Brittany Pettersen

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today following the horrific events of last week in my community and the rise of political violence nationally. Last week I was sitting in my office in a meeting when the phone lit up. Charlie Kirk had been shot at an event in Utah. Seconds later, my phone lit up again. There was an active shooter at Evergreen High School, which is not far away from my house. Our schools are supposed to be our safest places, and, unfortunately, that is far from a reality in the United States. What happened in Evergreen High School is every parent's worst nightmare. I felt shocked and horrified as I waited minute by minute not knowing how many lives might be taken. I couldn't help but think: What if that had been my kids' school? My heart breaks for the two students who continue to fight for their lives in the hospital, the parents who are at their bedside not knowing if they will ever come home again, and for the kids and the educators who will carry this trauma forever. Throughout the day, as I went back and forth thinking about the two tragedies, the one in Evergreen and the assassination of Charlie Kirk, I couldn't stop thinking about his two kids who will have to grow up not having their dad and his wife, Erika, who lost her husband and partner. Charlie Kirk was exercising one of the most foundational pieces of our democracy: engaging in free speech and debating his political views in a public space without being threatened or silenced, and he was targeted because of this. Before this assassination, in April, Governor Josh Shapiro's house was set on fire, endangering his entire family. Just 2 months after that, two Democratic lawmakers, Melissa Hortman and John Hoffman, were gunned down in their homes. Tragically, Melissa died alongside her husband, Mark. Nobody should be killed for their views. This is not how we settle our differences. I can't help but feel that we have lost our way as a country. The radicalization and easy access to firearms has been a lethal combination that doesn't just impact one party, one State, or one community. This impacts all of us, and any one of us and our families or someone we love could be affected. Donald Trump doesn't take this moment to unite us as a country. Instead, he has chosen to fan the flames. He refuses to bring us together to unequivocally denounce all of the political violence that we have faced. Instead, he has weaponized this moment and this tragedy to go after people who disagree with him. Right now, so many of us are questioning who we are as a country and wondering how we got here. I know that we are so much better than this, and I have to have hope that our country can find its way again. We must build the future that our kids deserve, where we are safe at school, the movie theater, the grocery store, where we can go to a political rally without worrying about getting shot, and where we can disagree with the President and the political party in charge without being targeted. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues, if they continue to reel from the death of Charlie Kirk, the shooting in Evergreen, and the killing of Melissa Hortman and her husband, are you going to stand by while someone's father, someone's son, and someone simply exercising their right as an American continue to get gunned down while our kids get shot in classrooms? We face a choice at this moment, and I personally ask you to join me in actually doing something about it. Let's choose a future where we keep guns out of the hands of people who are a danger to themselves or others, working together on bipartisan solutions that are overwhelmingly supported by both parties and by our voters in our districts. Let's choose a future where our kids come home safe from school and where we don't continue to lose countless innocent lives. When is it enough?

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I missed all the votes in the vote series on Monday, September 15, 2025. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 266, final passage of H.R. 3400, the TRAVEL Act; and NAY on Roll Call No. 265, final passage of H.J. RES. 117, On Motion to Table the Motion to Discharge Committee.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I missed all the votes in the vote series on September 8, 2025. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 241, final passage of H.R. 3425, the POST Act; and YEA on Roll Call No. 240, final passage of H.R. 3424, the SPACE Act.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize The Ives in Wheat Ridge, Colorado, for receiving an Eagle Award from Housing Colorado. The Ives is an affordable housing development owned by Foothills Regional Housing Authority, dedicated to prioritizing the needs of its residents. This complex offers reduced rent prices for its tenants while also providing easy access to quality-of-life amenities such as their community garden, BBQ area, and many nearby food choices and transportation options. The Ives has added 50 units of affordable housing to Jefferson County since its opening in June 2024, and their peers in the affordable housing industry recognized the community development team with Housing Colorado's Eagle Award. At a time when housing costs continue to rise, The Ives keeps housing prices down in Wheat Ridge without compromising on quality. We are grateful for the community development team at Foothills Regional Housing for making this a reality for families in Jefferson County. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to thank The Ives for its service to the Jefferson County community.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Chief Don Lombardi of Golden, Colorado, on his retirement following 33 years of service to the West Metro Fire Protection District. Throughout his career, Chief Lombardi went above and beyond the line of duty, and focused on growing programs that saved Coloradans money and protected the health of our first responders. He started the Advanced Resource Medic across West Metro, which helps patients reduce cost in their healthcare expenses by treating patients in their own homes and cutting back on unnecessary trips to the emergency room. He also established the Colorado Firefighters Benefits Trust Program, which helps firefighters and fire agencies manage illnesses that affect first responders. Chief Lombardi led the West Metro through many fires on the Front Range, but his leadership extended to the wellbeing of his team and the people who live in our communities. In recognition of Chief Lombardi's accomplishments, the Metropolitan Chiefs presented him with the prestigious Russell E. Sanders Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Federation of European Fire Officers honored him with the Cross of Merit award. In 2022, he was named Colorado State Fire Chief of the Year for his outstanding service. Chief Lombardi's career has an incredible legacy in our state. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Don on his well-earned retirement and to thank him for his service.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Jeremy Metz for his promotion to Chief of the West Metro Fire Protection District. Deputy Chief Jeremy Metz has served the West Metro Fire Protection District for over 27 years. In his previous roles, Jeremy oversaw emergency medical services, administration, special teams operations, and strategic planning for personal safety and benefit. He has over three decades of on-the-ground experience in fire science and emergency services administration. West Metro and all the Coloradans they serve are lucky to have an incoming Chief with such an impressive and lengthy record of public service. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Jeremy Metz for his promotion to Chief of the West Metro Fire Protection District. We thank him for his continued commitment to the safety of our community.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Elevation Beer Company of Poncha Springs, Colorado, for winning a Bronze Medal from the World Beer Cup for their Coconut Oil Man brew. The World Beer Cup, otherwise known as the ``Olympics of Beer,'' evaluates beers from around the world and recognizes the top brewers and their beers. Founded in 2012 and nestled in the Heart of the Rockies, Elevation Beer Company produces seasonal Belgian ales, specialty brews, and barrel-aged beers that put a twist on traditional styles of brewing. Small businesses like Elevation Beer Company help drive the local economy of Chaffee County and the state's economy. For both natives and visitors to Poncha Springs, Elevation Beer Company provides excellent service and beers, contributing to Colorado's leadership in producing outstanding craft brew. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Elevation Beer Company for this accomplishment.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Evergreen Fire/ Rescue for receiving the Mission Lifeline Emergency Medical Service Gold Award from the American Heart Association for a third consecutive year. This prestigious award recognizes agencies with an outstanding ability to quickly recognize a heart attack or stroke and provide high- quality care. In these high-pressure cardiac situations, timely care from an EMS team can be the difference between life and death. Since 2014, Evergreen Fire/Rescue (EFR) has been honored with this award four times. EFR Chief Dave Montesi attributes the team's success to their experienced paramedics, most of whom have more than 20 years of experience in the field. Evergreen's rural geography presents unique challenges in emergency situations, as the local hospital is located miles away from most residents. EFR's quick responses consistently make a real difference when other help isn't always readily available, and we are grateful for their lifesaving service to our community. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Evergreen Fire/Rescue on their 3rd consecutive Mission Lifeline EMS Gold Award. We thank them for the exceptional care they provide to the people of Evergreen and the countless lives they have saved.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize New Terrain Brewing Company of Golden, Colorado, for winning a Gold Medal from the World Beer Cup, designating their Suntrip brew as a world-class beer. The World Beer Cup, otherwise known as the ``Olympics of Beer,'' evaluates beers from around the world and recognizes the top brewers and their beers. Founded in 2016, the New Terrain Brewing Company has strived to be a socially responsible company, contributing to a variety of volunteering and community fundraising efforts. Small businesses like New Terrain Brewing Company help drive Golden's local economy and the economy of our state. For both natives and members of Golden's thriving tourism industry, New Terrain Brewing Company provides excellent service and beers, contributing to Colorado's leadership in producing outstanding craft brews. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate New Terrain Brewing Company for this award.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 50th anniversary of the Conifer Area Chamber of Commerce. The Conifer Area Chamber of Commerce is a crucial support system for businesses and the community of Conifer, offering workshops on marketing, managing finances, and other economic opportunities for residents. In addition, the Chamber connects local small businesses and non-profits with the resources to grow their organizations, support staff development, and connect with new customers and members. Under President Beth Schneider and the board's leadership, the Chamber has hosted a variety of events, which bring the community closer together and has paved the way for the town to foster a thriving economy. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate the Conifer Area of Commerce for 50 years of service and thank them for their contribution to our community.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the City of Lakewood, Colorado, for its induction into the All-America City Hall of Fame for its Sustainable Neighborhoods Program. Lakewood's Sustainable Neighborhoods program has brought residents together to promote water conservation, address food access issues, and reduce waste and neighborhood emissions. This program has served as a model for neighborhoods nationwide, empowering residents and their communities to adopt more sustainable lifestyles and reduce their ecological footprint. The All-America City award from the National Civic League recognizes outstanding communities that leverage civic engagement, collaboration, inclusiveness, and innovation to address local issues. It is because of the collective efforts of communities like the City of Lakewood that we can hope for a greener future. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to thank the City of Lakewood for its hard work and dedication to sustainability in our community.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Emiko Mukai of Golden, Colorado. Emiko was selected as one of 250 high school students across the country to participate in the Department of State's prestigious Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange (CBYX) Program. Launched in 1983, CBYX selects high achieving youth from both Germany and the United States to live in each other's country for one academic year. During their year abroad, students will foster meaningful relationships between America and Germany, while giving participants new perspectives on peoples and cultures beyond their own. Many CBYX alumni go on to distinguished careers in foreign affairs and public service using the language skills gained through this scholarship program. This year, Emiko will travel to Germany to attend school, live with a host family, and collaborate with the Department of State to promote cultural exchange between Americans and the German people. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Emiko Mukai for this impressive accomplishment and wish Emiko all the best in this upcoming year in Germany.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Avi Bender of Arvada, Colorado. Avi was selected as one of 250 high school students across the country to participate in the Department of State's prestigious Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange (CBYX) Program. Launched in 1983, CBYX selects high achieving youth from both Germany and the United States to live in each other's country for one academic year. During their year abroad, students will foster meaningful relationships between America and Germany, while giving participants new perspectives on peoples and cultures beyond their own. Many CBYX alumni go on to distinguished careers in foreign affairs and public service using the language skills gained through this scholarship program. This year, Avi will travel to Germany to attend school, live with a host family, and collaborate with the Department of State to promote cultural exchange between Americans and the German people. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Avi Bender for this impressive accomplishment and wish Avi all the best for this upcoming year in Germany.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, during Roll Call No. 162 on H.R. 2096, I mistakenly recorded my vote as YEA when I should have voted NAY.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Zoe Kante for earning the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award. Zoe has overcome many challenges along her journey to success, demonstrating perseverance at every step. Students who strive to make the most of their education, like Zoe, develop crucial skills and a work ethic that will guide them for the rest of their lives. This award is a testament to Zoe's hard work, determination, and perseverance at Three Creeks K-8 and is clearly just the beginning of a bright and promising future. It is my honor to congratulate Zoe Kante on achieving the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Evergreen, Colorado, on its 150th anniversary as a town. One hundred and fifty years ago, Dwight Wilmot petitioned the United States Postal Service to establish a post office named Evergreen in the foothills of western Denver. Since then, Evergreen has grown from a small ranching and logging village only accessible by wagon roads to the vibrant mountain community that it is today. Originally inhabited by the Native Ute, Cheyenne, and Arapaho people, the town has grown alongside the state of Colorado, boasting a slower lifestyle ``up the hill'' away from the City of Denver. Evergreen's charm can be seen in the community's appreciation for the arts, outdoor recreation opportunities, and small community feel, along with the work of the more than 70 nonprofit organizations that embody the town's attitude of ``taking care of ourselves and our neighbors.'' On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to celebrate Evergreen, Colorado, on its 150-year- history and join the town in looking forward to the future.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Red Rocks Elementary School on its 70th anniversary. Public schools play a critical role in shaping our communities. For over 70 years, the teachers, administrators, and support staff at Red Rocks Elementary School have helped their students achieve academic excellence by providing a rich education at their outdoor campus at the foot of the Rocky Mountains. The staff at Red Rocks Elementary School go above and beyond by focusing on lessons that integrate art, technology, music, and the outdoors. This award-winning school has provided excellent education to children in Colorado and produced generations of creative and innovative leaders in our state. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Red Rocks Elementary School on its 70th anniversary and thank all the educators and dedicated individuals who work there for their commitment to our community.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize South Metro Fire Department Chief Bob Baker for his leadership and service over the past 40 years. Bob Baker has served with South Metro Fire Rescue as the Chief for the last ten years. Last summer, when the Quarry fire broke across the Front Range, Chief Baker helped coordinate the emergency response to keep our community safe. Under his leadership, the South Metro Fire Department was awarded Class 1 status by the Insurance Service Office for its outstanding protection of residents, and was one of only thirteen Class 1 departments that serve over 500,000 constituents. Throughout his service, Chief Baker has championed the physical and mental well-being of his team through workplace wellness programs, and we are incredibly grateful for his hard work. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, I am honored to congratulate Chief Bob Baker on his retirement.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize John Curtis for his promotion to Chief of the South Metro Fire Department. Deputy Chief John Curtis has served the South Metro Fire Department for over twenty years. In his previous position, John oversaw Emergency Medical Services, dispatch, fleet services, and special operations. His educational background in organizational leadership, along with his extensive on the job experience, has separated him from the other 76 applicants. Our community is fortunate to have an incoming Chief with the years of experience and education that John brings to this role. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate John Curtis on his promotion to Chief of South Metro Fire Rescue. We thank him for his continued commitment to our community.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Golden Police Department of Golden, Colorado, for serving and protecting our community. We are all grateful to the Department and Chief of Police Joe Harvey, as they strive to maintain a culture of positive public engagement, equity, and compassion for all. Founded in 1874, the department has a long history of dedicated officers working to build public trust through accountability and equitable policing. National Police Week offers an opportunity to honor law enforcement and pay tribute to those who gave their lives serving their communities. This week, we honor Officer Evan Dunn, who was a member of the Golden Police Department, who tragically passed away in the line of duty in November 2024. Officer Dunn joined the Department after serving as an Army Aviator and Black Hawk pilot in the Missouri and Colorado Army National Guard. As a soldier, an officer, and a devoted husband, Officer Dunn was a servant in every aspect of his life. His legacy of kindness, dedication, and service to our community and our country will not be forgotten. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to thank the Golden Police Department for their devotion to public service in the line of duty.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Kiara Kuenzler of Denver, Colorado for being named the Nexstar 2025 Remarkable Woman of Denver. During her 7-year tenure as President and CEO, Dr. Kuenzler positioned the Jefferson Center for Mental Health as a leading community provider by expanding access to services and growing the Center's workforce across the region. Dr. Kuenzler recognized the need to bring mental health services to people where they were at, so she created partnerships with schools, medical practices, law enforcement, and others to facilitate more than 150 outposts for substance use disorder care. She grew the Center's workforce by over 300 employees and improved access to treatment for over 25,000 Coloradans in the Front Range to ensure those in rural communities could access care. Dr. Kuenzler earned this honor because of her dedication to expanding mental health care services and her passion for helping people overcome obstacles in their lives. She'll be remembered as an important part of the Jefferson Center's legacy. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Dr. Kiara Kuenzler for being recognized as the ``2025 Remarkable Woman of Denver.''

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Alex Willis of Leadville, Colorado for winning the USA Triathlon Winter National Championships in Breckenridge, Colorado. Alex is a third-generation ultra-triathlete and a coach who competes in snowshoeing, trail running, cycling, Nordic skiing, and more. His hard work paid off recently when he broke the tape with a time of 1:28:31 at the USA Triathlon Winter National Championships earning him a spot in the World Championships to be held in Pontevedra, Spain next year. We are incredibly proud that he'll represent the United States at this global event. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Alex Willis for his win at the 2025 Winter Triathlon National Championships, and join his friends and family in rooting for his success at the World Championships.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ryan Wrenfrow for earning the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award. Ryan has overcome many challenges along his journey to success, demonstrating perseverance at every step. Students who strive to make the most of their education, like Ryan, develop crucial skills and a work ethic that will guide them for the rest of their lives. This award is a testament to Ryan's hard work, determination, and perseverance at Oberon Middle School and is clearly just the beginning of a bright and promising future. It is my honor to congratulate Ryan Wrenfrow on achieving the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Tommy Seiler for earning the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award. Tommy has overcome many challenges along his journey to success, demonstrating perseverance at every step. Students who strive to make the most of their education, like Tommy, develop crucial skills and a work ethic that will guide them for the rest of their lives. This award is a testament to Tommy's hard work, determination, and perseverance at Three Creeks K-8 and is clearly just the beginning of a bright and promising future. It is my honor to congratulate Tommy Seiler on achieving the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Vincent Medina for earning the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award. Vincent has overcome many challenges along his journey to success, demonstrating perseverance at every step. Students who strive to make the most of their education, like Vincent, develop crucial skills and a work ethic that will guide them for the rest of their lives. This award is a testament to Vincent's hard work, determination, and perseverance at Oberon Middle School and is clearly just the beginning of a bright and promising future. It is my honor to congratulate Vincent Medina on achieving the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award.