Glenn Thompson

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I thank my good friend from Butler, my colleague for hosting this Special Order this evening and for recognizing me. Tonight, we recognize Corey Comperatore's heroic actions, and we pay tribute to his lasting legacy. For three decades, Corey served the community as a Buffalo Township Fire Department firefighter. He was a brother firefighter. I had the privilege of just a few years ago sharing representation of Butler County with my good friend Mr. Kelly, and Buffalo Township was one of my municipalities that I served. Corey eventually rose to the rank of chief of his station. He constantly put his life on the line to protect his neighbors, responding to emergencies with courage and skill and unwavering commitment to safety. In the final moment of his life, his selfless courage was on full display. When gunshots were heard, he shielded the most precious people in his life: his wife and daughters. Corey Comperatore is a hero whose inspiring bravery will be remembered. Corey was a local leader, active church member, veteran, former fire chief, and most importantly a beloved father and husband. Having formerly represented parts of Butler County, it has been inspiring to hear how well-respected Corey was throughout his hometown and his home county. To Corey's family, we offer our deepest condolences. I cannot imagine the pain you are enduring, but please know you are not alone. Our Nation stands with you, united in our love and support, ready to offer comfort and strength during this challenging time. As we navigate the difficult days ahead, let us draw strength from each other in Corey's memory. Let us remember the importance of holding our loved ones close, telling them that we care, we love them, and living our lives with the same compassion, bravery, and warmth that Corey exhibited.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize July 20 as National Pennsylvania Day. Pennsylvania gained the nickname the ``Keystone State'' because Thomas Jefferson referred to the Commonwealth as a keystone of the Federal Union for our role in the establishment and further success of the United States. Our Commonwealth is where the Declaration of Independence was signed, our Constitution was written, and our flag was born. It also served as the first capital back in the early days of our Union. Pennsylvania is the site of famous battles, such as the battle of Valley Forge during the Revolutionary War and the battle of Gettysburg. In Pennsylvania, we are pioneers. We are proud to be home to the first hospital, superhighway, and commercial oil well, the Drake Well in my district. We are also proud to have invented the slinky, little league baseball, the steam engine, and bubble gum. Pennsylvania is also a beacon of education and innovation, home to prestigious universities and research institutions that drive advancements in science, medicine, and technology. Throughout history, from our steel and coal mines to our farms and forests, Pennsylvania has led the way with an inspiring work ethic. As a lifelong Pennsylvanian, I am proud of all that we have done and look forward to our future. I am proud to represent nearly one-third of the land mass of our great Commonwealth. Mr. Speaker, I wish a happy Pennsylvania day to all Pennsylvanians.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak about the Nation's 250th anniversary, which we will celebrate in 2026. As we prepare for this momentous occasion, I am proud to have joined more than 100 of my colleagues on both sides of the aisle on the America250 Caucus. This caucus has been instrumental in helping guide and shape this celebration. As part of the work on this caucus, I was proud to recently cosponsor legislation with my Pennsylvania colleagues, Congressman Brendan Boyle and Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon, to authorize a joint commemorative session of Congress on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at Independence National Historical Park in Philadelphia to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. This would only be the third time since 1800 that a session of Congress would be held outside of Washington, D.C. Now that we are officially less than 2 years away from this celebration, I urge my colleagues to join the America250 Caucus and help support these efforts.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize three outstanding young people from Venango County, Pennsylvania, who competed in the first-ever Belted Galloway Junior Nationals event at the Medina County Fairgrounds in Medina, Ohio. The Belted Galloway is a traditional Scottish breed of beef cattle. The Buckeye Battle of the Belts took place June 26 through June 30. I proudly recognize these livestock enthusiasts from Venango County: Mark Snyder, 18, of Titusville, won the grand champion overall pure breed Belted Galloway bull, fourth overall intermediate sales talk, third intermediate team fitting, reserve grand champion overall purebred Belted Galloway heifer, and two class winners Belted Galloway heifer. Coltin Cross, 16, of Rockland, won Belted Galloway class winner heifer, third intermediate overall cattlemen's quiz, third immediate team fitting, and 10th overall intermediate points. Marie Schwab, 13, of Oil City, won third junior public speaking, fifth junior sales talk, reserve team fitting, fourth junior judging contest, seventh overall junior points, champion Belted Galloway immediate heifer, champion Belted Galloway prospect steer, champion overall purebred Belted Galloway steer. Mr. Speaker, I am so impressed with these young people. The Belted Galloway Junior Nationals provide a platform for youths aged 18 to 21 to showcase their skills, dedication, and passion for agriculture. I congratulate them all.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize 28 individuals from the Pennsylvania 15th Congressional District who have received prestigious Fulbright awards during the 2022-2023 school year and the 2023-2024 school year. Congress established the Fulbright Program in 1946. It promotes friendly and peaceful relations between Americans and people of other countries through international educational exchange. Each year, more than 3,000 U.S. students, scholars, artists, and professionals in more than 100 different fields of study are offered Fulbright Program grants to lecture, study, teach English, and conduct research. We proudly have Fulbright participants from Bradford, Duboistown, Lewisburg, Port Matilda, Selinsgrove, and State College, Pennsylvania. These recipients have earned their national recognition with years of study, leadership, and service, and our community is proud. Mr. Speaker, the Fulbright Program is one of the most sought-after exchange programs in the world. It encourages applications from individuals of academic and professional achievement who are current and future leaders in their respective fields. Selected through open, merit-based competition, Fulbrighters represent the excellence and diversity of their societies around the world and in the United States. They make an impact in all areas, including the environment, public service, technology, public health, and the arts. They study and teach in high-priority areas such as mental health, opioid addiction, cybersecurity, and military preparedness. Since 1946, more than 400,000 individuals from the United States and over 160 countries and territories have participated in the program, including 42 heads of state, 62 Nobel laureates, 89 Pulitzer Prize winners, 80 MacArthur Foundation fellows, and 16 Presidential Medal of Freedom recipients. These relationships form a foundation of trust on which the United States may advance global peace and security. I know that the memorable learning experiences individuals encounter through the program will never be forgotten. Mr. Speaker, I thank all of our Fulbrighters, especially the 28 from Pennsylvania's 15th Congressional District. We are grateful for their contributions and most proud of their achievements.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize July as Park and Recreation Month. It is a fitting month to celebrate, as many Americans visit our Federal, State, and local public parks and recreation systems this summer. As a lifelong resident of rural Pennsylvania, an avid outdoorsman, and a former recreational therapist, I strongly support our Nation's parks and recreation facilities. Our parks provide countless recreational and educational opportunities for individuals and families to enjoy the outdoors. This month recognizes the important role these parks and public facilities play in the lives of Americans and the contributions of employees who work every day to maintain public parks across the Nation. Our parks create opportunities for people to come together and experience a sense of community. They contribute to local economies by attracting businesses, jobs, and increasing housing values. Ninety percent of people in the United States agree that public park recreation facilities and activities are important government services. This support spans across all people in the country regardless of race, income, or political affiliation. Nearly 75 percent of Americans agree it is important to ensure all members of their community have equitable access to public parks and recreation facilities. In the United States, local public park and recreation agencies generated nearly $201 billion in economic activity and supported almost 1.1 million jobs. The most economically sound areas are those with ample public park and recreation facilities and activities. A key factor in business expansion and location decisions is the quality of life for employees, with a premium placed on adequate and accessible public parks and open space. Mr. Speaker, public parks and recreational facilities foster a variety of activities that contribute to a healthier society. Americans living within a 10-minute walk of a park have higher levels of physical activity and lower rates of obesity. People who use public parks and open spaces are three times more likely to achieve the recommended levels of physical activity than nonusers. Recreation programs at public parks provide children with a safe place to play, access to healthy foods, opportunities to be physically active, and enrichment facilities that help prevent at-risk behavior such as drug use and gang involvement. Over the summer, many Americans will visit public parks and recreation facilities to spend time outdoors with family, friends, and neighbors. We are blessed with beautiful outdoor facilities. It is my hope that all Americans get out and enjoy the parks in their areas.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding performance of Central Mountain High School's David Lindsay. He recently repeated as the State champion in the PA Class 3A tennis singles championship. It takes great skill, tenacity, and determination to be named the champion at this level 2 years in a row. On May 26 at the Hershey Racquet Club, David completed a back-to-back sweep of the 3A singles championship bracket. He won 6-2 in the final match and remained the best singles player across the Commonwealth. Madam Speaker, this is an incredible accomplishment for David and the Wildcats. I am proud of the team and David for their monumental season and dedication to the sport. I look forward to seeing what the future holds for David. Congratulations to David for being the best in the Commonwealth and making the community proud.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Clinton County's Camp Cadet program. Emergency first responder positions are in-demand jobs, and this camp mimics the disciplined atmosphere at a police academy. Participants are exposed to various detectives, police officers, rescuers, emergency medical technicians, and other emergency first responders. They will engage with the participants and teach them valuable skills such as CPR. The kids learn how to march in step under command and do so to and from the various venues during the week. The Clinton County District Attorney's Office creates a mock crime scene, which is explained by detectives who also go over investigative techniques. This year, approximately 58 kids between the ages of 11 and 15 are participating in the Camp Cadet program at Commonwealth University--Lock Haven. There will also be a 1-day program called the Lacy Day Camp, which is free to special needs kids who want to participate. Mr. Speaker, I thank all the volunteers and departments who made this camp possible. They provide an opportunity to teach our young community members that law enforcement are their friends.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the extraordinary achievements of DuBois Central Catholic High School's softball team on their first-ever State championship victory. On June 13, at Penn State's Medlar Field at Lubrano Park, this team made history by winning the school's first-ever PIAA single A crown State championship, defeating Carmichaels High School 2-0. DuBois Central completed its season with an outstanding 21-2 record. Marina Hanes put DuBois Central Catholic on the board in the fifth inning with a line double to left field. At the top of the sixth, her teammate, Melia Mitskavich, added another run to seal the deal for DCC. Mr. Speaker, this is a historic win for the Cardinals as it is their first State championship victory in program history. I am incredibly proud of the team and Coach Heigel for their heroic season. I congratulate the DCC Cardinals on this impressive victory.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Chair, I thank the chairman for his leadership with this bill. Mr. Chair, I rise today in support of this en bloc, which includes an amendment that I was proud to introduce. Amendment No. 168 will restore funding for the APEX Accelerator program to the fiscal year `24 enacted level. APEX accelerators provide individualized, no-cost assistance and training for businesses to identify and compete for defense and other government contracts. With 97 APEX accelerators across all 50 States, this program serves as the access for existing and new businesses to strengthen the defense industrial base by accelerating innovation, fostering ingenuity, and bolstering supply chains. The success of the APEX Accelerator program speaks for itself. In 2023 alone, APEX accelerators counseled more than 62,000 businesses that received more than $28 billion in contracts. Our Nation faces unprecedented national security challenges. We must continue to invest in our small businesses to spur innovation, strengthen a resilient supply chain, and diversify our industrial base. Mr. Chair, I urge my colleagues to support this en bloc.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the extraordinary artistic ability of Emma Zacherl, a freshman at Clarion-Limestone High School and winner of Pennsylvania's 15th Congressional District Art Competition. The Congressional Art Competition began in 1982 to provide an opportunity for Members of Congress to encourage and recognize the artistic talents of their young constituents. Since then, more than 650,000 high school students have participated in the nationwide competition. This year my office received a record 125 submissions for the competition. Ms. Zacherl's artwork will be displayed in a special exhibit in the U.S. Capitol for 1 year with winners from each congressional district in the Nation. Thousands of visitors, guests, and Members of Congress will have the opportunity to see her artwork every day. Emma won for her water-mixable oil painting of her dog, titled: Good Boy, Archie. Her artwork blew me away, and I am glad that I can welcome her to Washington, D.C., to celebrate this accomplishment today. Madam Speaker, I congratulate all the students that participated in this year's Congressional Art Competition and to Emma for being an amazing example of the talent in Pennsylvania's 15th Congressional District.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today as a proud descendant of dairy farmers to honor National Dairy Month. As the first chairman of the House Agriculture Committee from Pennsylvania in nearly 170 years, I know the importance of America's dairy industry. Our Commonwealth is home to more than 5,000 dairy farms with more than 470,000 cows. We produce nearly 10 billion pounds of milk each year and for every cow, we generate $24,000 in economic revenue. The American dairy industry is an economic powerhouse, home to nearly 10 million dairy cows, supporting over 3 million jobs, and generating nearly $42 billion in direct wages. America's dairy farmers produce more than 200 billion pounds of milk each year, ensuring that there is a consistent and reliable supply of essential nutrients. However, the story of American dairy goes deeper than just statistics and numbers. It is a story of family farms and hardworking producers. Dairy producers work tirelessly every day of the year to provide nutritious products for consumers here and around the world. American dairy is a robust and dynamic sector that supports our economy, nourishes our population, and embodies the values of hard work and determination. Mr. Speaker, I thank all of our dairy farmers and producers across the Commonwealth and around the country.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today and am incredibly proud to recognize the outstanding achievement of the Bald Eagle Area High School baseball team. On June 13 at Penn State's Medlar Field at Lubrano Park, this team recaptured the PIAA crown after defeating Tri-Valley 11-3. BEA completed its season with an impressive 25-2 record. Before the State tournament, BEA was ranked as the Commonwealth's top high school baseball team, regardless of classification. After a rough first inning, BEA, led by star pitcher Weston McClain, shifted the momentum in their favor. Third baseman Carson Nagle was able to capitalize on the momentum shift with two hits, two runs, and an RBI. Mr. Speaker, as a graduate of Bald Eagle Area High School, I congratulate the team and Coach Gardner on their hard work and impressive season. The team exceeded lofty expectations while proudly representing the 15th District of Pennsylvania. Congratulations, again, on this outstanding season. Go Eagles.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Susquehanna Regional EMS/UPMC in north central Pennsylvania's prehospital team, on being selected as the 2024 Pennsylvania Agency of the Year by the Pennsylvania Emergency Health Services Council. In their tireless efforts, Susquehanna Regional EMS responded to a staggering number of approximately 20,000 calls in 2023, including 911 emergencies and nonemergent interfacility transfers. Their commitment to community benefit support was equally impressive, with over 13,000 hours dedicated to events such as the Little League World Series, Williamsport's Fourth of July celebration, and Lycoming County Fair. Susquehanna Regional EMS educates providers and the public with programs like UPMC's Minutes Matter and Stop the Bleed. Through a partnership with Susquehanna Health Foundation, 100 AEDs, 100 bleed- control kits, and 100 packages of Narcan have been donated to our community. Every minute counts in a medical emergency. Susquehanna Regional EMS' daily work has saved countless lives throughout Pennsylvania's 15th Congressional District. On behalf of a grateful community, I thank them for their service to our community, and I congratulate them on this well-deserved award.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 80th anniversary of the Allied D-Day invasion of France. Last week, we recognized the solemn anniversary and honored the bravery of our Armed Forces who served in that operation. On June 6, 80 years ago, thousands of America's bravest soldiers fought to protect the freedoms, liberties, and rights of those back home. Sadly, the United States lost more than 6,000 soldiers that day. Ultimately, we would lose thousands of brave servicemembers in the coming weeks and months liberating the rest of Western Europe from German control. Marking a crucial turning point in World War II, the Allied forces joined together to storm the beaches of Normandy. These patriots conquered their fears of what lie ahead in battle, showcasing sheer bravery while facing the dangerous unknown. In an operation that would quickly turn the tide of the war and rally men across nations, American soldiers made sacrifices, leaving permanent marks on the war-torn terrain, on their families, and on our hearts. Mr. Speaker, in 2018, I had the privilege of attending the wreath- laying ceremony at Normandy American Cemetery in France. I am forever humbled and grateful for the opportunity to travel to those beaches that our brave men stormed so many years ago. Looking out and seeing the white crosses, brothers buried next to brothers, fathers buried next to sons, it is a reminder that our freedom isn't free. The memorial serves as a constant reminder that the United States will fight and die to protect the freedoms of not just American citizens, but for those around the globe. We are eternally grateful for this devotion to duty and devotion to country. I recognize members of the Pennsylvania 15th Congressional District who stormed the beaches of Normandy. Our community has a long history of strong military service across many years of service, and, today, I name just a few. From Bradford, McKean County, Elmer DeLucia, who served in the 81st Chemical Mortar Battalion. He landed on Omaha Beach on D-Day, June 6, 1944, and was involved in four more battles in northern France, the Battle of the Bulge, the Rhineland, and Central Europe. Mr. DeLucia passed away at the age of 99 in 2022. He spent the years after returning home speaking often about his service, wanting to share his firsthand knowledge, especially with school children. Mr. Speaker, I also recognize the members of our community who gave their lives during the D-Day battle. There were 347 Pennsylvanians who were killed in action. They gave their lives defending our freedoms. Of those men, 31 grew up across the 15th Congressional District. May we always remember their sacrifices. Mr. Speaker, let us take a moment to remember and honor those who sacrificed so much for so many and celebrate the heroism of the servicemembers nationwide. For the good of the many, so gave the few. It is these few we acknowledge today, and let us honor their heroism. Let us always speak with pride of D-Day, of our troops, and of our victory. God bless America.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Chris and Jenni McCracken from Clinton County, as their business, Pine Creek Seed Farm, was honored as the Eastern Pennsylvania Family-Owned Small Business of the Year for 2024 by the U.S. Small Business Administration's Eastern Pennsylvania District Office. Pine Creek Seed Farm stands out with its comprehensive range of seed processing, mixing and blending, and distribution services. These services are uniquely tailored to customer specifications to ensure the delivery of high-quality seed at every stage in the distribution chain. Family-owned small businesses like Pine Creek Seed Farm are the cornerstone of communities throughout Pennsylvania's 15th Congressional District and play a central role in building a strong community, Commonwealth, and country. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Pine Creek Seed Farm on receiving this well-deserved award and thank them for their contribution to our community and to rural America. It is my honor to represent family-owned small businesses such as Pine Creek Seed Farm in the Halls of Congress as the chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today ahead of June 14 to celebrate the United States Army's 249th birthday. Every year, just a few days after Memorial Day, our country celebrates the Army's birthday. This marks the anniversary in 1775 when the Continental Congress authorized the enlistment of riflemen to serve the United Colonies for 1 year. The Army is the oldest and largest branch of the U.S. military and has played a vital role in the country's development since its establishment. Without the brave men who enlisted 249 years ago, we would not be the great Nation that we are today. I will also say, without the great men and women who enlist today in the United States Army, we would not continue to be a great Nation. Madam Speaker, I am a proud Army dad, and, in Congress, I continue to support legislation that bolsters our Nation's defense and invests in our military members and their families. Happy birthday, Army.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 10 Pennsylvania 4-H members who recently participated in the 4-H National Conference. I am especially proud to say that, out of the 10 students from Pennsylvania, 2 of them were from my district, PA-15. I congratulate Mara Ours of McKean County and Jaylene Everhart of Centre County for participating in this national conference. 4-H is a youth development program under the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The program's main goal is to educate our Nation's youth and to help them develop knowledge and skills to be caring and contributing citizens. As chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, I am thrilled to see USDA's effort to bring youth voice to a high-level government discussions. During the national conference, 4-H members ages 15 to 19 participated in roundtable discussions on pressing national topics. After a few days of brainstorming and preparation, the youth presented their ideas to the USDA. I congratulate all of them on their hard work, and I wish them the best of luck in their future endeavors.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize National Trail Day and the amazing trails across my district. The Pine Creek Rail Trail, located in Lycoming and Tioga Counties, is held as one of the 10 best places to take a bike tour. The Allegheny River and Samuel Justus Trails pass through Clarion and Venango Counties and run through the heart of the Oil Heritage Region. The Great Shamokin Path was once the route used by Native American Tribes and is in Armstrong County. The Redbank Valley Rail Trail was named the Pennsylvania Trail of the Year in 2020 and crosses through Armstrong, Clarion, and Jefferson Counties. Traversing Clarion, Elk, Forest, and McKean Counties is the Knox and Kane Rail Trail. This 74-mile trail is full of scenic trailways in and around the Kinzua Bridge State Park to Clarion Junction. In McKean County, part of the Knox and Kane Rail Trail is the Mount Jewett to Kinzua Bridge Trail, which was recently awarded Pennsylvania Trail of the Year in 2023. Mr. Speaker, this National Trail Day, I encourage you to get outside and explore the trails in your area.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the remarkable life of Patrick Gottsch, the founder of the Rural Media Group, Inc., the parent company to RFD-TV and a fixture in rural America. The programs broadcast are an essential tool to all who work in agriculture and live in rural America. Patrick dedicated his life to building an ever-present rural television network, one that made sure that the countryside was informed and one that could showcase the best of American agriculture. As a lifelong supporter of cowboys and cowgirls, he brought the sport to households all over the world through The Cowboy Channel. Reading the memories put forth by Patrick's family, colleagues, and friends shows just how much he was cherished and just how much he loved what he did. I join all in the agriculture and cowboy community in wishing peace to all who knew Patrick. I am honored to have met him and to have spent time with him at The Cowboy Channel, and I am honored today to spend time talking about him this morning. May we always remember Patrick and his zest for life. Madam Speaker, please join me in keeping Patrick's family and friends in your prayers.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize National Fishing and Boating Week. As an avid outdoorsman, this week recognizes a favorite pastime of so many: fishing and boating. Pennsylvania, and specifically Pennsylvania's 15th District, is blessed with hundreds of rivers and lakes and streams for any angler or boater to enjoy. Whether you are casting a line in hopes of landing a brook trout or enjoying a sunset cruise, our navigable waterways have so much to offer. During this week, let us ensure our future generations can experience the joy of fishing and boating. Let us also recognize the economic impact of this industry, supporting local businesses and communities that rely on them for their livelihoods. Madam Speaker, as the warm weather continues to drive us to our waterways, it is also important to remember the necessary safety tips when enjoying a day on the water. Always remember to wear your life jacket and be sure to monitor the weather and water conditions. Enjoy all our waterways have to offer this National Fishing and Boating Week.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Madam Speaker, America's farm families work around the clock to feed, fuel, and clothe our Nation and the world, yet their livelihoods are often at the mercy of unpredictable forces beyond their control. Since the last farm bill was passed in 2018, producers have faced record inflation, rising input costs, fractured supply chains, labor shortages, natural disasters, and more. Our current safety net is tattered, and our farmers have been bearing the burden of these challenges alone, risking the viability of their operations. The 2024 farm bill is the opportunity to implement significant changes to the farm safety net, equipping our farmers to meet their needs. A robust farm safety net provides stability to our producers to ensure farmers can continue operations in uncertain times. A stable, reliable food supply is essential for ensuring national security. The importance of our agriculture industry cannot be overstated. By investing in our farmers and strengthening the safety net, we can ensure that America and American families remain food secure.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Chairman, I yield to the gentlewoman for the purpose of a colloquy.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Chairman, the gentlewoman's understanding of the legislation is correct. The intent of FIT21 is to draw jurisdictional lines between the SEC and the CFTC as it relates to certain spot digital asset transactions.

Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of H.R. 4763, the Financial Innovation and Technology for the 21st Century Act, or FIT21, which establishes a regulatory framework for digital assets while protecting consumers and fostering innovation within the United States. This legislation has been a long time coming. Since 2018, the House Committee on Agriculture has held numerous hearings, roundtables, and meetings and introduced multiple pieces of legislation to bring certainty and clarity to the digital asset markets. For Congress to establish a comprehensive digital assets market framework, it was clear the House Committee on Agriculture and the House Committee on Financial Services needed to work in a collaborative manner. Chairman McHenry and I first met nearly 2 years ago to discuss this ambitious plan, and together, we aimed to develop the best policies possible. Over this Congress, members of both committees have engaged in robust and collaborative debates and educational sessions on current securities and commodities laws and regulations, as well as gaining a deeper understanding of the digital asset ecosystem. Through this process, we learned several key points, including: that the current process to determine if a digital asset is a security or not is unclear, unworkable, and impractical; the Commodity Futures Trading Commission lacks essential regulatory authority over retail- serving intermediaries in the digital commodity spot market; and the treatment of customer assets held by intermediaries needs to be strengthened. Mr. Chairman, my colleagues on the other side of the aisle have claimed that this bill will allow a substantial portion of crypto and some traditional securities to escape nearly all laws and regulations, operating without any primary regulator. That is far from the truth. The legislation before us today enhances existing securities and commodities regulations to create an appropriate framework for digital assets. For example, a registered digital commodity exchange would follow regulations similar to those of the CFTC for derivatives exchanges, including monitoring trading activity, prohibiting abusive practices, reporting trading information, managing conflicts of interest, ensuring governance standards, upholding cybersecurity, and more. Mr. Chairman, Congress has a historic opportunity to enact legislation that not only protects consumers but also ensures that the United States remains at the forefront of technical innovation. By supporting FIT21, we can foster and create a safer, more transparent, and more competitive environment for digital assets. Let us seize this moment to provide clear guidelines and robust protections, fostering a future where innovation can thrive responsibly within our borders. Mr. Chairman, I urge all of my colleagues to support this bill. Mr. Chairman, I understand that the gentlewoman from Washington State, the chair of the Energy and Commerce Committee, has a few questions for clarification.