Nellie Pou

Ms. POU

Ms. POU. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to welcome His Excellency Luis Abinader, President of the Dominican Republic, to New Jersey on the occasion of his first official visit to our state and to recognize his distinguished record of service. President Abinader was first elected President of the Dominican Republic in 2020 and was reelected in 2024. An economist and businessman by training, he has brought his experience to public office with a focus on government reform and expanding opportunity for the Dominican people. During his presidency, the Dominican Republic has pursued investments in infrastructure and access to drinking water while modernizing its national power grid. His administration has also worked to increase foreign investment and promote transparency and public accountability. In 2024, President Abinader helped enact constitutional reforms preserving presidential term limits and providing greater independence for the Attorney General's Office. President Abinader's visit carries special meaning in New Jersey. Our state is home to one of the largest Dominican communities in the United States. Among them are thousands of families in North Jersey who contribute enormously to the economic and cultural life of our state. The bonds between our nations are renewed every day by these families and the enduring connections they maintain with the Dominican Republic. Today, William Paterson University welcomes President Abinader to its campus and presents him with its Presidential Medal. The occasion also celebrates the lasting ties between the Dominican Republic and Dominicans abroad. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to join New Jersey's Dominican community in marking President Luis Abinader's first official visit to our state. I extend my best wishes to President Abinader and the people of the Dominican Republic and look forward to the continued friendship between our nations.

Ms. POU

Ms. POU. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Detective Lieutenant Sharon Easton-Lassiter of Paterson, New Jersey, upon her retirement after a distinguished career dedicated to public safety, community service, and the empowerment of others. A lifelong resident of Paterson and proud graduate of the Paterson Public Schools. Detective Lieutenant Easton-Lassiter has devoted her life to serving the city she calls home. In 1989, she fulfilled a lifelong dream by joining the Paterson Police Department and embarked on a career that would leave a lasting mark on her community. Her groundbreaking journey reached a historic milestone in 2016 when she became the first Black American woman promoted to the rank of Lieutenant in the department's history Over more than four decades in law enforcement, Detective Lieutenant Easton-Lassiter served in numerous assignments and earned a reputation not only as a dedicated professional, but also as a trusted leader and bridge-builder committed to strengthening relationships between law enforcement and the community. In 2023, she was appointed to lead the Paterson Police Department's Community Partnership Bureau, where she expanded violence prevention, youth mentorship, and community engagement efforts that strengthened trust between residents and law enforcement while creating new opportunities for young people. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Sharon has remained deeply committed to faith, family, and community. Whether guiding young people, supporting neighborhood initiatives, or serving alongside her husband, Reverend Dr. Randall Lassiter, she has consistently demonstrated a belief that public service is about uplifting others and helping communities thrive. Mr. Speaker, Detective Lieutenant Sharon Easton-Lassiter's career reflects the very best of public service. Her leadership, courage, and unwavering commitment to the people of Paterson have made our community stronger. I am proud to recognize her extraordinary contributions and wish her and her family continued success and happiness in the years ahead.

Ms. POU

Ms. POU. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor HK Metalcraft of Lodi, New Jersey, as it celebrates 100 years in business, a rare milestone built on generations of hard work, family commitment, and pride in a job well done. Founded in 1926, HK Metalcraft has grown and adapted across four generations of Hopp family leadership, standing as a testament to what steady dedication and strong values can achieve over time. Today, under the leadership of Josh Hopp, the company continues that legacy, carrying forward a tradition of excellence that has endured for a full century. From its headquarters in Lodi, HK Metalcraft operates a 50,000- square-foot facility that brings together office, manufacturing, and warehouse space to support efficient operations. With a team of about 30 employees, the company produces a wide range of specialized components, including spring washers, metal gaskets, custom stampings, and assemblies that serve industries far beyond our district and state. Reaching 100 years in business does not happen by chance. It takes resilience, adaptability, and an abiding devotion to both employees and customers. Through changing markets and evolving technologies, HK Metalcraft has remained focused on quality, precision, and doing right by the people it serves. Mr. Speaker, small businesses like HK Metalcraft are the backbone of our communities. They create jobs, support families, boost communities, and help drive our local economy forward. HK Metalcraft's century of success is a powerful reminder of what can be built when hard work meets opportunity. I am proud to recognize this extraordinary milestone and to congratulate Josh Hopp and the entire HK Metalcraft team. I wish them continued success in the years ahead.

Ms. POU

Ms. POU. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Edward S. Kovach of Garfield, New Jersey, as he marks an extraordinary milestone: 50 years of active service as a volunteer firefighter and a lifetime of dedication to protecting others and strengthening his community. A lifelong resident of Garfield, Ed joined Garfield Volunteer Fire Company No. 5 in 1976 at just 18 years old. From that moment on, he answered the call, time and again, whenever his neighbors needed him most. Over the decades, he has served with distinction in many leadership roles, including 2nd Lieutenant, 1st Lieutenant, and Captain, as well as Secretary, President, and Treasurer of the company, a position he continues to hold today. Fifty years of service is a rare and remarkable achievement. Volunteer firefighters give their time, their energy, and place themselves in harm's way to keep their neighbors safe. They respond in moments of crisis and bring calm in the face of danger without asking for recognition in return. Their work requires courage, discipline, and an abiding sense of duty, all qualities Mr. Kovach has shown throughout his career. Beyond the firehouse, Mr. Kovach has been an active and engaged member of the Garfield Fire Department's broader community, contributing to its traditions and friendship, including through years of involvement in the department's softball league and service in the Fire Department Relief Association. Mr. Speaker, Edward Kovach's 50 years of service reflect the very best of New Jersey and of what it means to serve others. I am proud to recognize his extraordinary commitment and to thank him, along with his wife Jeanne and family, for the countless sacrifices they have made in support of his service and Garfield. I wish Ed continued health and happiness in the years ahead.

Ms. POU

Ms. POU. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of former New Jersey Governor and longtime State Senator Richard Codey, known to all of us as Dick Codey, a public servant whose 50 years of public service remain unmatched in our State's rich history. Dick Codey believed deeply in service, and he practiced it with heart. Dick was a champion for people living with mental illness long before it was widely acknowledged or understood. He was willing to go further than most, even going undercover in a psychiatric hospital to ensure dignity for those of us too often forgotten. As Governor, he brought steadiness and integrity during a difficult moment for New Jersey, in return earning extraordinary trust from the public. What defined Dick for me was his common touch. He returned constituents' calls himself. He conversed in diner booths late at night. He coached youth basketball. He never stopped being the same person, no matter the title he held. I had the privilege of serving with Dick Codey in Trenton and of calling him my friend. He cared so deeply about the people he represented and the institution that he served. New Jersey is better because of Dick Codey's life and work. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Ms. POU

Ms. POU. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Christine Orosz and Melanie Panarese, two exceptional educators in Lodi, New Jersey, whose dedication to their students and community exemplifies the very best of public education. A graduate of Lodi public schools, Christine returned home to serve the district that shaped her. Since joining Lodi in 2012, she has grown from school counselor to supervisor of school counseling, overseeing guidance and mental health support for students across her district. Working with first-generation college aspirants, English language learners, and students from working-class families, Christine has demystified college applications and financial aid. She has opened doors that once seemed out of reach. Her leadership has helped raise Lodi's high school graduation rate from roughly three-in-four students to nearly 90 percent. Melanie Panarese, an English teacher at Lodi High School, brings the same commitment to her classroom every single day. With two decades in the profession and 7 years serving Lodi students, Melanie's lessons encourage critical thinking and creativity. She also pioneered an academic yearbook course allowing students to design, write, and produce the school's yearbook, building collaboration and pride in their work. Colleagues praise her exceptional ability to make every student feel seen and valued. Both Christine and Melanie were named New Jersey Exemplary Educators in 2025, an honor reserved for educators who demonstrate true leadership and positive influence on students and colleagues. At a time when school districts face growing challenges and diminishing resources, educators like Christine and Melanie continue to step up, providing stability, opportunity, and hope for young men and women. Together, their work reminds us that investment in public education is ultimately an investment in our communities and our future. Christine and Melanie represent the very best of public education, and I am proud to honor them today. Paterson Schools Funding

Ms. POU. Mr. Speaker, while we are talking about education in America, I want to talk about something more serious: the Department of Education's continued war on our schools. Last month, without warning, the Department informed eight schools in our district that it was rescinding $8 million in critical funding. I urgently appealed to Secretary McMahon. My office met with the Department, and our school districts repeatedly sought engagement. We were ignored. Over the holidays, the Department informed us that the cuts were final and will begin immediately. Over the next 3 years alone, schools in our district will lose millions of dollars promised and planned for. The program has already shown positive educational outcomes, and the negative consequences for our kids will be felt for years to come. Our school districts have been willing to work with the Trump administration to remedy any issue to find a fair path forward, but that willingness has not been matched. Across the U.S., the Department of Education is dismantling public schools. New Jersey is the latest victim. I will continue working with our district school officials to use every single tool available to restore this funding and to fight to support public education. I will not give up on our children.

Ms. POU

Ms. POU. Mr. Chair, I rise to oppose this bill, H.R. 3898, because it is an affront to environmental stewardship everywhere. It undermines the 50 years of vital, clean water progress and weakens the ability of States like New Jersey to control pollution in its own waters. Supporting localities in their efforts to provide clean water is one of my top priorities as a member of the Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee. I know firsthand the danger of aging stormwater, sewer, and flood infrastructure to our environment and health. It is unacceptable that this bill would allow polluters to release raw or partially untreated sewage into our waters because they believe that the water treatment technology is much too expensive. These environmental rollbacks will only make our wealthiest polluters richer and our riverfront communities sicker. Stormwater infrastructure is critical. Our communities must have the tools that they need to keep people safe. That is why I offered an amendment to require the EPA to certify before implementing this bill that it will not increase sewer overflows, stormwater discharges, or flooding risks. Unfortunately, the amendment was blocked by the House majority. These terrible and horrible hazards endanger personal property, businesses, local economies, critical infrastructure, and, most importantly, human life and safety. This bill allows irreparable, preventable damage in our communities, and I urge all of my colleagues to vote ``no.''

Ms. POU

Ms. POU. Mr. Speaker, I rise to welcome His All-Holiness Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew to the United States. On behalf of the many Eastern Orthodox Christians who call New Jersey home, including my constituents at St. George Greek Orthodox Church in Clifton, I offer my heartfelt congratulations and express deep admiration to His All- Holiness for his ongoing efforts to foster peace, understanding, and stewardship of our shared planet. Leading the church since 1991, His All-Holiness serves as a spiritual guide for more than 300 million faithful Orthodox Christians around the world. His commitment to engaging with communities and governments around the globe, regardless of faith, has made him one of the most recognizable and respected religious figures of our time. While in the United States, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew will be awarded the prestigious Templeton Prize for his outstanding contributions to the advancement of science and spirituality. He will join the company of other spiritual leaders like Mother Teresa and the Dalai Lama. I am honored to add my voice to the chorus of others who welcome the Ecumenical Patriarch to the United States and honor him for his lifetime of incredible service and work.

Ms. POU

Ms. POU. Mr. Speaker, across New Jersey and our country, Americans are struggling with skyrocketing energy costs and are demanding relief. Yet, that did not stop the congressional Republicans from repealing the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit, a major mistake that could not have come at a worse time. Amidst the rising cost of living, Americans are now being denied an important tool to lower their energy costs solely so billionaires could get another unneeded tax giveaway. That is why I introduced a commonsense amendment to study the impacts of tearing this program away from American homeowners. I am absolutely disappointed, but not surprised, that the House majority continues to hide the impacts of their big, ugly bill and block Americans from seeing how it raises their electric bills. I came to Congress to lower high costs, and I will not stop working to lower energy costs for hardworking Americans.

Ms. POU

Ms. POU. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the life of one of this body's greatest Members, the late Congressman Charlie Rangel of New York. There are few men anywhere who have made as large a mark on their community and their government as Charlie Rangel. Charlie Rangel led an extraordinary life. He was a decorated Korean war veteran, one of the founders of the Congressional Black Caucus, and the first Black American chairman of the storied Committee on Ways and Means. In his beloved community of Harlem, Charlie was a revered, legendary figure. He was loved by his constituents. He carved paths that others followed for decades. He was also an incredible dresser. In the long history of the U.S. House of Representatives, over 11,000 men and women have served in this Chamber. Of them, just nine served longer than Charlie Rangel. Mr. Speaker, Charlie Rangel's death has hit our community particularly hard, as his son-in-law Howard is the longtime leader of Eva's Village, which is a vital resource for our neighbors in the city of Paterson in my district. Last year, I had the pleasure of sitting with Congressman Rangel at a reception. Even at 94, he was full of energy, anecdotes, and stories, and he remained a sharp dresser. I send my condolences to Howard; his wife, Alicia Rangel Haughton; Steven Rangel; and Charlie Rangel's family.

Ms. POU

Ms. POU. Mr. Speaker, the massive cuts to Medicaid within this bill will unleash catastrophic impacts across America and my district. Hospitals and nursing homes could close, and healthcare prices will rise as a result of these cuts. More than 1.7 million New Jerseyans, including over one-third of all children in our State, get their healthcare through Medicaid. Our State will lose one-quarter of the Federal funding it receives for Medicaid. That is $3.6 billion. That is what this bill will do if it becomes law. These cuts will especially hurt families in our poorest communities. That is why I offered an amendment to require continuous Medicaid coverage through pregnancy and a year postpartum. If my colleagues support women and working families, there is no reason to oppose this provision. However, my amendment was blocked, along with five other commonsense amendments. I urge my colleagues to please vote ``no'' on this cruel rule.

Ms. POU

Ms. POU. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H. Res. 364, which calls on local communities to support organizations that provide resources and assistance to the Gold Shield families. Gold Shield families suffer tremendous, heartbreaking loss when their loved ones--police officers, firefighters, emergency medical technicians, and corrections officers--are killed while serving their communities. Mr. Speaker, I support H. Res. 364 because Gold Shield families deserve recognition and need assistance. I am speaking of families such as those of Captain Basil Pizzuto of Saddle Brook and Sergeant Robert Miller of Clifton, both from the State of New Jersey. Yet, I must also highlight that the Department of Justice recently terminated 365 competitive grants totaling $811 million. This is funding that Congress provided to the Justice Department to help prosecutors, police, and sheriffs' departments protect and enhance public safety. While the Trump administration and my friends across the aisle call for law and order and public safety, the Department of Justice is terminating funding for congressionally authorized grant programs that keep our communities safe. Mr. Speaker, I support the resolution before us today. I also urge my colleagues to express their opposition to the elimination of congressionally authorized public safety grant programs at the Department of Justice. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. POU. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. POU. Mr. Speaker, I wholeheartedly support the resolution before us today, and I encourage all of my colleagues to do the same. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. POU

Ms. POU. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentlewoman for yielding to me. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 249, a bill to redesignate parts of the Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park in honor of the late Congressman Bill Pascrell, Jr. I thank my friend and fellow New Jerseyan, Congressman Frank Pallone, for leading this effort. I am a proud original cosponsor of this important measure to honor the legacy of one of Paterson's greatest sons, Congressman Pascrell. Congressman Pascrell was my dear friend and a mentor to me. He was known throughout our State for his closely held convictions. He spoke up and spoke out for what he believed in, and he never ever backed down from a fight. Many years ago, Bill had a vision for the Great Falls. He knew that, with adequate Federal resources and funding, the Great Falls could be an anchor for Paterson's rebirth and revitalization. Once he arrived in Washington, he rolled up his sleeves and got to work. Bill fought relentlessly to secure the designation of the Great Falls as a National Historic Park in 2009. When it was signed into law by President Obama, it was a proud day for our city and our entire State. This designation unlocked a flood of new rehabilitation and expansion projects that have transformed the Great Falls into a hub for tourism and recreation. This includes the expansion of the park's boundaries to encompass the historic Hinchliffe Stadium. The Great Falls is the crown jewel of our great city. After Niagara Falls, by volume, it is the largest set of waterfalls east of the Mississippi River. Hundreds of thousands of tourists come from all over the world to be inspired by the beauty of its roaring water. Additionally, our Great Falls are unique as both a historical and national landmark. Alexander Hamilton used the power of the falls to help start the industrial revolution right in the heart of Paterson, New Jersey. Overlook Park is the center of our national park. This part of the district is where you get the classic view of our famous falls. The pedestrian bridge is another favorite part of the park, a place where you can get a topside view of the falls and can physically feel its majesty, along with the mists from the mighty Passaic River. Mr. Speaker, with the passage of this measure into law to rename these two locations, Bill Pascrell's tireless advocacy will be rightfully remembered by generations of Patersonians. As a proud Patersonian, let me just say, I urge all my colleagues to support the passage of this measure.

Ms. POU

Ms. POU. Mr. Chair, I rise for the first speech on the floor of this body to reject the Republicans' so-called budget. I came to Congress to help my constituents. I came here to provide direct relief to struggling Americans and lift people up. This Republican budget does none of those things. It is nothing more than a blueprint for cruelty. This GOP budget will destroy Medicaid and take healthcare away from millions of Americans. In my district alone, this could strip healthcare from the 215,000 people on Medicaid, blow up hospital budgets, raise insurance premiums, all to give trillions in tax cuts to the millionaires. This is another cash giveaway to the superrich at the expense of ruining American lives. Mr. Chair, I reject it, and I intend to vote ``no'' to this cruel Republican budget.