Aumua Amata Radewagen

Mrs. RADEWAGEN

Mrs. RADEWAGEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of the University of South Carolina women's basketball team. These amazing athletes from my good friend Joe Wilson's district completed a perfect season, culminating in a championship win. Special congratulations to senior guard Te-Hina Paopao and her contributions to the team. ``Congratulations on your great sportsmanship.'' ``Malo le ta'alo fa'a tamali'i.'' Te-Hina Paopao is of Samoan heritage, and I know our islands always love to see our Pacific athletes excelling on the national stage. She will have lifelong memories of scoring 14 points in the national championship. I congratulate all her friends and family cheering her on in our Polynesian communities from her home in California and elsewhere. I so enjoyed watching this game that attracted millions of people with lots of nationwide excitement about all the great teams competing. I thank the South Carolina women's basketball team.

Mrs. RADEWAGEN

Mrs. RADEWAGEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the 2024 Consolidated Appropriation Act and the inclusion of language from the Compact of Free Association Amendments Act. As a Member of Congress who has lived my personal as well as my civic life among the peoples and leaders of the Pacific Island nations and territories, I want first to recognize here the inclusive leadership of Speaker Johnson, House Natural Resources Committee Chairman Westerman, and House Foreign Affairs Chairman McClure. Each of these leaders in our current House Majority reached out for my insights and perspectives as a House member who comes from the Pacific, regarding this legislation approving renewal of the Compact of Free Association. I also join all stakeholders in the future success of America's relations with the U.S. aligned nations of the Pacific, as well as our American territories, in expressing deep gratitude for the bipartisan and bicameral coordination and cooperation in Congress on COFA renewal from 2020 to 2024. As House and Senate committee members we provided necessary policy guidance to the President, National Security Council, State Department, and Interior Department, making clear Congressional interests and expectations that would need to be addressed before statutory ratification by both Houses of terms included in COFA renewal agreements. This bipartisan cooperation included the support of House Natural Resources Committee Ranking Member Grijalva and House Foreign Affairs Committee Ranking Member Meeks. Both colleagues cosponsored H.J. Res. 96 with Chairman Westerman and Chairman McClure. Thereby endorsing the original COFA renewal bill that has been inserted in the bill we approve today, which was developed through the bicameral and bipartisan cooperation with the leadership and staff of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee and Senate Foreign Relations Committee, in conjunction with House and Senate hearings on COFA renewal. Of equal importance, all stakeholders in the COFA success story should recognize the national leaders and peoples of our COFA partner nations for strong commitment to the future success of the COFA alliance. Our closest allies in the Pacific acted with wisdom and patience during delays in the COFA renewal process due to initial U.S. negotiating positions that were not feasible in the COFA nations or in Congress. When ill-advised U.S. positions resulted in failure to conclude negotiations and approve COFA III before COFA II expired, the island government heads of state, ministers and chief negotiators worked with U.S. negotiators and Congress to sustain the COFA II framework until the job approving COFA III was done. The Special Presidential Envoy appointed on the bipartisan and bicameral recommendation from many of us in Congress managed to salvage the COFA negotiations. Ambassador Yun overcame resistance in some dark corners of the Executive Branch bureaucracy sufficiently for the COFA nations to accept and for Congress to approve the package we are ratifying today. The PRC communist dictatorship used its presence in the COFA nations to exploit the delay in COFA approval, attempting to influence elections, disrupt political and economic processes, and spread corruption. The dedication of these nations to the COFA alliance prevailed, and renewal of our 75-year relationship represents the success of self-determination and self-government over PRC political warfare and imperialism. That makes what we do today a success for democracy and freedom as well as the strategic national security capabilities COFA provides so the U.S. can continue to lead and defend a free and open Indo-Pacific. The lesson of history in the Pacific is that funding our Compact of Free Association with the U.S. aligned Pacific Island nations of Palau, Federated States of Micronesia and the Marshall Islands could make a difference between peace and war in the Pacific. The COFA alliances secure vital U.S. national security interests and redeem promises of friendship between America as a pacific nation and the peoples of these strategically located islands first forged in the tragedy and misery of WWII. From 1947 to 1986 under a U.N. trusteeship administered by America the U.S. Congress provided for governance of the islands in Palau, Micronesia and Marshall Islands under both international self- determination law and the domestic model of territorial law and self- government. From 1986 to 2003 under COFA I, the U.S. Congress continued the policy combining international political status of the Free- Associated States (FAS) consistent with the domestic territorial model economic assistance and federal programs. In 2003, the U.S. renewed COFA for RMI and FSM, but established COFA trust funds that contemplated reliance on proceeds of investment in lieu of continued direct U.S. economic assistance in 2023. Section 354(c) of the 2003 COFA created asymmetry between the certainty of U.S. defense rights and uncertainty about whether trust fund proceeds would be sufficient to sustain a politically feasible balance of burdens and benefits for the FAS established under the U.N. trusteeship and COFA I. That same uncertainty was created by terms the U.S. offered to renew Palau's COFA I in 2010. What seemed to emerge was a U.S. State Department policy seeking to reduce and inevitably phase out all or most of the domestic economic and federal program features of COFA. U.S. ambassadors in the FAS and region openly explained that closure of the Office of Freely Associated State Affairs was due to U.S. plans to ratchet down COFA economic cost so those nations would have relations with American more like all Pacific Island Forum nations. Until reversed after Congress objected, in the 2020-2023 period, the U.S. position in COFA renewal negotiations continued the 2003 State Department policy scaling back U.S. economic assistance and federal programs. Beginning in 2020 leaders in Congress on COFA renewal oversight called for revision and reform of U.S. negotiating playbook to restore the balance of special U.S. defense rights and special economic assistance and programs under the trusteeship and COFA I. That restoration of sustainable balance of burdens and benefits will be attained by approval of the Compact of Free Association Amendments Act of 2024 (COFA) pursuant to Division G, Title II of the legislation we approve today will bring to culmination a successful bi-partisan and bicameral Congressional process for statutory ratification of international agreements renewing our Compacts with the FSM, RMI and Palau. This effort included the House Natural Resources Committee report to the full House approved by unanimous consent on November 8, 2023, supporting approval of the H.J. Res. 96, the original bipartisan bill to approve the COFA amendment agreement package completed for all three COFA partner nations on October 16, 2023. This was not merely a parliamentary feat for the Chairman or Committee majority, because HNRC approval set in motion timely confirmation by all relevant House and Senate committees that H.J. Res. 96 was ready for floor action in both chambers. This reflects responsible bipartisan and bicameral recognition by our leadership in both Houses that the U.S. gets no better return on investment of taxpayer dollars than we do on international security and defense alliances under COFA. Specifically, COFA entails obligations of $7.1 billion for exclusive strategic control for 20 years over military access to the vast and vital mid-Pacific Sea lanes, islands and airspace of the COFA nations that straddle the equator across the western and northern Pacific. Still, even after the strategic and foreign policy necessity of COFA approval was recognized, the pathway to authorization and appropriation of funding for mostly mandatory economic assistance grants and discretionary programs for the COFA nations--over 20 years from FY 2004 through 2043--was not certain until application of budget rules for Congressional disposition of the 2024 national security emergency appropriations legislation to which COFA had been linked were determined. We now have in the legislation before us an agreed framework for approving ways and means to meet fiscally responsible economic assistance commitments that sustain the COFA alliances with the Republic of Palau, Republic of the Marshall Islands and the Federated States of Micronesia. However, the real work of defending democracy, rule of law and political as well as economic freedom in the American aligned Pacific nations does not end but rather begins anew with approval of the three bilateral COFA agreements we renew with this legislation. The threat of PRC and its surrogate regimes to the U.S. homeland from Guam and Northern Mariana Islands to Hawaii is matched by aggressive PRC political warfare in the Pacific Island COFA ally nations of Palau, Marshall Islands and Federated States of Micronesia. Destabilizing our COFA partner nations is a primary goal of the PRC in its menacing plan to surround and subjugate Taiwan through economic, political and if necessary, military coercion. U.S. failure to sustain the COFA firewall protecting democracy in the region will expose U.S. territories, our COFA allies and our western border states to impacts of political aggression, economic coercion and destabilization that will accelerate migration from the COFA countries in the decades ahead. Just as it was during the first half of the 20th century in the era of Japanese imperialism leading to WWII in the Pacific, in the third decade of the 21st century PRC imperialism seeks domination and control of the Micronesian region as a platform to gain strategic control of the greater Oceanic region. Now referred to as the Blues Continent, the islands and archipelagoes of the mid-Pacific can join and unite Asia and the Americas to promote freedom and prosperity or descend into conflict and confrontation. COFA comparably is to peace and security in the Pacific what we hope NATO will continue to be in Europe. That is why on September 18, 2023, as Chair of the House Natural Resources Committee Task Force on the Indo-Pacific, I wrote to the Chair and Ranking Member of that House Committee and the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, urging approval of the Compact of Free Association (COFA) between the U.S. and our three closest strategic allies in the Indo-Pacific, Palau, Marshall Islands and Federated States of Micronesia. At that time, the 2003 COFA II agreement was set to expire and regrettably did so at the end of FY 2023. Inclusion of some but not all of the COFA agreement funding for FY 2024 proposed in the COFA renewal agreements under the temporary spending measures after October 1 did not send the strong signal of strategic stability and continuity of U.S. commitment our COFA alliance partner nations needed to counter PRC political warfare threatening America's seven-decade success preserving peace in a free and open Indo-Pacific. That initial failure to provide funding in the Pacific to sustain partnership with our closest allies in the Pacific for the next two decades at this juncture was a miscalculation and self-defeating U.S. policy that we are correcting and ending today. We supported our leadership in finding a path forward, replacing delay and misdirection caused by initially failed U.S. negotiating positions on COFA renewal agreements with approvals and funding authorization also will end political jousting and gambling with our strategic interests in the Pacific. As noted, Congress will need to exercise oversight of COFA III implementation to ensure provisions of this new COFA III package enacted as federal stature not as a Senate ratified treaty are implemented as statutory mandate by all federal authorities, not as merely policies to be modified or altered in implementation at discretion of federal officials. That is particularly true as to the U.S. Department of Education and Department of Veteran Affairs programs, the operations of the State Department office responsible for COFA implementation under direction of the Interagency Group on Free Associated States Affairs, fiscal accountability standards applied by the Secretary of the Interior to monitor and manage economic assistance grants and coordinate federal programs, and the procedures and practices of the RMI and FSM Trust Fund Committee. The latter includes Congressional oversight to ensure that funding for extraordinary or exceptional circumstances in the RMI under Article 18 of the RMI COFA Trust Fund Agreement are used to address the legacy of U.S. nuclear testing in the RMI. That means that such funds shall be applied for the benefit and to meet needs of the people of the atolls specified and named in Article 18 related to the effect of the nuclear testing program on the people and environment in those similarly situated island peoples. As confirmed by the President's Special Envoy in testimony on this COFA renewal package before Senate and House committees, the unique ``political and moral'' responsibilities and commitments of the U.S. to the RMI related to the nuclear testing legacy now continuing under Article 18 of the COFA Trust Fund Agreement includes not only past and present but future measures that further implement the Section 177 Agreement. The provisions of the Section 177 Agreement incorporated into this legislation confirm that the entirety of the agreement remains in full effect, and that all provisions of that settlement continue to apply according to the terms of COFA I, COFA II and COFA III. That continuity of law regarding the Section 177 Agreement includes the relevant provisions of Section 103 of COFA I pursuant to P.L. 99- 239 and Section 103 of COFA II pursuant to P.L. 108-188, as well as the still authoritative jurisprudence of Juda v. U.S., 13 Claims Court 667 (1987) relating to retained jurisdiction of federal courts. That specifically ensures that in accordance with Section 177(b) of the U.S.-RMI COFA, when measures taken under the Section 177 agreement end the amounts provided--under mutually agreed and/or ex gratia terms--the outcome of U.S. actions under the settlement must constitute just and adequate compensation. Reversing the miscalculations of the 2003 COFA acts for FSM and RMI and the 2010 Palau COFA agreement that created uncertainty about post- 2023 COFA economic assistance terms is achieved under the COFA III terms we approve today, which anticipate continuity in the COFA alliance not only for 20 years but continuing after 2043. That is imperative because COFA security rights for America and the COFA nations of the Pacific are imperative. Just as our southern border must be secured, our homeland borders and strategic boundaries in the Pacific, including Hawaii, Guam, CNMI, American Samoa and west coast, must be secured consistent with America's leadership of the free world.

Mrs. RADEWAGEN

Mrs. RADEWAGEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank Major Christopher Matthai for his dedicated service to the American Samoa and all the Pacific Islands as a U.S. Army Liaison in the Office of the Chief, Legislative Liaison. In American Samoa, our men and women of the Armed Forces are very important to us. The people of our islands take great pride in being patriotic Americans and our people are known for a high rate of service in our military. In particular, our U.S. Army recruiting center ranks number one in the nation in enlistment rate. To that end I would like to recognize all the work MAJ Matthai has done to serve our country throughout his career, so far. He enlisted in 1999 and was deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. In 2009 he earned a direct commission through the Army Reserve. He has an extensive list of military awards and decorations including the Meritorious Service Medal, Joint Commendation Medal, the Army Commendation Medal with 5 oak leaf clusters. He was awarded the Mark and Debbie Kennedy Frontiers of Freedom award and the Dean of the Business School Merit award. He is a graduate from the University of Baltimore, receiving a Master of Business Administration from there and receiving another Master's in Legislative Affairs from George Washington University. In congratulating this outstanding officer today, we also express our deep appreciation to all who serve, including the many in uniform from American Samoa serving with distinction all over the world. I thank Christopher for his outstanding leadership and his commitment to our Soldiers, American Samoa, and our great Nation. Best wishes to him and his family as they depart Washington, D.C., for Indiana and his next duty assignment. I thank him for his service and his time dedicated to our beautiful island. God bless you on your journey (Fa'amanuia le Atua i ou ala. Soifua.)

Mrs. RADEWAGEN

Mrs. RADEWAGEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of James T. Stovall, III who passed away unexpectedly on April 27, 2023. An accomplished lawyer, Mr. Stovall was a trusted advisor to decades of Micronesian leaders and provided the government of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) with more than 50 years of legal counsel. Born in Montgomery, Alabama in 1937, Mr. Stovall earned his Juris Doctor (J.D.) from the University of Alabama. He served in the U.S. military in Korea and Germany as member of the Judge Advocate General's Corps (JAG). His work on behalf of Micronesia began in the early 70s with the Micronesian Committee on Future Political Status and Transition (CFPST). After his service with the JAG Corps., he was designated by the Washington, D.C. law firm of Clifford & Warnke to provide legal advice to the Micronesian Status Negotiations. He worked on negotiations for the original Compact of Free Association (COFA) and this work carried through as an advisor to the Joint Committee on Compact Review and Planning in their current negotiations between the COFA states and the U.S. Mr. Stovall also served as trusted adviser to all nine FSM Presidents, from first FSM President Tosiwo Nakayama in 1979 through current President David Panuelo, and he was instrumental in securing the FSM's membership in the United Nations in 1991. Mr. Stovall is survived by his wife of 60 years, LouAnn, along with 2 daughters and 3 grandchildren. Mr. Stovall mentored several generations of Micronesian lawyers and government officials during his service and continued to do so right up until his unexpected illness. His passing is not just a loss for the FSM, but for the Pacific region at large. He will be missed.

Mrs. RADEWAGEN

Mrs. RADEWAGEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Major Lloyd M. Alaimalo on his retirement from the United States Army. Major Alaimalo has had an illustrious career lasting over 30 years serving both on active duty and in the reserves. In American Samoa, our men and women of the Armed Forces are very important to us. The people of our islands take great pride in being patriotic Americans and our people are known for a high rate of service in our military. Major Alaimalo serves as a prime example of this type of dedication, and I would like to recognize all the work he has done on behalf of the United States and our people. MAJ Alaimalo was born in Long Beach, California but his home is the village of Vatia, American Samoa. His career began when he enlisted in the Army in June of 1990 as a cannon crewmember. He has had multiple overseas tours and deployments including assignments in Greece, Iraq, and Kuwait. His first duty assignment as an officer was with the 542nd Support Maintenance Company, 80th Ordnance Battalion at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA. His last assignment before retiring was Assistant Product Manager for Joint Program Protection (JPM-P), Joint Program Executive Office for Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear Defense (JPEO CBRND) at Stafford, VA. In between those milestones he served his nation well in a variety of leadership roles and was an exemplary soldier. MAJ Alaimalo's awards include the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, the Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal, the Iraqi Campaign Medal with four campaign stars, the Global War on Terrorism Expedition Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Combat Action Badge. In congratulating this outstanding officer today, we also express our deep appreciation to all who serve, including the many in uniform from American Samoa serving with distinction all over the world. I thank MAJ Alaimalo, for his outstanding leadership and his commitment to our Soldiers, American Samoa, and our great Nation. and I thank his wife, Elisapeta Leilani Areta, and their son, Ropeti, for supporting Lloyd while he served his country. ``God bless and good health.'' Fa'amanuia le Atua i ou ala. Soifua.

Mrs. RADEWAGEN

Mrs. RADEWAGEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to the five Pacific Island countries in Micronesia that, at their summit in February, called for Russia to end its war against Ukraine. Following their summit, these countries--Marshall Islands, Palau, Federated States of Micronesia, Kiribati, and Nauru--joined a U.N. General Assembly resolution demanding that Russia immediately and unconditionally withdraw all of its military forces from Ukraine. Mr. Speaker, last September, I addressed the Pacific Islands Conference of Leaders--the heads of all Pacific governments, independent and territorial alike. At that gathering, I urged the leaders to resist any overtures by China until China also demands Russia stop its war with Ukraine: ``Before you even think about negotiating any agreements with Beijing, you should be asking China to live up to international standards on climate change.'' I concluded by asking them to use their ``international leverage and prestige to tell China not to support Russia in any way in its unjust war in Ukraine.'' Job well done by America's friends in the Pacific. ``Farewell and may you be well,'' ``Soifua ma ia e manuia.''

Mrs. RADEWAGEN

Mrs. RADEWAGEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Edward Deleon Guerrero Pangelinan who passed away on Friday, February 3, 2023, after struggling with cancer. ``Eddie'' as he was known to friends and loved ones, was born on October 24, 1941. A graduate of Howard University and the first Chamorro lawyer in the territory, Eddie was a key player in shaping the CNMI's status as a territory of the United States. As Chairman of the Marianas Political Status Commission, he led the political status negotiations resulting in the signing of The Covenant to Establish a Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands in Political Union with the United States. He was the first Resident Representative from the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands to the United States. The office of Resident Representative served as the precursor to the Delegate from the CNMI to the United States House of Representatives and laid the groundwork for the territory's future representation in Congress. He would go on to serve in various roles supporting the CNMI and the territories. Eddie will always be remembered fondly as a founding father of the CNMI and as a cornerstone of the Pacific community. We honor his legacy and thank him and his family for their public service that continues to benefit the territories to this day. He is survived by his wife, Dulce Gatbonton Pangelinan, 6 children, and 11 grandchildren. His passing is not just a loss for the CNMI, but for the Pacific region at large. He will be missed.

Mrs. RADEWAGEN

Mrs. RADEWAGEN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of U.S. Navy Lieutenant Ridge Alkonis, a sailor currently stationed abroad in Japan. While the U.S. and Japanese naval forces have long maintained a strong bond, the relationship is deteriorating as a result of Japanese injustices against U.S. military members. The case of U.S. Navy Lieutenant Ridge Alkonis, who is of American Samoan descent, exemplifies the disparate treatment American sailors receive in Japan. While driving his wife and three children to get ice cream during a family outing, Lieutenant Alkonis suffered a sudden and unforeseen medical emergency which resulted in a tragic car accident causing the death of two Japanese citizens. While indeed a tragedy, this was an accident in every sense of the word. At the scene of the accident, Lieutenant Alkonis was immediately arrested by Japanese authorities, without receiving any medical care, and imprisoned. He was systematically deprived of sleep, denied legal counsel, and pressured to sign false accusations. The Tokyo High Court rejected the majority of evidence submitted by Lieutenant Alkonis, and last week, his appeal was dismissed. I am deeply troubled by Japan's mistreatment of Lieutenant Alkonis. These abuses are hurting the U.S.-Japan alliance exactly when it needs to be strengthened. I call on President Biden and Ambassador Rahm Emanuel to bring Lieutenant Alkonis home.

Mrs. RADEWAGEN

Mrs. RADEWAGEN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of U.S. Navy Lieutenant Ridge Alkonis, a sailor currently stationed abroad in Japan. Essential to the economic and political stability of the Pacific region around my home of American-Samoa is the U.S.-Japan alliance. As a significant part of this alliance, the U.S.Navy and Japanese Maritime Self-defense Force jointly project power and security throughout the Pacific; and, enabling this naval partnership are the 19,000 American sailors stationed there. While the U.S. and Japanese naval forces have long maintained a strong bond, the relationship is deteriorating as a result of Japanese injustices against U.S. military members. The case of U.S. Navy Lieutenant Ridge Alkonis, who is of Samoan descent, exemplifies the disparate treatment American sailors receive in Japan. While driving his wife and three children to get ice cream during a family outing one Saturday in May 2021, LT. Alkonis suffered a sudden and unforeseen medical emergency which resulted in a tragic car accident, causing the death of two Japanese citizens. When I became aware of this tragedy last year, I immediately conveyed my condolences to Ambassador Tomita and continue to pray for the family of those who passed away. At the scene of the accident, LT. Alkonis was immediately arrested by Japanese authorities without receiving any medical care and imprisoned in solitary confinement for 26 days. He was systematically deprived of sleep, denied legal counsel while undergoing harsh daily interrogations by Japanese authorities, and pressured to sign false accusations. Financial compensation plays an influential role in the Japanese justice system, with Japanese citizens possessing considerable leverage over foreigners in court. LT. Alkonis was advised into signing a $1.65 million financial settlement, the largest private financial settlement ever entered into by a U.S. service member in Japan. Despite there being no evidence of negligence on his part, LT. Alkonis cooperated fully in the investigation and paid the financial settlement in full; nevertheless, he was still sentenced to three years in prison. And last month, the Tokyo High Court rejected the majority of evidence submitted by LT. Alkonis including the Japanese police arrest warrant and a medical diagnosis by military physicians. The Court dismissed LT. Alkonis's appeal last week, even disregarding the financial settlement--an unprecedented decision by a Japanese court. Many familiar with these proceedings have called this situation the most egregious case against an American service member by Japan in over 60 years. I'm deeply troubled by Japan's treatment of LT. Alkonis. A review of the facts clearly shows that LT. Alkonis did not fall asleep and was not negligent, that he did in fact suffer a medical emergency. While indeed a tragedy, this was an accident in every sense of the word. Additionally, there have been numerous Status of Forces Agreement violations and human rights abuses by Japan. I have even heard persuasive allegations of illicit domestic political interference in LT. Alkonis's court proceedings by the victims' family, which is strongly connected to the Tokyo High Court. The treatment of LT. Alkonis has been unacceptable and is hurting the U.S.-Japan alliance exactly when it needs to be strengthened. America cannot allow our brave sons and daughters to be so vulnerably exposed while serving abroad. I call on President Biden, as well as our Ambassador to Japan-- Ambassador Emanuel, to bring LT. Alkonis home and to immediately work with our Japanese partners to ensure that the terms of the Status of Forces Agreement are immediately reviewed and enforced at every level. Now more than ever, we need to acknowledge and correct injustices and take the appropriate steps to strengthen this alliance by ensuring service members are treated fairly.

Mrs. RADEWAGEN

Mrs. RADEWAGEN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Lieutenant Colonel Eric Marshall on his retirement from the United States Army. LTC Marshall has had an illustrious career lasting over 20 years serving in the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers, culminating as the Honolulu District's Commander. In American Samoa, our men and women of the Armed Forces are very important to us. The people of our islands take great pride in being patriotic Americans and our people are known for a high rate of service in our military. In particular, our U.S. Army recruiting center ranks number one in the nation in enlistment rate. To that end I would like to recognize all the work LTC Marshall has done to lead throughout his career in situations such as leading dive missions, having a key managing role in the Western Closure, commanding the B/1-48th infantry company, and imparting his knowledge on future leaders in the Army through his instruction and course direction in physics at West Point. He has an extensive list of military awards and decorations including the Bronze Star, Bronze DeFleury, and is currently nominated for the Silver DeFleury. He is a graduate of the prestigious U.S. Air Force Academy and received his Master's Degree in nuclear engineering from MIT. In congratulating this outstanding officer today, we also express our deep appreciation to all who serve, including the many in uniform from American Samoa serving with distinction all over the world. I thank Eric for his outstanding leadership and his commitment to our Soldiers, American Samoa, and our great Nation. Best wishes to him and his family as he departs Honolulu. I congratulate him on his retirement and the great future ahead. Again, I thank him for his service and his time dedicated to our beautiful island. God bless you on your journey. (Fa'amanuia le Atua i ou ala). Soifua.

Mrs. RADEWAGEN

Mrs. RADEWAGEN. Madam Speaker, I rise to remember the life and service of Command Sergeant Major (Retired) Ioakimo Falaniko from my home district of American Samoa. CSM Falaniko passed away Wednesday, October 20, 2021, at the age of 67. CSM Falaniko served his country as a combat engineer for over 30 years, entering the Army in 1976 and retiring in December of 2008. His assignments included: Fort Belvoir, Virginia; Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri; Fort Bragg, North Carolina; Fort Bliss, Texas; and Fort Lewis, Washington; as well as several tours in Germany, Korea, and Iraq. He was the Senior Instructor for the Sapper Leader Course at Fort Leonard Wood, a demanding 28-day training regimen and the premier leadership course for combat engineers. After retiring from military service, he was a consultant and Training Supervisor for the IED Division of Counter Explosive Hazards Center on Fort Leonard Wood. His awards and decorations include: The Legion of Merit, (with 1 Oak Leaf Cluster) Bronze Star Medal (with 1 Oak Leaf Cluster); Meritorious Service Medal (with 3 Oak Leaf Clusters); Army Commendation Medal (with 3 Oak Leaf Cluster); Army Achievement Medal (with 5 Oak Leaf Clusters); Good Conduct Medal (10th Award); Army Occupation Medal; National Defense Service Medal; Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal; Global War on Terrorism Service Medal; Korea Defense Service Medal; Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal; NCO Professional Development Ribbon (4); Overseas Service Ribbon (4); Army Service Ribbon; Ranger Tab; Sapper Tab; Master Parachutist Badge; Air Assault Badge; Drill Sergeant Badge; French Commando Badge; Canadian Parachutist Badge; and German Bronze Marksmanship Badge. He also was awarded the DeFleury Bronze and Silver Medal of the Army Corps of Engineer. CSM Falaniko and his family are a Gold Star Family; his son, Jonathan Falaniko, was tragically killed in action of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003. CSM Falaniko was buried with his son, at Arlington National Cemetery on April 19, 2022. May these father and son heroes rest in peace.

Mrs. RADEWAGEN

Mrs. RADEWAGEN. Madam Speaker, I rise to wish a very happy birthday to Bernice Jerves Fernandes, upon turning 100 years of age on March 25, 2022. She was born on the island of Kauai before Hawaii was admitted to the Union. She has made a wonderful difference in many lives, including serving as a teacher for 26 years at Holy Cross parish school, and hosting many foster children. Yet she has made time to also become a successful businesswoman and farm owner. Her late husband, Frank Fernandes, served the cause of freedom in World War II. Bernice is a longtime friend, and her daughter Bernadine has been my close friend since childhood. Bernice has five grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren. I want to congratulate Bernice on this milestone and assure her of my love and appreciation. Her 100th birthday deserves our honor and acclaim, as it represents a wise lifetime of being a joy to those of us who know her and making the world a better place. The Scripture places great blessing upon a long life that is ``full of days,'' and emphasizes deep respect to age as a ``crown of glory.'' I trust Bernice feels the special affection from her many loved ones, and congratulations all to her family and friends as they celebrate Bernice where she lives in Hawaii. I thank Bernice and Soifua.

Mrs. RADEWAGEN

Mrs. RADEWAGEN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 105th anniversary of Puerto Ricans gaining the right to U.S. citizenship. For the past 105 years, Puerto Ricans have served this country with the utmost distinction, especially the more than 235,000 Puerto Ricans that have donned this country's uniform. During this time of celebration, I would also like to bring to the House's attention the Puerto Rico Statehood Admission Act, which would grant Puerto Rico statehood. I wholeheartedly support this bipartisan piece of legislation that simply executes the wishes of the people of Puerto Rico. Puerto Ricans have spoken, and it is time for us to listen. As a Member of Congress from a territory, I can tell you that a lot has been said in recent years about the status of U.S. territories and their place in America. A lot of the noise that has been generated has been from people and groups outside the territories, who cannot comprehend the complexities of life in the territories. In my view, it is up to the people in each of our territories to express their wishes for their own futures. This bill is the manifestation of those exact wishes. On November 3, 2020, a majority of Puerto Ricans answered with an emphatic 'Yes' when asked if they wanted to be a state. No ifs, ands; or buts. It is our duty as Members of Congress to immediately follow through on the demands of the people of Puerto Rico, and anything less would do them a great disservice. I am proud to stand with my good friends Representatives Jenniffer Gonzalez-Colon of Puerto Rico and Darren Soto of Florida as they seek to deliver for Puerto Ricans.

Mrs. RADEWAGEN

Mrs. RADEWAGEN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in remembrance of the late Michael Ryner Sala. Michael was a native son of the Territory of American Samoa, born on September 29, 1944, in the small village of Avaio in the far eastern district of the main island of Tutuila, American Samoa. His mother, Malia Elisapeta Silivelio Pa`utalo Sala Fata Eneliko Siligawas a woman of proud Samoan heritage, and his father, Raymond Ryner Howard, a Marine Platoon Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps, whose barracks were situated in the next village during WW2. He attended Faga`itua Elementary School and then Poyer High School, now known as Samoana High School. He graduated in June 1964 and received a scholarship to pursue medical training in Fiji. His life took a turn when, during the process of preparing to leave the island, he visited the police department in Fagatogo. He ran into a family member, Lt. Vilima`a Leiato, who offered him a position as a police officer--right there on the spot. After consulting with his mother, he decided to accept the position and thus began his long and distinguished career in law enforcement. He went on to attend the Honolulu Police Academy and later the California Highway Patrol Academy. At 22, he was the youngest officer ever promoted to Sergeant; at 24 the youngest ever promoted to Lieutenant. At the age of 28, the High Chief Title ``Tualamasala'' was bestowed upon Mike. Matai titles are only given to select family members with the approval of the senior matai or high chief and members of the extended family. In 1973, at the age of 29, he began working as a Special Investigator for the Multnomah County District Attorney's Office in Portland, Oregon, and in 1975 became a Multnomah County Sheriff. He graduated from Portland State University in March 1977 with a bachelor's degree in Administration of Justice. In 1978, he graduated from the University of Portland with a master's degree in Criminal Justice Administration. He was a candidate for a second master's degree in Public Administration and a candidate for a doctoral degree in Criminology. He returned home to American Samoa in 1978 where he served as Deputy Commissioner of Public Safety for 20 years. He served for 15 years as the Director of Intelligence for the South Pacific Islands Criminal Intelligence Network (SPICIN), the intelligence arm of the South Pacific Chiefs of Police Conference (SPCPC) organization which is comprised of 21 countries in the Pacific, including Australia and New Zealand, until 2003 when SPICIN was reorganized as part of the regions' information sharing and intelligence infrastructure solely administered by the American Samoa Government. In September 1996, the Office of Territorial and International and Criminal Intelligence and Drug Enforcement (OTICIDE) separated from the Department of Public Safety and created as an independent law enforcement agency (Task Force). As director of OTICIDE, Mike was also a director of the INTERPOL Pacific Sub-Bureau comprised of Guam, Saipan, and American Samoa as Communications Control Center (CCC), under the United States Department of Justice, National Central Bureau in Washington, D.C. In February 2007, he was appointed the first Director of the American Samoa Department of Homeland Security, ASDHS. He retired on January 3, 2013, after 50 years of law enforcement and public safety experience in American Samoa and the US mainland. He was a lifetime member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) and served as Chairman of the SPCPC from 1994-1995. He was Chairman of the American Samoa Government (ASG) Interagency Special Task Force on Narcotics and White-Collar Crime Enforcement for nine years. He directed a Bureau of Special Investigations within the Department of Public Safety. He was Chairman of the Preparedness Task Force on Terrorism in American Samoa, later renamed the Homeland Security Advisory Council (HSAC). He served as Vice Chairman of the eleven-member Governor's Council on Alcohol and Drug Abuse, as well as Chairman of the ASG Personnel Advisory Board. He presented at numerous law enforcement conferences regionally and internationally, including the IACP, Asia-Pacific Center for Security Studies (APCSS), South Pacific Chiefs of Police, SPICIN and INTERPOL. In addition to his long record of government service, Mike served his community. He was an active lifetime member and Charter President of the Lions Club in American Samoa. He joined the Boy Scouts of American Samoa in 1964 and was an active member of the Boy Scouts of America, American Samoa District Committee under the Aloha Counsel of Honolulu where he served as chairman for 17 years. Mike was a tireless promoter of the highest ideals; he believed in friendship above all and was a true friend to countless people. His generosity of spirit and heart was legendary; he often helped people quietly when they needed it most and did not count the cost or want recognition for his many good deeds. He was fiercely loyal to his Lions Club brothers and sisters, where he encouraged and promoted many of them, especially his Lion sisters, to lead the organization after him. He was also tireless in promoting women in the workplace and mentored many worthy candidates in his years at Public Safety and Homeland Security. Although he was extremely proud of his government service and accomplishments, he was most proud of his work with the Lions Club. Mike led the club as Charter President and then as club president four more times. He guided them in numerous community projects, including collaboration with the LBJ Medical Center, Department of Health, Feleti Barstow Library, and other government agencies to conduct vision screening clinics for residents, including outreach visits to the islands of Manu`a. Teams of doctors, nurses and technicians have been hosted by the Lions to work with the local club, where they offered vision screening, eye surgery and medicine to the Samoan community, free of charge. Mike truly believed that in order to be a good citizen, one must give to their community. He lived his life serving his island community, his village, and his people. He took his final breath on the morning of January 17, 2022. He is survived by his children, Jennifer Rebecca Sala Jones and Matthew Michael Sala, and his grandchildren: Olivia, Malia, and Betty Merlea.

Mrs. RADEWAGEN

Mrs. RADEWAGEN. Madam Speaker, I rise as an original sponsor of H.R. 2930, The STOP Act, to celebrate the House's passage of this important legislation and to express my disappointment over the fears that led to 57 of my colleagues voting against the bill and will lay out the facts to dispel those fears. The fact is the bill incorporates the concerns of the various stakeholders impacted by the legislation. This melding of concerns was eloquently stated on the House floor by Chairwoman Leger Fernandez, The STOP Act's sponsor who told the House that: ``This version reflects negotiations with Tribal leaders, Federal agency experts, and the Authentic Tribal Art Dealers Association,'' all of whom are impacted by the legislation. Chairwoman Leger Fernandez comments on the melding of stakeholder concerns were reinforced by Ranking Member Westerman on the House floor when he stated: ``I want to thank the sponsor of the legislation for working with stakeholders impacted by this bill, including the Acoma, the Pueblo, the Antique Tribal Art Dealers Association, the Department of the Interior, the Department of Justice, and others.'' Clearly, there was bipartisan recognition that the concerns expressed by the bill's various stakeholders were legitimate and had to be incorporated into the final product. I am providing here, for the record, the ways in which The STOP Act meets the concerns of all the stakeholders mentioned by Chairwoman Leger Fernandez and Ranking Member Westerman, which should dispel the fears of those opposed to bill. For starters, the bill does not ban all exports of Native American items as some fear. The bill only prohibits the export of items in violation of NAGPRA and ARPA, no other items for export are prohibited. In fact, the bill clearly states: ``an item made solely for commercial purposes is presumed to not qualify as an Item Requiring Export Certification;'' while an additional provision specifies that Certification requirements be ``sufficiently specific precise to ensure that an export certification is required only for Items Requiring Export Certification.'' Clearly, the bill provides for a targeted ban on the export of illegal items, not the broad ban opponents fear. The facts dispel the fear that certification provenance requirements would lead to a de-facto export ban given the limited provenance of many items. The fact is the bill explicitly states: ``include all available information regarding the provenance,'' so the bill clearly only requires ``available information'' and does not require the historical provenance of the item. Finally, opponents fear that The STOP Act placed the burden of proof on the citizen, not the government. In fact, the bill had no need to address this issue. It is a foundational principal of our democratic system of laws and governance that the burden of proof is on the government, not the citizen. In conclusion, I would like to, once again, congratulate the House for passing The Stop Act and urge all to consider these facts.

Mrs. RADEWAGEN

Mrs. RADEWAGEN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and thank GAO Director David Gootnick for his 27 years of federal service, including 20 years at the Government Accountability Office. His leadership on 50 reports and testimonies covering the territories and freely associated states has been a critical source of information and insight for the Natural Resources Committee. In particular, I want to highlight David's five reviews of the implementation of minimum wage increases in American Samoa--beginning in 2010 and last reporting in 2020. These reports provided vital information that helped Congress monitor economic conditions in the territory and take appropriate actions to revise the schedule of America Samoa minimum wage increases. I thank David for his service, and congratulate him on his retirement. Best wishes to him on his future activities.

Mrs. RADEWAGEN

Mrs. RADEWAGEN. Madam Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to the late John J. Whitt, who ably served as Legislative Director and then Chief of Staff to two of our former colleagues from Guam: Congressman Robert A. Underwood and Congresswoman Madeleine Z. Bordallo, respectively. Sadly, John died from cancer at the age of 64 on September 16, 2021. His funeral Mass was celebrated this morning at Our Lady of the Chesapeake Catholic Church in Pasadena, Maryland, where his family and many friends gathered to memorialize his life and offer prayers of thanksgiving for his public service. I was fortunate to be among them as my husband, Fred, and I were friends with John for many years. John was well known to the territorial Delegates and their staffs in the House as he was a strong collaborator and visionary when it came to joining forces and forging consensus--where appropriate and possible-- to advance Federal policy to improve the quality of life for Americans residing in the territories and to enhance understanding in Washington about indigenous culture and the way of life in the Pacific islands. Born on October 15, 1956, to the late Charles and Christina Whitt, John was immensely proud of his CHamoru heritage and his upbringing in Barrigada, Guam. He graduated in 1974 from Father Duenas Memorial School in Chalan Pago, Guam, and in 1978 from the United States Air Force Academy, having been nominated for appointment there by Guam's first Delegate to Congress, the late Antonio B. Won Pat. Thereafter, John served our country as a B-52 pilot. But his other love, of politics, lured him back to his home island of Guam. One of his mentors, the late Colonel Edward Diego ``Eddie'' Reyes, USAF, who was a candidate for Lieutenant Governor on a winning ticket with the late Governor Ricardo J. Bordallo in 1982 recruited John to work on their gubernatorial campaign. It was on the campaign trail that Governor Bordallo, and his wife, Madeleine, took notice of John's sharp intellect and keen political instinct. Not long after being sworn into office, Governor Bordallo tapped John to be his Chief of Staff at a tender young age of 27. After Governor Bordallo's term ended, John embarked on a short career as a commercial regional jet service pilot in the Southeast United States. When Congressman Underwood was sworn into office in 1993, he brought John on board as part of his legislative team. In the 1990s, John helped advance the Guam Commonwealth Act for consideration by the House Natural Resources Committee and the Clinton Administration and assisted with Congressman Underwood's successful efforts to return excess lands taken by the Federal government to the people of Guam. When Typhoon Paka struck Guam in 1997, John was tapped by Governor Carl T.C. Gutierrez and Lieutenant Governor Madeline Z. Bordallo to help coordinate the GovGuam response with FEMA. Thereafter, John returned to Washington--this time to serve as the Governor's liaison in town. When Lieutenant Governor Madeleine Bordallo was elected as Guam's first woman Delegate to Congress in 2002, she tapped John to serve as her Chief of Staff. John served in that capacity for her first seven terms helping her advance the Guam war claims legislation toward its eventual enactment and to provide for an orderly and balanced realignment of military forces on Guam. John was a longtime, active member of the Guam Society of America, Inc., here in Washington, D.C. He was a consistent, consoling presence whenever one of the elders in the community passed away. John loved to lift our hearts in song and was fond of joining in the choir on special occasions. He would recite the CHamoru hymns and prayers. He was a gifted speechwriter and political strategist with an appreciation for history. He loved politics, the U.S. Air Force, to fly, his home village of Barrigada, and Guam. Most of all he loved his family, especially his brothers and sisters and his numerous nephews and nieces. He is predeceased by his parents and his siblings, Albert, Edwin, Emmett, and Julie Sisson. He is survived by his sisters, Frances Lucero (Larry) and Arlene Osorio (David), and his brother Jim Whitt (Debbie), and his nephews and nieces. Madam Speaker, I take this opportunity to remember John for his contributions to this institution as one of its staff members and for the positive force he made for the betterment of my constituents and our fellow brothers and sisters residing in the other territories. On behalf of the people of American Samoa, I offer our condolences to his family and to our former colleagues, Congressman Underwood and Congresswoman Bordallo, on whose staff he served.

Mrs. RADEWAGEN

Mrs. RADEWAGEN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of John Iriarte Whitt who passed away on Thursday, September 16, 2021 at the University of Maryland Baltimore Washington Medical Center in Glen Bernie, Maryland. John had a decades long career in public service working as an important advisor to several of Guam's key elected leaders over the years including Gov. Ricardo Bordallo, Gov. Carl Gutierrez, Congressman Robert Underwood, and Congresswoman Madeleine Bordallo. He was proud of his Chamoru heritage and was a longtime member of the Guam Society of America. He understood what it meant to be a Pacific Islander and lived his life serving others. He was a true patriot and was proud of his military service. As a graduate of the Air Force Academy and a B-52 Pilot, John had a tactical mind, which he put to good use developing political strategies and policy not just for the benefit of the people of Guam, but also for American Samoa and the rest of the territories. When I was first elected to Congress, John was still the Chief of Staff for Congresswoman Bordallo and was a great help to my freshman office. He was quick to volunteer his time and expertise not only with matters of policy, but with fostering a sense of camaraderie among the territorial delegation. His passing is not just a loss for Guam, but for the Pacific region at large. He will be missed.

Mrs. RADEWAGEN

Mrs. RADEWAGEN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize a true Samoan warrior, Captain Miguel L. Peko, who will retire later this year from the United States Navy after a remarkable 35-year career as a Midshipman and Aviator. In American Samoa, military service is more than just a job--it is a calling to serve not only our country, but our fellow countrymen. Contributing to the defense of this great nation day in and day out is a singular honor, and I am proud to represent a place that so values this service that it is continually recognized as one of the top recruiting stations anywhere in America for the U.S. military. Few people know more about that kind of honor through service and duty than Captain Peko. This son of Utulei and Fagatogo flew combat missions in support of Fleet and Joint Operational commanders, coordinated maritime homeland defense efforts across the unified combatant commands, and had a direct impact on the formation of senior military leaders during his most recent post as Director of the Joint Advanced Warfighting School. Captain Peko's career has garnered numerous decorations for excellence and leadership, including a Legion of Merit, four Air Medals, a Meritorious Service Medal, and a Joint Commendation Medal. Finally, I would also like to recognize those who stood with him in these years, Captain Peko's family. Behind this successful military career is a wife who went months without her husband, daughters who spent hours of their young lives speaking to their father through a phone or on a video screen, and worried parents who prayed daily for their son's safety. I thank Mrs. Kerrith Ann Peko and daughters Brenna and Alyssa, for their patience and for all the sacrifices that they have made over the past years. I congratulate Lolesio and Belinda Peko on the immense pride that they must feel for their son's exemplary service. God bless Captain Peko

Mrs. RADEWAGEN

Mrs. RADEWAGEN. Mr. Speaker, I thank Ranking Member Chabot for yielding time. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 8229, the Parity for HUBZone Appeals Act of 2020. I thank Ms. Houlahan for her collaboration on this important legislation. SBA's various small business contracting programs support different types of entrepreneurs, from women and service-disabled veterans to minorities and the economically disadvantaged, by providing these businesses with special Federal contracting preferences. Whether a business holds a specific status is critical in determining whether that company is eligible to compete for these special contract opportunities. Not only does the business have a vested interest in obtaining and maintaining its status, but the Federal Government also has an interest in making sure these special contracts are not awarded to fraudulent firms. If a company is suspected to be ineligible for a status it claims to hold, an interested party can protest the firm's status. Currently, for Historically Underutilized Business Zone-qualified, or HUBZone-qualified, small businesses, the final arbiter of a firm's special HUBZone status is the Associate Administrator of the Office of Government Contracting and Business Development, or AA-GCBD. This differs significantly from SBA's other Federal contracting programs in which SBA's Office of Hearings and Appeals, or OHA, is the final decisionmaker of a firm's protested status. OHA, unlike the AA-GCBD, is an independent office of the SBA. Leaving the appeal decision to the AA-GCBD raises questions of conflict of interest, whereas housing that process at OHA will ensure the decision remains separate and independent from any influence. Furthermore, the AA-GCBD has many competing priorities and responsibilities in overseeing all the SBA's Federal contracting programs. In contrast, OHA administrative judges are primarily tasked with adjudicating similar types of appeals and, thus, are well trained and well versed in making educated decisions objectively and impartially. Thus, passage of this bill means that small businesses will have a greater chance of having a fair and knowledgeable assessment of their case. Finally, the AA-GCBD's appeals decisions are currently made in a vacuum. There is no visibility into the reasons why a decision was reached. In contrast, all of OHA's decisions are published online and easily searchable. These opinions are critical for small businesses to obtain a greater understanding of the rules surrounding their eligibility. Therefore, shifting the responsibility to hear HUBZone appeals to OHA will provide the public with much-needed guidance and transparency. In sum, H.R. 8229 will bring greater parity, fairness, and transparency between SBA's HUBZone program and its other Federal contracting programs. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this commonsense legislation.

Mrs. RADEWAGEN

Mrs. RADEWAGEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in overwhelming support of this bipartisan legislation. The country needs it, and American Samoa desperately needs it. American Samoa has unique economic and geographic challenges. So far, my constituents are without any coronavirus testing at all, as NBC recently reported. The Army Corps of Engineers has reported our LBJ hospital needs over $100 million, at a minimum, for improvements just to meet compliance standards. I want to thank the President for his leadership, and I thank my colleagues for including my request that the Pacific territories and the Freely Associated States are in the definition of ``State,'' so all pandemic unemployment assistance programs apply to us. Our people are strong and their faith is strong. Let's get this funding to work and provide testing in American Samoa. Mr. Speaker, may God bless us all.

Mrs. RADEWAGEN

Mrs. RADEWAGEN. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mrs. RADEWAGEN. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Meuser).

Mrs. RADEWAGEN. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself as much time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 2196. This bill, which is introduced by an outstanding new member of our committee, Representative Barr of Kentucky, would clarify the eligibility for the Edith Nourse Rogers STEM Scholarship program. This program, enacted as part of the Forever GI Bill, authorizes extra GI bill funding to help veterans complete their undergraduate degrees in a STEM field. Mr. Speaker, we all know about the need to fill vacancies for high- paying jobs in the STEM field. The Smithsonian Science Education Center projected that, in 2018, 2.4 million STEM jobs went unfilled. This program is critical to ensure that veterans are the ones who fill these vacancies. However, because of the way the law was drafted, most students are prevented from using this new benefit due to a technical glitch that excludes all but a few STEM programs. With this program going live on August 1, just over a month from now, I am grateful to Representative Barr for quickly stepping up to the plate and offering this bill to fix the law's language. Hopefully, with cooperation from our friends in the Senate, we can make this change before August. I encourage all Members to support H.R. 2196. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Kentucky (Mr. Barr).

Mrs. RADEWAGEN

Mrs. RADEWAGEN. Mr. Speaker, I am prepared to close, and I yield back the balance of my time.