Haley Stevens

Ms. STEVENS

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

Ms. STEVENS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. Jackson Lee).

Ms. STEVENS. Mr. Speaker, I yield an additional 1 minute to the gentlewoman from Texas.

Ms. STEVENS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. Mr. Speaker, we stand here today in strong support of S. 231, the PFAS Act, and certainly recognize the leadership that has come from the Michigan delegation here in the House with Congresswoman Debbie Dingell, who has been steadfast, dedicated, and dogged. You don't travel through Michigan without hearing Congresswoman Dingell talk about PFAS. We also appreciate the Senate leadership of Senator Gary Peters, particularly in his chairmanship of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, in partnership with the gentlewoman from Texas (Ms. Jackson Lee) who just spoke, along with our full committee chair, Eddie Bernice Johnson, who has been a real role model for leadership and support in this body for bipartisan, collaborative legislation. As I stand here with the last month of this term upon us in the 117th Congress, I can't help but thank Ranking Member Lucas for his very dedicated and remarkable leadership. One might say it is an anchor of sorts as we move to be bipartisan. Over the course of this term, I have had the privilege of sitting next to him in committee, and I will take the time to let him know that he has taught me a few things this term, which I greatly appreciate. As we move forward, Mr. Speaker, I encourage all of my colleagues on both sides of the aisle in this Chamber to continue to showcase the best of what America can be, coming together to solve problems and deliver for the American people. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Ms. STEVENS

Ms. STEVENS. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to stand before you today to pay tribute to the heroes who have gone before us and the heroes who walk among us, our veterans. It is also an honor to be here with my legislation under the great leadership of the chairman of the Veterans' Affairs Committee, who leads us so well here in the Congress. I rise in support of my bill to designate the Department of Veterans Affairs community-based outpatient clinic in Canton, Michigan, as the Major General Oliver W. Dillard VA Outpatient Clinic. Major General Dillard was a trailblazer who exemplified what it means to be an exceptional serviceman. He began his 34-year military career in 1945 when he was assigned to the 349th Field Artillery Group in Germany as part of the World War II army of occupation. Following his time in Europe, he attended the infantry Officer Candidate School at Fort Benning, where he received a commission as second lieutenant of infantry. In following years, he continued to climb the ladder. In 1958, Major General Dillard graduated from the Army Command and General Staff College, where he was one of only three Black officers in his class. In 1965, Major General Dillard made history by becoming the first Black officer to graduate from the National War College. He later served in command and intelligence positions in Korea, Germany, and Vietnam, a most remarkable career. This includes as the first Black general officer in the Office of the Assistant Chief of Staff of Intelligence, as deputy chief of staff to the U.S. Army Forces Command, and as deputy chief of staff of intelligence for the U.S. Armed Forces in Europe. During his extraordinary 34 years of service, Major General Dillard received nine military awards and two civilian medals, including the Distinguished Service Medal, the Silver Star, the Purple Heart, and the Combat Infantryman's Badge with star. He retired from military service in 1980 and later passed away in 2015 in Canton, Michigan, where this VA outpatient clinic will reside and where his son, Oliver, still resides. Earlier this year, I had the privilege of touring this facility alongside the Dillard family, with my incredible colleague and champion for this legislation, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell, who will be representing Canton in this upcoming Congress. The naming of the Canton VA clinic is just a small token of our appreciation and recognition to Major General Dillard for his exemplary service, leadership, and sacrifice to our Nation. I know that this VA clinic will serve as a proud commemoration of the man who dedicated his life to serving others and as an inspiration to those who will continue to hear his name. I thank both the Dillard family--in specific, his son, Oliver--and Congresswoman Dingell for their work and input on this legislation. I also thank Canton Township Supervisor Anne Marie Graham-Hudak for her leadership in getting the VA outpatient clinic to its current place. I also thank our entire Michigan delegation, as well as the Michigan American Legion, the Michigan Disabled American Veterans, and the Michigan Veterans of Foreign Wars, for their support on this bill. I thank my colleagues for their consideration of this bill. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. STEVENS

Ms. STEVENS. Madam Speaker, it is my great pleasure to rise in celebration of the marriage of my Chief of Staff, Justin German, to his new wife, Carson Hale. Justin has led my office since my first day in Congress in 2019 and has proven to be an invaluable counselor and operator to the success of delivering for the nation and Michigan's 11th District. I am delighted to recognize Justin and his new bride as they begin their marriage. On August 20, 2022, the couple was joined by friends and family for a beautiful ceremony in Justin's hometown of Harrisburg, Virginia. After vows were exchanged at Melrose Caverns, the two celebrated their new commitment with a honeymoon to Hawaii. Justin has spent countless hours managing complex policy implementation plans and doing the work of a true public servant. With that service comes the support and dedication of his new wife, Carson, who, in her own right, has an incredible career working in gardens and landscapes across the region. They truly complement one another and have built a beautiful life in Washington, D.C. Madam Speaker, it is a joy to recognize Justin and Carson and to extend enthusiastic well-wishes as they embark on this new chapter of life as newlyweds. Please join me in celebrating the marriage of Justin German and Carson Hale.

Ms. STEVENS

Ms. STEVENS. Madam Speaker, it is my great honor to rise in recognition of Ms. Geri Kilsdonk, a spirited resident of Plymouth, Michigan, who has dedicated herself to numerous causes that benefit Michigan's 11th District. Ms. Kilsdonk has made an immense impact on the lives of those around her, and I am thrilled to join the community in celebrating Ms. Kilsdonk for her many contributions to her fellow Americans. In 1943, Ms. Geri Kilsdonk was born to Mr. Joseph Flinn and Ms. Loretta Flinn. Her father was a member of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, as a ``milk man'' in Illinois, while her mother worked hard raising Geri and her two brothers and two sisters at their home in Evanston, Illinois. Geri was prepared for her life of service through her Catholic School education, instilling in her values that guided her through her adult life and activism. In 1968, Geri Kilsdonk married John Kilsdonk, beginning their 33-year marriage. The couple made Southeast Michigan their home after departing Illinois. Taking advantage of an FHA loan, the Kilsdonks submitted a $2,000 down payment on their first Michigan house, making Dearborn Heights, Michigan their new community. Like many in Metropolitan Detroit, the family made their living by working in the automotive industry. Ms. Kilsdonk was proud of her husband's 33-year career at Ford Motor Company, eventually earning him an executive-level position. In 1974, the family chose the Northville/Plymouth area as their permanent residence. Because Their daughter, Susanne, began kindergarten in the Northville public schools and graduated from Madonna University. A new chapter began with the passing of Geri's husband, John, in September of 2001. Geri bravely delivered her husband's eulogy before returning to what she did best, advocating for a better society. As a member of an automotive family, Geri understood the importance of the industry to the lives of many of her neighbors. During the 2008 automotive financial crisis, Geri lost the healthcare coverage she earned as a surviving spouse of a Ford retiree. Geri knew that her neighbors were also feeling the strain from the struggling automotive industry, so she created her own script and called her neighbors to discuss these important issues and urge them to take action through civic participation. Described as a ``doer'' by those who know her, Geri donates immense amounts of time to the causes that she values. She has supported Ronald McDonald House Charities for many years, along with contributions to the arts and culture through her support of the Plymouth Historical Museum and the Penn theater. Geri's impact extends to education, as well, having created nursing scholarships for future medical professionals and part of the Schoolcraft College Foundation. Many in Michigan's 11th District and across the state have benefitted from expanded educational opportunities, gained access to critical services, and engaged with the vibrant cultural experiences that have been supported by Ms. Kilsdonk. Madam Speaker, Geri continues to bring about positive change to Michigan's 11th District with her ongoing contributions to civics, health, and the arts. Please join me in thanking Geri for her commitment to strengthening our communities.

Ms. STEVENS

Ms. STEVENS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of S. 4900, the SBIR and STTR Extension Act of 2022. This is an exciting and thrilling day, and we couldn't push with more urgency to pass this legislation. The Small Business Innovation Research Program, the SBIR, is well- known for its tagline of ``America's seed fund,'' as it inspires small businesses across the country to transform their ideas into marketable products and services. On behalf of Chairwoman Johnson, I thank the Chairwoman for the Small Business Committee for bringing us here to this moment and, of course, our colleagues on the other side of the aisle, for joining us in a bipartisan action to improve America's competitiveness. The National Science Foundation piloted the SBIR program in the 1970s, at the urging of Members who recognized that investments in small business innovation benefits our Nation as a whole and creates jobs. Due to its success, Congress made it a governmentwide program. Decades later, SBIR has given back to the taxpayer in immeasurable ways. It has been so successful that the SBIR model has been replicated in 17 countries. Since coming to Congress myself, I devote Mondays to visiting manufacturers or businesses in my district, in what I call Manufacturing Mondays, which showcases southeastern Michigan's innovation economy and our workforce. I have seen the powerful impact of the SBIR program firsthand in these visits; and previous to coming to Congress, I helped companies and small business innovators apply for these grants. Last December, I had the privilege of visiting the team at Geofabrica, an Additive Manufacturing Technology Development company in Auburn Hills, Michigan, to hear about their exciting, DOD-funded SBIR work. Their CEO shared something that struck a chord. He said: ``Geofabrica would not have undertaken a fraction of its technology development if it were not for the SBIR and STTR programs.'' Think about that, my friends. These programs make discovery possible for small businesses; some beginning at the university level, and some that are small businesses in their infancy stage. Over the past 5 years, the SBIR program has awarded small businesses in Michigan more than $348 million in funding for R&D. This has led to incredibly exciting discoveries and inventions in Michigan, from the development of a handheld technology that enables farmers to accurately detect nitrates in their own fields to save farmers money, while also protecting our freshwater systems from toxic algal blooms; to the testing of new ligand for PET imaging of the brain during clinical trials for new memory disorder drugs. This is all coming from this program we are going to reauthorize today. The last comprehensive reauthorization for the SBIR program was 11 years ago. We have opted or just continued to extend the program, like we did in 2016, leaving powerful opportunities to strengthen SBIR out of the conversation. My, how the times have changed. I began this Congress ready to work on updating SBIR in order to support our entrepreneurs, our job creators, and the place that I am so privileged to call home and represent, Oakland County, Michigan, the home of automation alley. Congressman and Dr. Jim Baird and myself ushered in H.R. 4033, a smart and effective way to make improvements to SBIR. Unfortunately, our bill was not passed by the Senate, and it is not the complete legislation before us today. So even as we provide much- needed stability to the program with today's vote, we still have work to do. One of my own priorities is to expand program outreach to enable agencies to reach more first-time entrepreneurs, particularly those who are Black, Hispanic, Indigenous, and female entrepreneurs, people innovating in their home and alongside their family, particularly during these disruptive times of the COVID-19 pandemic. All of these individuals have innovations and businesses that have been long underfunded. I also hope to see enhanced support for technology commercialization within the program, including through additional technical support to businesses and by providing agencies a wider range of funding tools to meet our unique needs. Mr. Speaker, I call on my colleagues to join me in passing S. 4900 today for SBIR reauthorization.

Ms. STEVENS

Ms. STEVENS. Mr. Speaker, in that vein, some of us are here to pontificate, and others of us are here to solve problems. I rise today for those who have been the victim of this oversight. From the period of 1993 to 2006, Americans filed for the consolidation of student loans, not realizing that they may fall prey to an unfortunate situation: domestic abuse; economic abuse; an unresponsive partner; or divorce, which plagues 50 percent of this population. Under the leadership of my friend and colleague, Congressman Price, we have a solution. We have a bill, the Joint Consolidation Loan Separation Act, which is bipartisan and which we should pass to help people. To those who have been victims--and I consider you victims--we offer our extension of empathy, but we also offer our extension of a solution. We have a good program here to allow you to reengage with the Department of Education to make sure that you have fairness with your loan. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to come together to pass this bill.

Ms. STEVENS

Ms. STEVENS. Madam Speaker, I rise today in memory of Ms. Carla Jacqueline Meier of Troy, Michigan, who passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 3, 2022. Carla Meier was a devoted mother, fierce progressive activist, and beloved friend and mentor to many, and will be truly missed by all who knew her. Carla's work passionately defending women's rights and advocating for environmental justice are just two examples of the many causes she put her efforts into to serve her community. Michigan's 11th Congressional District lost a true champion for progressive causes, and the entire Nation owes thanks to Ms. Meier for dedicating her life toward fighting for these issues. Carla Meier was born on January 10, 1947, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to loving parents, Charles and Margaret Meier. She spent her childhood in Ohio with her beloved sisters, Nancy Meier Kronick and Deborah Meier, before making Troy, Michigan her home as a young adult. Upon settling in Troy, Ms. Meier began her career as an administrative assistant. Ms. Meier excelled at everything she committed herself to doing. Through her hard work and strong intuition, she quickly advanced professionally, eventually ascending to the role of advertising executive. While forging ahead with her successful career, Carla also managed to raise two children and cultivated her reputation as a skilled baker and social activist. Activism was a key component of what made up Carla Meier. Growing up in a time when women were frequently considered less capable, Carla was dedicated to women's rights and worked to invalidate this misconception. Rather than pursuing a leisurely retirement, Carla opted, instead, to pour herself even more into her advocacy work. The intelligence, passion, and skills that led her to a successful career were also critical to her efforts to create a more just society. The world that Carla sought included equality for the LGBTQ+ community, the dismantling of racist institutions, inclusiveness for marginalized peoples, economic reform to aid social welfare, among many other common-sense progressive ideals. Many of these causes were championed by Carla through her work with the Michigan Democratic Party, serving the Justice Caucus, Michigan's Ninth Congressional District, Oakland County Democratic Party, and the Troy Democratic Club. In each of these organizations, she made herself invaluable as a volunteer, mentor, and leader. Ms. Meier's legacy continues through her children, Dave Inabnitt (Cary Burtt) and Leah Meray (Ryan), and through her beloved grandchildren, Winona and Lyda. Although she was considered by some as a ``rabble-rouser'' who was never afraid to speak her mind and challenge the status quo, she was also known to be incredibly kind and gracious. Carla touched the lives of many with her exuberant personality, acquiring many close friends throughout her life who miss her. Her family and friends fondly recall her organization skills, silliness with her dogs, long stories, remarkable memory, creative Halloween costumes, collection of flashy cocktail rings and her flawlessly beautiful handwriting, among many other things. It is clear that Carla Meier lived a life of purpose and passion, inspiring many to continue her work to make the world a better and fairer place. Madam Speaker, Ms. Carla Meier was an incredible servant to the community and her loss has been felt by so many who adored her. I am proud to be one of those who have earned Ms. Meier's support, friendship, and mentorship. The memory of Carla Meier inspires me to work every day to ensure that the progress led by these remarkable women is protected and continued by Congress. I ask my colleagues to please join me in remembering the life of Ms. Carla Meier and her many contributions toward fighting for a more just society.

Ms. STEVENS

Ms. STEVENS. Madam Speaker, today, I rise in memory of Mr. Tony Bruscato, a passionate public servant and member of the 11th District, who passed away on May 6th of this year. Mr. Bruscato was an admired reporter, a dedicated public servant, and beloved partner, father, grandfather, and friend to many. In 1953, Mr. Tony Bruscato was born in Waukegan, Illinois to Anthony and Angela Bruscato. A talented writer, Mr. Bruscato was proud to continue his education at Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana, earning a bachelor's degree in broadcasting. Upon completing his degree, Mr. Bruscato put his talents to use as he began his broadcasting career in Iowa, before then moving to Port Huron, Michigan, to sharpen his skills. As his skills in broadcasting sharpened, Mr. Bruscato advanced to the larger metropolitan market, taking a position as Journalist for the Plymouth Observer Newspaper and serving with integrity through 2010. In addition, his work with the Observer and Eccentric in Wayne County made Mr. Bruscato a recognizable and trusted voice for many. While Mr. Bruscato's broadcasting education and work led him across the Midwest, Southeast Michigan served as home for much of his professional career and later life. His knack for communication and love for community made Tony the best choice to ascend to the role of Plymouth Downtown Development Director. His skills served him well as he assumed this position, coordinating activity for the City of Plymouth and liaising with the various development committees. Undoubtedly, Tony Bruscato's work as Director contributed to the vibrant culture that makes Plymouth a highly sought place to live. A coworker of Mr. Bruscato attests to his work, saying ``he helped grow many [City of Plymouth] events over the last decade, helped develop a new downtown Master Plan, assisted our businesses during the pandemic, and much, much more.'' Mr. Bruscato was preceded in death by his parents and son, Matthew Bruscato. In addition to the love of his life, Lucia Morrison, Mr. Tony Bruscato's legacy continues through his beloved children, Andrew (Jamie) Bruscato, and Sarah (Craig) Bruscato-Newsom, and grandchildren, Charlotte Bruscato, Andelina Bruscato, and Luciana Bruscato. Along with cultivating a reputation of integrity and excellence professionally, Tony Bruscato was also known as a lifelong Hoosiers fan, periodically attending basketball games, and was a regular attendee of shows at Fisher Theater in Detroit. Those who knew Mr. Bruscato say that ``he found every way to live life to the fullest'' and will be greatly missed. Madam Speaker, Mr. Anthony Bruscato led by example, demonstrating how one person can create significant positive impact on their community through service to others. The 11th Congressional District of Michigan and the greater region has benefited from the work of Mr. Bruscato. Although he will continue to be missed by so many, it is certain that his legacy will continue through the many whom he inspired.

Ms. STEVENS

Ms. STEVENS. Madam Speaker, it is my great honor to rise in recognition of Ms. Geri Kilsdonk, a spirited resident of Plymouth, Michigan, who has dedicated herself to numerous causes that benefit Michigan's 11th District. Ms. Kilsdonk has made an immense impact on the lives of those around her, and I am thrilled to join the community in celebrating Ms. Kilsdonk for her many contributions to her fellow Americans. In 1943, Ms. Geri Kilsdonk was born to Mr. Joseph Kilsdonk and Ms. Loretta Kilsdonk. Her father was a member of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, as a ``milk man'' in Illinois, while her mother worked hard raising Geri and her two brothers at their home in Evanston, Illinois. Geri was prepared for her life of service through her Catholic School education, instilling in her values that guided her through her adult life and activism. In 1968, Geri Kilsdonk married John Flinn, beginning their 33-year marriage. The couple made Southeast Michigan their home after departing Illinois. Taking advantage of an FHA loan, Ms. Kilsdonk submitted a $2,000 down payment on their first Michigan house, making Dearborn Heights, Michigan their new community. Like many in Metropolitan Detroit, the family made their living by working in the automotive industry. Ms. Kilsdonk was proud of her husband's 33-year career at Ford Motor Company, eventually earning him an executive-level position. In 1974, the family chose the Northville/Plymouth area as their permanent residence, launching a nearly-50-year career for Ms. Kilsdonk as a prolific activist and promoter of the community. A new chapter began with the passing of Geri's husband, John, in September of 2001. Geri bravely delivered her husband's eulogy before returning to what she did best, advocating for a better society. As a member of an automotive family, Geri understood the importance of the industry to the lives of many of her neighbors. During the automotive financial crisis, Geri lost the healthcare coverage she earned as a surviving spouse of a Ford retiree. Geri knew that her neighbors were also feeling the strain from the struggling automotive industry, so she created her own script and called her neighbors to discuss these important issues and urge them to take action through civic participation. Described as a ``doer'' by those who know her, Geri donates immense amounts of time to the causes that she valued. She has supported Ronald McDonald House Charities for many years, along with contributions to the arts and culture through her support of the Plymouth Historical Museum and the Penn Theater. Geri's impact extends to education, as well, having created a nursing scholarship for future medical professionals and part of the Schoolcraft College Foundation. Many in Michigan's 11th District and across the state have benefitted from expanded educational opportunities, gained access to critical services, and engaged with the vibrant cultural experiences that have been supported by Ms. Kilsdonk. Madam Speaker, Geri continues to bring about positive change to Michigan's 11th District with her ongoing contributions to civics, health, and the arts. Please join me in thanking Geri for her commitment to strengthening our communities.

Ms. STEVENS

Ms. STEVENS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 100th anniversary of Sylvan Glen Golf Course, a popular attraction for both locals and tourists in Troy, Michigan. Over the past century, Sylvan Glen solidified itself as a popular destination to make memories and connect with others over a game of golf or by participating in one its many events and activities. People of all generations come together to enjoy the beautiful greenery of Sylvan Glen, and I am proud to represent the district that encompasses this local landmark as the member of Congress for Michigan's 11th District. Opened in 1922, Sylvan Glen predates the designation of the City of Troy, offering unique insight into the earlier, natural state of the region. Just minutes from Detroit, Sylvan Glen serves as a reprieve for those looking to escape the city and spend time among the trees and wildlife over a game of golf. In addition, the course offers excellent cross-country skiing and sledding opportunities, bringing together members of the community from all backgrounds and interests to take advantage of Michigan outdoors. Madam Speaker, over the past 100 years, Sylvan Glen Golf Course has established itself as an essential fixture of the community. Many have come together to enjoy this local wonder, undoubtedly securing a special place in the hearts of thousands of residents in Michigan's 11th District and greater Southeast Michigan. Please join me in honoring Sylvan Glen Golf Course upon its 100th year and in wishing Sylvan Glen continued success for many more years to come.

Ms. STEVENS

Ms. STEVENS. Madam Speaker, as today marks my 39th birthday and an uncertain number of years that I will still be able to bear children, a chill rides up my spine for the healthcare that I can no longer receive in the United States of America. In a country with the highest maternal mortality rate of the industrialized world, the action of the Supreme Court is to overturn Roe v. Wade, taking away the constitutional right of women to make their own health care decisions. I shudder to think about what comes next. For the young girl with her whole life before her--will she be able to determine the outcomes of her life equally? How will we achieve equality, accessibility, and economic progress with women unable to make their own health care decisions? We are so much more educated, connected, and liberated than we were in 1973. I know a new time will mark a new moment for people wishing to conceive freely and fairly on their own terms. Michigan's Governor, Gretchen Whitmer, and Attorney General Dana Nessel are standing with the women of this Nation. I want everyone to know they have a champion in me, and together, the views of the majority in the Nation will rise again.

Ms. STEVENS

Ms. STEVENS. Madam Speaker, it is a profound honor to be the Congresswoman from Oakland County standing here this evening with my colleagues from the Equality Caucus recognizing and celebrating Pride Month. Gay rights. Nonbinary rights. Lesbian rights. Trans rights. Trans students' rights. Bisexual rights. You are seen. You are loved. And you belong. We say rights because your rights are indeed human rights. Gay rights are human rights and human rights are gay rights. And in the plight to end discrimination, the words ring out that were spoken in the Michigan State House chamber just recently by a self-proclaimed straight, White, married, Christian, suburban mom, Mallory McMorrow, who declared very loudly for the Nation to hear that hate won't win; that we will not stand for those who do not seek to govern, who do not seek to tackle gun violence, to marginalize already marginalized people. We speak the words of the only openly gay State senator from Michigan, Jeremy Moss, who rightly pointed out that it was not the trans community that stormed the Capitol on January 6. Oh, no. We celebrate our milestones in Michigan. We celebrate our significant individuals who are making history today: My friend, Amanda Shelton, running to be the first lesbian to serve on the Oakland County Circuit Court, joining our first openly gay Oakland County Circuit judge, Jay Cunningham. We have Dana Nessel, our attorney general, the first openly gay State-wide elected individual. In my own office, we have John Martin as head of the LGBTQ Staff Association, hailing from Grosse Pointe, serving in my office. Pride Month is a proclamation. It is a self-affirmation. It is a bolstering of our friends in the LGBTQ community, and it is a bolstering of a movement we are still pushing for. Yes, it is joy. Yes, it is love. Yes, it is the declaration that love will be louder than your hate. We celebrate pride. I invite all of you to join us in Michigan to do so because no pride event is bigger or bolder than the place that I call home, whether we are marching in Detroit or marching in Ferndale, where people are free to be themselves. Ferndale, Michigan, the home of affirmations, decades and decades of LGBTQ rights, right here in Oakland County, Michigan. From Oakland County to the Halls of Congress, I speak these words. Harvey Milk reminds us: It takes no compromise to give people their rights. It takes no money to respect the individual. It takes no money to end political division and to give people freedom, and it certainly takes no survey to remove repression. It takes Pride Month to love louder. It takes Pride Month to remind us how we will overcome. It takes Pride Month to remind and to push to end harassment and discrimination that, yes, have seeped into the Halls of the Congress; where on the Committee on Education and Labor, I had to take a committee vote to vote ``no,'' because a colleague who I serve with and vote with here said that if we are going to do mental health on college campuses, we should strip the protections for the LGBTQ community. That took place in the year 2022. But our love is louder this Pride Month. Our love is certainly louder and ringing, with my friend, Congressman Cicilline, through his great leadership in Rhode Island to my friend, Chris Pappas in New Hampshire, to my friend, Ritchie Torres from New York--history-makers in their own right. Troy Perry, the reverend: The Lord is my shepherd and he certainly knows I am gay. Together, we celebrate, we recognize, we overcome, and we continue in the pursuit for gay rights in this country.

Ms. STEVENS

Ms. STEVENS. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 5324) to provide guidance for and investment in the upgrade and modernization of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Weather Radio All Hazards network, and for other purposes, as amended.

Ms. STEVENS

Ms. STEVENS. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (S. 66) to require the Inter-Agency Task Force on Harmful Algal Blooms and Hypoxia to develop a plan for reducing, mitigating, and controlling harmful algal blooms and hypoxia in South Florida, and for other purposes.

Ms. STEVENS. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on S. 66, the bill now under consideration.

Ms. STEVENS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of S. 66, the South Florida Clean Coastal Waters Act of 2021. The South Florida region suffers from blooms of harmful algae in both its fresh and marine bodies of water. The impacts of marine red tide and freshwater blue-green algae in this region are felt in marine life, across the local economy, and on public health. When these algae blooms die and sink to the bottom of water bodies, they can cause hypoxia or low oxygen events, which further impact marine and freshwater ecosystems. This bill authorizes a scientific assessment and action plan to address the negative impacts of harmful algal blooms, HABs, and hypoxia in South Florida. We know that many Michiganders enjoy the splendors of South Florida in the winter season. We have had this reported from colleagues from Florida. We are supporting this bill because this work can serve as a template for other communities suffering from HABs and hypoxia and help address these disruptive events. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bill, and I reserve the balance of my time. House of Representatives, Committee on Natural Resources, Washington, DC, April 29, 2022. Hon. Eddie Bernice Johnson, Chair, Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. Dear Chair Johnson: In recognition of the goal of expediting consideration of S.66, the ``South Florida Clean Coastal Waters Act of 2021,'' the Committee on Natural Resources agrees to waive formal consideration of the bill as to provisions that fall within the Rule X jurisdiction of the Committee on Natural Resources. The Committee on Natural Resources takes this action with the mutual understanding that, in doing so, we do not waive any jurisdiction over the subject matter contained in this or similar legislation, and that the Committee will be appropriately consulted and involved as the bill or similar legislation moves forward so that we may address any remaining-issues within our jurisdiction. Our Committee also reserves the right to seek appointment of conferees to any House-Senate conference involving this or similar legislation. I also ask that a copy of our exchange of letters on this matter be included in the Congressional Record. I appreciate your cooperation regarding this legislation and look forward to continuing to work with you as this measure moves through the legislative process. Sincerely, Raul M. Grijalva, Chair, House Natural Resources Committee.

Ms. STEVENS

Ms. STEVENS. Madam Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 7077) to require the United States Fire Administration to conduct on-site investigations of major fires, and for other purposes, as amended.

Ms. STEVENS

Ms. STEVENS. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and to include extraneous material on H.R. 1437, the bill now under consideration.

Ms. STEVENS. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 1437, the Providing Research and Estimates of Changes in Precipitation, or PRECIP Act. I commend Environment Subcommittee Chairwoman Sherrill of the Science Committee on her work to bring the PRECIP Act to the House floor today. This bipartisan bill is the result of significant stakeholder engagement led by Congresswoman Sherrill of New Jersey. Precipitation data is used by decisionmakers like dam safety officials, flood plain managers, civil engineers, and Federal, State, and local officials, to build resilient infrastructure, something we care a lot about in this body, for communities. The precipitation data is extremely important for Michiganians. This is a huge reality for us, particularly in southeastern Michigan, after record, record rainfall over the last year. The Great Lakes Integrated Sciences and Assessments organization found that changes in precipitation in the Great Lakes region will lead to more extreme precipitation events in the State of Michigan, otherwise known as flooding, a reality all too probable to the Speaker and myself, both hailing from southeast Michigan. These extreme precipitation events can cause flooding and can also affect lake levels, which could have severe economic and ecological impacts across my home State of Michigan and certainly across the country. The PRECIP Act would help to modernize outdated precipitation data across the country, and the bill also directs NOAA to update precipitation data on a regular cadence. This will not only address many precipitation estimates that are currently years, and sometimes decades, out of date, it will also help local responders act when their residents need them to. It will also help local elected officials coordinate with the Federal agencies in responding to extreme precipitation events. It will also ensure consistency in precipitation estimates across the United States; as we know, precipitation events do not respect State or regional boundaries. As we are also anticipating an increase in frequency and intensity of precipitation events due to the reality of climate change, it is critical that this bill also requires NOAA to consider future climate change while updating these precipitation estimates. This will ensure that this data remains relevant for the future. I am deeply proud to cosponsor this bill that has both bipartisan and bicameral support. Its passage will positively impact all Americans, and I urge my colleagues in this Chamber on both sides of the aisle to support this bill. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Ms. STEVENS

Ms. STEVENS. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 847) to support research on privacy enhancing technologies and promote responsible data use, and for other purposes, as amended.

Ms. STEVENS. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on H.R. 847, the bill now under consideration.

Ms. STEVENS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 847, the Promoting Digital Privacy Technologies Act. The 21st century has ushered in the era of hyper-internet utilization, the gig economy of nearly everything. Americans are online. Practically any digital action that internet users take--from social media to shopping online to browsing news or using email--creates data that is stored by companies or organizations. More and more data about each of us is being generated faster and faster each day. In fact, 2.5 quintillion bytes of data are generated nearly every day. Ninety percent of the world's data was created in just the last 2 years alone. Companies can use, share, or sell data they collect since most of the data economy is invisible--Americans are not able to see this constant flow of their information, but the more modern digital economy is fueled by personal data. Unfortunately, there are few processes that can enable the productive use of personal data while also protecting the privacy and confidentiality of the people to whom that data is linked. A 2019 survey by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration found that 73 percent of U.S. households have significant concerns about online privacy and security risks. I hear it from my own constituents all throughout Oakland County, Michigan. There are tremendous opportunities to capture the benefits of data, including for safer roads, improved public health, and better educational outcomes. However, in any use of personal data, we have the ability and the necessity to ensure privacy and confidentiality. Form and function, my friends. One key way to achieve that is through the development of the privacy-enhancing technologies, or PETs. PETs are a broad range of technologies that allow organizations to collect, share, and use data while mitigating the privacy risks that arise from those activities. The goal is to make these systems that use personal information private by default, opening up those data to a wide range of researchers who would otherwise not have access. These technologies have the potential to enable broader use of Federal data sets, as privacy risks are often the greatest barrier to open government data efforts. We recognize the untapped potential and opportunity for the United States of America to lead here. The technology itself for PETs is still immature and not necessarily ready for widespread use. My bill, H.R. 847, the Promoting Digital Privacy Technologies Act, supports research, workforce development, standard setting, and government coordination for PETs. H.R. 847 directs the National Science Foundation to conduct fundamental privacy research that can help improve these technologies, assess their limitations, and broaden their applicability. This bill also directs the National Science Foundation to support workforce development activities in order to help address the growing shortage of privacy professionals across the United States of America. H.R. 847 also supports activities at the National Institute of Standards and Technology to facilitate the development of standards and best practices for integration of PETs in the public and private sectors. This is the best of government in action, my friends. Finally, H.R. 847 directs the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy to coordinate Federal activities to accelerate the development of PETs across government. Congress has been debating different proposals for privacy legislation, as we know, for many, many years. I remain hopeful and optimistic that we will get something done. In the meantime, the Promoting Digital Privacy Technologies Act will help ensure that we have the necessary tools to fully implement privacy legislation without stifling innovation. It is high time that we research ways in which privacy-enhancing technologies can be utilized to protect Americans' most sensitive and personal data. I also thank my colleagues--this has been a bipartisan effort-- Congressman Anthony Gonzalez, as well as Senator Catherine Cortez Masto and Senator Deb Fischer, for working with me to develop this legislation last year. I also thank our stakeholders whose feedback helped strengthen this bill. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 847, and I reserve the balance of my time.