Derek Tran

Mr. TRAN

Mr. TRAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Mr. Oscar Gutierrez, who passed away on June 3, 2026, surrounded by his family and loved ones. Oscar was a devoted husband and father, a distinguished attorney, and a cherished friend whose life was defined by service, integrity, and compassion. Mr. Gutierrez was born on November 13, 1983, in Glendale, California. He earned his bachelor's degree in communications from the University of Southern California before receiving his Juris Doctor from Pepperdine Caruso School of Law. He went on to build an exceptional career as a personal injury attorney, earning the respect of colleagues and clients alike through his skill, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to justice. Throughout his career, he fought tirelessly for those in need of a voice, while also mentoring aspiring attorneys and strengthening the legal profession through leadership, service, and an enduring dedication to the rule of law. Yet, of all his accomplishments, Oscar took the greatest pride in being a loving husband and father. His greatest legacy lives on through his family, the countless lives he touched, and the example he set by leading with kindness, humility, and purpose. Mr. Gutierrez is survived by his beloved wife, Breanna, and their two children, Roman and Bianca. As we remember his remarkable life, may we also honor his enduring commitment to justice, his compassion for others, and the lasting impact he made on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Mr. TRAN

Mr. TRAN. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of this en bloc package of bipartisan amendments that includes my amendment, Tran No. 65, which supports the annual U.S.-Vietnam Human Rights Dialogue and reaffirms Congress' commitment to advancing fundamental freedoms and human rights in the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. As the United States continues to deepen its engagement with Vietnam, human rights must remain central to the bilateral relationship. The Vietnamese Government continues to restrict freedom of speech, freedom of the press, and peaceful political expression. Independent journalists like Le Huu Minh Tuan, human rights activists, religious leaders, and ordinary citizens face harassment, arbitrary detention, and imprisonment simply for exercising their basic rights. A stronger economic and security partnership between our two nations cannot come at the expense of the democratic values and universal freedoms that the United States has long championed. My amendment supports a critical diplomatic tool to press the Vietnamese Government on these concerns, including the immediate release of prisoners of conscience. Mr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues to support these amendments en bloc.

Mr. TRAN

Mr. TRAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank the first responders who have worked tirelessly to respond to the hazmat crisis at the GKN Aerospace plant in Garden Grove. Over Memorial Day weekend, our firefighters, police officers, and other emergency personnel worked around the clock to keep our community safe. They quickly evacuated over 50,000 residents and businesses who could have been injured by a major explosion. At the beginning of the crisis, our emergency officials were told that there were only two options: a disastrous explosion or a catastrophic leak. But to our public safety heroes, that was unacceptable, and they accomplished what was initially thought impossible. They neutralized the tank and got our neighbors back in their homes without any dangerous chemicals leaking into our water or air. I especially thank Orange County Fire Authority Division Chief and Incident Commander Craig Covey, Fire Chief TJ McGovern, Garden Grove Police Chief Amir El-Farra, and Orange County Health Officer Dr. Regina Chinsio-Kwong. Their leadership was instrumental in mitigating this crisis, and their communication to my office and my constituents was instrumental in keeping our community safe. The evacuation was lifted last week, the incident has transitioned out of the emergency response phase, but we still need more. While our community avoided catastrophic physical damage, 50,000 residents and 5,000 small businesses still face major hardship. Families had to spend their emergency funds on unplanned hotel stays, extra grocery runs, and extra supplies and medication. Businesses lost multiple days of critical revenue over a holiday weekend. People who worked in the evacuation zone missed out on multiple days of wages because their workplace was forced to shut down. We need to make them whole. I have called on the Small Business Administration to issue its own disaster declaration to open Federal resources for small businesses, and I am calling on GKN Aerospace to compensate the families and small businesses who have lost money because of their crisis. GKN leadership informed me last night that they are establishing a $3 million fund through United Way to provide relief for those with the greatest financial need. While this decision is a necessary acknowledgment that they have broken faith with our community, it is insufficient. Every family and small business that was displaced or shut down during this crisis deserves full compensation. I expressed that, and this is nonnegotiable. It is not enough to just cut checks for the damage already done. We need to make sure that a crisis like this can never happen again. Today, I am advancing legislation to ensure that defense contractors notify the community they operate in of any hazardous chemicals that put residents at risk. Beyond that, companies must submit to regular third-party audits of their safety practices. Industries must invest in the most advanced, safest technologies that mitigate the risks of a major accident. Orange County was lucky. We had no deaths and no injuries, but the events in Longview, Washington, remind us of how devastating the worst- case scenario can be. As my community was picking up the pieces of our hazmat disaster in Garden Grove, we heard the terrible news from the Nippon Dynawave Packaging Company: 11 people perished in a chemical explosion. My prayers are with the families, and I join their community in the cause for justice and accountability. In Orange County, the worst is over for now, but our community is still reeling. We need answers. We need accountability. We need justice. I am not going to stop fighting until my community gets the recourse they deserve.

Mr. TRAN

Mr. TRAN. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to introduce a resolution to formally recognize April 30, 2026, as the 51st anniversary of Black April or Thang Tu Den. For the Vietnamese diaspora, April 30, 1975, is not just not a solemn day in our history. It is a reminder of the day we lost everything--our homes, our livelihoods and our beloved country. We honor the members of the South Vietnamese military who fought alongside American and Allied forces, risking everything to defend democracy. My own parents escaped brutal repression by the Communist government and fled to the United States seeking the freedom that had been ripped away from them. Amidst the darkness of war, our culture, our grit, and our resilience have spread across the world. As the first Vietnamese American to represent Orange County's Little Saigon in Congress, I am proud to share our story on the floor of the House of Representatives to ensure that no Communist regime can rewrite our history.

Mr. TRAN

Mr. TRAN. Madam Speaker, I thank the gentleman from Colorado for yielding. Madam Speaker, the Department of Homeland Security has been shut down for 66 days, the longest shutdown in history. Yet, this shutdown is solely the choice of the House majority, my Republican colleagues. Madam Speaker, 1 month ago, the Senate passed a bill that funded TSA agents responsible for security at our airports, the cybersecurity officers who protect us from online threats, the servicemembers in our Coast Guard, and FEMA disaster assistance as we get closer to hurricane and wildfire seasons. This bill will also give us time to continue negotiating much-needed reforms to ICE and border protection. Americans from New York to Minneapolis to L.A. have watched as their neighbors have been wrongly arrested, beaten, and even killed in broad daylight. ICE agents need to be held accountable and focus on deporting violent criminals, not creating terror in our schools, hospitals, or our places of worship. While the Senate continues to make progress, my Republican colleagues have been sitting on their hands, ignoring the fears and suffering of our constituents. How does that even serve the American people? Being stubborn in the face of terror does not serve the American people. It is past time for this body to take action to fund our public safety infrastructure and get back to work for the people. Let's pass this DHS funding bill, and I urge all of my colleagues to defeat the previous question so that we can bring it to the floor.

Mr. TRAN

Mr. TRAN. Mr. Speaker, it is with solemn remembrance that I rise today to pay tribute to a renowned commander, distinguished veteran, and principled hero, Colonel Phan Van HuMn of the Army of the Republic of Vietnam. Colonel HuMn, a fixture in the Orange County Vietnamese American community, passed away on March 10, 2026, in Santa Ana, California at the age of 96. Colonel Phan Van HuMn was born in 1930 in Thura Thien, HuI, Vietnam. On October 1, 1953, following a national mobilization order, he enlisted in the military and attended Class 10 at the Vietnam National Military Academy in Da LAt. Following his graduation, he quickly established himself as a capable leader, eventually becoming commander of the 81st Airborne Ranger Group (Lien Doan 81 Bist Kich Nhay Du). The 81st Airborne Ranger Group was one of the Republic of Vietnam's elite special operations formations, and specialized in small-team airborne insertions, reconnaissance, intelligence gathering, and deep- penetration missions behind enemy lines. During Colonel HuMn's time as commander, the 81st Airborne Ranger Group earned a reputation as one of the most effective fighting units of the South Vietnamese military. The unit played important roles in several major campaigns, including the 1968 Tet Offensive, and at both An Lrc and QuVng TrG during the North Vietnam's 1972 Easter Offensive. Colonel HuMn's courageous leadership at the siege of An Lrc earned him a promotion to the distinguished rank of Colonel. Colonel HuMn was widely respected as an honest and principled officer who simultaneously placed great importance on discipline while caring deeply about the welfare of his soldiers. He was known for paying close attention to his soldiers' living conditions, morale, and recovery after combat operations, and it was his dedication that allowed the 81st Airborne Ranger Group to become known as a highly capable and battle-hardened unit. In 1975, when President DUTng Van Minh ordered the South Vietnamese Armed Forces to surrender, Colonel HuMn remained with his soldiers and was imprisoned for 13 years in hard-labor reeducation camps in Northern Vietnam. In 1988, he was released from prison in poor health due to the harsh conditions of imprisonment and lingering wounds from his military service. For the next four years, Colonel HuMn and his family lived in hardship in Ap TMn Thai STn near TMn Phu, TMn Binh District, before resettling in the United States under the Humanitarian Operation program in 1992. Colonel Phan Van HuMn is survived by his wife, Le Thi Thanh Nguyet, and their children, Dinh Van Phan, Andy Loc Phan, Son Van Phan, My Van Phan, Kevin Phan, Mimi Phan, Ann Phan, and Kristin Thuy Phan. Colonel HuMn's life remains a testament to dedication, sacrifice, and leadership in the service of his country. He will be dearly missed by his friends and family, and his legacy and service will continue to live on in the minds of everyone who has met him.

Mr. TRAN

Mr. TRAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Saigon Broadcasting Television Network, otherwise known as SBTN. SBTN, the first 24-hour Vietnamese-language television channel specifically for overseas audiences, provides premier news coverage and entertainment programs to millions of Vietnamese people abroad. For 25 years, SBTN has served as an example of the importance of a free press and the strength of the Vietnamese diaspora community. Headquartered in Garden Grove, California, SBTN was founded in 2001 by Truc Ho4, a Vietnamese American musician, producer, and human-rights advocate. The network provided programming for the rapidly growing Vietnamese community in the United States, and it soon established itself in Southern California before spreading to cities such as Boston, Dallas, and Washington, D.C. This growth eventually led SBTN to expand internationally, becoming one of the primary television networks for Vietnamese audiences living outside Vietnam. Today, SBTN offers both original programming and acquired content, including news, dramas, movies, documentaries, variety shows, music, talk shows, kids' programming, and more. What sets SBTN apart is its staunch support for free expression and democratic values. Since the network's founding, it has stood as a counter-narrative to the Socialist Republic of Vietnam's state-run media, refusing to air programs produced under the communist government's control. Rather than allow Vietnamese media to be dominated by an oppressive regime, SBTN has reported on human rights abuses and political dissent, providing critical coverage to millions of its international Vietnamese viewers. The network's belief system is deeply rooted in the experiences of the Vietnamese diaspora, as much of its original audience and leadership fled persecution from communist Vietnam in search of freedom and democracy. Amid ongoing repression and censorship by the Communist Party of Vietnam, SBTN remains essential in delivering trusted, independent reporting to Vietnamese-speaking audiences around the world. I am thrilled to represent such an exemplary television network in my district, especially one whose accomplishments are so dear to my family's own experiences. The network's commitment to providing dependable news, preserving the Vietnamese language and culture, and enriching the lives and experiences of the Vietnamese community is commendable. I congratulate SBTN on its 25th anniversary and continue to be grateful for its invaluable service to our Nation.

Mr. TRAN

Mr. TRAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in celebration of Tet, the Vietnamese lunar new year. The lunar new year is so much more than a date on the calendar. It is an opportunity for the Asian-American communities in California and across America to reflect on our past and to open our hearts to the promise of the future. I grew up as a child of Vietnamese refugees. My family gave up everything to rebuild their lives in America after fleeing communist oppression. They worked tirelessly to achieve the freedom and prosperity that the American Dream offers us. I couldn't be prouder to honor my heritage from the floor of the House of Representatives. Mr. Speaker, I extend my warmest wishes to everyone in our community for a joyful and prosperous Year of the Horse. ``Happy New Year''; ``Chuc Mung Nam Moi.''

Mr. TRAN

Mr. TRAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today in strong support of H.R. 5788, the 504 Program Risk Oversight Act, bipartisan legislation that strengthens one of SBA's most successful financing programs. For decades, the SBA's 504 loan program has been a cornerstone of economic development in communities across America. Through public and private partnership with certified development companies, the 504 program helps small businesses to grow, create jobs, and invest in their communities. Since its inception in 1986, the program has provided approximately $400 billion in total project financing and created over 3.3 million jobs. In California alone, that translates to $95 billion in total capital and the creation of over 715,000 good-paying jobs. For entrepreneurs in California's 45th District and across the Nation, the 504 loan program's unique model provides them with access to long-term, fixed-rate financing to help them to expand operations, purchase property, and make lasting investments in their local economy. In Orange County and Los Angeles County alone, the 504 program has injected more than $27 billion into local businesses and helped to create over 175,000 jobs over the last 25 years. My bipartisan bill, the 504 Program Risk Oversight Act, builds on that success by ensuring that all partners--the SBA, Congress, and industry--have access to clear, consistent, and transparent data about the health of the program. Currently, SBA is not required to conduct an annual risk analysis of the 504 loan program and provide Congress with any performance data. My bill addresses this problem and requires the SBA to conduct an annual risk assessment of the 504 program and provide Congress with detailed insights into overall health of the program and information needed to strengthen program performance. Madam Speaker, transparent data is the cornerstone of a productive partnership between the SBA, Congress, and industry and the work that we do collectively to keep the 504 program healthy for future generations of entrepreneurs. Now more than ever, small businesses need what the 504 loan program provides: certainty and affordable patient capital. Madam Speaker, I am proud to lead this bill, and I thank my colleague, Representative Jimmy Patronis, for his partnership in co- leading this important piece of legislation with me. Of course, this bill would not be possible without the leadership of Ranking Member Velazquez and Chair Williams. Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bill.

Mr. TRAN

Mr. TRAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Justin Maturo, a member of my congressional staff who will soon be departing Capitol Hill after a combined fifteen years of public service. From intern to Deputy Chief of Staff, Justin has held several important roles in three congressional offices where he has directly contributed to the betterment of communities in the states of Texas and California. Born in Westchester, New York, and raised in Tappan, New York, to an Italian father and Hawaiian mother, Justin first came to Washington, D.C. as a wide-eyed college student at American University with a mountain of motivation and aspirations to shape policy. As an intern for the U.S. House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, he showed promise by swiftly screening requests and manning the phones. He then served as a Staff Assistant to the late Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson from Texas, where he quickly rose in the ranks to serve as her Senior Legislative Assistant and covered a robust portfolio of legislative issues such as defense, labor, housing, campaign finance reform, and more. After a brief stint in the private sector, Justin was called back to public service where he served as Deputy Chief of Staff and Legislative Director to Congressman Mark Takano from California. After several years on the Hill, Justin earned a prestigious appointment at the Department of Defense where he served as Special Assistant to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Legislative Affairs to coordinate legislative affairs across all military departments and components in service to our great Nation. I was fortunate Justin agreed to come back to Capitol Hill to join my office as Deputy Chief of Staff and Legislative Director. In the short time he has been with my team, he has worked with me to protect veteran jobs, secure additional resources for military assets in my district, call for the release of Vietnamese prisoners of conscience, and so much more. He has always taken every challenge in stride--appreciating and knowing fully well the great responsibility we have to our constituents as public servants. His colleagues--both current and former--describe him as a trusted mentor. What sets Justin apart is his superpower ability to stay above the fray and to keep his eye on the prize. Despite always operating with a full load of projects on any given day, Justin always makes time to give advice and mentor younger staff with sincerity and genuine compassion. I cannot thank Justin enough for having acted as a trusted advisor and guiding me through my first year in Congress. Together, we set a foundation that will have resounding impacts in my district for years to come. I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge that Justin's jovial spirit and words of wisdom will be sorely missed by all those who were lucky to work with him. Alas, all good things must come to an end. I wish him, his wonderful partner Jackie, and their dog Truman all the best in this next chapter of their lives. I know Justin will continue to make a positive impact in his next quest and I honor his great contributions to the people of California's 45th Congressional District.

Mr. TRAN

Mr. TRAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate a truly momentous milestone as the City of Placentia celebrates its 100th Anniversary. For a century, Placentia has stood as a vibrant and resilient community in Orange County, enriched by its history, strengthened by its diversity, and united by a shared commitment to progress. Founded in 1926, Placentia grew from its agricultural roots into a thriving suburban city while preserving the values that have long defined it: hard work, civic pride, and a deep sense of community. From its early citrus groves to the dynamic neighborhoods, schools, and businesses that define the city today, Placentia's story is one of thoughtful growth and enduring opportunity. Over the past 100 years, generations of residents, civic leaders, educators, public servants, and business owners have contributed to Placentia's success. Their dedication has fostered a city known for strong public institutions, safe neighborhoods, and a commitment to education, innovation, and community engagement. Placentia's ability to adapt while honoring its past reflects the very best of the American spirit. As Placentia marks its centennial, we also look forward to the next generation of leaders, families, and entrepreneurs who will continue shaping the city's future. With ongoing investments in infrastructure, public safety, education, and economic development, Placentia is well- positioned to thrive for the next hundred years and beyond. On this historic occasion, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the residents of Placentia and express my deepest appreciation to all who have contributed to the city's growth and success. It is an honor to represent this remarkable community in Congress, and I am proud to recognize the City of Placentia's 100 years of history, service, and achievement.

Mr. TRAN

Mr. TRAN. Mr. Speaker, it is with solemn remembrance that I rise today to pay tribute to a beloved husband, devoted father, thoughtful grandfather, and courageous Purple Heart Veteran, Ramon Vicioso. Ramon, known as Ray to those close to him, passed away peacefully on September 28, 2025, at the age of 93. Ray was born in New York City, grew up in the Bronx borough, and enlisted in the United States Marine Corp on October 23, 1947 at the age of 17 with his father's permission. He was first stationed at Camp Pendleton in Southern California before being sent to the frontlines of the Korean War. In July 1951, his tank platoon in Korea was traveling down a road when foot soldiers came up behind them. The tanks were ordered to pull off the road, unknowingly into a mine field, to let the soldiers pass. Unfortunately, Ray's tank was one of the first to be blown up, which resulted in his left leg being amputated and his right leg severely damaged. Upon returning to California, Ray continued his recovery, was awarded the Korean Service Medal, and received a Purple Heart for his sacrifice in the war. As he transitioned back into civilian life in the 1960's, he began his long career in aerospace planning for Bendix and later Martin Marietta, supporting their critical efforts in the race to outer space as well as working on the latter's Titan IV launch team. Ray retired in Nevada where he was an active member of the local veteran community. He was known for his unwavering pride in the Marines and his own service, never complaining about what happened to him in Korea. Ray was also a beloved husband, father, and grandfather. While his wife of over 40 years, Patricia Vicioso, passed away in 2024, he is survived by his five children, Victoria Hoffman, Ted Vicioso, David Vicioso, Paul Iverson, and one of my constituents, Beth Brown, as well as several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. I have requested that the United States flag be flown over our Nation's Capital in recognition of Ray's life and sacrifice to this country. Ray will be dearly missed by his friends and family, and his fiery legacy will continue on in the hearts of everyone who knew him.

Mr. TRAN

Mr. TRAN. Mr. Speaker, it is with solemn remembrance that I rise today to pay tribute to a beloved husband, devoted father, local leader, and selfless public servant, Fountain Valley Fire Department Chief Bill McQuaid. Chief McQuaid, a fixture in the Fountain Valley community, passed away much too soon on July 25, 2025, at the age of 57. A native of Fountain Valley, California, Chief McQuaid was a proud graduate of Fountain Valley High School and entered the workforce with a dream of joining the fire service. In 1996, his dream was realized when he joined the Fountain Valley Fire Department, where he stayed for nearly 30 years. Chief McQuaid held numerous positions over the course of his career, including firefighter/paramedic, fire engineer, fire captain, battalion chief, and division chief of operations, before ultimately being named chief in January 2023. Throughout his life, Chief McQuaid served the city of Fountain Valley with unwavering integrity and commitment. He often spoke about how his role as chief was not just his job, but his calling to serve the people of his hometown. In addition to the incalculable support Chief McQuaid lent to his native city, he also faithfully served the state of California. Over the years before becoming chief, McQuaid led multiple teams of firefighters as a strike team leader to battle some of the largest wildfires in the state's history, including the Thomas fire in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties, and the Dixie fire in Northern California. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work with Chief McQuaid several times during my tenure in Congress, and I got to see firsthand the level of respect and compassion his city had for him. Chief McQuaid's loss has been felt deeply across our Fountain Valley community, and the impact he has made on both his department and his hometown will never be forgotten. Chief McQuaid is survived by his wife, Tracy, and their daughters, Ally and Julie. I have requested that the United States flag be flown over our Nation's Capital in recognition of Chief McQuaid's life and contributions to his community. Chief McQuaid will be dearly missed by his friends and family, and his legacy will continue in the minds of everyone who has met him.

Mr. TRAN

Mr. TRAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to express my horror at the reports coming from Gaza of hundreds of innocent civilians being killed or maimed while they are seeking humanitarian assistance. This is a humanitarian crisis. Congress and the Trump administration must take action to put an end to the violence. Killing those seeking food is incompatible with the pursuit of peace. The choice by Israeli leadership to engage in military actions at aid sites endangers all innocent Palestinians and Israelis who deserve to live with dignity. I am the child of refugees. My parents were forced to flee because they feared for their own lives in their home country. The United States must ensure that the Palestinian people can live their lives in peace without the fear that they will be killed in line for food.

Mr. TRAN

Mr. TRAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to commemorate Honoring Veterans of the Republic of Vietnam Armed Forces Day, or Ngay Quan Luc. Even 50 years after the Fall of Saigon, the legacy of the Republic of Vietnam forces lives on. We honor the soldiers of the Republic of Vietnam and the American soldiers who fought side by side for the ideals of freedom and democracy. Madam Speaker, 250,000 members of the South Vietnamese Armed Forces and more than 58,000 members of the United States Armed Forces gave their lives for these ideals. As the first Vietnamese American to represent Orange County's Little Saigon community in Congress, I am humbled by the responsibility to carry this history forward. I am proud to introduce a congressional resolution to honor this day and ensure that our history can never be rewritten. honoring vernon lee jumper

Mr. TRAN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Vernon Jumper. After moving to Los Angeles with his family, Vern enlisted in the Navy in San Diego in 1951. Mr. Jumper became part of the air wing of the USS Midway and conducted about 100 combat missions in Vietnam beginning in the mid-1960s. Vern was instrumental in saving over 3,000 Americans and South Vietnamese refugees as air boss of the USS Midway during Operation Frequent Wind. He oversaw all flight operations on deck and within a 5- mile radius of the ship, guiding evacuation helicopters onto the aircraft carrier's deck as Saigon fell in April 1975. Jumper is remembered for his incredible bravery during those harrowing 30 hours, especially when he arranged for helicopters to be pushed off the ship into the sea to make room for a tiny plane carrying a South Vietnamese Air Force pilot and his six family members. Vern exemplified what it means to be an American soldier, with his courage only matched by his humility. Vernon Jumper's legacy will live on for all who knew and loved him and for the thousands of Vietnamese Americans whose lives he helped save. Our entire country owes Vern a debt of gratitude. May he rest in peace.

Mr. TRAN

Mr. TRAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a loving husband, devoted father, award-winning attorney, and good friend, Jon C. Teller. Jon, a pinnacle in the Los Angeles trial attorney community, passed away much too soon this month after a courageous battle with cancer. Jon was a celebrated Senior Trial Attorney at Wilshire Law Firm, known for his dedication to fighting large insurance corporations and holding them accountable. His excellent work at Wilshire led to his nomination for both Attorney of the Year by Consumer Attorneys of California in 2020, and Trial Lawyer of the Year by Consumer Attorneys Association of Los Angeles in 2022 and 2023. Perhaps most importantly, Jon maintained a reputation as someone who cared for those around him, always finding time to mentor fellow attorneys and share his knowledge and expertise. Jon believed that assisting fellow trial attorneys would help the most injured people receive the justice they deserved, and he dedicated his life to that belief. Jon was also a beloved husband and father and is survived by his wife Rachie and their children Jordan, Nicky, and Ally. I have requested the United States flag to be flown over our Nation's Capital in recognition of Jon's life and contributions to his community. Jon will be dearly missed by his friends and family, and his legacy will continue in the minds of everyone who met him.

Mr. TRAN

Mr. TRAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 1642, the Connecting Small Businesses with Career and Technical Education Graduates Act. Small businesses can't thrive if they can't access a highly qualified workforce. This legislation will help small business owners connect with graduates of vocational programs and hire employees who can help their businesses thrive. Talented graduates come out of vocational education programs in my district, like Coastline College in Fountain Valley, and have the skills that small businesses in Orange County need. This bill will help ensure graduates of career and technical education programs find good-paying jobs that they are already trained for. It is pro-small business, pro-students, pro-workforce, and pro- economic growth. It is a win for everyone. I am proud to co-lead H.R. 1642. I thank my colleagues, Chairman Williams and Congressmen Olszewski and Bresnahan, for their leadership in championing this important piece of legislation. I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes.''

Mr. TRAN

Mr. TRAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 787, the Plain Language in Contracting Act. Far too often, bureaucratic barriers and complex government jargon prevent small business owners, especially veterans and immigrant entrepreneurs, from accessing and securing Federal contracting opportunities. I consistently hear from small business owners in Orange County that the main reason they do not apply for Federal contracts is that the barriers to entry are simply too high. H.R. 787 will address this barrier facing small business owners and mandate Federal agencies to use clear and accessible language in their contracting opportunities. I am proud to co-lead this bill, and I thank the gentleman from Long Island (Mr. LaLota) for working with me to improve the SBA and simplify the Federal contracting process. Let's continue to empower local businesses and ensure that every entrepreneur has the opportunity to succeed. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on this bipartisan bill.

Mr. TRAN

Mr. TRAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to this reckless attempt by Republicans to force through a reconciliation bill that makes life harder for the working families in California's 45th District. My constituents deserve better than this budget. The American people deserve better than this budget. Republicans are taking money out of Americans' pockets and giving it to billionaires and big companies. Over 250,000 people in my district rely on Medicaid, and over 100,000 of them are children and seniors. Nearly 40,000 children, seniors, veterans, and families in my district will have less food on their tables because of Republicans' cuts to SNAP. Our constituents sent us here to fight for them. They are looking to us for answers, and all Republicans can offer are higher costs for less care. That is not okay with me. Our constituents deserve better. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote ``no.''

Mr. TRAN

Mr. TRAN. Madam Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to remove the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Scott Franklin) as cosponsor of H.R. 1637.

Mr. TRAN

Mr. TRAN. Mr. Speaker, when attempting to cast my vote on April 29, 2025 for S. 146--the TAKE IT DOWN Act, my voting card did not properly record my vote. Had my voting card been functioning properly, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 104.

Mr. TRAN

Mr. TRAN. Mr. Speaker, I stand here today to mark the most solemn day of the year for the people of the Vietnamese diaspora. Black April, Thang Tu Den, is not just a solemn day in history. It is a reminder of the day we lost everything--our homes, our livelihood, and our beloved country. I am honored and humbled by the trust the Little Saigon community has placed in me as the first Vietnamese-American Congressman to represent the largest Vietnamese diaspora in the world. It is a privilege to share the story of my family and community with my colleagues in Congress and ensure that our history is never forgotten. This is a painful day, a day for reflection, remembrance, and mourning. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in not only remembering the hardships we faced but also in celebrating the incredible resilience of the Vietnamese people.

Mr. TRAN

Mr. TRAN. Mr. Speaker, I stand here today to mark the most solemn time of the year for the people of the Vietnamese diaspora. ``Black April,'' ``Thang Tu Den,'' is not just a solemn day in history, but it is a reminder of the day when we lost everything: our homes, our livelihoods, and our beloved country. It was 50 years ago, on April 30, 1975, that South Vietnam fell to the Communist regime. American troops airlifted 6,000 American and Vietnamese people to safety. Hundreds of thousands of Vietnamese refugees would follow, most of them boarding boats on uncharted waters, not knowing what awaited them on the other side of the journey. In Vietnam, the conditions under the Communist regime grew more brutal. Many were imprisoned in concentration camps, losing not just their homes but their freedom, their dignity, and, in too many cases, their lives. This is a painful day, a day for reflection, for remembrance, and for mourning. Over 58,000 United States soldiers and more than 250,000 South Vietnamese soldiers gave their lives in service. These brave men and women made the ultimate sacrifice, and they deserve our continued and unwavering gratitude. We mourn not only those who fought for freedom but the countless innocent lives lost during the war, those who perished at the hands of the Communist regime and the aftermath and the brave souls who were lost fleeing repression on boats. We have no choice but to honor those precious souls who were lost by giving the most we can to this life that we have been blessed with. I share my own story with hundreds of thousands of Vietnamese Americans born to parents who fled our homeland with nothing. Boat people did not let the hardship of the journey define the life that they built in America. We have built communities that are unparalleled in strength, prosperity, and commitment to preserving our history. Mr. Speaker, as we reflect on the past 50 years since the fall of Saigon, we do so in solemn remembrance but in celebration of what we have built together. From the ashes of war, we have risen. We celebrate today the trailblazers who have risen from this legacy: generals and admirals in the U.S. military, award-winning scientists, titans of business, educators, doctors, and artists. Our community has nurtured leaders in all walks of life, turning adversity into opportunity in just five short decades. Many of these people are children of refugees or refugees themselves, and they represent just a few of the countless contributions that Vietnamese Americans continue to make across every sector of society. Our journey from tragedy to triumph has only just begun, and the story of our people will continue to inspire generations to come. As the first Vietnamese American to represent Orange County's Little Saigon community in Congress, I am humbled by the responsibility to carry this history forward. Little Saigon, home to the largest Vietnamese diaspora in the world, is a beacon of hope and a reminder of the resilience that has defined our community. I stand on the shoulders of the Vietnamese leaders in California and across the country who have paved the way for future generations to succeed. I am proud to be the third Vietnamese American ever elected to Congress, following Congressman Joseph Cao of Louisiana and Congresswoman Stephanie Murphy of Florida. I am reminded every day of our strength, our determination, and our unyielding commitment to preserving our history and to ensuring that no Communist regime can rewrite our history. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in not only remembering the hardships we face, but also in celebrating the incredible resilience of the Vietnamese people. Let us honor the lives of those who sacrificed everything for freedom: The United States Army veterans and the veterans of the former Republic of Vietnam. As we commemorate this solemn milestone, let us reaffirm our commitment to the values that matter most: democracy, human rights, and our unshakeable will to be free.

Mr. TRAN

Mr. TRAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to mark the beginning of the most solemn month of the year for Vietnamese Americans and diaspora. We refer to this month as Black April, or Thang Tu Den, because so many of us lost our homes, our livelihoods, and our country. My own parents escaped brutal oppression at the hands of the Vietnamese Communist Government and came to this country seeking the freedom and democracy that had been ripped away from them in the country of their birth. This year, we recognize the 50th anniversary of the Fall of Saigon on April 30, 1975. In the years since, hundreds of thousands of Vietnamese Americans have built vibrant communities in the United States that have enriched our Nation and strengthened our communities. By recognizing Black April, we honor those who sacrificed their lives for freedom, including members of the South Vietnamese military who fought alongside American allied forces. We also honor the immense hardships endured by the refugees as they embarked on the perilous journey to seek refuge and rebuild their lives. I am so proud to be the first Vietnamese American to represent Orange County's Little Saigon community in Congress. Home to the largest Vietnamese diaspora in the world, Little Saigon is a beacon of hope and testament to the resiliency of our community. I am proud to tell the story of our community on the floor of the United States House of Representatives to ensure that no communist regime can rewrite our history. As we mark this solemn milestone, let us reaffirm our commitment to freedom and human rights and honor the indomitable spirit of the Vietnamese diaspora.