Glenn Thompson

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize November as National Family Caregiver Month. Every day, more than 48 million family caregivers provide essential care to loved ones who are aging, ill, or living with a disability. As a former healthcare professional, I have seen these caregivers often go above and beyond to support their families, sacrificing their own time, energy, and well-being to ensure that those that they care for receive the support and the love that they need. Family caregivers are often the unsung heroes of our communities. Many balance caregiving with full-time jobs, raising children, and managing their own health. They deserve our support and recognition, which is why I am proud to support legislation like the Lowering Costs for Caregivers Act to help ensure these caregivers have the financial resources to continue providing care for their loved ones. Mr. Speaker, let this month be a reminder of our shared responsibility to support these caregivers who give so much to others. By showing our appreciation and lending a hand where we can, we can honor the work that they do every day.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 60th anniversary of the National Boy Scout Memorial in our Nation's Capital. The Boy Scouts of America aims to prepare young people for lives of impact and purpose. Since the Boy Scouts' founding in 1910 here in Washington, D.C., the organization has grown to become one of the largest youth organizations in the United States with over 1 million Scouts. The United States Congress passed a congressional charter in 1916, officially establishing the Boy Scouts of America. The mission remains steadfast: ``to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Law.'' In 1959, the 50th anniversary year of Scouting, Lyndon Baines Johnson, then-Senate majority leader, introduced a measure to establish the memorial. Scouts from across the Nation displayed their dedication and passion for Scouting by raising 100 percent of the funding needed to complete the statue. Scouts who were able to collect $5 in dimes sent in their collections and had their names printed on special scrolls. The legacies of these Scouts and their dedication lives on, with all the scrolls still residing inside the boxes at the statue's base. The sculpture sits at the location of the 1937 National Scout Jamboree, the very first jamboree. It was dedicated on November 7, 1964, and over 1,000 Scouts, leaders, family members, military personnel, members of government, and guests were present. This weekend I was proud to attend the 60th anniversary ceremony. Officially named the ``Boy Scout Commemorative Tribute,'' it was the very first statue or memorial in D.C. dedicated to a living or ongoing cause, not a past leader or event. The three statues represent the fundamental principles of Scouting. The young Scout in the middle symbolizes all Scouts past, present, and future, and is a beacon for good. The male and female figures symbolize the strength for both manhood and womanhood. The male represents ideals of physical, mental, and moral fitness, citizenship, honor, and courage, while the female represents enlightenment, love of fellow man, justice, and freedom. As a proud Eagle Scout and a Scout Master for over 30 years, Scouting has been an essential part of my young and adult life. Even in my current role as U.S. Representative for Pennsylvania's 15th Congressional District and chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture, I use the lessons and values learned in Scouting to guide my decisionmaking. The Scout Oath tells us that we have a duty to God, to country, to others, and to self, and this is a checklist I use when voting on the House floor. Scouting enables the next generation of youth to develop leadership skills, connect with their community, build self-confidence, and gain numerous other benefits for themselves and their country. The Scouting program is one of the best youth organizations for cultivating a sense of responsibility and allows youth to become engaged citizens who care and respect their communities. I will always cherish the time I spent in Scouting and value its role in shaping me into who I am today. Mr. Speaker, for more than 100 years, Scouting has instilled essential values into our young people. This organization has helped develop academic skills, self-confidence, ethics, and citizenship skills that continue influencing these Scouts' adult lives. The impact of Scouting cannot be measured. This monument stands as a powerful tribute, not just to the Boy Scouts themselves, but to the values they carry and their positive impact on our communities, Nation, and the world. Let this memorial remind us of our responsibility to support and inspire the next generation to dedicate themselves to a lifetime of service.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize November as Military Families Month. With more than 5.2 million military families in the United States, this month is necessary to acknowledge the tremendous sacrifices our military families make. These families are the unseen strength behind our Nation's military. While the focus is often on those in uniform, we must never overlook loved ones who carry the weight of their absence, move wherever duty calls, and keep life steady even when things around them feel uncertain. In times of peace and conflict, these families stand as pillars of strength embodying the values of courage, dedication, and selflessness. Let's recognize the sacrifices they make--the birthdays, the holidays, and the milestones missed. Let's thank them for their support and commitment to our country, and let's promise them our own support in return. Mr. Speaker, please join me in thanking our veterans, servicemembers, and military families for their service and sacrifice to our country. May God bless our military families, our servicemembers, and our great country.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life and service of Private First-Class Foster Sayers. Foster Sayers was a 20-year-old infantryman who joined the Army from Howard, Pennsylvania, in March of 1943. Private Sayers served during World War II in Thionville, France. On November 12, 1944, he went above the call of duty when he single- handedly ran toward enemy forces. His heroic actions enabled his company to run across the open field to successfully flank and capture the enemy position. Private First-Class Foster Sayers valiantly fought to protect our freedoms, and his bravery earned him a Medal of Honor. Madam Speaker, 80 years later we remember that the freedoms that we enjoy have come at a tremendous cost paid in sweat, sacrifice, and blood by servicemembers like Foster Sayers. Yesterday, I had the opportunity to honor Private Sayers by presenting two flags to Foster Sayers, Jr., and Foster Sayers III in memory of their father and grandfather. Madam Speaker, let us continue to build a country worthy of the sacrifices of our veterans. May God bless our veterans and our great Nation.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize National Hazing Prevention Week. For far too long, hazing has been a dangerous, unacceptable issue that has plagued college campuses nationwide. Hazing is often masked as a tradition or necessary step to joining many student organizations, but let me be clear: Hazing isn't harmless, fun, or a rite of passage. It is a serious issue that puts the physical, emotional, and psychological well-being of students at risk. Hazing does not build genuine connections out of camaraderie or mutual respect. It creates a power dynamic based on fear. No student should ever be forced to endure demeaning or dangerous acts to feel accepted or to prove their loyalty to others. It is tragic that these abhorrent acts still occur on campuses across our country. We all play a role in holding clubs, organizations, sports teams, individuals, and campuses to a higher standard when it comes to the well-being of students, which is why I have long advocated for student safety on campuses during my time in Congress. In 2019, I introduced the END ALL Hazing Act to increase campuswide transparency and accountability for all student organizations. Earlier this month, I led the effort to advance the Stop Campus Hazing Act through the House Committee on Education and the Workforce alongside several of my colleagues. Hazing is a serious threat to life and safety on campuses, but obtaining facts about hazing can be somewhat challenging. Under current Federal law, there are no national reporting requirements, and there is no clear definition of hazing. The Stop Campus Hazing Act, which includes provisions from my END ALL Hazing Act, would require institutions to report hazing incidents in their annual security report, also known as their Clery report, and enact a responsible definition of hazing that holds perpetrators accountable and protects students nationwide. This bill also streamlines reporting requirements by respecting State laws and includes several transparency measures to ensure students, parents, and the public can access information about hazing incidents within any student organization. The formation of the Stop Campus Hazing Act would not have been possible without the long and tireless work of many advocates, including Evelyn and Jim Piazza. Evelyn and Jim are the parents of Tim Piazza, who tragically passed away in February 2017 at Penn State as a direct result of a hazing ritual at his fraternity. Today would have been Tim's 27th birthday. As a parent, I cannot imagine Evelyn and Jim's tremendous loss. In the face of this unspeakable tragedy, Evelyn and Jim have been at the forefront of efforts in Pennsylvania, in Congress, and in other States around the country to speak about the dangers of hazing and enact change in Tim's honor. Their advocacy led to the establishment of the Timothy J. Piazza Center for Fraternity and Sorority Research and Reform at Penn State, whose research helped shape the Stop Campus Hazing Act and led to the enactment of some of the strongest antihazing laws anywhere in the country and Pennsylvania. Hazing is unacceptable behavior that can lead to great bodily harm and even death. These tragic actions leave families struggling with the loss of their loved ones, changing the trajectory of their lives forever. Mr. Speaker, these are not isolated events. These are preventable tragedies. We must safeguard the dignity and safety of every student and ensure that our campuses foster an environment of learning and growth. For these reasons, Mr. Speaker, I urge all Americans to recognize the significance of National Hazing Prevention Week and urge all of my colleagues in this Chamber to continue to support commonsense reforms to protect each and every student nationwide.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Ridgway, Pennsylvania's Bicentennial year. In 1817, Philadelphian shipping merchant Jacob Ridgway purchased 120,000 acres of land in Northwest Pennsylvania. Forty thousand of these acres would officially become Elk County on April 18, 1843 with Ridgway as the county seat. According to historians, the town of Ridgway was established in 1824 when one of Mr. Ridgway's nephews, James Gillis, convinced Ridgway that his land, which was filled with an abundance of lumber, could become a lucrative business opportunity. In the past two hundred years, Ridgway has evolved into a thriving community where the lumber industry continues to flourish. Ridgway is home to the Ridgway Chainsaw Carving Rendezvous. What began as a shared passion of family and friends enthusiastic about wood carving has grown into the largest chainsaw carving gathering of its kind, attracting visitors from across the globe. Mr. Speaker, Ridgway, PA, is home to a vibrant community, and I hope you will join me in wishing Ridgway a happy 200th-year celebration.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, yesterday, I was unable to cast my vote due to a scheduing conflict with Pennsylvania-based events. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 440; Yea on Roll Call No. 441; and YEA on Roll Call No. 442.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize this week as Gold Star Family Remembrance Week. Every September, Gold Star Family Remembrance Week takes place the week before Gold Star Mother's Day, which has been observed by Presidential proclamations on the last Sunday of September since 1936. The Gold Star symbol, a significant reminder of sacrifice, originated in 1917, when United States began its involvement in World War I. Families would hang banners to represent a family member in the armed services. If the family member passed in combat, the family would change the banner from a blue star to a gold star, a symbol of the highest honor and most profound loss. We will never know the exact number of Gold Star families. However, according to the National Gold Star Family Registry, at least 472,251 fallen military members are registered by loved ones. At least 36,584 of those servicemembers have been registered in my home State of Pennsylvania. As an Army dad, I am blessed that my son returned home. I am aware that this is not the case for all families, and we must take the time to remember, respect, and honor the families of our fallen servicemembers. I look forward to supporting efforts, such as Gold Star Family Remembrance Week, to honor and remember our fallen servicemembers and their families. This week recognizes the loss and sacrifices of families in support of fallen members of the Armed Forces, as well as veterans. I look forward to supporting legislative efforts to honor this occasion and encourage my fellow Americans to perform acts of community service and goodwill to honor those families. Our servicemembers are the bravest among us. They answer the call to protect and defend our country in times of war and in times of peace. This important week is a time to remember the families of the brave men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice while defending our freedom. Mr. Speaker, let us all take a moment to remember that our freedom is not free. We cannot begin to imagine the loss and the pain these families have experienced. Gold Star families have lost a loved one in the name of protecting our freedom, and they deserve our gratitude every day.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 5646, the Stop Campus Hazing Act. This legislation, which is long overdue, will finally provide additional protection for students on college campuses nationwide. This is a bipartisan product years in the making. It includes provisions from two previous anti-hazing bills, including a piece of legislation I was proud to lead on called the END ALL Hazing Act. Simply put, the Stop Campus Hazing Act would improve hazing reporting and prevention on college campuses, including by requiring hazing incidents to be reported by institutions in their annual security report, also known as the Clery report. The bill also outlines a responsible definition of ``hazing'' so the campus safety professionals can analyze if a reported incident may constitute hazing for the Clery report. This definition will help students, parents, and the public have access and increased transparency into student organizations on campuses who have reported incidents of hazing. Finally, this bill builds upon the actions many States have taken, including Pennsylvania, to ensure that State laws are respected when any investigations are conducted. Mr. Speaker, none of this would be possible without the long and tireless work of many advocates, including Evelyn and Jim Piazza. Evelyn and Jim are the parents of Tim Piazza, who tragically passed away in February 2017 at Penn State as a direct result of a hazing ritual at his fraternity. Tomorrow would have been Tim's 27th birthday. In the face of this unspeakable tragedy, Evelyn and Jim have been at the forefront of efforts in Pennsylvania, here in Congress, and in other States around the country to speak about the dangers of hazing and enact change in Tim's honor. In fact, the legislation before us today is shaped by the work of the Timothy J. Piazza Center for Fraternity and Sorority Research and Reform at Penn State, which Evelyn and Jim played a direct role in establishing. Mr. Speaker, I thank the numerous individuals and organizations that helped bring this legislation to the floor today, including Congresswoman McBath, Congressman Duncan, the National Panhellenic Conference, the North American Interfraternity Conference, the Clery Center, the Anti-Hazing Coalition, and many others. As we recognize National Hazing Prevention Week this week, I am proud that we can come together in a bipartisan manner to protect students nationwide in an effort to ensure that no one will have to experience what the Piazza family has over the past 7 years. Mr. Speaker, I encourage all of my colleagues to support this legislation.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, September is Suicide Prevention Month, and nearly every 12 minutes, an American dies by suicide. It is now the 10th leading cause of death in the United States. Suicide claims the lives of more than 2,000 Pennsylvanians each year, an average of 5 lives a day. Madam Speaker, suicide is preventable. Increasing access to crisis resources saves lives. Mental and behavioral health research saves lives. Ending the stigma surrounding suicide saves lives. There is no single cause of suicide, and suicide risk increases when several health factors and life stressors converge to create an experience of hopelessness and despair. Together, we can reverse this course. By making mental health care, substance abuse treatment, and suicide prevention a national priority, we can reverse the tide on these deaths of despair. In fact, in 2020, the U.S. designated 988 as the national suicide and crisis hotline, making it easier for all Americans to reach help if needed. Madam Speaker, let's keep the conversation going year-round. We can all play an important role in prevention.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize POW/MIA Recognition Day. Today, we remember the brave men and women of our Armed Forces who served honorably and who have not returned home. Currently, almost 82,000 servicemembers have not returned from the battlefield. This includes those who served in World War II, the Korean war, the Vietnam war, the Cold War, and both wars in Iraq. Our servicemembers have made immense sacrifices, allowing us to live our lives in freedom and in peace. We thank those who served and returned home, but most importantly, we remember those who served and never returned. Last September, I introduced a resolution that would enhance research and recovery efforts through future trade agreements with countries that still have our servicemembers. We must do everything in our power to ensure every U.S. servicemember returns home. Recently, two brave soldiers, Sergeant Richard M. Sharrow and Corporal Francis Jury, made their way back home to the Commonwealth 74 years after bravely fighting in the Korean war. Madam Speaker, on this POW/MIA Recognition Day, I urge my colleagues to honor our commitment to bring our servicemen and servicewomen home.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, America is facing a farm and food crisis. As we are here speaking today in the Nation's Capitol, there are farmers and ranchers who are struggling. They are struggling with so many burdens and so many natural disasters. They are struggling in an economy with inflation. Mr. Speaker, let me say that again: America is facing a farm and food crisis. Now, as the chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture, I have had the honor to travel across this country to hear from the farmers, ranchers, producers, consumers, and everyone in between across our great agricultural value chain. My colleagues and I have taken what we heard on the road to craft a bipartisan and highly effective farm bill. No matter where we traveled, one thing was clear: America's farm economy is in crisis, and with no farms, there is no food. The last time we passed a farm bill was in 2018, and a lot in our world has changed since then. As I stand before you today, Mr. Speaker, farmers across the Nation are grappling with immense challenges. For the first time in years, we are witnessing a downturn spiral in net farm income with projections for 2024 showing a staggering $54 billion decline. That is the largest 2-year loss in net cash farm income in history, and that is across just eight of the commodities. If you add into that the specialty crops, it is a farm and food crisis. These are not just numbers on a spreadsheet. They are the livelihoods of American farmers, the backbone of our rural communities, and the source of food, fiber, and fuel for our Nation and the world. Why is this happening? Simply put, farm production costs have skyrocketed. Input prices remain near record highs, yet the prices farmers receive for their crops have plummeted. The prices of corn, soybeans, cotton, and wheat have seen an average drop of 21 percent, all while operating expenses continue to soar. The U.S. trade deficit will reach a record-breaking $30.5 billion in 2024, but according to the USDA, that record will be broken next year with the 2025 agricultural trade deficit expected to reach $42.5 billion, all contributing to this Nation's farm and food crisis. Many producers are barely breaking even, if they are lucky. Others are sinking deeper into debt, with the United States Department of Agriculture forecasting farm-sector debt to hit a record $54 billion by year's end, the highest inflation-adjusted level in more than 60 years. While these numbers are daunting, they reflect only part of the story. Since the last farm bill was passed in 2018, America's producers have faced powerful headwinds from extreme weather, rising foreign subsidies, trade barriers, global conflict, and supply chain disruptions. From the trade war with China to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, our agricultural sector has taken hit after hit. Despite these challenges, Federal support for production agriculture in 2024 is projected to be at its lowest level since 1982. Let me say that again: 1982. Imagine the impact this downturn has on our rural communities who already struggle with declining populations and a shrinking tax base. Imagine what it means for national food security and inevitably national security when the very people who grow our food are unable to sustain their operations. Current economic conditions have resulted in farmers and ranchers eating through their available liquidity and working capital. In the September Beige Book, the Federal Reserve bank reported declining conditions for the agricultural sector in their respective regions. Various banks reported that credit providers see building financial stresses within the ag sector. Without financial certainty, lenders will be facing a credit crunch, and it will become increasingly difficult to get producers to cash flow. The time for Congress to step up and pass a new farm bill is now. An extension of current policy is not acceptable. Our current farm safety net, while it was crafted in 2018 and while it was great for 2018, is simply outdated. While supplemental assistance kept many farms afloat, it is clear our existing programs have not kept up with inflation or the realities on the ground. In fact, in our July hearing before the House Agriculture Committee on the state of the farm economy, producers and lenders told us that even if we deliver an improved farm safety net, additional assistance may be necessary to account for the losses experienced over the last year while Congress has failed to act. I stand ready to work with my colleagues on the Appropriations Committee and leadership to deliver near-term assistance to bridge the gap to a highly effective 5-year farm bill. A strong farm bill isn't just about agriculture, it is about our food supply, our rural communities, and our national security. If we fail to act before the year's end, if we settle for just extending the current law, we will be condemning thousands of farm families through an uncertain and potentially devastating future. When you lose farms, you lose food, and when you lose food, you have food insecurity which leads to national insecurity. Thankfully, the House has a bipartisan solution to the crisis in our farm economy. The bipartisan Farm, Food, and National Security Act was crafted by farmers for farmers. It is the product of intensive input, feedback, negotiations, and the realities of where our agricultural industry is and the tools it needs to succeed. I want to walk through how this critical piece of legislation will benefit our rural communities, our food security, and our national security. The commodity title aids farmers in managing risk and provides assistance following precipitous declines in commodity prices. Through the reauthorization and enhancement of commodity, marketing loan, sugar, dairy, and disaster programs, producers are provided some certainty in times of unpredictability. Our bipartisan farm bill increases support for the price loss coverage and the agriculture risk coverage programs to account for persistent inflation and rising costs of production, the volatility within the agricultural markets. We have not invested in this area significantly or had any increase for decades. This provides authority to expand base acres to include producers who currently are not able to participate in our ARC or PLC. That is extremely important when you look at new, young, and beginning farmers, the future farmers. The future farmers are going to provide us our food security. They will provide food and fiber, building material, and energy resources. They need to be able to have that tool of base acres. It modernizes marketing loans and the sugar policy. The sugar policy has always been divisive on this floor, picking sides between those who produce our sugar, the cane and the sugar beets producers of this Nation, and those who utilize it, those who use it to make our food, the bakers and the confectioners with great companies across both of those spectrums; they are great family-owned businesses. Mr. Speaker, both sides of this farm bill are holding hands. We have worked hard to get them in a room and to work out modest reforms that both sides can agree upon. This will be the first farm bill that I know of where we don't have sugar wars and where they have come together. I appreciate the folks who came to the table to work those out. It bolsters dairy programs to continue providing vital assistance. That is the number one commodity, and in my home State of Pennsylvania, agriculture is the number one industry. We have included in this farm bill improvements in the dairy margin coverage. We have increased the amount of pounds that can be insured which is really important when you look at the consolidation of dairy farms over the years. Over the past decade, we have lost one-third of our dairy farms in this Nation. We don't ever want to be dependent on another country for our food supply, and that includes dairy. In this farm bill we increased the amount of pounds from 5 million to 6 million pounds that can be insured under the dairy margin coverage. We modernized the cost factors, which basically predated 2018 in terms of that insurance program. It is not a handout. These are public- private partnerships where the farmers step up. They purchase coverage. They decide how much coverage they want to purchase. We have engaged the private sector to create these programs. Yes, the government does make them more affordable so that our farmers are able to keep farming, so that we are able to have continued food security, that we can have continued national security as a nation. We enhanced the standing disaster programs and expanded eligibility for assistance. Mr. Speaker, when you look around this country and, just in the past year, the amount of flood, the amount of drought, hurricanes, and wildfires that have impacted our farmers and that acreage in so many devastating ways, to be able to enhance standing disaster programs so that they are more reliable, more timely, that they help keep our farmers farming, that is the direction we need to go in. The language within the Farm, Food, and National Security Act accomplishes that. The conservation title provides farmers, ranchers, and growers with financial and technical assistance to address a variety of natural resource concerns, such as soil health and erosion, water quality and quantity, and the wildlife habitat. The 2024 farm bill continues to support our proven system of voluntary, incentive-based, and locally led conservation through various improvements. Mr. Speaker, I don't know whether you know this, but, in terms of endangered and threatened species, there has been more endangered threats and species delisted through the efforts of these locally led, voluntary, incentive-based conservation programs that are in this farm bill than, quite frankly, what U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service or anyone else has done through more punitive measures. We are proud of that fact. These are great programs. They do a lot of good things. We provide historic investment in title II by reallocating the Inflation Reduction Act conservation dollars and expanding covered conservation practices. It protects and enhances working lands conservation programs, like the environmental quality incentive program and the conservation stewardship program while promoting precision agriculture, the agriculture of today and tomorrow. It includes commonsense easement reforms and protects working forest lands through newly authorized forest conservation easement programs. It strengthens and improves program administration for the regional conservation partnership program and the technical service provider program and PL566, which deals with our watersheds. It modernizes the conservation reserve program by incentivizing the enrollment of marginal lands and emphasizing State partnerships. We need to use soils that are fertile for growing. We need to be growing our crops. We need to be grazing our livestock. We have a nation to feed. Quite frankly, a lot of the rest of the world relies on food that is produced in our great country. These programs do that. We discourage fertile land from sitting idle. It is the marginal lands we invest in with this modernization. It reauthorizes and funds successful programs, such as the feral swine eradication program--and, quite frankly, they are devastating in many parts of the country--and the voluntarily public access and habitat incentive program, an incredible program when it comes to wildlife through promoting the right kind of habitat on that rural acreage. It emphasizes science, technology, and innovation, including within the conservation practice standards establishment and the review processes. Agriculture is the backbone to most of the world's economies, and robust promotion programs not only create market access, but protect our agricultural interests and act as a catalyst for innovation and economic growth. Mr. Speaker, the trade title expands the research and impact of the market access program and the foreign market development program. The 2024 farm bill will mitigate global food insecurity while providing U.S. producers new markets, improving local economies, and lessening the damage of this administration's ineffective trade agenda. Mr. Speaker, our bipartisan farm bill doubles funding for MAP and FMD. They have never been increased since those programs were created. We have doubled those. We know how important that is. We have listened to our farmers and ranchers around the country. It prioritizes U.S. commodities rather than unlimited market-based assistance. It balances the authorities of USAID with those of USDA. It lessens the bureaucracy associated with programs meant to respond to immediate crisis. It addresses trade barriers and infrastructure deficiencies. It fosters education partnerships to ensure developing countries can benefit from our Nation's advanced research and developing technologies. The nutrition title, Mr. Speaker, is a really important title within the farm bill. The fact is I think it is a value and a principle where we are from, right? Neighbors help neighbors in need, but it is also a market program for our farmers. It is a workforce development program as we provide assistance for individuals who are struggling in poverty and need nutrition assistance, to get the type of SNAP, employment, education, and career and technical education, to climb the ladder of opportunity. It supports families formally disallowed to receive benefits. It refocuses work programs to support upward mobility. It vests in and modernizes food distribution programs to create parity with urban programming. It promotes program integrity and State accountability. The biggest problem we have had with the nutrition program is not the farm bill program. It is how certain States have inappropriately implemented and administered that program. We take actions to provide better oversight and accountability on those States as they execute those programs in their States. It advances policies related to healthy eating, healthy behaviors, and healthy outcomes. Our bipartisan farm bill provides resources across multiple programs that have successfully benefited Tribal communities, seniors, and households pursuing healthier options. It offers significant opportunities for individuals to remain on their current career pathways without choosing between SNAP and employment. We encourage them to stay on those rungs of the ladder of opportunity and to climb higher. It creates new access for participants either formerly disallowed or beholden to arcane restriction. It corrects egregious executive branch overreach and disallows future unelected bureaucrats from arbitrarily increasing SNAP benefits. Congress holds the power of the purse, and no one else. We are the closest to the people here in the House, so this provision allows us to do our job as Members of Congress going forward. It creates a stronger, more sustainable connection between health and Federal feeding programs. For example, the dietary guidelines process is flawed. The committee-passed bill makes certain that scientific rigor and total transparency are at the forefront of any Federal dietary policy. At a time when most of our food industry is under attack, it is so important to remember that science should guide our policymakers. It holds USDA and States accountable to the generosity of the American taxpayer. There are ongoing integrity issues in SNAP, including billions of dollars in fraud, families falling victim to transactional criminals and States manipulating data to avoid able- bodied individuals in joining the workforce or pursuing career and technical education. We take measures to end that in this farm bill, Mr. Speaker. Our Nation's producers borrow more capital in a single harvest season than most Americans do in their entire lives. Interest rates have exploded under the Biden administration, resulting in skyrocketing borrowing costs, which fall especially hard on our Nation's younger, less-established producers. Programs within the credit title are instrumental in helping producers both start and maintain their operations. It enhances financing options for producers who are unable to obtain credit from a commercial lender. It provides resources to new, young, beginning, and veteran farmers in their transition into farming and ranching. It protects and enhances the ability of commercial lenders to provide rural America with a reliable source of credit and capital. That is so important when you look at bigger projects in rural America, whether it would be schools or hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or nursing homes. Programs offered by USDA's rural development play a vital role in enhancing rural life and fostering economic growth. The rural development title of the 2024 farm bill continues the long history of bipartisan support for rural development initiatives and implements important improvements to enhance a robust, rural economy. It strengthens broadband connectivity to rural communities. It improves precision agriculture practices and increases accessibility of precision agriculture services. It protects access to healthcare in rural America. It enhances efforts to meet childcare demands of rural areas. It addresses existing workforce challenges within rural communities to effectively meet their needs. It encourages private capital investments in rural communities, and it streamlines the permitting process for rural development processes. The research and extension title of the 2024 farm bill keeps American agriculture at the forefront of innovation and productivity through the cutting-edge research and supports the Nation's land-grant and nonland- grant colleges of agriculture. Our bipartisan farm bill supports the modernization of the agriculture research facilities by providing funding for the Research Facilities Act. It increases funding for the Specialty Crop Research Initiative, allocates funding for research and the development of mechanization and automation technologies for the specialty crop industry. It maintains funding for the emergency citrus disease research and extension program. It provides continued funding for scholarships for students at 1890 institutions, and it promotes interagency coordination for further agricultural research and other Federal agencies. The forestry title of the farm bill promotes active forest management through incentivizing public-private partnerships, creating new market opportunities and revitalizing rural communities while reducing wildfire risk and improving forest health to ensure healthy and productive Federal, State, Tribal, and private forests. It incentivizes active forest management through the public-private partnerships by expanding existing authorities like the Good Neighbor Authority and the Stewardship End Result Contracting. It creates new and enhances existing market opportunities for forest products, including existing and new data sources and tools, including investing in innovative wood products and expanding the use of biochar. It revitalizes rural communities and forest health through cross- boundary authority. It simplifies environmental process requirements while ensuring environmental protection by building upon the success of categorical exclusions and other streamlined authorities. The energy title of the farm bill increases access to energy system and efficiency updates for farmers, ranchers, and rural small businesses while encouraging growth and innovation for biofuels, bioproducts, and related feedstocks. It allows for critical cost and energy savings by increasing access to the Rural Energy for America Program. It streamlines program delivery and enhances program integrity for biobased market programs and biofuels and bioproducts development program like the biopreferred program and the biorefinary, renewable chemical, and biobased product manufacturing assistance programs. It requires the administration to study the impacts of solar installations on prime, unique, or statewide or locally important farmland. Mr. Speaker, may I inquire as to how much time is remaining.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, the horticulture marketing and regulatory reform title provides critical investments to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops and protect plant health. It delivers commonsense regulatory reforms necessary to relieve American farmers and ranchers from overregulation by the Biden administration. It provides additional funding for the specialty crop block grant program and directs program administrators to consult with specialty crop producers when setting priorities for the program. It increases funding for plant, pest, and disease management to further safeguard American agriculture and natural resources. It maintains funding for the local agriculture market program and approves program delivery through simplified application. It continues support for organic production through the national organic program, organic production, and the market data initiative and the national organic certification cost-share program. Agricultural producers are greatly affected by numerous factors outside of their control, ranging from extreme weather to geopolitical instability. Crop insurance, a vital risk management tool, is available to help producers manage the unique risks of farming and is delivered through an effective public-private partnership in which the Federal Government shares in the cost of the premiums, which would otherwise be unaffordable for most farmers. The crop insurance title of the farm, food, and National Security Act expands premium assistance for beginning and veteran farmers. It directs research and development of new policies and establishes an advisory committee for more robust engagement with specialty crop producers. It enhances certain coverage options to reduce the need for unbudgeted and ad hoc disaster relief. It bolsters the private-sector delivery system. Mr. Speaker, the miscellaneous title brings together provisions related to livestock health and management, foreign animal disease preparedness, young and beginning farmers, and other key areas. It directs additional resources toward the three-legged stool to protect the entire livestock and poultry industry in the United States from foreign animal diseases. This title provides guidance documents and other resources for small and very small meat and poultry-producing facilities. It allows livestock auction owners to invest in packing facilities, subject to capacity limitations. It directs the Secretary of Agriculture to work in consultation with the U.S. Trade Representative to negotiate animal disease regionalization agreements with our trading partners. It enhances protections for dogs under the Animal Welfare Act. It clarifies that States and local governments cannot impose a condition or standard on the production of covered livestock unless the livestock is physically located within such State or local government boundaries. It requires the Secretary to conduct regular assessments to identify risks and security vulnerabilities to the food and agriculture critical infrastructure sector. It reforms certain reporting requirements under the Agriculture and Foreign Investment Disclosure Act to ensure accuracy and transparency of data on farmland owned by foreign persons or foreign entities. Again, farm security is food security is national security. Mr. Speaker, as I wrap up, I thank the thousands of stakeholders across the country who have made themselves heard and been a part of this process so far, from fly-ins to speaking directly to staff and Members, to hosting roundtables, webinars, social media campaigns, drafting letters of support, and so much more. Mr. Speaker, we approach this bill in a tri-partisan manner. That means bringing Democrats and Republicans to the table, and it means bringing the people of rural America, and specifically agriculture and farming, to the table. We did that in traveling the country to around 40 States and one territory. I have been honored to chair and lead somewhere close to 100 listening sessions in those areas. We brought the voices of American agriculture and American consumers to the table, and that is how we wrote the bill. We wrote the bill with their voice. We did it in a manner I like to call from the outside in. Too frequently and often in this Chamber, we write legislation that is inside out. We gather a handful of so-called experts here on Capitol Hill to write these bills, and then we take them outside the beltway of Washington and try to convince everybody it is the best thing since sliced bread. That doesn't always work out. We did this bill from the outside in. We traveled the Nation. We heard from the very people who provide us food and fiber and building materials. We heard from vulnerable populations who need nutritional assistance, the families that are living in poverty. There are way too many of them living in poverty today. That is why the cost of the nutrition title is so high. It is reflective of the fact that there are way too many American families living in poverty today. This bill can help change that because within the moneys that are invested, as I talked about in the nutrition title, quite frankly, we invest in employment, education, and career and technical education, helping them reach the next rung on the ladder of opportunity so they can wake up one morning and don't need this type of assistance because they found the great American Dream, which is opportunity. I often say, Mr. Speaker, if you are not at the table, you are probably on the menu, and it has been a truly rewarding experience to see so many advocates for our agricultural industry at the table as we crafted this bipartisan bill. When I became chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture, I took seriously my mandate to protect our food supply and enhance the impact of our Nation's agricultural value chain. As I have just highlighted, across each title of this bill are new and better tools and resources for our farmers and rural communities. From production and processing to delivery and consumption, this bill strengthens the rural economy across every region, State, and district. The farm bill has long been an example of consensus, where both sides must take a step off the soapbox and have tough conversations. I do not draw redlines. I do not close the door to conversation. I do not keep anybody from coming to the table to work on legislation, and we certainly didn't do that here. I have encouraged everyone to come to the table with this farm bill. Finally, let me be clear, we continue to have productive conversations across the aisle and across the Capitol Building. The stakes are too high to get this wrong or to fail to deliver, and I firmly believe the four corners of our Agriculture Committees agree on this. Working together, we can pass a bipartisan, bicameral, and highly effective farm bill. Quite frankly, coming out with the bipartisan bill for the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2024 that passed out of committee is a huge step in that direction. Mr. Speaker, I so appreciate the opportunity and the privilege of speaking on this floor about America's number one industry, which is agriculture, the industry that every American family is so dependent on, and not just those three times a day when they pick up the tools of American agriculture, be it a knife, fork, or spoon, but when it comes to the economy, when it comes to jobs, when it comes to economic impact, when it comes, quite frankly, to the taxes that are paid by these hardworking members of the agriculture industry, processors and producers, at all levels of government. Significant tax dollars get paid to pay for what we hope are the essential services at all levels of government. This industry and the tools around it make a better environment and a cleaner climate. I always like to cite data that I was so excited to read here that shows that our American farmers are the climate champions of the world. They sequester 6.1 gigatons of carbon annually. That is 10.1 percent more than what they emit. Nobody does it better when it comes to a cleaner climate than the American farmer, rancher, and forester, and our processors, as well, with the processes that we use and the products that are developed. Mr. Speaker, let me be clear, America is in a farm and food crisis. If we don't have farms, we don't have food, food security, national security. A nation that cannot feed itself will not exist. I am hoping that all of my colleagues will join me, as many have, in supporting the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2024. I look forward to getting this bill to the House floor in the lameduck session. I know I have the support of the other three corners, which is the leadership of the Senate and the House Agriculture Committees. They have made a commitment to do that. We don't see a need for an extension. We see a need for Congress, that being the House and the Senate, to do our job and get the work done on behalf of the American people. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize National Telehealth Awareness Week. Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and in recent years, telehealth services have added tremendous reach and value to communities across the country, especially in rural America. As a former healthcare professional who spent nearly 30 years serving rural populations, I appreciate how telehealth has increased access to care across rural communities like those that I am proud to represent. It is essential that we protect this vital resource as a viable option for patients. During my time in Congress, I am proud to have led efforts to expand telehealth services for veterans and members of the armed services and their families. To continue this progress, last year I introduced the bipartisan HEALTH Act to cut red tape and permanently allow community health centers and rural health clinics to provide telehealth services to their patients, including audio-only appointments for Americans who may not have access to broadband or the necessary technology to complete video appointments. Mr. Speaker, telehealth is a crucial resource for providing care in underserved communities, and I will continue to advocate for the expansion of this essential resource.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the importance of agriculture education. National Teach Ag Day is for anyone who wants to celebrate school- based agricultural education, share the story of agricultural education's importance and effectiveness in the United States, and encourage students to consider careers as agricultural educators. This recognition of agriculture education is more important than ever. The average American farmer is around 57 years old, a statistic that underscores the urgent need for agriculture education. Inspiring the next generation of agricultural leaders is critical for our food security, and this encouragement begins in the classroom. As chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture, I had the privilege of meeting with agriculture educators and students in Pennsylvania and throughout the country. Programs like Future Farmers of America and the 4-H strongly advocate advancing agriculture education and exposing our youth to the agricultural industry. In July, I met with the Pennsylvania FFA State officers here in our Nation's Capital. We discussed many career opportunities in the agricultural field and the vital needs of a robust agricultural industry. We interact with agriculture at least three times a day, and students must have the opportunity to learn about the industry and its career opportunities. Madam Speaker, each one of us can play a role in advocating for agriculture education. Now more than ever, we must recognize that food security is national security, and a nation that cannot feed itself is a nation in turmoil. As I mentioned earlier, we are at a critical point in our agricultural history. With the average age of our farmers hovering around 57 years old, it is essential that we develop the next generation of farmers. To support the next generation of farmers, I included provisions in the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2024 that bolster new and beginning farmers by increasing access to credit and crop insurance; supporting research, extension, and education activities; and improving program delivery at USDA. As a senior member of the Committee on Education and the Workforce, the co-chair of the bipartisan Career and Technical Education Caucus, co-chair of the 4-H Caucus, and a proud member of the FFA Caucus, I am passionate about advancing agricultural education in our schools. Teach Ag Day highlights the importance of agriculture education in our schools and communities. It is not just about learning how to farm. It is about understanding the science, technology, and business behind agriculture. I thank all of our agricultural educators across the country and the Commonwealth and in the 15th Congressional District. Their dedication and hard work are the foundation of our agricultural future, and the guidance that they provide prepares the next generation of farmers, producers, and ranchers. I always enjoy my meetings with FFA and 4-H students, and our conversations give me great hope in the direction of our agriculture community. Madam Speaker, in closing, I would like to, once again, thank all those involved in agricultural education and empowering our next generation of farmers.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 77th birthday of the United States Air Force. The United States Air Force was established on September 18, 1947, but its beginnings can be traced back to August 1, 1907, when the U.S. Army Signal Corps established a small aeronautical division to handle all matters pertaining to military ballooning, air machines, and related subjects. After the U.S. involvement in World War II, the evolution of battle made the need for an air-specified military branch evident. For the past 77 years, the Air Force has patrolled the skies, protecting citizens here and abroad. Our U.S. airmen embody strength, excellence, and innovation. Their unwavering dedication to our country is demonstrated by their ``Aim High . . . Fly-Fight-Win'' motto. I ask my fellow colleagues to join me in recognizing the sacrifice of our airmen, thanking those who serve today and honoring those who have served. Mr. Speaker, I hope you will join me in wishing our U.S. Air Force a happy 77th birthday.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, this week, we observe National Farm Safety and Health Week. I am honored to stand before you to recognize and celebrate the tremendous contributions of our Nation's farmers. Their dedication and hard work are the bedrock of our entire Nation. Food security, after all, is national security. As chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture, I have the privilege of working closely with those who lead in the agriculture industry. Over the past 1\1/2\ years, I have visited over 40 States and met with thousands of farmers. I have seen firsthand the challenges that they face, from unpredictable weather to fluctuating markets. I have also witnessed their relentless efforts to ensure the highest safety and quality standards for the food supply that reaches every corner of our country. Farmers are the lifeblood of our communities. They feed our families, sustain our rural economies, and contribute to the cultural fabric of our Nation. They work long hours, often under grueling conditions, to provide us with the abundance that we enjoy every day. Their commitment and resilience are nothing short of extraordinary. Yet, despite the vital role they play to make all of our lives easier, their work comes with significant risk. Farm life is inherently dangerous. The nature of their work involves heavy machinery, unpredictable livestock, and exposure to various environmental hazards, from extreme weather conditions to hazardous chemicals. No two grains of wheat are the same, and no two farms are the same, which means the challenges they face are all different. It is crucial we support our farmers with effective safety measures and robust support systems. That is why the farm bill, which we are working to bring to this floor, is so crucial. This legislation is not just another priority policy document. It is a testament to our commitment to improving the lives of those who work tirelessly to keep our Nation nourished. Our discussions on the farm bill have been focused on ensuring that it addresses the full spectrum of needs of our agricultural community. This bill represents our dedication to fostering a safer and healthier work environment for our farmers. Mr. Speaker, I ask my fellow colleagues to join me in extending our gratitude to every farmer, rancher, and producer across this great Nation during National Farm Safety and Health Week. Their tireless work, dedication, and unwavering commitment do not go unnoticed. We are profoundly grateful for all that they do.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize 150 years of the Centre County Grange Fair. For the past 150 years, Centre County has welcomed visitors from across the world to the Grange Fair. The Pennsylvania Grange Fair has served as a home away from home for families who stay in 1,000 tents and 1,500 recreational vehicles, plus those who visit on a daily basis. It is a testament to our unique and enduring spirit that the Grange Fair stands as the only remaining tenting fair in the Nation. This weeklong celebration encompasses the very best of our rural communities. From concerts to motorsports and craft shows to animal exhibits, the charm and nostalgia are everywhere. With more than 200,000 visitors coming to Centre County every year, attendees immerse themselves in the rich traditions the fair provides. Pennsylvania Grange is more than just a weeklong fair. It is a group dedicated to serving the community. The Grange Fair has members of all ages and represents 5,440 Pennsylvanians across the Commonwealth. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the Grange for its dedication to supporting rural America and all the volunteers for making 150 years of the Grange Fair possible.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, today marks the 23rd anniversary of the September 11 terror attacks, and I rise today to remember the innocent lives that we lost. At 8:46 a.m., American Airlines Flight 11 flew into Tower 1 of the World Trade Center. Not long after, Flight 175 roared over lower Manhattan into Tower 2. While Americans around the country were grappling with the events that just transpired, a third plane, Flight 77, crashed into the Pentagon. In southwest Pennsylvania, the fourth flight, United 93, was hijacked and made the abrupt turn toward Washington, D.C., but because of the brave passengers and crew members, it crashed into a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. In the days, weeks, months, and now more than two decades that followed September 11, our country joined together to face the very evil which attempted to take us down. We will forever be indebted to our servicemen and -women who joined the fight to protect our freedoms. While today's world has grown no less dangerous, we, as Americans, are resilient. We will never forget, not 23 years later, and not ever. May God continue to watch over our first responders, our men and women in uniform, and all of those who keep us safe.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Mansfield area Girl Scouts' centennial year. The first Mansfield area Girl Scout troop was founded 100 years ago in September of 1924. For the past century, the Mansfield Girl Scouts have played an instrumental role in the development of young women. The Girl Scouts are known for their emphasis on important values such as teamwork, integrity, and respect for others. These values foster an environment where girls can grow into strong, compassionate citizens. As co-chair of the Congressional Scouting Caucus and a Scoutmaster for the Boy Scouts, I deeply respect the Girl Scouts organization. The Mansfield area Girl Scouts have a rich history of accomplishments and service. In recent years these young women have raised thousands by selling their infamous Girl Scout cookies. Over the past 100 years, many Scouts from Mansfield have received a Gold Award, the highest achievement in Girl Scouts. Madam Speaker, I am confident that the Mansfield Girl Scouts are guiding these girls to become confident young women, and I congratulate them on 100 years of scouting.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Alpha Fire Company of Centre County, Pennsylvania. This year, the Alpha Fire Company is celebrating 125 years of dedicated emergency services to the State College community. In 1899, a group of volunteers recognized the need within their community to establish a fire company to protect and to serve the region. For the last 125 years, the Alpha Fire Company has remained steadfast in this commitment. In its early years, the Alpha Fire Company, originally Union Fire Company, used hand-drawn hose carts to fight fires in the few blocks of homes and buildings that surrounded the Pennsylvania State College campus, which had its own student-run volunteer fire company. Since its founding, the Alpha Fire Company has seen many changes as the community continues to grow. Still, they have continued to provide dedicated emergency services for the past 125 years. This fire company is entirely volunteer based and often includes multiple generations of firefighters. Mr. Speaker, this dedication is what keeps the Alpha Fire Company topnotch. Currently, there are 100 volunteers, and they handle the four primary municipalities it covers: State College Borough, College Township, Ferguson Township, and Patton Township. It also provides automatic aid to Halfmoon and Harris Townships. The men and women of Alpha Fire Company are more than just firefighters. They are our neighbors, our friends, and family members. These dedicated volunteers give their time and energy, often balancing demanding jobs and personal responsibilities, to ensure our safety. Their commitment to protecting lives and property is inspiring and deserves our deepest gratitude. The Alpha Fire Company is more than just a group of fire stations that protect and serve the State College region. It is truly an integral part of the community. Aside from their lifesaving efforts, these volunteer firefighters make the Centre Region a better place. Whether it be a Fourth of July carnival, a school demonstration, or aiding in a fundraiser, the men and women of the Alpha Fire Company embody the spirit of community service. Mr. Speaker, this is not the first time I have recognized the Alpha Fire Company on the House floor. In the fall of 2023, an all-woman crew bravely led the initial attack line in a three-alarm fire, making a historic milestone in our journey of service and dedication. Throughout its 125 years of dedicated service, the Alpha Fire Company has lost three brave men in the line of duty. Philip Foster, Larry Oberle, and Charles Zeigler selflessly laid down their lives to protect the community they called home. These heroes are not forgotten. The memorial honoring these fallen firefighters in the borough station will forever preserve their memory. In a time when resources are often stretched thin, volunteer firefighters fill the gap, ensuring that no call for help goes unanswered. They are trained professionals who bring their skills, courage, and compassion to the front lines, whether it is battling blazes, responding to accidents, or providing essential assistance for medical emergencies. Over the past 125 years, the Alpha Fire Company has grown and evolved, continually adapting to meet the needs of our community. They have embraced advancements in technology and training, ensuring their brave men and women are prepared to handle any emergency with professionalism and expertise. I know firsthand the dedication and passion volunteer firefighters have for protecting their communities. I am deeply grateful for the unwavering dedication and passion of the Alpha Fire Company's volunteer firefighters in protecting our neighborhoods. Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank Alpha Fire Company for their bravery, their service, and their commitment to our community and congratulate them on 125 years of service.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Pennsylvania State Representative Donna Oberlander's advocacy for the 63rd District and to congratulate her on her retirement. For the past 16 years, Rep. Oberlander has served Clarion and Armstrong Counties, advanced economic opportunities and preserved traditional values. Throughout her time in public service, Donna has made a lasting impact on our commonwealth. Her legislation, Act 130 of 2022, permitted pilot driverless testing programs, which have created thousands of jobs and contributed billions in investments. Her advocacy for Act 7 of 2020 has created safer outcomes for medically fragile newborns by regulating milk banks. Outside of her numerous legislative accomplishments, Rep. Oberlander is a dependable leader. In the Pennsylvania State House, Donna has served as Chairwoman for the House Tourism and Economic and Recreational Development Committee, Republican Whip, Republican Policy Chairman, and Caucus Secretary. Rep. Oberlander's impressive leadership speaks volumes. She was the first Republican woman to serve as both Republican Whip and Policy Chairman. Donna Oberlander is an impressive woman; I am fortunate to call her my friend. I thank her for her service to the people of Pennsylvania and wish her well in retirement.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor today as National Hire a Veteran Day. This day is crucial to the spirit and health of both America's veterans and our communities. Set aside to raise awareness of the unique skills and valuable abilities of servicemembers after military service, we must use this day to recognize the sacrifice and strength of our veterans. Qualities like dedication, determination, and tenacity are highly valuable in America's private and public sectors. These features are fostered during military service and can be helpful in nonmilitary employment. As 200,000 military members retire and become veterans each year, more and more qualified potential employees are eligible to join the greater American workforce. As we look to hire, let us not forget the sacrifices made by our servicemembers. Each and every one of them, having defended our great country, deserve the opportunity to create a unique and positive impact in the workforce. Their dedication, determination, and tenacity are not just skills but a testament to their commitment.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remember the life and legacy of Timothy Paul Dobos of Mill Hall, Pennsylvania. Tim Dobos died on July 11 after a courageous 10-year battle with ALS. He was just 36. Tim was a Marine Corps veteran. He worked as an electronic warfare analyst with the 2nd Radio Battalion, was deployed to Kuwait with the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit. In 2010, when earthquakes devastated Haiti, Tim assisted in relief efforts, earning him a Humanitarian Service Medal. Tim rose to the rank of lance corporal before being honorably discharged in 2012. In April 2014, Tim was diagnosed with ALS, but that diagnosis didn't slow him down. In 2018, Tim earned a degree in applied physics from Lock Haven University. I was fortunate enough to call Tim a friend. His contagious personality brought happiness to all who had the pleasure of knowing him. He lived a life dedicated to service and caring for others. I offer my deepest condolences to Tim's wife, Robyn, their sons, and his family. Knowing Tim was a blessing. Having him as a friend was a blessing, and may Tim's memory be a blessing to all.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Central Mountain High School's wins at the National Leadership and Skills Conference. Recently, Central Mountain High School students traveled to Atlanta, Georgia, to compete at the SkillsUSA's National Leadership and Skills Conference, where they achieved remarkable success. New alumna Sofia Dressler took home the national title in related technical math. Sofia is a gifted mathematician, already taking math courses at Commonwealth University in Lock Haven and has worked through calculus 3 up to number theory. Additionally, three Central Mountain High School rising seniors-- Ellen Banfill, Emily Everett, and Samantha Streator--placed eighth nationally in the community service competition. Their community service project centered around the Stop the Bleed national awareness campaign, aimed to equip their community with supplies and knowledge to provide immediate emergency care for life-threatening bleeding after a traumatic injury. These four young women have already demonstrated academic excellence and a strong sense of community. Congratulations to Sofia, Ellen, Emily, and Samantha on their achievements. Students like themselves are the future of this great Nation.