Emilia Sykes

Mrs. SYKES

Mrs. SYKES. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the courage, dedication, and sacrifice of the law enforcement officers serving in Ohio's 13th Congressional District and to honor those who have lost their lives in the line of duty. Being a police officer is never easy. It is one of the most difficult and dangerous jobs in our society. In recent years, it has only gotten harder. As I have met with law enforcement agencies across northeast Ohio, I continue to hear the same concerns: officers are overworked, stretched thin, and in need of better support and training to meet the demands of the job and the needs of our community and those that they are sworn to protect and serve. That is why since coming to Congress, I have made it a priority to fight for legislation that gives officers the tools that they need to do their jobs, while also demanding accountability on behalf of the communities they serve. After the horrific shooting of Jayland Walker in Akron, I spoke with members of our community and law enforcement. I then introduced the Law Enforcement Scenario-Based Training for Safety and De-Escalation Act. This bipartisan legislation ensures law enforcement officers have the proper de-escalation training needed to handle complex situations that they often face in the field because, no matter what, we all want everyone to make it home safely at the end of the night. This year, after the killings of Alex Pretti and Renee Nicole Good, I introduced the COOL IT Act, which would require similar de-escalation training for ICE officers. We cannot ignore these tragedies. We must respond with solutions that promote safety, accountability, and, most importantly, trust. That is exactly what this legislation is designed to do. These bills support law enforcement by helping departments build trust with the communities they serve, and this makes our community safer for both the officers and the public. Again, these are people whom they are sworn to protect and serve. Certainly, these are not bills that will solve every single problem, but it is a piece of the puzzle ensuring safety and accountability. In fact, the law enforcement scenario-based training for Safety and De- Escalation Act is supported by the National Fraternal Order of Police and the Akron NAACP because we all share the goal of making sure everyone goes home safely at the end of the day. Further, I introduced the Supporting Women with Career Opportunities in Policing Services Act. This is legislation to establish a Federal task force focused on improving recruitment, retention, and advancement of opportunities for women in law enforcement. This bill takes an important step toward building a stronger, more inclusive public safety workforce by helping departments recruit talented women, support them throughout their careers, and create pathways into leadership. When law enforcement agencies better reflect the communities they serve, our communities are stronger and safer. When I came to Congress, I promised to put the people of Ohio's 13th Congressional District first. That means supporting our officers, rebuilding trust and public safety, and working across the aisle to get things done. That is exactly what I have worked to do and exactly what I will continue to do.

Mrs. SYKES

Mrs. SYKES. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the National Inventors Hall of Fame STEM Middle School chess team as Ohio's 13th Congressional District's champion of the week. On March 8, the Akron STEM Middle School students brought home both a first place and third place team trophy from the Ohio State Chess Championship, along with several individual awards. Their outstanding performance reflects both their talent and their dedication to excellence. Under the leadership of Coach Don Glocar, who has been guiding chess teams for more than two decades, these students have developed not only competitive skills but also discipline and resilience. As Coach Glocar says: The goal is simple: work hard, stay focused, and enjoy the game. Through hours of practice and competition, these young scholars are sharpening critical thinking skills, learning to anticipate challenges, and building confidence that will serve them well beyond the classroom. Their passion for chess demonstrates that success is not only measured in trophies, but in growth, perseverance, and teamwork. It is always a pleasure to recognize young people doing remarkable things who help make our district the birthplace of champions. Achievements like these showcase the strength of our community and the bright future of northeast Ohio. These students' hard work has certainly made our district proud, and we can't wait to see what the future holds. Again, I congratulate the chess students of the National Inventors Hall of Fame STEM Middle School on their accomplishments and for being named champions of the week.

Mrs. SYKES

Mrs. SYKES. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.

Mrs. SYKES. Mr. Speaker, I have a motion to recommit at the desk.

Mrs. SYKES. Mr. Speaker, I hope my colleagues will join me in voting for the motion to recommit.

Mrs. SYKES. Mr. Speaker, I thank the illustrious gentleman from New Jersey for yielding some time today. I rise in opposition to H.R. 4690, the Reliable Federal Infrastructure Act. While Americans across the Nation are struggling to pay for gas, groceries, housing, and healthcare, my colleagues across the aisle believe the most pressing matter for the American people is phasing out clean energy standards for new and renovated Federal buildings. These standards, which were passed with overwhelming bipartisan support during the Bush administration, are not what is creating the affordability crisis. In fact, in 2024, the Energy Department determined that section 433 of the Energy Independence and Security Act, the very section that this bill would eliminate, reduces infrastructure costs and saves taxpayer dollars. My colleagues across the aisle don't care about energy efficiency standards, and they don't care about my constituents, who are currently paying $4 a gallon for gas, as we speak, and I am from Ohio, not California. If they actually did care about my constituents or the American public, they would shift their focus toward the real reason that costs are going up: Trump's tariffs and Trump's war in Iran. Since the Strait of Hormuz closed, gas prices for Americans are up more than 30 percent. Democrats in Congress have tried to conduct oversight on this war, but Republicans have blocked us every step of the way. Now is not the time to burden taxpayers, including increasing death and injury to our brave servicemen and -women and burdening our taxpayers with higher infrastructure costs because of Trump's war. For this reason, at the appropriate time, I will offer a motion to recommit this bill back to committee. If the House rules permitted, I would have offered the motion with an important amendment to this bill. My amendment would prevent the bill from taking effect until the Secretary publishes a certification that the war in Iran has not increased energy and gas prices in the United States. Although, even if he were to do that, it would show us that the war in Iran is increasing gas prices in the United States, so I am pretty confident that you would not have accepted it either way. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to insert the text of my amendment in the Record immediately prior to the vote on the motion to recommit.

Mrs. SYKES

Mrs. SYKES. Mr. Speaker, last week was tax day. I probably don't have to remind most folks because it is a day that is both loved and lauded depending on who you are. For millions of Americans it is supposed to be a moment of relief, a chance to catch up, get ahead, and breathe a little easier because of the refunds that many expect. But for far too many families, including my constituents in Ohio's 13th Congressional District, tax day was just another reminder that their money isn't going as far as it should. While the President and House Republicans promised lower costs and bigger refunds, families are actually seeing grocery bills that are too high; gas prices that stretch their budgets; and rent, healthcare, housing, and everyday essentials that are taking up more and more of their paychecks. When they finally get that tax refund, they will realize it doesn't go as far as promised, or they didn't get a tax refund at all, and it went nowhere. That is not by accident. Republican policies like the One Big Beautiful Bill Act gave massive tax breaks to millionaires, billionaires, and big corporations. The top 0.1 percent are receiving average tax cuts of more than $300,000. Meanwhile, Americans earning less than $50,000 a year are seeing their taxes go up. Add in President Trump's lack of strategy on tariffs, which amounts to a national sales tax, and now families are paying more out of pocket while the wealthiest get a permanent tax break. But that is not all. The one big, ugly bill also slashed a trillion dollars from Medicaid and cut billions to SNAP, jeopardizing healthcare and food for millions of Americans across the country and tens of thousands of my constituents. And it is not just about coverage. It is about jobs. Hospitals and healthcare providers are the largest employers in Ohio's 13th District. When you cut funding at that scale you are not just hurting patients, you are threatening jobs, closing services, and weakening our local economy. Mr. Speaker, we don't need to raise costs on working families to give more tax breaks to the wealthy. My Lowering Your Taxes Act expands the earned income tax credit and the child tax credit so working families can better afford childcare, groceries, housing, and other expenses. It would allow families to claim up to $3,600 per child, lift them out of poverty, and allow them to decide where their dollars are needed the most, while also expanding tax relief to workers who are often left out. My No Tax on Overtime for All Workers Act makes a simple promise: If you work extra hours, you should be able to keep that extra pay because every extra hour on the job is time away from family, time spent working hard. That effort should be rewarded and not taxed, but because of the carelessly thrown together no tax on overtime provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, thousands of members of organized labor, the very people who built and made this country run, are excluded. I have also worked with my colleagues, Republican and Democrat, through the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus to lower costs, strengthen supply chains, improve trade policy, and protect jobs in Ohio's 13th District, the birthplace of champions. Trade policy should be strategic, not chaotic, and it should never leave American families paying the price. I have called for restoring Congress' role in trade decisions because these choices are too important to be made without accountability. There certainly is a need to ensure that American companies are able to compete with companies and goods from other countries with questionable labor practices, but what is happening with this administration is not the case. It is chaotic. It is expensive, and the national tax on goods costs way too much for the general American public. At the end of the day, I will never stop advocating for my constituents and for the American public who deserve so much better than this. We should all ask the question--because at the end of the day this is about who our economy works for--is it working for the families who are doing everything right, working hard, paying their taxes, going to work every day trying to get ahead; or is it working for the powerful and well-connected? Well, I believe it should be working for the people, for the workers putting in overtime, parents trying to afford childcare, and families choosing between groceries and healthcare. Working families deserve policies that lower costs and reward hard work and leaders who will fight for them every single day. I am that leader, and, Mr. Speaker, I call upon you and your majority to work alongside me.

Mrs. SYKES

Mrs. SYKES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Black Maternal Health Week. A moment to reflect on a reality that should alarm every one of us in this Chamber: According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Black women are three times more likely to die from a pregnancy-related cause in this country than White women. That is not a small disparity. It is a systemic failure. In my home State of Ohio, the data tells us an even more painful story. While maternal mortality has risen for all women over time, the rate for Black mothers has more than doubled from 29.3 to 59.7 deaths per 1,000 live births. These are not just numbers on a page. These are mothers who should be here today. These are families that should not be grieving. These are children growing up without the care, stability, and the love of the person who brought them into this world. Mr. Speaker, as I have said before, enough is enough. Black mothers deserve to feel safe and supported throughout their pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum period. Every mother deserves high-quality, affordable healthcare. Addressing maternal mortality is not a partisan issue. It is a human issue. That is why, long before I came to Congress, I worked on this issue at the State level. As the minority leader of the Ohio House, I helped cofound the first Ohio Black Maternal Health Caucus. It was the first of its kind in the country, because we could not ignore this crisis unfolding in our communities. Now, in Congress, I continue that work as a member of the Congressional Black Maternal Health Caucus and as chair of the Reproductive Justice Task Force. However, leadership is not just about titles and task forces. It is about action. That is why I am an original sponsor of the Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act--legislation that will save lives by investing in community care, strengthening the workforce, improving data, and addressing the root causes of maternal mortality. It is why I have introduced and supported legislation to protect access to emergency and labor care under the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act, better known as EMTALA, ensuring that no woman is turned away during childbirth and labor. It is why I fought against the spread of dangerous disinformation through the Stop Anti-Abortion Disinformation Act, because misleading women during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives has no place in a healthcare system built on trust and safety. We must also confront the role that access, or lack thereof, plays in these healthcare outcomes. In Ohio, Black mothers are more likely to rely on Medicaid to cover their births. That means decisions, including the $1 trillion cut to the Medicaid program that Republicans in this Chamber made as part of the one big, ugly bill, are not abstract budget choices. These are risks imposed upon real people. They are decisions about whether these women can see a doctor, whether they can receive prenatal care, whether complications will be caught in time, and whether or not they live or die. In my home State of Ohio, 13 out of 88 counties are considered maternity care deserts, leaving tens of thousands of women without reasonable access to obstetric services. Imagine being told you are bringing a life into this world and then discovering that the nearest hospital that can safely deliver your baby is hours away. That is a reality that far too many families face today. Mr. Speaker, we cannot accept this as normal. Black maternal health is not just what happens inside of the doctor's office, because if it were so, we would have figured this out and solved this crisis decades ago. It is what happens outside of the hospital: the social determinants of health, the things that are going on in our communities, education, clean air, clean water, and access to upward mobility. All of these things impact the ability for a woman to conceive and deliver a baby successfully. One thing that most people don't seem to know, or maybe they do know and just don't like to talk about it, is that the leading cause of death for pregnant women is violence. A Harvard study said that homicide deaths among pregnant women are more prevalent than deaths from hypertension, hemorrhage, and sepsis. And gun violence has been called a health emergency for pregnant women. So, Mr. Speaker, we can and must do more to protect pregnant women, not just inside the hospital, not just outside the hospital, but also within the intimate relationships that oftentimes women find themselves in creating deadly circumstances in which mothers and babies cannot live. Mr. Speaker, we stand on this floor often. We fight about a lot, but one thing should be very easy: protecting women, protecting babies, encouraging life and prosperity should not be something that is challenging or hard for us all to do together. For that reason, we are here to celebrate Black mothers, honor Black Maternal Health Week, and ensure that all of our colleagues across the aisle are supporting the Momnibus Act. I thank my colleague from the Commonwealth of Virginia for holding and hosting this Special Order.

Mrs. SYKES

Mrs. SYKES. Madam Speaker, today, I rise on behalf of the families of Ohio's 13th Congressional District as we mark a momentous occasion: the 16th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act, also known as ObamaCare. This law, championed by former President Barack Obama, changed the course of history and brought affordable, accessible healthcare within reach for millions of Americans. For 16 years, the ACA has been a lifeline. It has shown what is possible when we put people first. Because of ObamaCare, more than 50 million Americans have gained health coverage, including tens of thousands of my own constituents. In my district, about 32,000 people currently rely on ACA coverage. Ninety percent of them depended on the enhanced premium tax credit to make that coverage even more affordable. Four out of five were able to find plans for $10 or less per month. The ACA has allowed more than 133 million Americans with preexisting conditions to be protected, and young people can stay on their parents' health insurance until they are 26 years old. Essential benefits, from prescription drugs to preventive care, are guaranteed. These are not just policies. They are protections that people rely on every single day. Democrats worked to strengthen the Affordable Care Act by lowering premiums and putting an average of $2,400 back into the pockets of working families. We pushed to extend these tax credits and keep costs down. I have cosponsored legislation and supported efforts to force a vote on the House floor because my constituents cannot afford delays and the impact of the enhanced tax credits no longer being available. It is why I have continued to prioritize lowering costs that place real pressure on families from healthcare to housing, gas, groceries, and energy prices. Lowering healthcare costs isn't just one issue. It is central to whether families can afford to live, work, and thrive. That safety net is now gone. On January 1, the Republicans let the enhanced ACA tax credits expire. Now, families across Ohio's 13th Congressional District are seeing their premiums jump by hundreds of dollars a month or thousands of dollars a year. Americans cannot afford to continue paying the price for Republicans' failed leadership. The consequences are real, and they are immediate. I constantly hear from my constituents that the cost of living is too high, and it is only getting worse. Our economy is unaffordable for working people, and it is pushing the American Dream out of reach. Eight out of every 10 people enrolled in the ACA marketplace plans are experiencing higher premiums this year. Three out of four are worried about affording emergency care. Nearly 80 percent say that ending these tax credits was the wrong decision. I agree. Families are having to cut back on groceries to afford prescriptions. Seniors are skipping care. Workers are dropping coverage altogether because they simply cannot keep up with the rising costs and Trump's tax from the war. Instead of action, we, unfortunately, keep seeing obstruction. This is a part of a broader and very deeply troubling pattern. For 16 years, Republicans have tried to dismantle ObamaCare and oppose our healthcare reforms, with nothing else to offer. They tried to take us back to a time when care was out of reach, when people could be denied coverage for preexisting conditions, and when a single diagnosis can mean financial ruin. Now, they are closer than ever. Through their big, ugly bill, Republicans cut more than $1 trillion from our healthcare system, gutting marketplaces, driving up premiums, and making it harder for families to get the care that they need, all while prioritizing tax breaks for the wealthiest Americans and corporations. The American people are feeling the squeeze. Madam Speaker, the choice before us is clear: We can continue down this path where premiums soar, coverage disappears, and families are left to fend for themselves, or we can act, restore affordability, strengthen the ACA, and stand up for the people who sent us here to serve them. For the families of Ohio's 13th Congressional District and for millions across this country, the time to act is now. Trust and believe, I will be right there with you.

Mrs. SYKES

Mrs. SYKES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Nadine McIlwain and Geraldine Radcliffe as the Champions of the Week for Ohio's 13th Congressional District. Nadine and Geraldine worked for 15 years to collect the history and stories of Canton residents to write the book, African Americans of Canton, Ohio. Their book highlights not only well- known stories of Canton, but also many that otherwise would have been lost to history. From Canton's earliest days, the Black population has contributed to the city's, and even the Nation's prominence and prosperity. Collecting never-before-seen photographs and firsthand accounts from local citizens, McIlwain and Radcliffe reveal the celebrated legends, unsung heroes, and historic firsts of African Americans residing in the Canton community. The authors said they hope the book sparks people to write about Black history in their own communities, and that it is the first of many books on African American history in Stark County. Through this recognition, and the many years of dedication that made it possible, Nadine and Geraldine are shining examples of why Ohio's 13th Congressional District is known as the ``Birthplace of Champions.'' They have certainly made our community proud.

Mrs. SYKES

Mrs. SYKES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Akron Black Artist Guild as the Champion of the Week for Ohio's 13th Congressional District. The Guild is a dynamic community of talented and passionate Black artists who have come together with a singular mission: to strengthen the creative community in Northeast Ohio. The organization works to expand fair access to funding, professional growth, and public opportunities for artists. Through its programs, the Guild brings people together, connects generations, and uses all to promote learning, economic opportunity, civic engagement, and community well-being. Now in its fifth year, the Akron Black Artist Guild continues to build leadership and encourage civic participation throughout Northeast Ohio's arts and cultural landscape. The Guild also provides a safe and welcoming space for artists while working to overcome barriers created by racial and economic inequality. Ohio's 13th Congressional District is known as the ``Birthplace of Champions.'' The Akron Black Artist Guild has upheld this legacy through the work they have put in to strengthen our region. This organization has certainly made our community proud and I thank them again for their tireless efforts.

Mrs. SYKES

Mrs. SYKES. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize Jada Haines as Ohio's 13th Congressional District's Champion of the Week. Jada grew up on the west side of Akron, and as a student-athlete, she began her basketball journey with Ladies First Akron. She then went on to a successful career at St. Vincent-St. Mary High School and continued playing at the University of Northwestern Ohio and the University of Indianapolis. Through it all, she credits Ladies First Akron with helping instill in her the love for the game. Today, she has returned home to coach with Ladies First Akron, mentoring the next generation of young women student-athletes. She recently helped organize the organization's first Life After Sports Summit, connecting students with local universities for project-based learning opportunities. Now in its 16th year, Ladies First Akron serves girls in grades three through eight across the greater Akron area. It is not just about basketball, it is about mentorship, life skills, and preparing young women for success beyond the court. Jada's leadership reflects the spirit of our community and is a shining example of why our community is known as the birthplace of champions. Jada is not only a champion in her own right, but she is helping train the next generation. Again, I thank Jada for giving back to our community and commend her on being named Champion of the Week.

Mrs. SYKES

Mrs. SYKES. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the Archbishop Hoban girls' basketball team as Ohio's 13th Congressional District Champions of the Week. For the first time since 1988, the Hoban Knights girls' basketball team are the Ohio State champions. Last week, they captured the Division II State title with an impressive victory over the previously undefeated Cougars. After an early deficit, the Knights surged ahead with a dominant first-quarter run. Senior Niera Stevens led the way with 25 points, earning game MVP honors, while MaKenzie Grant recorded a double-double with 17 points and 11 rebounds. Despite being undersized, the Lady Knights outworked their opponent, securing a 72-64 win over the Cougars. Their grit, teamwork, and determination fueled this championship performance. Mr. Speaker, I often call our community the birthplace of champions because of basketball greats like LeBron James and Steph Curry, who were born there. However, the Hoban girls' basketball team has certainly proven that this legacy stands, and they have immensely contributed toward it. This team has made Akron and Ohio's 13th Congressional District proud. Again, I want to extend my sincere congratulations to these outstanding student athletes and commend them on being named Champions of the Week. We are so proud of these ladies, and they have all of Congress and Ohio's 13th Congressional District cheering them on, as well.

Mrs. SYKES

Mrs. SYKES. Mr. Speaker, last week, our Nation lost six American servicemembers in a tragic aircraft crash over Iraq. They are among the 13 who have lost their lives to date after Trump waged war in Iran. Among them are three Ohioans serving in the Ohio National Guard: Captain Seth Koval, Captain Curtis Angst, and Technical Sergeant Tyler Simmons. These were brave men who answered the call to serve their country. Technical Sergeant Tyler Simmons was only 28 years old. He had what his family called his dream job in the Air Force. His cousin said that he had a million-dollar smile that could light up a room and that he loved flying and serving his country. Captain Curtis Angst, a graduate of the University of Cincinnati, spent a decade serving his country as a pilot. Captain Seth Koval, who served nearly 20 years in uniform, had dedicated much of his life to flying missions that kept other aircraft in the sky and other servicemembers safe. These men flew one of the most demanding and dangerous missions in the Air Force: refueling other aircraft midair so that they could complete their missions and return home safely. Yet, these airmen never made it home. Each of these men have families, friends, and communities that will carry this loss forever. Today, my heart breaks for them. To those families and the families of other servicemembers who we have lost, please know that the people of Ohio are grieving with you. Mr. Speaker, these six Americans are not the only lives that we lost. Since President Trump dragged us into this war with Iran, 13 Americans have already died. These are 13 families who have received the worst knock at the door imaginable, and more than a dozen communities across the country are now mourning someone who stepped forward to serve. While those families are paying the ultimate price, Americans here at home are feeling the consequences of this war in other ways. Gas prices, oil prices, and the cost of nearly everything else are skyrocketing. Families feel it every time they fill up their tanks, during every trip to the grocery store, and with the cost of food at the market. Their paychecks are not stretching as far because of the President's reckless America last decisions. In Ohio's 13th Congressional District, families were already struggling with rising transportation costs. Cars, gas, insurance, and public transit costs are becoming increasingly expensive. According to the House Budget Committee, Ohio families saw transportation costs increase by an average of $65 last year alone because of Republicans' careless policies. President Trump promised that prices would go down on his first day in office, but that promise turned out to be a lie. Instead, his tariffs, which act like a national sales tax on American families, and the Republicans' big, ugly bill are driving up costs and squeezing families' budgets even more. Mr. Speaker, I refuse to sit back and watch working families in Ohio get squeezed like this. That is why I have been pushing for policies that actually lower everyday costs and put more money in people's pockets. I introduced the Lower Your Taxes Act to do such a thing. The bill would expand the earned income tax credit and child tax credit so working families can keep more of the money that they earn. This effort and other commonsense solutions I have proposed, and my Democratic colleagues have offered, to lower costs have been blocked or opposed by Republicans. Mr. Speaker, we cannot forget the real people caught in the middle of all of this: families who now have to decide between filling up the gas tank and buying groceries, between fixing their car, going to the doctor, or paying their rent. Americans cannot survive Trump's dangerous actions overseas that are taking human and economic tolls. Republicans have ignored warning signs and blocked cost-cutting solutions, and they have left working families to fend for themselves. That is a failure of leadership. We can act to restore affordability, or we can keep letting costs spiral while Republicans protect the millionaires and the billionaires. I hope that we protect American families because the people we represent deserve so much better than what they are getting right now. May God bless our troops, and may God bless the United States of America.

Mrs. SYKES

Mrs. SYKES. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the recipients of the 2026 Women's History Project Woman of the Year Awards as Ohio's 13th Congressional Districts' Champion of the Week. This month, the Women's History Project committee will honor eight women from Summit County for their contributions to the community, aligning with the 2026 theme of Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future. One of these inspiring women is Khatonia Ford, a constituent advocate in my Akron office. She is receiving the Woman to Watch award, which is given to a woman under the age of 30 who has already shown potential for making lasting contributions to her community, State, or country. Trust me, Mr. Speaker, she is more than deserving. Our award recipients include: Sarah Abood, who will receive the Initiative Award; Laura Davis, who will receive the Perseverance Award; Lillie Jackson, who will receive the Pioneer Award; Lois Matney, who will receive the Inspiration Award; Miriam Ray, who will receive the Imagination Award; Kathy Ress, who will receive the Faith Award; and Jane Startzman, who will receive the Creativity Award. I thank these phenomenal women for leading the way and for providing such an impressive example. It is everyday citizens doing remarkable things who help make our community the birthplace of champions. Recipients of the 2026 Women's History Project Woman of the Year Awards are certainly champions in their own right and have made Summit County and Ohio's 13th Congressional District proud.

Mrs. SYKES

Mrs. SYKES. Mr. Speaker, as we come off the observance of Black History Month, we are reminded of a story of courage, scholarship, and action that helped reshape how America understands its past. Black History Month began with the work of Carter G. Woodson, who believed that contributions of African Americans must be visible, taught, and celebrated. In 1926, he created Negro History Week to highlight Black achievement and make space in our Nation's story for those who are often ignored. It was at Kent State University, my alma mater, in 1969 and 1970, that students decided that 1 week was not enough. Black students and educators argued that history this rich and important deserved at least a full month. Students from the Black United Students Organization proposed expanding the observance into what we now know as Black History Month. In February 1970, Kent State became the first campus to celebrate a month-long event, 6 years before it became a national observance. As someone who attended Kent State and studied in Oscar Ritchie Hall, I know firsthand the power of students demanding more truth, more justice, and more inclusion. Their voices shaped one of many national movements showing how change can start with those who are willing to speak up. Although February has ended, the lessons of Black History Month do not end with it. History shapes our identity as a nation: good, bad, and everything in between. When we know the struggles and triumphs of those who came before us, we understand our collective journey toward justice. Black history is American history, and leaving any part out makes our story incomplete. The close of Black History Month is not a conclusion. It is a continuation. It is a reminder to confront inequities in education, economic opportunity, healthcare, voting rights, and justice. True justice requires more than just recognition. It requires change. It requires action. Even as the calendar turns, the call remains the same: lift every voice, celebrate achievements, confront injustice, and teach future generations a history and the need for diversity, equity, inclusion, and unity. As we reflect on Black History Month here on the House floor, I ask all of my colleagues to recommit to these principles. When we expand the story of our history, we expand the promise of our future.

Mrs. SYKES

Mrs. SYKES. Mr. Speaker, had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 77, and NAY on Roll Call No. 78.

Mrs. SYKES

Mrs. SYKES. Mr. Speaker, had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 57, and YEA on Roll Call No. 58.

Mrs. SYKES

Mrs. SYKES. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the Black Chamber of Commerce of Summit County and cofounders Robert DeJournett and Misty Beasley as Ohio's 13th Congressional District Champions of the Week. One year ago I had the honor of attending its kick-off event in Akron, and I was truly inspired to see so many people support this catalyst for change. After an economic study was commissioned, it was determined that Akron's Black population, who represents nearly one-third of the region--yet, the report highlighted through the Elevate Akron report that there was purposeful, intentional, and systemic exclusion from economic growth and job opportunities for Black people in the region. Left unaddressed, this gap has threatened innovation and prosperity not just for Black Akronites but for the entire region. Mr. DeJournett and Ms. Beasley created the Black Chamber of Commerce of Summit County to reverse that trend, enabling Black businessowners to take their rightful place in the economic ecosystem with the right support, connections, and capital to allow Black businesses to survive and thrive. In the first year, the chamber has counseled dozens of small businesses on finances and website development, helped them compete for natural resources, and connected local leaders to maximize growth. Congratulations to Robert DeJournett, Misty Beasley, and the entire membership of the Black Chamber of Commerce of Summit County on a successful first year and being named the 13th Congressional District champion of the week.

Mrs. SYKES

Mrs. SYKES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Akron Rites of Passage as the Ohio's 13th Congressional District Champions of the Week. Led by 13 elders in the community, AROPI, as it is also known, is an African-centered organization established for the purpose of educating, training, and empowering its participants in African-centered rites of passage, process, rituals, customs, and practices. Its further purpose is to promote all aspects of healthy growth and development of individuals, families, and the community of African descent in Akron, Summit County, and surrounding areas. Five years ago, the Akron Rites of Passage Institute introduced a community initiative called the Legacy Building Project to support the ongoing growth, development, and long-term sustainability of the African American community. Terrence Shelton, a co-chair of the project, also served as the copresident of the Akron's Rites of Passage Institute. Earlier this month he laid out plans for a new African-American cultural center and museum complex on behalf of the program. The building will house a museum, a business incubator, and center to teach people about trading and investing as a means to building economic wealth in the community. He envisions museum exhibits highlighting Akron sports legends, scientists, and artists like LeBron James, Gus Johnson, Rita Dove, and Woodrow Nash. He said this project is not just a project for Black people. This is a project for the city of Akron. It is everyday citizens doing remarkable things like this who help make our community the birthplace of champions. Community members from the Akron Rites of Passage Institute are certainly champions in their own right and have made Akron and Ohio's 13th Congressional District proud.

Mrs. SYKES

Mrs. SYKES. Mr. Speaker, this week marks 3 years since a Norfolk Southern train derailed in East Palestine, Ohio. Mr. Speaker, it has been 3 years since toxic chemicals burned in the sky, families were forced from their homes, and a small town became a warning sign for what happens when corporate negligence meets congressional inaction. For the people of East Palestine, this anniversary is not symbolic. It is personal, and it is ongoing. It is a constant reminder of a Congress who continues to put profits and corporations over people. From the very beginning, I have shown up for this community. I don't represent East Palestine, Ohio, but within weeks of the derailment, I traveled there. I met with residents. I pressed FEMA, the EPA, the CDC, Health and Human Services, and the Department of Transportation for answers and resources. I helped secure an EPA order, forcing Norfolk Southern, not taxpayers, to pay for the cleanup and remediation. When families were told that they may be taxed on disaster relief, I fought to change the law and succeeded. In 2024, President Joe Biden signed the East Palestine Tax Relief Act. That is what accountability looks like. That is what results look like. Mr. Speaker, 3 years later, the most important question remains unanswered. What has Congress done to prevent this from ever happening again to East Palestine or any other American city? The answer is not enough. That is why this week I am introducing the Railroad Safety and Accountability Act to protect labor and public interest voices in rail safety decisions, voices that Federal regulators have tried to push aside. That is why I have continued fighting for passage of the bipartisan RAIL Act led by Democrats and Republicans representing Ohio. It is one of the most comprehensive rail safety proposals before Congress. The bill would require two-person train crews and increased inspections, especially for trains carrying hazardous materials. It would strengthen emergency notification so first responders are not left in the dark. It would raise penalties for safety violations and address the exact equipment failures that caused the East Palestine derailment. The RAIL Act is supported by rail workers, local governments, and a bipartisan group of lawmakers, Democrats and Republicans in and out of Ohio. Yet, for two consecutive Congresses, House Republican leadership has refused to even give the bill a hearing. That is not gridlock. That is a decision and a terrible one at that. It is a decision to put profits over people. Since the derailment, President Trump, Vice President Vance, members of the Cabinet, and Ohio Republicans have all visited East Palestine, held press conferences, and promised action. Here is the reality. Mr. Speaker, 3 years later, this Republicans House has not passed a single rail safety law to prevent another East Palestine. It is not even that. It is not just that the law has not passed. There hasn't even been a hearing. On February 3, 2025, Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy made the following statement: ``In partnership with the Trump-Vance administration and Congress, USDOT will work to advance rail safety. As President Trump has pledged, we will ensure that people of East Palestine are not forgotten, and we will use every resource to prevent other communities from enduring what they experienced.'' During a Transportation and Infrastructure hearing last year, I asked Secretary Duffy directly what concrete steps were being taken to stop another derailment like this one. I asked him directly and specifically had he worked with the chair of the committee to move forward any legislation. His answer was no. Further, he said he talked about it on Fox News before anyone else. Here is a news flash for Secretary Duffy and House Republicans. Talking on television does not make trains safer. Talking on television does not make our communities safer. Talking on television does not do what East Palestinian residents have asked us to do for over 3 years. Press conferences do not replace legislation, and communities cannot rebuild on empty words. Meanwhile, large corporations continue to resist stronger national safety rules and real accountability, while pursuing massive corporate expansion and relying on congressional inaction to protect its bottom line. Monitoring the damage after a disaster matters, but monitoring alone is not prevention. Studying the aftermath is not the same as fixing the cause. Mr. Speaker, the contrast is clear. I have legislated. I have shown up. I have questioned those in power and refused to let East Palestine be forgotten. Others have toured the site, issued statements, and moved on, while blocking the very reforms that would keep another town from becoming another headline in a disaster. Mr. Speaker, 3 years later, East Palestine has heard plenty of promises and many pledges, but Congress and the administration have not delivered the safety laws to stop the next disaster. Mr. Speaker, East Palestine deserves action. America deserves action. We deserve accountability. We deserve a Congress that puts people over profits, and I will keep fighting until that happens.

Mrs. SYKES

Mrs. SYKES. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to recognize The Remedy Church and its congregation as Ohio's 13th Congressional District's Champion of the Week. This past weekend marked a significant milestone as The Remedy Church celebrated 5 years of faithful service to God and community. Under the leadership of Pastor Deante Lavender and Arnalesa Lavender, affectionately known as Pastor Lav and Pastor Lesa, The Remedy Church is dedicated to welcoming everyone from our community with open arms. They are guided by the motto, Love Christ, Love People, Build Community, and the mission to ``teach Christ boldly, love our city deeply, and build lasting and strategic partnerships that transform lives.'' Earlier this year, The Remedy Church moved to downtown Akron, further establishing themselves in the greater Akron faith community. Their reach goes beyond the church doors, as they have fed thousands, housed hundreds, and ministered in prisons and throughout the community. My husband, Kevin, and I recently had the pleasure of attending a service at The Remedy Church, which was also their fifth anniversary. We were moved by the enthusiastic spirit of fellowship, joy, and genuine camaraderie that filled the sanctuary. I sincerely congratulate Pastor Lav, Pastor Lesa, and The Remedy Church congregation on their fifth anniversary. May they continue to grow, serve, and be a blessing to both our community and the Lord and Savior for years to come.

Mrs. SYKES

Mrs. SYKES. Mr. Speaker, when I am back home in the district, I make it clear that although my name is on the ballot and I am the elected Member of Congress, when I go to Congress, we all go to Congress. Instead of assuming that I knew what mattered the most to people in my district, we sent out a survey to ask people in Ohio's 13th what mattered most to them. Thankfully, more than 2,000 people took the time to respond. What they told us was pretty straightforward. They wanted me to protect Social Security, Medicaid, and Medicare. They wanted me to lower costs and make life much more affordable. They wanted me to eliminate government corruption. That is what I plan to do. The number one issue by far was protecting Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid. People didn't talk about these programs in abstract terms. They talked about their lives, how Social Security is how they pay their bills; Medicare is how they get healthcare without going broke; and Medicaid is how their kids, their parents, and neighbors with disabilities can get the support and help they need. These aren't government programs to them. They are lifelines promised to them after a lifetime of work and service. That is why I have been and will continue to be hyperfocused on protecting them. I have worked across the aisle to introduce bipartisan legislation to keep Social Security offices open and services running during government shutdowns because seniors shouldn't lose access to help just because Congress can't get its act together. I have pushed the Social Security Administration to stop clawing back overpayments when the mistakes were not the fault of the seniors. I introduced legislation to make sure survivors of domestic violence are not punished under Social Security rules for leaving unsafe marriages. If you have worked your entire life and paid in every paycheck, Congress should keep its promise in its Social Security program. The second big issue that people raised was the cost of living and lowering costs. Families feel it everywhere: gas, groceries, housing, healthcare. It just costs too much to live. People are working just as hard as they always have, but they are falling behind. That is why I have been fighting to extend the ACA's tax credits to lower healthcare costs, especially for our most vulnerable citizens. It is why I voted against the big, ugly bill that is now putting healthcare coverage at risk for millions of Americans while raising energy costs for families. In fact, just today there is a report that came out that showed over 120,000 Ohioans chose to forgo their healthcare because they simply couldn't afford it. These are real people, and that bill had real consequences. Not only does it impact us in terms of healthcare in my district, it also impacts our number one economy, which is healthcare systems and hospitals. Additionally, I introduced legislation to crack down on junk fees that would drain family budgets, and I have worked in a bipartisan manner to lower costs and improve clean water infrastructure in communities that need it the most. I have stood up for homebuyers, pushing back against corporate practices that drive up housing prices and shut families out of the market. Instead of staying focused on lowering costs, House Republicans have spent too much time protecting tax breaks for millionaires and billionaires, blocking reforms that would help families, and threatening government shutdowns that only add to more chaos. I would also mention the no tax on overtime that they have so happily touted doesn't really help so many people in organized labor. We do have a bipartisan fix for that, but we haven't been able to get to it because making sure people have more money in their pockets is simply not a priority for House Republicans. Finally, the third issue people raised with me is they wanted to fight government corruption. People are tired of feeling like the rules are different for those at the top. They want accountability that actually means something. They want ethics laws to apply to everyone, no matter their title or their party. They are seeing that this corruption is raising their costs and making it more expensive. They see the connection between the two. That is why I have helped lead a package of reforms with a new generation of lawmakers to close loopholes, strengthen ethics rules, and bring some common sense and some integrity back to Washington, D.C. Public service should be just that: serving the public, not helping yourself. When you look at these survey results, Mr. Speaker, the contrast is hard to miss. My constituents are asking us to protect their earned benefits while the leadership, Mr. Speaker, is keeping them at risk. They are asking us to lower costs while House Republicans and this President get distracted by the wrong fights. They are asking us to clean up corruption while Republicans enable this President to treat accountability as optional while he is getting richer and everyone else is getting poorer. That is not what the people sent us here to do, and it is certainly not what my constituents sent me here to do. Mr. Speaker, listening to your constituents should not be controversial. It is our job. I will keep fighting for what the people of Ohio's 13th Congressional District made clear when they sent me here because this Congress does not belong to party leaders or special interests. It belongs to the people.

Mrs. SYKES

Mrs. SYKES. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to recognize Akron Fire Department Lieutenant Dave Ewers, retired Akron Firefighter Mark Harper, and Lynx EMS worker Dominic Bagnoli as Ohio's 13th Congressional District champions of the week. Late last year, a man went into cardiac arrest at a roller skating rink in Jackson Township, Ohio. While not on the job and simply enjoying the rink, Lieutenant Ewers, retired Firefighter Harper, and Mr. Bagnoli leapt into action, giving the man CPR and other lifesaving support until Jackson Township EMS arrived. Due to their quick response and effective CPR, the man made a full recovery and even started skating again this past weekend. The three were recognized this week by Jackson Township with the EMS Excellence Award for their quick response during the incident. Lieutenant Ewers and retired Firefighter Harper, both avid skaters themselves, said they have come to know a lot of the regulars at the roller rink, including the man who went into cardiac arrest. They said their fellow skaters are like family, so they were glad to be able to help one of their own. Again, I extend my sincere gratitude to Akron Fire Department Lieutenant Dave Ewers, retired Akron Firefighter Mark Harper, and Lynx EMS worker Dominic Bagnoli for their heroic actions and for stepping in to help a neighbor in need. They are just one more reason as to why Ohio's 13th Congressional District is the Birthplace of Champions.

Mrs. SYKES

Mrs. SYKES. Mr. Speaker, I often say that while my name may be on the ballot, we are all going to Congress together. Families in Ohio's 13th Congressional District and all across the country are telling us that housing costs are rising faster than wages, making it hard to keep a roof over their heads. Today, I rise to bring an issue that plagues my community and the entire country, which is the rising cost of housing. In my district alone, over one hundred thousand households rent their homes. The median renter household income is just above $40,000 a year, yet the median rent is more than $1,000 per month. That means housing costs are often the largest part of a monthly budget, and this is even before groceries, childcare, or healthcare. It is not just renters who are feeling the squeeze. Homeowners are feeling the squeeze, too. The median home value in Ohio's 13th District is about $228,000. That may sound modest compared to national prices, especially for those of you on the coasts, but property taxes, insurance, utilities, and repairs add up fast. With aging homes and data centers driving up the cost of utilities, people are feeling the crunch. For families with a mortgage, monthly housing costs average nearly $1,500, and even those who have paid off their mortgage face rising property taxes and repair costs that strain household budgets. For families trying to buy their first home, the challenge is steeper, because mortgage rates may have dipped below 6 percent, but high prices and limited inventory keep homeownership out of reach for many in my district. We cannot ignore the inequities baked into the system. In Ohio's 13th District, the homeownership rate overall is nearly 69 percent, but for Black families, it drops to just 37 percent, dropping by nearly half. That gap reflects generations of barriers we still have a responsibility to address, like redlining and restrictive covenants. For some families, rising costs lead to housing instability or homelessness. That is why, last November, I pressed the Department of Housing and Urban Development to protect Federal funding and homelessness prevention programs in Summit and Stark Counties. These continuum of care dollars support nearly 2,700 beds in my district for families, veterans, and young people who need a safe place to sleep. Any cut could disrupt services that people depend on and, most importantly, keep them without a roof over their head. We also have to confront the root causes of this crisis. Large corporate investors are buying up single-family homes, driving up prices and rents, and locking families out of homeownership. That is why, last summer, I introduced the HOMES Act, which cracks down on investors buying 50 or more single-family homes, shines a light on corporate ownership and rental practices, and makes sure local families, not profit-seeking investors, get first access to homeownership. People simply cannot compete with these for- profit corporations, and every family deserves a place to call home. Just last week, President Trump acknowledged the same problem and called on Congress to address it. On this issue, it seems we may finally all be reading from the same page. I encourage my colleagues to support the HOMES Act and see its swift passage, but we also need to build homes, too. Supply simply has not met the demand. That is why I secured Federal funding for the East Akron Neighborhood Development Corporation to help expand affordable housing, revitalize neighborhoods, and create jobs. Increasing supply is essential if we want housing prices to come down. As chair of the New Democrat Coalition's Affordable Housing Task Force, I helped develop a housing action plan with more than 20 recommendations to increase housing supply, reform zoning and permitting, strengthen Federal incentives, grow the construction workforce, and improve transparency. Mr. Speaker, housing is the foundation of opportunity. Homeownership is the primary way in which families build wealth. When housing is affordable and stable, families can plan, save, and build a future. When it is not, life becomes harder. Rents are too high. Mortgages are still out of reach for far too many families. Property taxes and repairs are stretching household budgets. Homelessness programs that protect our most vulnerable neighbors must be preserved. Mr. Speaker, we have to get serious about housing and focus our attention on lowering the cost of housing and keeping housing accessible to everyone. The American Dream depends on it. Every family deserves a safe and affordable place to call home, and this House has a responsibility to help make that possible. Until housing costs come down, Congress has a lot more work to do. I look forward to working with this body on behalf of my constituents and across the country to work to reduce housing costs so everyone can live their American Dream wherever they choose to call home.