Brittany Pettersen

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I missed a vote today on the Motion Ordering the Previous Question on H. Res. 1576. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY on Roll Call No. 468.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Madam Speaker, since the Supreme Court's unthinkable decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, women face countless attacks on our reproductive healthcare and desperately need Congress to act now. Despite an overwhelming majority of Americans supporting reproductive healthcare, 14 States have enacted total abortion bans, and many others have brought partial bans or restrictions. This is resulting in devastating consequences across this country. Millions of women are losing the right to critical, lifesaving care, and some States are actively attempting to stop emergency rooms from providing lifesaving abortions and miscarriage care. These bans do not just threaten the health and safety of women seeking abortions. They jeopardize all pregnant people. In States with abortion bans, we have seen maternal death rates increase by 300 percent compared to States without abortion protections. In States where abortions remain legal, like my home State of Colorado, people are facing longer wait times, delays in care, and a strained medical workforce. We have seen maternity wards even shut their doors because they can't navigate what might happen in a medical emergency and how they would navigate the liability. In response to this assault on women's healthcare, Americans across seven States, including my home State of Colorado, voted to protect access to reproductive healthcare in their State's constitution. Choosing how and when to start a family is one of the most personal decisions somebody can make, and nobody should make that for you. These choices should be between women, their families, and their doctors. I am a proud mother of a 4-year-old, and I am also 27 weeks pregnant. While we are very excited to welcome our second boy, with every pregnancy comes so much uncertainty. At our first appointment, I was told that I faced a high-risk pregnancy because of my age and that the heartbeat wasn't where they wanted it to be. In a moment that should be filled with joy and excitement, you are faced with anxiety. I remember reminding myself that I am so lucky to live in Colorado because no matter what happened, I knew that I would be taken care of. I am grateful that every single day since then, every appointment and milestone I have made I have had positive news, but far too many women are not as lucky and they also don't have access to the critical care they need. Women across this country deserve more, which is why we must pass H.R. 12, the Women's Health Protection Act, to codify a woman's right to abortion federally.

Ms. PETTERSEN. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to defeat the previous question so we can bring up H.R. 12, the Women's Health Protection Act, because we cannot afford to wait and not address the urgent needs of women across the Nation.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Battalion Chief David Marshall of Canon City for reaching his well-earned retirement after a 46-year career with the Canon City Area Fire Protection District. Chief Marshall began his career as a volunteer firefighter with the Canon City Volunteer Fire Department in 1978. Since the 1980s, he has served as leader of the District's Emergency Medical Services (EMS) division. David led EMS trainings for over 30 years at Pueblo Community College, where he taught and mentored the majority of EMS professionals serving in Fremont County today. Many of them have since gone on to lead their own EMS programs across the state. In his time leading the EMS division of the Canon City Fire Protection District, David enhanced the EMT training to more advanced certifications, including Advanced Life Support (ALS) and Paramedic level providers. His work and effort elevated the level of care provided to his community. Chief Marshall's legacy of bringing access to emergency services and trainings to rural communities will live on across Colorado through the generations of EMS providers he mentored. His strong, dependable leadership sets an example for all Coloradans, and his teachings will forever have an impact on Fremont County. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Battalion Chief Marshall on his retirement and to thank him for his contributions to our community.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Chair, I have an amendment at the desk.

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Chair, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Over 3 million people in my home State of Colorado live in areas at moderate to high risk of wildfires, which is over 50 percent of our State's population. Since 2001, 20 of the largest wildfires in our recorded history have occurred in Colorado, resulting in the loss of more than 2,500 homes over the past two decades. Wildfires have not only threatened lives but also damaged ecosystems and disrupted communities. Coloradans feel the devastating impacts of climate change every single day. This is our new normal: Fires are burning more frequently and more fiercely than ever before. It is essential that we recognize the urgency of addressing this crisis to protect our communities. While recognizing that this bill doesn't include everything that we want to see, it is an important step moving forward. We need a holistic approach, and this includes investing in predisaster mitigation measures, such as strengthening our infrastructure in housing and enhancing early detection capabilities, supporting our wildland firefighting workforce, and focusing on post- disaster resilience. My amendment is a piece of this comprehensive response. Specifically, my amendment will require the Department of the Interior, in coordination with States, local governments, Tribes, and colleges to identify critical lands in need of reforestation and restoration due to natural disasters, and to support projects in those areas. By investing in restoration and reforestation projects, we can ensure that our communities not only recover but also rebuild in a way that enhances their resilience against future disasters. Unfortunately, wildfires leave lasting scars on our landscapes and can permanently alter our environment, heightening the risk of deadly flash flooding and mud flows. I hear from my constituents about their concerns regarding wildfires but also, unfortunately, flooding is close behind. That is why it is important that we pass this amendment to strengthen the provisions in the underlying bill and ensure our communities are equipped to face the challenges head-on. Recovery after a wildfire is a lengthy and challenging process. However, my amendment, together with the provisions in the bill, represents a step toward building stronger, more resilient communities against the threat of wildfires. Mr. Chair, I urge my colleagues to support the adoption of this amendment, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Chair, I urge my colleagues to support this amendment, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize European Gourmet of Arvada, Colorado for receiving the Arvada Economic Development Association's 2024 Outstanding Retailer Award. Each year, this award honors an Arvada business that demonstrates an exceptional contribution to the local economy and commitment to excellence in service. Since the Bien family founded the business in 1999, they have worked hard to offer a wide variety of traditional Polish and Eastern European treats, such as their sausages, hams, cheeses, bread, pierogies, and sweets. Today, European Gourmet has earned the reputation as a top destination for Polish and Eastern European cuisine in Colorado, with people from around the state traveling to Arvada to experience their authentic foods and great service. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate European Gourmet on receiving the Outstanding Retailer Award and for their contributions to the Arvada community.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Cappello's of Arvada, Colorado for winning the Arvada Economic Development Association's 2024 Outstanding Small Business Award. Each year, this award honors one small business in Arvada that demonstrates excellence in innovation, local outreach, and community engagement. Ben Frochlichstein and Stacey Marcellus created Cappello's in 2011 when they noticed a lack of gluten-free products in Colorado grocery stores. This led them to create their line of products that emphasize simple, fresh ingredients that prioritize the health and well-being of their customers with celiac disease and other gluten sensitivities. Since then, Cappello's has expanded to grocery store shelves across the country, creating a large variety of products, including gluten- free pizzas, pastas, cookie doughs, and biscuits. Their business has allowed people in Colorado and across the country to make and enjoy the foods they love with safety and peace of mind. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Cappello's for winning the 2024 Outstanding Small Business Award and thank them for their contributions to the Arvada Community.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Servicios de la Raza of Denver, Colorado in honor of their 11th Annual Raices Latinas Gala. Denver Chicano and Chicana activists first founded Servicios de la Raza in 1972 to provide community engagement and economic opportunities for low-income Spanish speakers throughout Colorado. Today, Servicios de la Raza provides a variety of life-changing services for all Coloradans, including a food pantry, clothing bank, job search assistance, and re-entry programs for Coloradans leaving incarceration. Last year, Servicios de la Raza served over 93,000 Coloradans. The annual Raices Latinas Gala is a celebration of culture and diversity and honors outstanding community leaders whose activism and community service exemplifies Servicios' mission of inclusion, justice, equity, and peace. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Servicios de la Raza for their Raices Latinas Gala and thank them for their contributions to the Colorado community.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Arvada Elks Fraternal Order Lodge No. 2278 of Arvada, Colorado for winning the Arvada Economic Development Association's 2024 Community Partnership Award. Each year this award goes to an Arvada organization that demonstrates a strong commitment to serving their community through outreach, engagement, and impact on local issues. Members began Arvada Elks Fraternal Order in 1963 with the mission of giving back to their community. Today, over 1,200 members support their mission of providing ``charity, justice, brotherly love, and fidelity'' to the local community. Their service projects have a wide reach, from providing drug-use education in schools and awarding college scholarships to Arvada high school students to purchasing groceries for families in need and raising money for the families of fallen law enforcement officers. Their philanthropy work has made a large impact on countless veterans, children, and families throughout Jefferson County. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate the Arvada Elks Fraternal Order Lodge No. 2278 for winning the Community Partnership Award and thank them for their contributions to the Arvada community.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Henriksen Amplifiers of Arvada, Colorado for receiving the Arvada Economic Development Association's 2024 Lloyd J. King Entrepreneurial Spirit Award. Each year, this award recognizes an Arvada company that demonstrates excellence in entrepreneurial spirit, creative business practices, and economic innovation. Bud Henriksen founded Henriksen Amplifiers in 2006 with his son Peter when a newly acquired jazz guitar led him to make his own amp. Since Bud's passing in 2009, Peter Henriksen has carried on his father's legacy while expanding further into other genres of music. Henriksen's contributions to Arvada extend beyond amplifiers: the business has been committed to investing their time, expertise, and money in local concerts, artists, and community events, such as the annual Rocky Mountain Archtop Guitar Festival in Olde Town Arvada. Henriksen Amplifiers sets a clear example of how a business can bring more to a community than just their product. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Henriksen Amplifiers for receiving the Lloyd J. King Entrepreneurial Spirit Award and for their contributions to the Arvada community.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Melissa Kraai of Arvada, Colorado for winning the Arvada Economic Development Association's 2024 Chris Adams Community Spirit Award. Each year, this award honors an Arvada resident who defines and shapes the community's character through their work and engagement. In 2009, Ms. Kraai founded SustainAbility in Arvada, Colorado, after noticing her community lacked a center to process hard-to-recycle household goods. Taking the initiative to improve her community, she decided to open a facility that recycles items that most municipal recycling facilities are unable to process and otherwise end up in landfills, such as styrofoam, paint, and electronics. Ms. Kraai is also dedicated to creating a diverse, equitable workforce, especially for Coloradans with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Since SustainAbility first opened, Ms. Kraai has made it her mission to address un- and under-employment among disabled Coloradans by creating quality, meaningful jobs for her employees, a majority of whom are disabled. After successfully starting the Arvada facility, Ms. Kraai expanded operations to the nearby cities of Broomfield and Westminster, allowing thousands of more Coloradans to recycle their household products. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Melissa Kraai for winning the Chris Adams Community Spirit Award and thank her for her contributions to the Arvada community.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize David Lucas for winning the 2024 Paul Kroegel Refuge Manager of the Year award from the National Wildlife Refuge Association. The Paul Kroegel Award honors refuge managers who have made significant contributions to the protection and management of national wildlife refuges. During his time as a manager for the Rocky Flats, Two Ponds, and Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuges, David rehabilitated two formerly hazardous waste sites into thriving animal refuges, oversaw the restoration of 15,000 acres of prairie habitat, and reintroduced the Black-Footed Ferret to one of his refuges. He also expanded access to his refuges by installing ADA accessible e trails and piers and hiring bilingual rangers. David's work brought Colorado's public lands closer to home, ensuring that everyone can learn from and enjoy our diverse environment. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional district, it is my honor to congratulate David Lucas on receiving the Refuge Manager of the Year award and thank him for his remarkable work in conserving Colorado's public lands.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Piper Electric of Arvada, Colorado for winning the Arvada Economic Development Association's 2024 Outstanding Large Business Award. Each year, this award honors a local company who brings job growth, economic investment, and innovation to the Arvada business community. Since 1983, Piper Electric has provided electrical services ranging from wiring updates and installation in residential homes to electrical construction and maintenance projects in commercial sites throughout Arvada and Jefferson County. As Piper Electric continues to expand, they remain committed to serving the Colorado community. Ongoing projects such as the expansion of their headquarters or their partnering with a national electrical group to increase their resources and job-capabilities, highlight the company's mission of providing high-quality jobs and services for families throughout our state. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to congratulate Piper Electric for receiving the Outstanding Large Business Award and for their passionate work within Arvada, Colorado.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Lindsey Horan of Golden, Colorado for representing the United States in Women's Soccer at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. Lindsey is a world-class athlete, having won three championship titles since she began her professional career in 2012. She played a vital role in the United States Women's National Soccer Team (USWNT) winning the Women's 2019 World Cup and earning the bronze medal during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. She returned to the international field as captain of the team during the 2023 World Cup, where she led the team to the knockout stage of the tournament. Lindsey, along with the rest of the USWNT, has also worked hard to champion equal pay between the men's and women's national soccer teams. She is a remarkable athlete, and her valuable contributions during the 2024 Paris Olympic Games helped the United States bring home an Olympic gold medal. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional district, it is my honor to congratulate Lindsey Horan for representing Colorado and the United States during the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Ambrosia Williamceau, Maria Abeyta, and Charlotte Williams for earning this year's JeffCo Prosperity Partners Achievement Awards. The Achievement Awards are granted to recognize individuals of the JeffCo Prosperity Partners (JPP) Program and Head Start families who reach significant milestones in education, employment, and economic opportunity. The recipients must successfully graduate from the JPP Program, gaining skills in career development, academics, and financial literacy education. This year's Achievement Award honorees are recognized for their outstanding determination and hard work during the JPP Program. Receiving this award demonstrates dedication to personal growth, distinguishing their drive for professional development and improving their lives on a multigenerational level. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional district, it is my honor to congratulate Ambrosia, Maria, and Charlotte on their incredible accomplishments and for receiving the 2024 JeffCo Prosperity Partners Achievement Award.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Technician Fifth Grade Clifford Strickland of Fowler, Colorado, a fallen World War II soldier considered missing in action until December of 2023. Clifford was a U.S. Army Technician out of Charlie Company, 803rd Engineers Battalion. He was stationed in the Philippines where he was constructing vital landing strips for U.S. forces when the military of Japan attacked the islands. Clifford and his fellow soldiers bravely defended the island for several months before he was captured in April of 1942, forced into the agonizing Bataan Death March, and taken to Cabanatuan Prison Camp where he died months later. After he was buried, it took 81 years to identify Clifford's remains. In service of his country, Clifford made the ultimate sacrifice and we are eternally grateful for his courage in the line of duty. On June 29, 2024, Clifford will finally return home where he will be buried surrounded by family and loved ones in Florence, Colorado. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to recognize Clifford's service and sacrifice. We are thankful to have him home after all these years.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Amie Baca- Oehlert for service with the Colorado Education Association (CEA). Amie is a bold and courageous leader who served for over a decade in leadership, including six years as president of CEA. Amie made hard decisions throughout her tenure and led during unprecedented times--including the COVID-19 global pandemic. During COVID, Amie led with incredible power and grace. She formed new coalitions with healthcare and public health organizations, which was critical in supporting educators with vaccine and PPE access, important scientific knowledge about the virus, and information on how to keep themselves and their students healthy. She was also at the helm during the murder of George Floyd and spoke out publicly against racism and police brutality. Amie made it clear that educators and CEA would not sit on the sidelines in the fight for racial, social, and economic justice. Amie has committed her life and her career to improving the quality of life for people throughout Colorado. She has championed affordable housing, gun violence prevention, school funding, and mental health for educators and students. Our schools, our students, our educators, and our communities are better off thanks to Amie's leadership. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to thank Amie Baca-Oehlert for her tireless work and dedication to our community.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I missed the first vote in the 10:30 am vote series on the Motion Ordering the Previous Question on H. Res. 1316. Had I been present, I would have voted NAY on Roll Call No. 283, the Motion Ordering the Previous Question on H. Res. 1316.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Randy Keller of Canon City, Colorado for his outstanding performance of duties as the Fremont County Coroner during the extraordinary circumstances during the funeral home tragedy in Penrose, Colorado. In October of 2023, the remains of nearly 200 individuals were found improperly stored at a local funeral home. This horrific and shocking crime rocked this close knit community and prompted Colorado officials to declare a state disaster. As the Coroner, Mr. Keller oversaw this crisis with incredible efficiency and compassion. Families who had worked with the funeral home during some of their most vulnerable moments were left wondering if their loved ones were cared for properly. Mr. Keller worked overtime to coordinate with local, state, and federal agencies to identify the deceased, notify their loved ones, and seek justice for the community members impacted by this tragedy. Mr. Keller's work gave closure to grieving families and helped restore trust to the people of Fremont County. On behalf of the people of Colorado's Seventh Congressional District, it is my honor to recognize Randy Keller for his commitment and service to Fremont County.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Chair, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Chair, more than 20 percent of Americans have owned or traded cryptocurrency. Despite this, the U.S. still lacks a clear regulatory structure for digital assets which is hurting American competitiveness and incentivizing some companies, unfortunately, to move overseas. While there may be disagreement about how to best establish the appropriate market regulatory structure, there is broad bipartisan agreement for preventing criminals from using cryptocurrencies for illicit purposes, such as money laundering, terrorist financing, and sanctioned evasion. My amendment would provide clarity and conformity to how the Bank Secrecy Act and regulations safeguarding our financial system from criminals are applied to digital assets. The base bill already calls for the Bank Secrecy Act to apply to digital assets; however, by amending the BSA directly and explicitly expanding the definition of financial institution in the BSA to cover digital asset entities, we are providing certainty to the regulators and the Department of Treasury in their authorities to protect our financial system. Additionally, the amendment would also require a study to assess the risk posed by centralized intermediaries based in jurisdictions that lack robust anti-money laundering enforcement. While in most cases, American digital asset companies are already complying with the applicable requirements under the Bank Secrecy Act, we also have to be thinking about the threat of foreign companies with U.S. touchpoints that are not complying with equivalent controls or reporting standards. I thank Chairman McHenry and Representative Hill for working with me on this issue, and their commitment to strengthening the anti-money laundering provisions in this bill. This amendment, combined with the underlying bill, will help provide more oversight into the digital asset market and support regulators' work to protect consumers and investors. While there is more work to be done to ensure the integrity of our digital assets market, this amendment is an important step forward and I urge my colleagues to support the adoption of the amendment and the underlying bill. Mr. Chair, I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Chair, I yield myself the balance of my time. Mr. Chair, I, again, thank the chairman from North Carolina for working with me and others to bring a bipartisan bill with broad support to the House. This has been years in the making, and I congratulate him for getting it to this point. I appreciate his willingness to work with me. I also thank my team for helping me address an issue that I had concerns about. Mr. Chair, I ask for the support of my colleagues, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Chair, I have an amendment at the desk.

Ms. PETTERSEN

Ms. PETTERSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Luther Kozhevnikov for earning the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award. Luther 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 Luther, develop crucial skills and a work ethic that will guide them for the rest of their lives. This award is a testament to Luther's hard work, determination, and perseverance at Wheat Ridge High School and is clearly just the beginning of a bright and promising future. It is my honor to congratulate Luther Kozhevnikov on achieving the Arvada Wheat Ridge Service Ambassadors for Youth Award.