Ed Perlmutter

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and applaud Jack Ethredge and his 32-year tenure as City Manager with the City of Thornton in Colorado. Jack Ethredge began serving as City Manager in January 1985 and served in that capacity until his retirement in March 2017. During his tenure, Jack oversaw the construction of many large-scale projects and helped improve the collaboration between City Council and staff to implement Thornton's vision and overall growth of the city. Specifically, Jack spearheaded several intergovernmental agreements with surrounding cities and school districts, including an agreement with the City of Westminster, which was the first of its kind in Colorado. These agreements helped better coordinate planning in terms of costs, revenue and future growth areas among Thornton's neighboring communities. In addition, these agreements helped make Thornton's city services more efficient and cost-effective including snow and ice control removal on shared streets, special transit services for seniors and low-moderate income residents, and coordination of transportation planning. The Denver Regional Council of Governments and the Colorado Municipal League have recognized several of these programs virtually every year since 1986. Jack's vision, leadership, and commitment to public service and his local community has been recognized by a wide variety of organizations and awards including: Metro North Chamber of Commerce's Economic Developer of the Year; Denver Federal Executive Board's Distinguished Local Government Award; and 1986 Man of the Year by the Northglenn- Thornton Sentinel. I extend my deepest appreciation to Jack Ethredge for his service and commitment to the City of Thornton and I wish him all the best in retirement.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and applaud United Power, Inc. for receiving the 2017 Economic Development Award for Leadership. The Economic Development Award for Leadership honors a business or individual that has been a catalyst for economic vitality in Commerce City through creative leadership, innovation, facilitation, collaboration or through contribution of resources. United Power is a community-based, progressive utility cooperative serving 900 square miles along the north central range of the Colorado Rockies. The company has an electric franchise agreement with Commerce City to provide service to the city's growth areas in the northeast. United Power's capital investment in Commerce City includes a Reunion Substation with 37.5MVA (mega volt amp) transformer that is designed to support future expansion. In addition, United Power provides monetary and volunteer support for community events, non-profit organizations, service groups and chambers. United Power also has a charitable foundation that offers direct grants for 501(c)3 organizations that provide services to United Power members. Employees at United Power also sit on numerous boards. I extend my deepest congratulations to United Power, Inc. for this well-deserved recognition by Commerce City.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and applaud Asahi Food, Inc. for receiving the 2017 Business on the Move Award. The Business on the Move Award recognizes businesses bringing new employment, growth in sales, or new capital investment to the city in the last year. Asahi Food was founded six years ago in Commerce City by Owner and President, Paul Guan. The business began with one client, Hapa Sushi in Denver, and today is a leading seafood supplier, delivering fresh-cut fish for more than 200 restaurants in Colorado and surrounding states. Their General Manager is Charlene Thai, founder of the Asian Restaurant Association. Asahi Food is also extremely involved in the community and is an active member of the Takayama Sister Cities organization, Japan American Society of Colorado, and other Japanese community groups. They are also active with the local Chinese and Taiwanese communities. I extend my deepest congratulations to the Asahi Food, Inc. for this well-deserved recognition by Commerce City.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman, and I hope I don't take 5 minutes. I rise today in support of S. 442, the NASA Transition Authorization Act of 2017. I have long been a supporter of our Nation's space program. I have seen what we can accomplish when we put our best and brightest in a room together and give them the resources they need to solve tough scientific, engineering, and mathematical problems to better our society and our understanding of the solar system and beyond. The bill before us today ensures the hardworking people at NASA and the thousands of private aerospace workers in Colorado and across the country have a constant sea of purpose and the backing of Congress to continue advancing our quest to understand our planet and explore other celestial bodies. Mr. Speaker, I enjoy serving on the Science, Space, and Technology Committee. While we may not agree on every issue, when it comes to our space programs, we come together and find the best solutions to the problems we face, and this bill does exactly that. As my colleagues on this committee know, I am very passionate about getting our astronauts to the surface of Mars. This bill will require detailed plans from NASA on how to do that and, more importantly, on the timelines so that we can get to Mars through the development of a human exploration roadmap. In addition to this roadmap, section 435 of the bill also requires NASA to report back on the feasibility of a human mission to Mars by the year 2033. Sixteen years from now, Earth and Mars will be aligned for what could be the most significant and inspirational journey in history. About 18 months ago, our committee heard testimony from former NASA leadership about our deep space exploration missions. I asked them to provide us a date: When can we get to Mars? As it turns out, the planets' orbit and alignment in 2033 is optimal. So as my colleagues on the committee know, I have prepared a bumper sticker, Mr. Speaker, just for you, showing 2033 as the time we are going to get our astronauts to Mars. I thank Chairman Smith, Representative Babin, Representative Eddie Bernice Johnson of Texas, as well as Representative Bera for allowing me to work and to help put section 435 into the bill. I know we can do this. This is a mission that all Americans will be proud of. They are so proud of our space program, the scientists and engineers at NASA. This will give us a real goal and a real project to get our astronauts to Mars by 2033.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize KeyBank for being honored as the Large Business of the Year by the West Chamber of Commerce. KeyBank is a valuable community partner across the Denver Metro area and in Jefferson County. In Colorado, KeyBank has 700 employees, 61 branches and gives generously to more than 50 community partners every year in support of education, workforce development and advancing economic inclusion through building stronger neighborhoods and communities. For the past two years, KeyBank has sponsored the ``Launch'' program for the Jefferson County Business Resource Center. Through this sponsorship, KeyBank plays an important role in helping local entrepreneurs create business plans and develop the skills they need to start a small business. In addition to supporting local entrepreneurs through the ``Launch'' program, KeyBank also plays an important role in funding small businesses in Jefferson County. KeyBank has provided small business loans to numerous local entrepreneurs, which have helped them acquire other businesses, purchase real estate or grow their businesses in a variety of ways. I extend my deepest congratulations to KeyBank for this well- deserved honor from the West Chamber of Commerce.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Private First Class Buford Johnson, a World War II Army veteran for his service to our country. Buford Johnson served in the United States Army from June 1943 to September 1945. During this time, he served as a half-track driver, gunner driver and a convoy driver. On August 10, 1944, Buford was deployed to the United Kingdom where he and his company crossed the English Channel and landed in France. Buford and his company were on the beach for three days and three nights, marched by foot, traveled by train, and finally arrived at their trucks. After driving more than 40 miles to deliver their supplies, they then marched seven miles over the mountains of France to the front lines. Buford served in France, Germany, Normandy, and Northern France in the 5th Division, 3rd Army under the command of General George Patton during the Battle of the Bulge. On November 10, 1944, Buford was injured by a piece of shrapnel which hit below his knee. After receiving battlefield care, he returned to fighting on the front lines. His military awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, American Campaign Medal, European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal (with 3 bronze service stars), World War II Victory Medal, Army of Occupation Medal with Germany Clasp, Combat Infantryman Badge, 1st Award, Marksman Badge-- Expert, Sharpshooter with the Marksman Clasp, and the WWII Honorable Service Lapel Pin. After Buford returned home, he worked in both Wyoming and Montana as a ranch hand performing jobs including fence mending, cattle herding and irrigation work for 40 years. Seventeen years ago, Buford moved to Denver where he now lives with his daughter, Darlene, and son-in-law, Vincent. I extend my deepest appreciation to Private First Class Buford Johnson for his dedication, integrity and outstanding service to the United States of America.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize AdWest Consulting, Inc. for being honored as the Woman-Owned Business of the Year by the West Chamber of Commerce. AdWest Consulting was founded in Jefferson County in 1986 by Nancy Crego. AdWest delivers multi-media branding, community marketing and publications through video, film and magazines. The AdWest team is local and collaborates with more than 400 Colorado clients to promote their businesses and messages. It currently publishes the West Chamber's Best of Business magazine and the award-winning Wellness Living Magazine. AdWest also publishes the Colorado Women's Chamber of Commerce directory and magazine. Nancy's career spans four decades of serving her community and understanding the needs of women who own companies as they balance family and career. She has worked with dozens of nonprofit associations and business groups. Currently, she volunteers for the Colorado Symphony Orchestra Guild, Plan Jeffco, and Mount Vernon County Club Metro District Financial Planning Committee. I extend my deepest congratulations to AdWest Consulting for this well-deserved honor from the West Chamber of Commerce.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Citywide Banks for being honored as the Medium Business of the Year by the West Chamber of Commerce. Citywide Banks is an independent, family owned business that has been focused on moving the Front Range community forward for more than 50 years. With client needs as their focus, they have created a unique banking culture that continues to benefit their clients as well as their employees and the broader Colorado community. This local focus means their customers' deposits stay in Colorado and get reinvested to help our community move forward. They work to help Colorado companies grow, ensure Coloradans' financial assets are protected, and give a hand-up to our neighbors in need. Citywide Banks provides local businesses equipment financing, lines of credit, construction loans and treasury management products to help simplify cash flow operations, strengthen fraud protection and maximize the earning power of their deposits. I extend my deepest congratulations to Citywide Banks for this well- deserved honor from the West Chamber of Commerce.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Pastor George Morrison and his wife, Cheryl Morrison, for their service and dedication to their community and the Faith Bible Chapel. As devoted servants of the Lord, Pastor George Morrison has served the Faith Bible Chapel with faith, devotion and integrity for 33 years. Under his leadership, and with Cheryl by his side, the church has grown in membership and expanded in the community to meet the needs of every age group. Prior to joining Faith Bible Chapel, Pastor George Morrison served as a lay pastor and owned a construction company in Arvada, Colorado. Cheryl Morrison has also inspired many throughout her work in the community and at Faith Bible Chapel. She has served as a mentor to individuals in the community, and has been very involved with Christians United for Israel including leading a group of 37 pastors from the U.S. who will be visiting Israel with Pastor George Morrison in 2017. Together, they also serve in various leadership capacities across a variety of local organizations. They have spoken at numerous leadership conferences both in the U.S. and overseas, and Pastor George Morrison authored a book entitled, If It's Not Broken, Break It. In addition, Pastor George and Cheryl have both received numerous awards, citations and commendations in both the secular and Christian communities for their service. I extend my deepest appreciation to Pastor George and Cheryl Morrison for their service and dedication to the Faith Bible Chapel congregants and our community.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to posthumously recognize and honor Philip Winn for his service and dedication to the State of Colorado. For more than forty years, Phil has had a remarkable career as a public servant to the citizens of Colorado. Starting in 1964, Phil worked for Witkin Homes and served as their Senior Vice President until 1976. He then went on to become the Chairman of the Board of Philip D. Winn and Associates from 1976-1988. During that time, he also served as the Chairman of the Colorado Republican Party from 1979-1981. In 1981, under the Reagan Administration, Phil was appointed Assistant Secretary to the Federal Housing Commissioner of Housing and Urban Development. From 1983-1984, he was a member of the Federal National Mortgage Advisory Council. In 1988, Phil was nominated to be the Ambassador of Switzerland serving as such until 1989. He received many awards in his life including Man of the Year from the Home Builder's Association in 1971 and Citizen of the Year from the Colorado Association of Housing and Building in 1981. One of Phil's greatest accomplishments is the work he and his wife, Elle, have put into The Bridge Project at the University of Denver's Graduate School of Social Work. Phil co-founded the Bridge Project in 1991 to provide educational opportunities and assistance in developing life skills for Denver's low-income youth. Over the past 25 years, Phil and his wife have been leaders, donors, advisors and friends to the organization and its mission. They have helped make an impact on the lives of thousands of children and youth in Denver. I extend my deepest appreciation to Phil Winn for his service and dedication to the citizens of Colorado. His positive impacts will be felt for many years to come.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize The Daniel D. Bigandt Agency with American Family Insurance for being honored as the Small Business of the Year by the West Chamber of Commerce. The Daniel D. Bigandt Agency with American Family Insurance was established in 2002 in Lakewood. The agency now serves more than 2,000 households in the Denver metro area, with a majority in Jefferson and Denver counties. At the beginning of 2016, the agency started the year with one full- time employee and 4 part-time employees at one location in Lakewood. At the end of 2016, the agency had grown to 4 full-time and several part- time staff members with two locations, one in Lakewood and one in Englewood. Over the last 15 months, the agency has been awarded many sales and service awards. Dan Bigandt is deeply involved in the community and has been an active member of the West Chamber for the last nine years. Dan is also involved in the leadership of other organizations in Jefferson County, serving as the Board Vice Chair for the Sooper Credit Union and as a Board Member of the Panorama Ridge Homeowners Association. Recently, Dan finished serving for 12 years on the Board of Directors for Front Range Christian School in Littleton. I extend my deepest congratulations to The Daniel D. Bigandt Agency with American Family Insurance for this well-deserved honor from the West Chamber of Commerce.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jim and Kathleen Curtis for being honored by the West Chamber of Commerce with the Steve Burkholder Diamond Legacy Award. Both Colorado natives, Jim and Kathleen (Kate) met at Colorado National Bank and went on to marry in 1972. After leaving the bank in 1994, the couple purchased The Village Roaster, a specialty coffee business in Lakewood. At the time, it was the only store in the Colorado area that roasted specialty coffee in-house. Today that tradition continues with roasted whole bean coffee as their number one selling product. They also provide catering services and have a mobile espresso bar they can set up for any type of event in the Denver metro area. In addition, The Village Roaster strives to make sustainability a focus and preserving the environment a priority. Jim and Kate support the community that supports them. Jim served as the Chairman of the Board of Directors for the West Chamber in 2013, is a past president of the Kiwanis Club of Lakewood, is a sponsor for the Catch a Calf program with the National Western Stock Show, and volunteers for the Lakewood Police Department. Jim was selected for the Real Men Who Wear Pink recognition by the American Cancer Society in 2016. Kate serves as the Foundation Chair for St. Anthony Hospital, sits on the board for the Alameda Gateway, and as the Secretary for the Alameda Corridor Business Improvement District. She was recognized at the West Chamber's Celebrate Women event in 2011. Both Jim and Kate serve as deacons for St. James Presbyterian Church. I extend my deepest congratulations to Jim and Kathleen Curtis for this well-deserved honor from the West Chamber of Commerce.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize The Abo Group, Inc. for being honored as the Minority-Owned Business of the Year by the West Chamber of Commerce. The Abo Group is a full service architectural firm providing design, project management, construction documentation and administration, historic preservation, space planning, master planning and facility assessments. Earning wide recognition for sustainable design, the firm incorporates the highest possible energy efficiency technologies in their designs. For more than 20 years, The Abo Group has designed highly specialized laboratories to meet LEED ``Gold'' standards at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) in Golden, CO. In 1999, the Thermal Test Facility at NREL won the ASHRAE Award of Excellence for Energy Efficient Design. The firm has also completed a Master Plan for the ultimate buildout of NREL's South Table Mountain Campus in Golden. I extend my deepest congratulations to The Abo Group for this well- deserved honor from the West Chamber of Commerce.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Localworks for being honored with the Nonprofit of the Year Award by the West Chamber of Commerce. Initially incorporated as Wheat Ridge 2020, the organization was renamed in 2015 to better reflect their purpose. Localworks connects residents and businesses in order to create a vibrant and more engaged community. Through programs like Harvest and Active, Localworks brings residents together to learn about urban farming, attend local fitness classes or learn more about canning fruits and vegetables. In 2016, Localworks held more than 60 events aimed at connecting residents through common interests and activities. Each year, Localworks hosts seven events to attract people to the Wheat Ridge business district. In 2016, more than 19,000 people attended events on Ridge at 38 such as the Criterium and Brewfest, Ridgefest, Trunk or Treat, Friday Night Live and the Holiday Celebration. In 2016, the organization also offered bus tours of Wheat Ridge and hauled away more than 1,000 cubic yards of junk from local neighborhoods through a partnership with the Wheat Ridge Police Department. They also provided loans to residents and businesses for property improvements and were recently awarded a very competitive three-year ``Active Living Neighborhood'' grant through Kaiser Permanente and The Denver Foundation. These contributions to the Wheat Ridge Community are made possible by volunteers who contributed more than 2,000 hours to the organization. I extend my deepest congratulations to Localworks for this well- deserved honor from the West Chamber of Commerce.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Mitch Morrissey as he completes his tenure as the Denver District Attorney. I would also like to thank Mitch's wife, Maggie, for lending her husband to the Denver community for so many years. During his time in office, Mitch made it his mission to protect the public, advocate for victims of crime, and respect the rights of the accused. He worked tirelessly to promote stronger relations between law enforcement and the Denver community. For 11 years, Mitch has been the chief prosecutor for the Second Judicial District. Prior to his election, he worked in the Denver District attorney's office for 20 years, 10 of which he served as the Chief Deputy D.A. In his role as D.A., Mitch was responsible for thousands of felony and misdemeanor prosecutions each year, supervising over 70 attorneys and 120 staff members, all while prioritizing victims' needs. Mitch led an invaluable team of Victim Advocates with a particular focus on those in under-served areas and communities. He is nationally known for his expertise in DNA technology, applying it in criminal prosecutions and working to ensure DNA science is admissible in our courtrooms. In addition, Mitch's relationship with and support for Colorado's law enforcement community has been exceptional. Thanks to his hard work, Mitch is also the recipient of numerous awards, including ``Prosecutor of the Year,'' by the Colorado District Attorneys Council and the ``Patriot Award,'' by the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve. Mitch is also a true son of Colorado. He is a Denver native, a graduate of the University of Denver College of Law, the University of Colorado at Boulder, and Mullen High School. I congratulate Mitch for his achievements. I applaud his dedication, leadership, and commitment to justice for Colorado's citizens. I am proud of the work he has accomplished and wish him all the success and happiness in the years to come.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and applaud La Patisserie Francaise for being honored by the Arvada Chamber of Commerce as Business of the Year. To be honored as the Business of the Year by the Arvada Chamber, businesses must have established a reputation for providing a superior level of customer service, using ingenuity and innovation to overcome challenges, and be an active participant and supporter of community activities. La Patisserie Francaise is well known for their extraordinary leadership and heartfelt commitment to the city of Arvada. The owner, Sadie Russo, goes above and beyond in her commitment to the community through her donations to local organizations as well as serving as an advocate for the City of Arvada. I extend my deepest congratulations to La Patisserie Francaise for this well-deserved recognition by the Arvada Chamber of Commerce.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ron Slinger for being honored by the Arvada Chamber of Commerce with the Chairman's Choice Award. The Chairman's Choice is selected annually by the Chairman of the Arvada Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors to recognize a member of the community who has shown leadership and outstanding support to the Arvada Chamber. Ron's extensive involvement, leadership and contributions in Arvada have resulted in a significant and long lasting impact in the community. His sense of humor and kindness bring positive energy and perspective to any opportunity he undertakes. Ron is a true advocate for the Arvada Chamber and has fully dedicated himself to the betterment of the community. I extend my deepest congratulations to Ron Slinger for this well- deserved honor from the Arvada Chamber of Commerce.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Carol Hodges for being honored by the Arvada Chamber with the Chairman's Choice Award. The Chairman's Choice Award is selected annually by the Chairman of the Arvada Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors to recognize a member of the community who has shown leadership and outstanding support to the Arvada Chamber. Carol Hodges serves the Arvada Chamber and her community with a sense of pride, energy and commitment. She is always willing to step up when called upon and works diligently to see each project through to the end. Carol's kindness and service has made a difference in Arvada and helped make it a great place to live, work and play. I extend my deepest congratulations to Carol Hodges for this well- deserved recognition by the Arvada Chamber of Commerce.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and applaud the Jefferson Center for Mental Health for being honored by the Arvada Chamber of Commerce as the Non-Profit of the Year. To be honored as the Non-Profit of the Year by the Arvada Chamber, a non-profit must show how they support Arvada through their programs, services and involvement. These non-profits are known for their ingenuity and innovation to overcome challenges as well as their active and effective work with the local business community. The Jefferson Center for Mental Health is one of these non-profits. As a community mental health center that looks to inspire hope and improve the lives of the members of their community, their incredible work and innovative approach has helped to serve those in our community who often have nowhere else to turn. In addition to receiving this recognition, Jefferson Center for Mental Health has also been named a Top Workplace for four straight years by the Denver Post. I extend my deepest congratulations to the Jefferson Center for Mental Health for this well-deserved recognition by the Arvada Chamber of Commerce.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ethan Clewell for being honored by the Arvada Chamber of Commerce with the Behind the Scenes Award. The Behind the Scenes Award recipient is selected by the Arvada Chamber of Commerce staff to recognize an individual who has gone above and beyond to support the efforts of the Arvada Chamber. Ethan Clewell is the epitome of an unsung hero. He works tirelessly behind-the-scenes to help ensure the success of many community and chamber events. In addition, Ethan dedicates his time and has helped make significant contributions to Leadership Arvada and Arvada Young Professionals. The Arvada Chamber team can always count on Ethan to go above and beyond. I extend my deepest congratulations to Ethan Clewell for this well- deserved honor from the Arvada Chamber of Commerce.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bill. It is the product of a lot of hard work over the last 3 years. It helps our laboratories and our private industry stay at the forefront of science. I thank Chairman Smith of Texas for bringing this bill to the floor. I urge passage of this bill. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I thank the chairman and the ranking member, Eddie Bernice Johnson, for bringing this bill to the floor today. It has been a long time in coming. I rise in support of H.R. 589, the Department of Energy Research and Innovation Act. This bill would authorize important research and development at the Department of Energy to push the frontiers of science and find new ways to innovate and power our economy. This bill would authorize comprehensive policy guidance for the DOE's Office of Science for the first time in its history. The Office of Science manages a portfolio, including research in supercomputing, materials science, nuclear physics, advanced biofuels, fusion energy, climate modeling, high energy physics, and a number of other areas across the spectrum of fundamental and applied research. Additionally, the Office of Science is home to world-class user facilities used by private industry to collaborate with our national laboratories and provide our scientists with access to tools and resources to test the most pressing research questions in a variety of fields. The neutron sources, particle accelerators, and light sources, among many other Office of Science user facilities, are home to some of the most important scientific work conducted in America and represent some of the best partnerships our labs have with private industry. These activities and capabilities have never been given the proper statutory authority by this Congress, so this bill represents a landmark bipartisan effort. H.R. 589 also includes the Nuclear Energy Innovation Capabilities Act, which I cosponsored again this year. By providing the tools and resources to nuclear scientists and engineers, this bill lays the groundwork for a future where reliable, clean nuclear energy is a major source of our electricity generation. This research could lead to advanced and safer nuclear reactors with the potential to use less nuclear fuel and produce far less waste. H.R. 589 is not only bipartisan, but, as the chairman said, it represents a bicameral agreement that was reached last year during conference negotiations with the Senate on the comprehensive energy package. Given the urgent challenge of climate change and the growing competition around the world in many of these key research areas, we must keep working together with the Senate to get this bill signed into law this year. I thank Chairman Smith and Ranking Member Johnson for working together to get this bipartisan legislation before us today, and I urge all of my colleagues to support this bill. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I thank Mr. Knight and especially my cosponsor, Mr. Hultgren, for the work that they have done on this bill generally, but particularly on title I of the bill, the Laboratory Modernization and Technology Transfer Act. As Mr. Knight said, on this committee, we find places where there is common ground and where there is an ability to advance the interests of the United States of America. Sometimes we argue, sometimes we debate, sometimes we don't agree, but often we do. I appreciate their work as well as the chairman's work on a number of subjects that face us. I was proud to work with my friend Mr. Hultgren of Illinois to introduce this bill, the Modernization and Technology Transfer Act, in the last Congress. Title I provides important tools to accelerate the commercialization of new technologies that are developed at our national labs. It extends the Agreement for Commercializing Technology pilot program while expanding the range of companies that are eligible to participate. We also allow labs to use their technology transfer funds as an incubator investment for projects that are developed in-house which demonstrate potential commercial opportunities. Additionally, the bill encourages the further collaboration between university researchers and our national labs by creating a pilot program to reduce the financial burdens on our universities. I hope this pilot program unleashes the talent at our universities, like the Colorado School of Mines, the University of Colorado, and Colorado State University, to discover the next successful technology. Madam Speaker, one may remember I represent Golden, Colorado, and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. NREL is the premier energy efficiency and renewable energy lab in the world, and title I of this bill provides labs like NREL more tools to bring life-changing innovations to consumers by partnering with private industry. When revolutionary research is harnessed by our entrepreneurs and business leaders, startups with one or two employees can grow into companies that can create hundreds of quality jobs. I am proud to support this legislation, and I am proud to have worked with Mr. Hultgren in giving scientists and researchers in both the public and private sectors the tools and the freedom they need to unlock a new wave of innovation. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I have no other speakers, so I am going to reserve the balance of my time. Mr. SMITH OF Texas. Mr. Speaker, I yield 4 minutes to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Weber), who is the chairman of the Energy Subcommittee of the Science, Space, and Technology Committee.

Mr. PERLMUTTER

Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and congratulate Mitch Morrissey as he completes his tenure as the Denver District Attorney. I would also like to thank Mitch's wife, Maggie, for lending her husband to the Denver community for so many years. During his time in office, Mitch made it his mission to protect the public, advocate for victims of crime, and respect the rights of the accused. He worked tirelessly to promote stronger relations between law enforcement and the Denver community. For 11 years, Mitch has been the chief prosecutor for the Second Judicial District. Prior to his election, he worked in the Denver District Attorney's office for 20 years, 10 of which he served as the Chief Deputy D.A. In his role as D.A., Mitch was responsible for thousands of felony and misdemeanor prosecutions each year, supervising over 70 attorneys and 120 staff members, all while prioritizing victims' needs. Mitch led an invaluable team of Victim Advocates with a particular focus on those in under-served areas and communities. He is nationally known for his expertise in DNA technology, applying it in criminal prosecutions and working to ensure DNA science is admissible in our courtrooms. In addition, Mitch's relationship with and support for Colorado's law enforcement community has been exceptional. Thanks to his hard work, Mitch is also the recipient of numerous awards, including ``Prosecutor of the Year,'' by the Colorado District Attorneys Council and the ``Patriot Award,'' by the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve. Mitch is also a true son of Colorado. He is a Denver native, a graduate of the University of Denver College of Law, the University of Colorado at Boulder, and Mullen High School. I congratulate Mitch for his achievements. I applaud his dedication, leadership, and commitment to justice for Colorado's citizens. I am proud of the work he has accomplished and wish him all the success and happiness in the years to come.