Tim Walberg

Mr. WALBERG

Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H.R. 1049. We need greater transparency in American education. In recent years, foreign governments have increasingly sought to influence our K-12 schools. It is not for their stated purpose of cultural exchanges or diplomacy, but to push propaganda. The Chinese Communist Party, for example, has spent untold sums across hundreds of schools to indoctrinate or influence thousands of children. These so-called little red classrooms were sold as opportunities to teach Chinese language and culture. In reality, they required teachers to omit discussion of human rights abuses, present the CCP in a positive light, and rabidly celebrate the regime. Students in these classrooms rarely learn about events such as the Tiananmen Square massacre or the ongoing genocide of Uyghur Muslims. Students don't learn about these despicable crimes because the CCP doesn't want them to. This one-sided approach extends beyond K-12 classrooms. While the CCP operates programs in U.S. schools, American educators are not allowed to expose Chinese students to American culture. The goal is clear. The Chinese Communist Party wants to control information and shape young minds. Over nearly two decades, the CCP has demonstrated a persistent effort to influence the minds of our children. According to a 2020 State Department report, many of these classrooms are funded and operated, in part, by the CCP's United Front Work Department, a known overseas propaganda and influence operation. Foreign experience in our schools threatens not only student learning but also our national security. H.R. 1049, the Transparency in Reporting of Adversarial Contributions to Education Act, or the TRACE Act, by Representatives Aaron Bean and Ryan Mackenzie, addresses this problem by giving parents the right to review course materials funded or provided by foreign governments and entities of concern. Students perform better when parents are involved in their education. Yet, in recent years, parents have often been silenced or forced to navigate bureaucratic hurdles just to understand what their children are learning. The TRACE Act ensures transparency, strengthens parental rights, and protects students from foreign indoctrination. I urge my colleagues to support this legislation and defend the role of families in safeguarding our children's education. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Speaker, I would remind my friend and colleague from Virginia that the U.S. Department of Education has been in place while our concerns with foreign influence have been developed and, ultimately, caused the concerns that we address today. We believe that what is being done with reshaping how we deal from the Federal level with our local community schools will, in fact, be more conducive to the ability for them to deal with key issues of concern such as national security when we see that as necessary. Mr. Speaker, I yield 6 minutes to the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Bean), who is a world-class auctioneer and who is unwilling to auction off our children's future to any malign actor.

Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, again, I thank Representative Bean for introducing this important legislation. Again, anytime we have legislation that makes a foundational principle, an actual fact, that we support parents having transparency about what is going on in their schools, for anything, it is important as a discussion and ultimately important to make sure in law that is put into motion in every way possible. It is also a fact that we look at the malign influence that comes from the CCP, yes, but there are other entities equally determined to undermine America, and they are starting in its educational system. Because if you control the minds of young people and you shape their teachers even before that, so when they enter the classroom, even if it isn't a Confucius classroom, those teachers have been impacted in what they point out about some of these malign actors in the world, even if it puts down some of their concerns, is a problem for the United States. If there is complete transparency, where we talk about all of the entities with truth, then that is fine. That is America. We can take it, having our students know about the Chinese Communist Party and how they have taken Uyghur Muslims and committed genocide on them for years. If we can talk about the Tiananmen Square massacre that went on, that is not a problem. However, that is not what these malign actors want. They want to cover that over. Mr. Speaker, there is significant evidence of ongoing threats to U.S. schools from malign actors. They may change names and they may change approaches, but they are there. We wouldn't have seen the type of demonstrations and attacks on our Jewish students on college campuses all over this country if there weren't malign actors changing the focus of our students' minds on key issues. China strategically deployed and expanded their Confucius classrooms rapidly going from only a few in 2008 to over 1,000 worldwide by 2019. More than 500 American K-12 schools have hosted Confucius classrooms. A 2023 Defending Education report identified 143 schools across 34 States with Chinese ties, with at least 7 still active as of this publication. The report also found that many of these schools are located near military bases. My Democrat colleagues are correct that the known number of Confucius classrooms has declined after attention from media and advocacy groups increased, including from Congress, but that doesn't prove the CCP threat is gone. There are 500 Chinese Communist Party-affiliated Chinese nationals--I say ``affiliated'' because they are required when coming over to work in a new production center in my district that will be opened up very soon by a major corporation. These 500 employees have signed a contractual agreement with the Chinese Communist Party to provide any information back to China that they come up with. Who knows what type of influence will take place within 15 minutes of a National Guard base and a key drone wing of the United States military. These are concerns that we ought to have, but this doesn't prove that we have done enough yet. I think what we have seen causes us to be concerned about what is taking place. It may be that the CCP has found more covert ways to influence our schools. Schools may still be making contracts with CCP entities. If not, great. We will find that out, just without easily identifiable keywords such as ``Confucius,'' but what else will take place. That is why we need these bills. Under these bills, schools must avoid contracting with the CCP or its agents. Schools must report gifts from or contracts with foreign governments, and resources must be available for parents to review. We know this can go on right now. We know contracts are undertaken with all of our school districts now. We know that the lawyers on staff have means by which to make sure that the appropriate t's are crossed and i's are dotted. They can follow the law. We must do that. Advocacy groups, such as Defending Education, have done tremendous work to ensure we know about the CCP's influence, but it shouldn't take a third-party nonprofit to tell us who is teaching our children. The CCP remains a threat to American interests. I have no doubt that they would still like to indoctrinate American children and teachers, and that is why we must be vigilant and pass these bills. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Moolenaar), who is also the chairman of the Select Committee on the CCP.

Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. H.R. 1049, the TRACE Act, sends a clear message: Parents have a right to know what their children are learning, especially when curricula are funded by authoritarian regimes. Foreign influence in classrooms not only undermines our cherished American values but also our national security. The TRACE Act allows parents to review foreign-funded materials and raise concerns when needed. Concerned parents should not be labeled as terrorists, domestic or otherwise, or treated like criminals when they stand up for their children. By empowering parents, we strengthen student outcomes and protect our schools, which should be in the business of public service to our homes, our families, our children, and our parents. I urge my colleagues to support the TRACE Act and stand with families in defending the integrity of American education from foreign tyranny. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support the legislation, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. WALBERG

Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Speaker, it is my special privilege to recognize Roderick ``Rod'' Fikel of Coldwater, Michigan, as the Veteran of the Month for November for his distinguished service to our community. Rod served as an MOS 25V Combat Documentation Specialist in the U.S. Army from 1989 to 1996 and was deployed to both Kuwait and Iraq. For his dedicated service to our country, he was awarded the Southwest Asia Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Valorous Unit Award. He has also received numerous skill badges. Since returning, Rod has become a cornerstone of the veteran community, actively participating as a dedicated member of the American Legion. Additionally, when the Branch County Department of Veterans Affairs sought to assemble veterans for a community committee, Rod was the first person to respond and attended every meeting. During these gatherings, Rod offered support and advice to his peers and became well-known for his positivity and sense of humor. Rod has also shown remarkable perseverance in the face of adversity. Despite being diagnosed with cancer, he has remained strong and in high spirits, continuing to offer support to the veteran community. Rod is truly an inspiration to many, and I express my profound gratitude for his significant and lasting contributions to our great Nation.

Mr. WALBERG

Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Speaker, it is my special privilege to recognize Dave Welihan of Jackson as the Veteran of the Month for October and honor him for his distinguished service to our great Nation. Dave courageously served in the U.S. Army from 1971 through 1974 and has been honorably awarded the National Defense Service Medal. Since returning home, Dave has dedicated his life to serving the veteran community and ensuring they have the resources and support they deserve. He was formerly a Veteran Service Officer in Jackson, where he helped those who have worn the uniform resolve their local, state, and federal benefit issues to ensure that they receive the benefits they have so rightfully earned. He also served as a commander of the American Legion Richard F. Smith Post 29 and worked as the Director of the Jackson County Veterans Affairs Office. While with the Jackson County VA, Dave helped coordinate the burial of five unclaimed veterans so that they could be honored and properly laid to rest, exemplifying his compassion for others. Dave and his wife even selflessly donated the flags used for the burial. Dave's unwavering service, tireless commitment, and leadership have made a tangible difference. Through his many roles and daily actions, he has uplifted and advocated for his fellow veterans, serving as a guide, mentor, and friend. His legacy will not only live on in the hearts of those he has helped but also in the strong community he has helped build. May others know of my high regard for Dave, as well as my deep gratitude for his lasting contributions to the county we love.

Mr. WALBERG

Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Speaker, it is my special privilege to recognize Ken Moore of Monroe as the Veteran of the Month for September and honor him for his dedicated service to our great Nation. Ken Moore served with distinction as a member of the Air Force during the Vietnam War and was honorably discharged in 1967. For his heroic contributions, he was awarded the Expert Marksmanship Badge, the Vietnam Service Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal. Upon returning home from Vietnam, Ken served for 25 years as a member of the Monroe Police Force, initially as an officer and later as a detective, ensuring the safety of our communities. Ken has remained actively involved in the veteran community. He has made significant contributions to the VFW and American Legion, and he is a devoted member of AMVETS Monroe. Notably, Ken also co-founded Flag O'er Veterans with Sam Struth after he observed several cemeteries in the community did not have American flags honoring veterans. The initiative pays tribute to deceased veterans in the Monroe community by raising funds and installing flagpoles with an American flag, lights, and memorial plaques in local cemeteries where veterans are laid to rest. Ken Moore's remarkable life of service and his leadership working on behalf of America's veterans inspire us all. May others know of my high regard for Ken, as well as my deep gratitude for his lasting contributions to the country we love.

Mr. WALBERG

Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Speaker, last month I traveled across Michigan's Fifth District to visit hardworking Michiganders who are excited about the benefits of the bill that will include working family tax cuts. I heard from a farmer in Horton who is relieved that it will be easier to pass his family farm to the next generation because this historic legislation doubles the death tax exemption. I spoke to a small business owner in Monroe who will now be able to invest more in his operations and grow his family business due to the progrowth policies. I talked to a waitress in Cassopolis who called this legislation life-changing because she will be able to pocket more of her hard- earned money thanks to no tax on tips and overtime. As I travel across my district, it is clear that we are delivering for hardworking Michiganders and ushering in a new era of prosperity, and that is great.

Mr. WALBERG

Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Speaker, it is my special privilege to recognize and honor Delta Air Lines as they celebrate their centennial anniversary. Delta Air Lines was founded on March 2, 1925, as Huff Daland Dusters, the world's first aerial crop-dusting company in Georgia. Huff Daland's fleet of 18 planes became one of the largest privately owned fleets in the crop-dusting business. In 1928, Huff Daland Dusters was renamed Delta Air Service to reflect the Mississippi Delta region it served, and by the following year, the airline's first passenger flight took off from Dallas, Texas. By 1945, the company accrued more than 300 million passenger miles and formally became Delta Air Lines. From its humble beginnings, Delta has evolved into one of the world's leading airlines, transforming the way we travel. Today, Delta has over 4,000 daily flights to more than 280 destinations. Delta currently employs a team of 100,000 people, including over 4,750 Michigan-based employees. Since establishing Detroit Metropolitan Airport as one of its major hubs, Delta has transformed Michigan into a gateway to the world. From connecting local businesses to global markets to reuniting families across time zones, Delta has played a crucial role in shaping Michigan's modern identity. Through innovation, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to safety and service, Delta has continuously redefined the air travel experience. As we look to the skies, we celebrate Delta Air Lines for becoming the first U.S. airline to reach this milestone, and we wish them the best of luck as they continue to soar to new heights.

Mr. WALBERG

Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for yielding me time. Mr. Speaker, to Michiganders, the Great Lakes are more than just a natural resource. They are a source of pride for our State, a cornerstone of our identity, and a home to our world-class fisheries. From Lake Michigan to Lake Erie, generations of anglers have cast their lines into these great waters, and families like mine have taken their children and grandchildren to make their first catch, creating meaningful and lasting memories. These fisheries are also a lifeline for our local economy. Taken together, the Great Lakes commercial, recreational, and Tribal fisheries generate over $7 billion annually and support over 75,000 jobs. That is why I am proud to join Representatives Debbie Dingell and Bill Huizenga on the Great Lakes Mass Marking Program Act, which will build on the success of the Great Lakes Mass Marking Program to implement the large-scale marking of fish in all hatcheries. In 2023, an angler from Sheboygan caught a 35-inch lake trout--I am jealous--which was marked as part of the program. Its coded tag revealed that the trout hatched in 1984 and was raised at the Iron River National Fish Hatchery before being stocked on Sheboygan Reef in 1985. Data like this allows us to better understand migratory patterns and population changes. By expanding the program to all Great Lakes hatcheries, we can improve fishing practices, increase efficiencies, and save resources wherever possible. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support the Great Lakes Mass Marking Program Act so that we can preserve our fisheries and be better stewards of this great national treasure.

Mr. WALBERG

Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Speaker, the Biden administration's reckless spending caused rampant inflation, burdening workers, families, farmers, and small businesses, unless you believe the spin that continues tonight. I don't think America is believing it. After passing the largest savings in America's history through the One Big Beautiful Bill Act earlier this month, the Rescissions Act builds on House Republicans' unprecedented success in reining in wasteful spending and the President's willingness to not spend everything that we give him. That is unusual. The list of egregious foreign aid projects is endless. Here are just a few: $3 million for Iraqi Sesame Street, $18 million to improve gender diversity in the Mexican street lighting industry, $2.5 million to teach children how to make environmentally friendly reproductive health decisions, whatever that means. This abuse of taxpayer dollars must end. The Rescissions Act would prioritize the needs of Americans over everyone else.

Mr. WALBERG. The Rescissions Act would prioritize the needs of American people instead of funding far-left foreign initiatives. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to pass this bill, which represents a vital step in reining in wasteful spending and Big Government abuse of the taxpayer.

Mr. WALBERG

Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Speaker, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act is one big, beautiful win for the American people. Americans struggled under crushing inflation driven by the Biden- Harris administration's outrageous spending. Even worse, the Biden- Harris administration spent billions on reckless student loan repayment pauses, forcing Americans who never set foot on a college campus to cover the costs of elite Ivy League degrees. House Republicans have the chance to right those wrongs and deliver real results for the American people by passing the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Under President Trump, our economy is booming, thanks to progrowth policies that help workers, students, and taxpayers prosper. By passing this bill, we have a chance to seize on a generational opportunity to help put more Americans back on the path to the American Dream.

Mr. WALBERG

Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Speaker, it is my special privilege to recognize and honor the life of Lawrence ``Larry'' Salwin of Coldwater, Michigan, who passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 10, 2025. Larry was born in Detroit, Michigan, in 1940 and married his wife Patricia ``Pat'' Gwozdz in 1963. Larry's everyday actions were a testament to a life of deep purpose, love, and sacrifice. He worked three jobs, before becoming the Senior Administrator at Providence Hospital in Southfield, Michigan where he dedicated 49 years of work to caring for others. He worked these jobs not out of ambition for wealth or recognition, but out of love for his family. He bore the weight of responsibility with grace and humility and worked to build a future for his children. Today, his children stand tall, and Larry's legacy lives on in their accomplishments. His dedication to providing a better life for his family allowed him and his wife, Pat, to watch their children grow up and succeed in successful careers of their own. It also provided them with the opportunity to spend the later years of their lives in Coldwater, Michigan. It was here that both Larry and Pat created beautiful memories, spending time with family and friends for roughly 24 years. Larry had a deep love for his family and will truly be missed by those fortunate enough to be in his life. Larry was a beloved husband, father, and grandfather. Surviving him are his wife, Pat, sons and their spouses, Greg and Marion Salwin, Gary and Maria Salwin, and their grandchildren, Carter Salwin, Claudia Salwin, Katy Salwin, and Brianna Pemberton. Preceding him in death were his brother, Robert Salwin, sister, Juanita Hicks, daughter, Cynthia Salwin, and granddaughter, Jessica Salwin. Larry Salwin will forever be known as a hard worker and a dedicated family man. His relentless determination has left an enduring mark on his family and those who knew him.

Mr. WALBERG

Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding time. Mr. Speaker, I hear a lot of hyperbole today. Of course, we understand the louder we speak, the more fear we produce in people and the more ultimate power there is over them. As chair of the Education and Workforce Committee, I am concerned, though, as young people are going to colleges and universities and trying to lift themselves up, we find another challenge that goes on with Big Government and the control through student debt. The Education and Workforce Committee's portion of the Big Beautiful Bill Act delivers the kind of accountability students need and our economy demands. The bill saves taxpayers almost $350 billion. It also streamlines loan repayment options, making it easier for borrowers to repay, while also targeting assistance to those who actually need it. By curbing excessive student loan debt and holding colleges accountable, this legislation also puts an end to colleges hiking tuition and spending recklessly. Simply put, it provides schools with the incentive to deliver real value for students and taxpayers. The American people want this. Let's support this bill and make America free.

Mr. WALBERG

Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Bryce Michael for his heroic actions and dedication to helping our Nation's students. Bryce is a bus driver for the Columbia School District in Brooklyn, Michigan, and was driving students home when a kindergarten student placed a quarter in her mouth and began to choke. Bryce immediately sprang into action, assisted the student so that she was able to cough up the quarter and was no longer under duress. I thank Bryce for his quick actions and calm demeanor, as well as his commitment to caring for the students on his bus every day. His dedication and passion for his job is evidenced through his daily actions. Bryce is a hero, and his many contributions to our community are worthy of recognition.

Mr. WALBERG

Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life and legacy of longtime Lenawee County Sheriff Richard Germond, who sadly passed away Wednesday morning at 90 years of age. Sheriff Germond joined the department when he was 21 years old and ultimately served as Lenawee County Sheriff for 36 years, making him Michigan's longest serving sheriff. He also was a member of the Lenawee Intermediate School District Board of Education for 25 years, supporting students in our community. Sheriff Germond is a hero in every sense of the word and will be remembered as a model sheriff and a leader to many. Mr. Speaker, Sheriff Germond was a prominent member of the Lenawee community, and we honor him for his service and commitment to keeping us all safe. He will be sorely missed, and his impact on our community will be felt for generations to come.

Mr. WALBERG

Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Speaker, last year, the EPA finalized a rule which set aggressive emission standards for vehicles, amounting to a de facto EV mandate. While I am not against EVs or certainly against reducing emissions, we must not push misguided regulations that limit consumer choice, burden the American auto industry, and increase reliance on China. President Trump recently issued an executive order to eliminate the EV mandate, demonstrating his commitment to repealing excessive regulations. However, we must take further steps to prevent future administrations from issuing similar mandates. That is why I have partnered with Representative Fulcher to introduce the Choice in Automobile Retail Sales, or CARS, Act, which will prevent similar EV mandates and safeguard Americans' freedom to choose the vehicle that is best for them. We must put consumers back in the driver's seat and ensure the future of the auto industry is forged through innovation and not mandates.

Mr. WALBERG

Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Chair, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Chair, I rise today in support of H.R. 1048. Foreign nations, including our biggest adversaries like the Chinese Communist Party, contribute billions of dollars to American universities. The lack of transparency around foreign relationships should concern every American as we see stolen research, anti-Semitic propaganda, and academic censorship. None of these things belong inside our borders let alone on our college campuses. By establishing footholds in American schools, bad actors gain access to valuable research and intellectual property that can be used to bolster their own military and undermine our Nation's best interests. Under the Higher Education Act, schools are required to report foreign gifts and funding. Unfortunately, loose legislative language, the Biden-Harris administration's inaction, and colleges' refusal to adhere to the law have resulted in billions of foreign funds infiltrating our country undetected. Last year, a congressional investigation of two research universities uncovered nearly $40 million in unreported research contracts with the Chinese Communist Party. That is $40 million in unreported funds at just two universities. Of course, this is just the tip of the iceberg. Without transparency, we have no idea the true amount or impact of foreign funds at our institutions. This is why we need the DETERRENT Act. It closes these loopholes and has more strict reporting requirements for foreign funding and contracts. It also will hold institutions accountable by imposing fines, such as the loss of student aid funding for schools that continually fail to comply. This bipartisan bill is a commonsense solution to an irrefutable problem, which is why it passed last Congress with bipartisan support. We should be loud and clear: No American university should be helping the hidden agendas of the Chinese Communist Party or other nations continue to threaten U.S. national security. I thank Mr. Baumgartner for introducing this vital piece of legislation. I would also like to highlight that the DETERRENT Act includes bills from my committee colleagues Representative Harris, Representative Owens, and Representative Messmer. Mr. Chair, I urge my colleagues to support the DETERRENT Act. Doing so will help defend against our adversaries while also holding our institutions to a higher standard. Take foreign money first, ask questions later is not the way to go. Mr. Chair, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Chair, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Washington (Mr. Baumgartner), who is the sponsor of this legislation.

Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Chair, I claim the time in opposition.

Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days within which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on H.R. 1048.

Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Chair, I appreciate the concerns of my colleague, but my committee has worked very closely with the Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party to combat malign influence at our universities. One type of malign influence is very different than what we are talking about here. The influence is known as transnational repression, which is efforts by the CCP to exert influence over dissidents, dissidents that could be coming here to gain a great education at our universities but are discouraged by the CCP. This legislation would encourage students seeking an education here and be able to push back against the malign influence of the CCP. Mr. Chair, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from North Carolina (Mr. Harris), a cosponsor of this bill with portions of his bill in this bill, as well.

Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Chair, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. Messmer), an upstanding, proud member of this committee.

Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Chair, I yield 4 minutes to the gentleman from Utah (Mr. Owens), the vice chairman of the House Education and the Workforce Committee as well as the chairman of the Higher Education and Workforce Development Subcommittee.