Frank Pallone

Mr. PALLONE

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman from Virginia (Ms. McClellan), a member of our committee.

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of the KIDS Act, which is, as my chairman has mentioned, bipartisan legislation to protect kids online and rein in Big Tech. I thank Chairman Guthrie for all his work on this. The internet, social media, and now artificial intelligence have profoundly changed how kids and teens connect with families and friends, how they learn about what is happening around them, and how they participate in an ever-changing online world. While there have been positive advancements, our kids are also suffering from Big Tech's choke hold on their attention and their relentless pursuit to keep them connected to their platforms. Big Tech is using reckless practices to surveil our kids and teens, exploit vulnerabilities to turn a profit, and promote engagement regardless of the consequences. For too long, Big Tech has had a free pass while kids and teens face real harm online, including predatory design features, dangerous AI chatbots, and data brokers profiting off of their personal information. We simply cannot allow this to continue. It is long past time for Congress to step in and pass legislation that protects our kids and teens and reins in Big Tech. Now, the bipartisan KIDS Act does just that. It is a comprehensive bill that addresses a problem everyone in Congress cares deeply about, and that is keeping kids and teens safe online. The KIDS Act mandates safeguards, parental tools, and policies across video games and social media platforms, including social gaming platforms like Roblox and chatbots. Platforms are required to limit addictive design features, restrict sharing minors' geolocation data, turn off personalized recommendation systems that drive user engagement, and a lot more. The KIDS Act also changes the business incentives driving Big Tech's desire to keep kids on their platforms by protecting minors' data and expanding these critical privacy protections from the current age of 12 to teens up to the age of 17. The bill also bans targeted advertising to kids and teens and ensures that websites can collect and retain only limited kids' data that is necessary to provide a product or service. It also requires data brokers that sell minors' data to register with the Federal Trade Commission and pay an annual fee, bringing transparency to a secretive process and a crucial first step toward ending the practice of data brokers selling kids' data. Mr. Speaker, I can't express enough gratitude to all the parents who have shared their stories and fought for Congress to come together to take action to save other parents from ever experiencing what they went through. I know there are parents who would like Congress to go even further in the KIDS Act. I will be clear: The KIDS Act is a floor, not a ceiling. The preemption language in the KIDS Act is written with the explicit intent of ensuring that States have the authority to pass and enforce stronger State laws, including those with a duty of care. It is also intended to ensure that ongoing lawsuits against social media companies, chatbot providers, and social gaming companies brought by State attorneys general and attorneys on behalf of parents and kids can continue, including those based on a duty of care and consumer protection laws. I am proud to lead this legislation alongside Chairman Guthrie. For many months now, the Energy and Commerce Committee has been working on legislative solutions to protect our kids and teens online, and this comprehensive, bipartisan bill is the result of those ongoing negotiations. This is an example of the Energy and Commerce Committee at its best. Mr. Speaker, I am also grateful for the tireless work of Representative Castor, a senior committee member, who has been a steadfast champion of the strongest possible protection for kids online. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on the KIDS Act to make the internet a safer place for our kids and teens, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. PALLONE

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. Mr. Speaker, as I say, I did not realize that she was up in the gallery. I appreciate all the help that she has done in moving this legislation because it is important. As I mentioned, this weekend is Memorial Day weekend. We just had a huge shark actually appear off the coast of Asbury Park, one of our premier beach destinations in my district. Mr. Speaker, I can't stress enough the importance of this bill, and I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on a bipartisan basis. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of S. 1003, the Senate companion to H.R. 2076, Lulu's Law, named after Lulu Gribbin of Alabama, who was attacked by a shark in 2024. It was not long ago that Americans received emergency alerts exclusively over broadcast television and radio channels. In the last 10 to 15 years, our emergency alerting capabilities have improved significantly as a direct byproduct of innovation and breakthroughs in wireless technology. Prior to 2012, Americans needed to practically seek out emergency warnings via broadcast programming to receive alert information being distributed for any number of important situations. That is why the creation of the Wireless Emergency Alert, or WEA, system in 2012 marked a significant leap forward in our ability to disseminate warning and alert messages to the public. All across the Nation, natural disasters like tornadoes, wildfires, and flash floods show up with little or no warning. One tragedy after another has demonstrated that being able to push emergency warning information out directly to cell phones in the danger zone is one of the most powerful tools that we have to save lives. The WEA system allows alerting authorities at nearly every level of government the ability to reach Americans where they are. Cell phones are ubiquitous today, and the WEA system will only continue to be more effective as wireless providers and alerting authorities take steps to improve geotargeting and location accuracy. These tools can also be utilized to protect beachgoers from threats to life and safety posed by sharks. This is especially important for me as I represent the Jersey Shore towns that attract millions of visitors and billions in economic activity during the summer months. As we approach the Memorial Day weekend, the unofficial start to New Jersey's beach season, this reminds us of the importance of being vigilant in and near the water while at the beach. It is particularly timely because, just yesterday in my district, a great white shark appeared off the coast of Asbury Park. We know that dangerous circumstances posed by sharks or rip currents leave even the most prepared swimmers in harm's way. This bill directs the Federal Communications Commission to issue an order that drives home the point that potential shark attacks are permissible uses of the WEA system. This is important because local authorities can and should use every tool at their disposal to keep the public informed of developments with clear actionable instructions for how to respond safely. I strongly support the passage of S. 1003, and I reserve the balance of my time, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. PALLONE

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Mr. PALLONE

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. Mr. Speaker, I want to reiterate my support for the Renewable Fuel Standard, including allowing the voluntary year-round sale of gasoline with 15 percent ethanol, known as E15, because it lowers prices for American drivers, supports farmers, and fosters investment in cleaner transportation fuel. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues on a bipartisan basis to support this bill. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, may I ask how much time remains on both sides.

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 4 minutes to the gentlewoman from Illinois (Ms. Budzinski).

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 4 minutes to the gentlewoman from Kansas (Ms. Davids).

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 4 minutes to the gentlewoman from Minnesota (Ms. Craig), the ranking member of the Agriculture Committee. She used to be on our committee, but we lost her as she moved to the top Democrat on the Agriculture Committee.

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 4 minutes to the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. Landsman), a member of our committee.

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I yield 4 minutes to the gentleman from New York (Mr. Tonko), the ranking member of the Environment Subcommittee of the Energy and Commerce Committee.

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 1346, the Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act. I am a supporter of the Renewable Fuel Standard, including allowing the voluntary year-round sale of gasoline with 15 percent ethanol, known as E15, because it lowers prices for American drivers, supports our farmers, and fosters investment in cleaner transportation fuels. That is why we are here today, to preserve and expand the availability of a cheaper and cleaner fuel option for the driving public. Blending more biofuels, like ethanol, into gasoline displaces demand for petroleum, helping to bring down gas prices for consumers. That is particularly important when Trump's reckless war of choice in Iran is driving up prices at the pump for Americans. Just yesterday, new inflation data showed that, overall, energy prices are up nearly 18 percent over the last year, and Americans cannot afford Trump's price spikes. Issues concerning the Renewable Fuel Standard have a long bipartisan history. For example, at the end of 2024, Democrats and Republicans from the Energy and Commerce Committee worked to secure meaningful provisions in a bipartisan, bicameral, end-of-the-year government funding package. That agreement included similar year-round E15 language that would have lowered costs and made a meaningful difference in the lives of hardworking Americans. Allowing year-round E15 would have ensured that Americans have access to homegrown biofuels that save drivers money at the pump and help insulate people from dramatic global price fluctuations. Congress had a chance to address the year-round E15 issue then, but Speaker Johnson backed out of that bipartisan, bicameral deal because Elon Musk, of all people, voiced his opposition to it. This problem of Republicans' own making has persisted with no resolution for more than 2 years now. Earlier this year, Speaker Johnson set up an E15 Rural Domestic Energy Council of only Republican Members to bring a new E15 deal to the House floor. This council operated without transparency, abandoned bipartisan cooperation, and ignored longstanding and clear Energy and Commerce Committee jurisdiction on legislation amending the Clean Air Act and the Renewable Fuel Standard. Next, they tried to slip this deal into the farm bill but were blocked by Republican opposition and a score from the Congressional Budget Office. The net effect of the deal brokered by the Republican-only E15 Rural Domestic Energy Council would be a $2.3 billion increase in the deficit over a 10-year window. The Republican majority scratched the amendment because it costs money, and here we are, debating a standalone version to allow them to get around their budget requirements. Republicans like to give the impression that they are fiscal hawks, but that is a joke. It is just another example of how they can't get their act together and actually govern. Republicans are going to turn the other way on supposed fiscal discipline to try to pass this bill, but they refuse to address so many other priorities to help Americans. Families across the country are dealing with an affordability crisis, thanks to high prices for healthcare, energy bills, and groceries, but House Republicans won't lift a finger to help us on any of these issues. These are the games the Republican majority plays daily. They are a mess. They are incapable of governing, and the American people are paying the price. Mr. Speaker, to be clear, I am not opposed to this bill, but I have serious concerns with the Republican majority's artificially rushed, partisan, and secretive process. This is not a bill that I would have proposed if I or any Democrats were given a seat at the negotiating table. However, it is a compromise, and despite my reservations, I am voting ``yes'' because year-round E15 can offer some relief at the pump as prices soar across the board due to Trump's reckless war in Iran and the disastrous Republican energy agenda. Despite my serious concerns with the process by which this bill was brought to the floor today, the bill is a step in the right direction, as President Trump and congressional Republicans carelessly undermine renewable fuels and push policies that hurt our farmers. Today, drivers are saving, on average, about 30 cents per gallon to fill up their tanks with E15. This fuel provides significant savings for families during the summer driving season, so let's ensure it continues to be available at gas stations across the country all year with certainty, which is what this bill does. Mr. Speaker, I support the bill but not the methods used to get here. In any case, I do support the bill. I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes,'' and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. PALLONE

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the MakEMinds team, comprised of junior high school students from Edison, New Jersey as they celebrate finishing among the top teams in a highly competitive national field during the Governor's Cup robotics competition in Washington, D.C. It is my privilege to recognize this accomplished group of young leaders representing New Jersey's promising future of excellence in STEM. The following students have all demonstrated strong leadership, initiative, and a passion for giving back to their community: Abhishek Shukla, Meer Patel, Ishan Atre, Vismay Patel, Aarav Saresa, Darsh Shah, Madhav Karuba, Pravnav Devarapalli, Arya Vora, Saiganesh Yoganand, and Arnav Doshi. They have gone above and beyond dedicating time to community outreach to bring awareness to robotics and promote STEM education to younger students. I applaud the students for the outstanding performance thus far and extend my appreciation for shining a wonderful reflection of the State of New Jersey nationwide. Soon, the team members of MakEMinds will participate in the World Championship event in Houston, Texas. I am confident that the students involved have bright futures ahead. Mr. Speaker, I sincerely hope my colleagues will join me in honoring the MakEMinds Edison Junior High team for their exceptional achievement at the Governor's cup.

Mr. PALLONE

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, as family, friends, and community members gather to celebrate the life of Lester E. Wright Sr., I would like to join in paying tribute to his memory. Lester passed away on April 20, 2026 after a long life filled with countless professional and personal accomplishments. Lester was a U.S. Army Veteran during WWII, successful businessman, beloved father, and the fastest known Centenarian. Until his honorable discharge in 1945, Lester proudly served in the United States Army as a rifle sharpshooter. For his time fighting in Central Europe and Northern France, he was awarded with the American Theater Ribbon, European African Middle Eastern Theater Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, Victory Ribbon and Four Bronze Battle Stars. Since early in life, Lester was an avid runner. Most notably, Lester received two gold medals at the Penn relays for his performance at 76 years old and as the world record-breaking finisher in the 100-meter dash for a 100- year-old. With his wife of 81 years, Adele, Lester owned and operated the Long Branch Dental Laboratory. This was the first Black owned and operated dental laboratory in Long Branch, NJ. As a lifelong resident of Long Branch, Lester exemplified community service through his involvement with the Boy Scouts of America, Community Center, and membership to the City's Recreation Committee and Board of Adjustments. Mr. Wright, Sr. is predeceased by his loving wife Adele, his sons Lester Wright, Jr. and Joseph Wright. He is remembered in cherished memory by his daughters Doreen Wright and Carolyn McCain; grandchildren Michael Wall, Ronald Brown, John Wall, Rachel McConnell, Corinne Hood, and Brian Wall; his great and great-great grandchildren; nieces and nephews. Mr. Speaker, I sincerely hope that my colleagues will join me in honoring Lester E. Wright, Sr. for his leadership and dedication to his community and our Nation.

Mr. PALLONE

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Mr. PALLONE

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Mr. PALLONE

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. Mr. Speaker, I was in Congress in 2007 when the phaseouts targeted by this bill were signed into law. As I already said, President Bush signed section 433 of the EISA into law. At that time, it was considered a good thing for the Federal Government to try to lead the way and lower its reliance on fossil fuels. The Federal Government is the largest consumer of energy in the country, and it makes sense to try to figure out how to lower our energy consumption. In 2007, it made sense to harness the purchasing power of the Federal Government and support emerging efficiency and electrification industries in the United States so that we could become competitive. I don't think anything has changed. It still makes sense to try to lower our emissions. As we have seen over and over these last few years, today's Republicans have no interest in America's leadership in the energy transition. They are perfectly comfortable watching China bypass us with clean energy development, and they are content to keep the Federal Government tied to the energy resources of the past, especially when it means that their friends in the fossil fuels industry keep getting paid. Rather than recognizing the clean energy transition as an opportunity to lead the way and compete and overcome China, House Republicans are only interested in seeing us move backward. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to see this bill for what it is. It is just a way to guarantee that American taxpayers' money keeps flowing to the fossil fuel industry. That makes absolutely no sense today, given what we see in terms of prices and in terms of what is happening with competition from China and other countries that are moving toward clean energy. For all these reasons, I urge my colleagues to vote against this bill, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I yield an additional 2 minutes to the gentlewoman from Florida.

Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I will be brief. The gentleman from Texas knows that I respect him a great deal, but when he mentioned the American Gas Association, I couldn't help but say that the lists of the organizations that endorse this bill, that put out a press release announcing their support back in July, is like a who's who of the oil and gas industry: The American Gas Association, The American Public Gas Association, Independent Petroleum Association of America, American Petroleum Institute of America, The National Gas Supply Association, the list goes on, and it is no surprise. All of these organizations stand to benefit from the bill because they are just a giveaway to the fossil fuel industry. The Republicans like to pretend that these bills are in the best interest of everyday Americans, but if you look at this list that endorsed this bill, it is just the opposite. It is the oil and gas industry. That is who they are helping out with this legislation. Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 minutes to the gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. Castor), the ranking member of our Energy Subcommittee.