earned title.

Mr. OWENS

Mr. OWENS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an extraordinary team of hardworking Utahns who brought home a world title--Team Utah from Papa John's, winners of the 2025 Global Pizza Games. Out of more than 6,000 locations worldwide, this locally owned and operated franchise in West Jordan achieved something that's never been done before in our state. Competing against teams from Peru, the UK, South Korea, the UAE, and across the United States, they earned first place with unmatched precision, speed, and teamwork, setting a record time of 8 minutes and 33 seconds while producing four near-perfect pizzas, each scoring an impressive 9.9 out of 10. Behind this victory are three standout individuals: Nicole Brock, a 25-year veteran and general manager in American Fork; Benny Loughton, her assistant manager; and Phillip Newson, their coach and motivator. Their dedication, discipline, and belief in excellence showcase the best of Utah's work ethic and spirit. Mr. Speaker, their victory is a testament to what's possible when local businesses invest in people, when teams lead with pride, and when hard work meets opportunity. Congratulations to Team Utah, our Global Pizza Champions. They have made us proud.

Mr. OWENS

Mr. OWENS. Mr. Speaker, today we remember and honor a trailblazer, a leader, and a dear friend, Mia Love. Mia made history as Utah's first Black mayor and the first Black Republican woman elected to Congress, but her impact went far further than those titles. She was a fierce advocate, a tireless servant, and a bright light in the lives of so many. Mia brought passion, energy, and an unwavering commitment to the people of Utah's Fourth District, a district that I am now proud to serve. She led with grace and conviction, never backing down from a challenge, and always striving to make a difference for those she served. It is for me a profound honor to follow in her footsteps. Her legacy is one of faith, courage, and love, and the highlight of her life was her husband, Jason, and her family. These descriptions are all fitting for a woman whose name said it all. While we grieve her loss, we also celebrate a life well lived, a mission well served, and a friend deeply missed. Our Utah communities mourn for the Love family. We pray that they find peace in the Heavenly Father's love and comfort and solace in what Mia has meant to all of us. Now, please rise for a moment of silence.

Mr. OWENS

Mr. OWENS. Mr. Chair, imagine our esteemed universities, pillars of free thought and innovation, quietly channeling millions into investments linked to the Chinese Communist Party, Russian oligarchs, or the Iranian regime. While our students learn about democracy and liberty, their tuition dollars may be funding governments that stand against these very ideals. This isn't hypothetical. This is happening. Since 2013, U.S. colleges and universities have received over $1 billion from Chinese Communist Party-affiliated sources. In return, we have seen professors silenced, student groups threatened, and our intellectual property stolen. At the same time, these institutions, many of which proudly divest from fossil fuels and boycott Israel, are more than willing to accept foreign funding from adversaries who seek to undermine our Nation. The DETERRENT Act is our line in the sand. It demands transparency and accountability from higher education. If universities are entangled with foreign adversaries, the American people deserve to know. I am proud that my Reporting on Investments in Foreign Adversaries, or RIFA, Act is included in this legislation. The RIFA Act ensures private colleges and universities disclose whether they are investing their endowments in hostile nations like China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea. These financial partnerships should not be hidden from the public. For far too long, we have allowed educational institutions to become conduits for foreign influence. Administrators on the taxpayers' dime have given repressive regimes easy access to our students, turning their backs on the very freedoms they claim to uphold. This betrayal must stop, and I must make it clear that profit over patriotism, profit over American values, and profit over American culture is traitorous betrayal. The DETERRENT Act takes critical steps to safeguard our institutions, protect our students, and preserve American values. We must not allow profit to overshadow patriotism. It is time to reclaim our universities and secure our future. I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on this legislation.

Mr. OWENS

Mr. OWENS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding achievements of the Salt Lake Community College Cross Country Program-- a testament to the determination, resilience, and spirit of Utah's student-athletes. In Richmond, Virginia, at the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Cross Country Championships, the SLCC Bruins made history by sweeping both the men's and women's races, capturing national titles on both sides. This remarkable accomplishment speaks to the extraordinary talent and dedication of the student-athletes and coaching staff. The women's team claimed its second consecutive national championship, dominating the field and finishing 46 points ahead of their closest competitors. Their impressive victory continued just two days later, as they claimed first place in the NJCAA Half Marathon National Championship--a historic feat for SLCC and a significant milestone in women's athletics at the college. On the men's side, the Bruins secured second place in the NJCAA Half Marathon National Championship, demonstrating their competitive edge and depth of talent. These achievements would not have been possible without the leadership of Head Coach Isaac Wood, who was named NJCAA National Coach of the Year, along with Assistant Coaches Kelsey Gilbert, Alden Carlson, and Tom Gruenewald. Athletic Director Kevin Dustin has also been instrumental in fostering a culture of excellence at SLCC. Mr. Speaker, as Chair of the Higher Education and Workforce Development Subcommittee and a former athlete myself, I know firsthand the importance of athletic programs in shaping character and building future leaders. The success of the Salt Lake Community College Cross Country Program is not just a win for Utah, but an inspiration for aspiring athletes everywhere. I applaud the SLCC Cross Country Program for their extraordinary accomplishments, and I look forward to seeing their continued success in the years to come. Their hard work, resilience, and sportsmanship embody the best of what it means to be a Bruin.

Mr. OWENS

Mr. OWENS. Mr. Speaker, the only respect they earn is the respect to defend and honor womanhood. Our daughters and women are watching. The message to men standing quietly on the sidelines of this issue is: It is time to man up. These are girls and women in our lives who depend on us to stand and fight for what is right. Now is the time to protect them from men who want to infringe on their space and their sports. To my colleagues on both sides of the aisle, please join us as we support the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act.

Mr. OWENS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act. Fifty years ago, Title IX revolutionized women's sports and opened doors that had been closed for all previous generations. Because of Title IX, women's participation in athletics skyrocketed by over 1,000 percent in high schools and 600 percent in college athletics. This progress of equal opportunity for millions of girls and women for scholarships, honors, careers, and wealth has been under attack for the entirety of the Biden administration. By ignoring the biological, physical, and genetic differences between men and women, this administration has dismantled the level playing field that women and girls deserve. This is about fairness, safety, and opportunity. When viewed through the eyes of common sense, it is obvious. When seen through the results of lost opportunities, it becomes clear that something valuable has been stolen. When men are allowed to compete in women's sports, not only are women no longer safe but they also lose scholarships, championships, and opportunities to build self-esteem that lasts a lifetime. Young men also lose when they embrace this ideology of unfairness and call it admirable. It is called loss of shame. I have 5 daughters and 12 granddaughters. I have stood on the sidelines and watched them pour their hearts and souls into the sports they love. I have seen their grit, determination, and pride as they worked hard, hoping to be victorious. Even when they are not, these moments of competing add to the lifelong building blocks of character. What message are we sending to our girls when we tell them their hard work doesn't matter? What is our message as we cowardly stand by as boys and men steal their opportunities, dominate their sports, and erase their records? This debate isn't about sports. It is about what kind of country we are going to be. Do we remain a Nation that stands with fairness, celebrates achievement, and defends the rights of our girls and women, or do we devolve into a country that bows to radical ideologies at their expense? An overwhelming majority of Americans have boldly spoken on the vision of our society. We see it as one in which we continue to teach our young men respect.

Mr. OWENS

Mr. OWENS. 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 to H.R. 5349.

Mr. OWENS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 5349, the Crucial Communism Teaching Act authored by Representative Salazar from Florida. Communism is a cancerous ideology that has a long, dark history of political suppression, persecution, and violence. There is no question about that. This ideology has led to the deaths of over 100 million men, women, and children worldwide, and it tramples the human rights of 1.5 billion people across the globe. If you think this is a thing of the past, think again. The Victims of Communism Memorial Foundation put it this way: ``The Berlin Wall fell in 1989, but communism didn't. One hundred years after the Bolshevik Revolution, one-fifth of the world's population still lives under single-party communist regimes in China, Cuba, Laos, North Korea, and Vietnam.'' The freedom we enjoy is a threat to these communist regimes, and they benefit when their atrocities are covered up. It is no surprise that malign foreign actors are infiltrating American educational institutions to spew propaganda and keep the horrors of communism buried. For example, the Chinese Communist Party, the CCP, is using Confucius Classrooms under the guise of cultural exchange centers to undermine the principles upon which this Nation is built. They are explicitly organized by the CCP to project soft power on American students. The strategy is straight out of the Soviet playbook. In 1960, the USSR established the Peoples' Friendship University as a cultural and literary exchange program to indoctrinate students in developing countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. This blatant attempt to inject foreign ideologies into schools undermines the fundamental purpose of American education. It goes without saying that we should be teaching American values in American schools. Make no mistake, every dollar that flows into American classrooms from the CCP comes with strings attached, and the most important string is the requirement that instructors censor themselves to appease Beijing. The censorship stifles academic freedom, which is a cornerstone of the American educational system. Academic freedom encourages open dialogue, the free exchange of ideas, and the pursuit of knowledge without fear of reprisal. Confucius Classrooms, however, undermine these principles by fostering an environment where educators are pressured to align with the CCP's agenda, stifling critical thinking and true intellectual exploration. Yet, over 500 K-12 schools across the United States have allowed the CCP to establish itself in their halls under the guise of Confucius Classrooms, which has been especially concentrated close to military bases. To make matters worse, currently, 28 percent of Gen Zers hold a favorable opinion of the term ``communism,'' and 18 percent of Gen Zers think communism is a fairer system than capitalism and deserves consideration in America. These disturbing statistics make it clear that we are in a war of ideas. President Reagan's quote is even more prescient: Freedom ``is never more than one generation away from extinction.'' We celebrate accountability, free markets, human rights, and good governance, while communism seeks to subvert these ideas. We must protect and nurture our own democratic values for them to continue to thrive. This a serious problem that must be confronted, and the Crucial Communism Teaching Act is the answer. This legislation will offer States and local school districts optional educational materials with which they can educate high school students about the dangers of communism and how these systems are contrary to the founding principles of freedom in the United States. This is all about preserving those founding principles, safeguarding the freedoms that have always defined this great Republic throughout its history, and educating this Nation's future leaders about the true nature of this caustic ideology that is communism. Mr. Speaker, I urge a ``yes'' vote for the Crucial Communism Teaching Act, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. OWENS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Walberg).

Mr. OWENS. Mr. Speaker, pursuant to House Resolution 1602, I call up the bill (H.R. 5349) to develop and disseminate a civic education curriculum and oral history resources regarding certain political ideologies, and for other purposes, and ask for its immediate consideration in the House.

Mr. OWENS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 minutes to the gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. Salazar), who is the bill's sponsor.

Mr. OWENS. Mr. Speaker, I yield an additional 1 minute to the gentlewoman from Florida.

Mr. OWENS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. Mr. Speaker, first of all, let me thank my colleague from Florida for her remarks. We can do a lot of good things in our country, including closing the border and taking care of inflation. If we do not teach our young people the danger of communism, then we will rot from within. Mr. Speaker, I thank Ms. Salazar for her leadership. Communism's long, dark history of political suppression, persecution, and violence is established fact. As I mentioned at the start, communism has led to the deaths of over 100 million victims worldwide and currently tramples the human rights 1.5 billion people across the globe. It is troubling that so many Gen Zers have no problem with communism or even embrace it. This is the result of at least two factors: the lack of accurate educational materials in U.S. schools and malign foreign actors who successfully push their propaganda. The good news is that Republicans have a solution that has bipartisan support. H.R. 5349, the Crucial Communism Teaching Act, will support State and local efforts to educate high school students about the dangers of communism and how those systems are contrary to the founding principles of freedom in the United States. Communist influence and infiltration in schools is real. Students need accurate information about how dangerous these ideologies are. By passing this bill, Congress can send a message that it stands against hate, indoctrination, and radicalization of America's next generation of leaders. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. OWENS. Mr. Speaker, I claim the time in opposition to the amendment, even though I am not opposed to it.

Mr. OWENS. As mentioned, this amendment would ensure that optional learning resources developed by the Victims of Communism Memorial Foundation are periodically updated, with a special focus on China's human rights abuses and aggression against democratic nations. The Chinese Communist Party has egregiously and repeatedly violated human rights. They have persecuted Muslim minorities, displayed aggression toward Taiwan, and cracked down on peaceful pro-democracy protesters. In Chinese schools, they are indoctrinating students to ignore or dismiss these human rights abuses. They are not content to only brainwash their own students. They are also attempting to indoctrinate American students, as I mentioned in my opening statement. American students need to know about Communism and especially the evils of the Chinese Communist Party. The Gottheimer amendment would ensure that these optional resources fully include information about China's abuses so students can get a full version of history. Mr. Speaker, I support the gentleman's amendment, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. OWENS

Mr. OWENS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in honor of a true hero, Sergeant Bill Hooser, whose life was tragically taken on May 5, 2024, in the line of duty. Sergeant Hooser dedicated himself to protecting our communities, serving first in the San Juan County Sheriff's Office in New Mexico and later joining the Santaquin City Police Department in Utah in 2017. Just this last February, he was promoted to sergeant, a testament to his dedication and leadership. Sergeant Hooser gave 29 years of his life to his family--a devoted husband, a loving father to two daughters, and a proud grandfather. He also gave himself fully to his community, sacrificing everything to keep others safe. On May 5, 2024, he was struck and killed by a tractor-trailer during a high-speed chase on Interstate 15. His courage and selflessness are the very embodiment of what we ask of our law enforcement officers each day. Utah has not faced a line-of-duty death since 2020, but this loss is a stark and sobering reminder of the risks our officers take every time they put on their uniforms. Sergeant Hooser's passing is a wound in the heart of our State and a call for all of us to reflect on the cost of the safety and security we often take for granted. Today, we have an opportunity to honor Sergeant Hooser's legacy in a lasting and meaningful way. My legislation, cosponsored by the entire Utah House delegation, will name the Santaquin post office the Sergeant Bill Hooser Post Office Building. This act ensures that Sergeant Hooser's sacrifice is remembered by future generations. It is a small gesture in the face of an immense loss, but it carries a profound message: Utah will not forget its heroes. I say to Sergeant Hooser's family that their loss is immeasurable, and their grief is shared by our grateful State. May God comfort them and give them strength. To our law enforcement officers across the country, know that we see you, we value you, and we stand with you. Let us come together today to pass this legislation and honor Sergeant Bill Hooser's courage, sacrifice, and enduring legacy.