Bruce Westerman

Mr. WESTERMAN

Mr. WESTERMAN. Mr. Speaker, as co-chair of the Congressional Sportsmen's Caucus, I rise today to recognize an individual that has made significant contributions to our Nation's fish and wildlife conservation efforts, as well as America's longstanding outdoor traditions. This individual is also the recipient of an award named after members of this body that have made lasting and significant contributions to our Nation's outdoor heritage. John ``Johnny'' L. Morris was born in Springfield, Missouri, to John A. and Genny Morris in 1948. Johnny's parents both loved to hunt and fish and soon shared their passions with their son. Johnny's love of fishing grew through high school and college but it wasn't until he attended the first national B.A.S.S. (Bass Anglers Sportsman Society) tournament that he truly realized his passion for fishing after meeting fishermen from all over the country. In 1972, Johnny Morris started selling tackle out of his dad's Brown Derby Liquor Store, which became very popular for anglers visiting the area's waterways. In 1978, Morris created BASS TRACKER, the industry's first fully outfitted, ready-to-fish boat, motor, and trailer package, revolutionizing the entire outdoor industry and making it affordable for families to get out on the water and make memories that will last a lifetime. Today, Mr. Morris operates more than 170 Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's destinations across North America, and his commitment to his conservation roots remains stronger than ever as his company, for more than the past decade, has averaged giving back more than 10% of their earnings to conservation. Johnny would go on to then create the Johnny Morris Conservation Foundation, one of the most significant conservation foundations in North America. The not-for-profit foundation embodies Morris and his lifelong dedication to giving back to ensure the outdoors and all it has to offer is available for future generations. In conservation circles, Johnny Morris is often referred to as today's Modern-Day Theodore Roosevelt, as result of his leadership, personal commitment, and dedication to conservation efforts. A conservationist at heart, Johnny Morris recognized the need for citizens to become more involved in the careful management and use of our natural resources. Today, the foundation operates some of the Nation's most significant conservation attractions, including Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, a 10,000-acre-park that offers a variety of outdoor recreation. Its Conservation and Education Center is used to teach the importance of protecting and conserving our great outdoors. Most notably, the foundation also operates the most immersive conservation attraction in the world, Johnny Morris' Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium, where visitors are taken on a conservation journey through a 350,000 square-foot complex of 35,000 live fish, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and birds where they learn about wildlife habitat management and the significant contributions of America's sportsmen and women. This attraction is also the official home of National Hunting and Fishing Day, which was launched by Congress in 1971 as a way to recognize and celebrate hunters and anglers for their leadership in wildlife and conservation. In recognition of Mr. Morris' service to conservation, he has been chosen as this year's recipient of the Dingell-Young Sportsmen's Legacy Award, a fitting tribute to an individual whose life has epitomized dedication to America's outdoor heritage. Named in recognition of the Dingell family--Congressmen John D. Dingell, Sr. and John D. Dingell, Jr. and the late Congressman Don Young, the Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation created the Dingell- Young Sportsmen's Legacy Award to recognize the extraordinary individual and collaborative leadership of the Dingell family and Congressman Young and their long-standing dedication to the advancement of conservation policy and our outdoor hunting and angling traditions. Like them, Morris' contributions to our outdoor traditions relied upon a unique commitment to a shared passion for hunting, fishing, and conservation. Recognized as one of the country's leaders working to ensure natural habitats, wildlife, and the outdoors remain healthy and abundant for future generations, the Dingell-Young Sportsmen's Legacy Award is a fitting tribute for Morris. In closing, I want to thank Mr. Morris for his many contributions to America's outdoor heritage and congratulate him for the well-deserved recognition as the recipient of the Dingell-Young Sportsmen's Legacy Award, the top award offered by the Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation. In the words of Mr. Morris, Mr. Speaker, ``Take a kid fishing, you'll be happy you did.''

Mr. WESTERMAN

Mr. WESTERMAN. Mr. Speaker, it is with profound sadness that I rise today to honor and remember Lyonette Sue Thomas, a woman of extraordinary strength, devotion, and kindness. Lyonette's life was tragically cut short on August 7, 2024, at the age of 38. Her passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew her, and it is only fitting that we take a moment to reflect on the remarkable life she lived. Lyonette dedicated her life to the service of others, most notably as a distinguished agent with the 15th Drug Task Force. Her commitment to her work was unwavering, and she served with honor, distinction, and a tireless spirit that inspired those around her. As the first female president of the Arkansas Narcotics Officers Association, she pioneered the path for women in this area of law enforcement. Her dedication extended beyond her professional life; Lyonette was a loyal supporter of the Arkansas Razorbacks and the Dallas Cowboys, finding joy in every game and celebration. Her love for the great outdoors was equally profound--whether she was deer hunting, trout fishing, tending to her cows, or enjoying a ride on her side-by-side, Lyonette found peace and happiness in nature. But above all, Lyonette's greatest joy was reserved for her family. Her daughter, Raylyn Sue, and husband Austin were the lights of her life. Her love for family was the foundation of her life, and it was in their company that she found her greatest joy. Lyonette was also an adventurer at heart, embracing every opportunity to travel across the United States, creating memories that will be cherished by all who accompanied her. Lyonette's closest friends describe her as ``a big deal, the main attraction, and someone who made a difference.'' It is evident that her kindness, radiant smile, and generous spirit touched the lives of many, leaving an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to know her. As we remember Lyonette Thomas, let us honor her life by embodying the qualities she so beautifully exemplified--service, dedication, love, and kindness. Lyonette's legacy is one of love for her family, passion for her work, and a zest for life that will never be forgotten. May we carry her memory with us, and may her family find comfort in knowing that Lyonette's impact on this world was profound and lasting.

Mr. WESTERMAN

Mr. WESTERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and commend the exceptional accomplishments and aspirations of Ms. Marley Lingar, a dedicated student at Cass Job Corps, within the bounds of our esteemed Fourth Congressional District. Marley is currently enrolled in the prestigious Forestry Conservation and Firefighting Program, where she demonstrates remarkable leadership and commitment. Marley holds the position of vice president in her dormitory at Cass, showcasing her ability to lead and inspire her peers. She also participates in various student-led organizations on campus, including the Student Government Association, where she actively contributes to the betterment of her community through service and civic engagement. Marley's leadership and efforts to make a positive difference are truly commendable. She lives by the words of her instructor, Mr. Wade Kelly, who encourages students to ``learn to push past what you thought were your limits.'' This mantra has clearly guided Marley in achieving significant milestones. Recently, Marley passed the rigorous Pack Test, qualifying her to join firefighting teams. This achievement is particularly noteworthy as she is the first female in over a decade to join the fire program at Cass Job Corps. Her grit and determination are evident, and her success paves the way for future generations of women in firefighting. Growing up in the close-knit Ozark community, Marley has a deep-rooted desire to contribute positively to her hometown. She is driven by the goals of making her family proud and having a lasting impact on the community she holds dear. Post-graduation, Marley aspires to pursue advanced training for a dispatcher role in forestry, further demonstrating her commitment to public service and her passion for the field. Marley's accomplishments and aspirations serve as an inspiration to us all. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance, leadership, and community spirit. I am confident that she will continue to achieve great things and make significant contributions to her field and her community. I ask my esteemed colleagues to join me in recognizing and celebrating Marley Lingar for her achievements and wishing her continued success as she embarks on the next chapter of her journey. Marley is truly a testament to the limitless potential of our Nation's youth, and I have no doubt that she will continue to make us proud in her future endeavors.

Mr. WESTERMAN

Mr. WESTERMAN. Mr. Speaker, the House recently, by unanimous voice vote, passed the EXPLORE Act to enhance outdoor recreation opportunities for all Americans. Arkansas is home to a wide variety of beautiful State parks. Many of these parks are in the Fourth District, but today I rise to highlight a unique park that is truly and literally a gem. Murfreesboro, Arkansas, is home to the only public diamond mine in the world where visitors are allowed to keep their findings. The Crater of Diamonds is a 37\1/2\-acre field that became an Arkansas State park in 1972. With over 75,000 diamond findings since the first discovery in 1906, significant diamonds that have been discovered here are the Amarillo Starlight, Esperanza, and the most notable, Uncle Sam. Uncle Sam is the largest diamond ever unearthed in the United States and is now one of two diamonds on display at the Smithsonian Institution's National Museum of Natural History in the Great American Diamonds exhibit. I encourage the Senate to pass the bipartisan EXPLORE Act and for everyone to visit the Natural State. While you are there experiencing the great outdoors, be sure to schedule a visit to the Crater of Diamonds to discover your own piece of American history.

Mr. WESTERMAN

Mr. WESTERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague from Texas (Mr. Hunt) for his work on the bill. H.R. 7377 will provide regulatory certainty and fairness in royalty management. I also thank the minority for their cooperation in passing this commonsense bill. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join us in supporting H.R. 7377, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. WESTERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 minutes to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Hunt), who is the lead sponsor of the bill.

Mr. WESTERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 7377, the Royalty Resiliency Act. H.R. 7377, introduced by Congressman Hunt, addresses issues in existing law with respect to how oil and gas royalties are paid to the Federal Government. When an oil and gas project involving a Federal lease cannot be independently developed because of other State or private assets, the Bureau of Land Management utilizes communitization agreements, or CAs. Although the BLM is required by law to approve CAs within 120 days of receipt, the agency has failed to meet this standard, with operators experiencing wait times of up to 3 years. Currently, the Office of Natural Resources Revenue, often referred to as ONRR, requires oil and gas operators to pay a 100 percent royalty for projects all while they await BLM approval of a CA, even if only a fraction of their project involves Federal lands or minerals. As a result, many operators end up significantly overpaying royalties while they wait years for BLM approval. This bill provides a commonsense fix that would allow operators to pay a royalty to ONRR that is based on the apportionment in their proposed CA. This bill would not reduce the obligation owed by companies but would prevent overpayments that unnecessarily lock up capital and create a bureaucratic mess for the Department of the Interior. Furthermore, in the rare case that a proposed royalty is found to be incorrect when a CA is approved, the bill requires the lessee to pay the government within 3 months. I would also like to note that the Committee on Natural Resources worked with the BLM to finalize this bill, and it is supported by the Department of the Interior. This bill will benefit operators as well as Federal and State Governments while ensuring a fair and more predictable regulatory environment. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in support of H.R. 7377, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. WESTERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 7377) to amend the Federal Oil and Gas Royalty Management Act of 1982 to improve the management of royalties from oil and gas leases, and for other purposes, as amended.

Mr. WESTERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and to include extraneous material on H.R. 7377, the bill now under consideration.

Mr. WESTERMAN

Mr. WESTERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 6062) to restore the ability of the people of American Samoa to approve amendments to the territorial constitution based on majority rule in a democratic act of self-determination, as authorized pursuant to an Act of Congress delegating administration of Federal territorial law in the territory to the President, and to the Secretary of the Interior under Executive Order 10264, dated June 29, 1951, under which the Constitution of American Samoa was approved and may be amended without requirement for further congressional action, subject to the authority of Congress under the Territorial Clause in article IV, section 3, clause 2 of the United States Constitution.

Mr. WESTERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and to include extraneous material on H.R. 6062, the bill now under consideration.

Mr. WESTERMAN

Mr. WESTERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on H.R. 5770, the bill now under consideration.

Mr. WESTERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of my colleague Mr. Neguse's bipartisan bill, which reauthorizes the Federal priority streamgages and the national groundwater resources monitoring programs through fiscal year 2028 at existing funding levels. The USGS operates and maintains a nationwide streamgaging network, which monitors the amount of water flowing through streams and rivers across the country at any given point in time. Data from this network is used by public and private users, including government agencies responsible for water management and emergency responses, utilities, environmental agencies, and recreational interests. This data informs Americans on whether conditions are safe for fishing, boating, or rafting. Additionally, the national groundwater resources monitoring program administers a network of water-level wells and water-quality wells. The USGS makes this data publicly available through the National Ground- Water Monitoring Network data portal. Given the groundwater is managed by individual States, this data enables States, stakeholders, and individuals to make decisions using the best available science. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this legislation, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. WESTERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I have no further requests for time. I am prepared to close, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. WESTERMAN. Mr. Speaker, the bill before us today reauthorizes programs that provide data and inform real-time decisionmaking and long-term planning. The USGS water data is fundamental to national and local economies, protection of life and property, and effective management of our Nation's water resources. I know personally in Arkansas if I want to go float on the Nation's first wild and scenic river, the Buffalo National River, the first thing I do is go online and look at the data from the USGS water gauges to determine where the best place is to float. This data is used all across the country in many different ways. Mr. Speaker, I appreciate Congressman Neguse's work on the legislation, I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 5770, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. WESTERMAN

Mr. WESTERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. Adoption of H.R. 897 will protect the underwater forest in the Gulf of Mexico for future scientific and research efforts while allowing for the multiple uses of the Gulf to continue to occur. This legislation also ensures that the Department of Commerce and NOAA work with State and local officials in Alabama, including the State Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. This approach to conservation and the protection of natural resources is consistent with the approach that Republicans have taken toward these issues ensuring that the State and local officials are consulted and that voices with varying perspectives are heard and accommodated. Mr. Speaker, I will just add that this is a very unique opportunity. A little over 20 years ago we had no idea this forest was even there, and because the hurricane had deep waves that scoured the forest floor, they found this marvelous resource of a cypress forest that once grew obviously on dry land when the ocean was at least 60 and probably many feet less deep than it is right now. To be able to have this to study to tell us more about our past which should inform us about our future is truly remarkable. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bill, and I yield back the balance of my time.

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

Mr. WESTERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Alabama (Mr. Carl), the sponsor of this bill.

Mr. WESTERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 897) to provide for the establishment of the Alabama Underwater Forest National Marine Sanctuary, and for other purposes, as amended.

Mr. WESTERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 897, the Alabama Underwater Forest National Marine Sanctuary and Protection Act. Representative Carl's legislation seeks to protect an underwater forest located 10 miles off the coast of Gulf Shores, Alabama, in the Gulf of Mexico. At roughly 60,000 years old, this forest provides a window into our past in a way that is not found anywhere else on Earth. Protecting this resource is critical for the research efforts that it supports. This forest was first discovered by local fishermen in 2004 in the aftermath of Hurricane Ivan and has received attention from scientists and universities around the world. H.R. 897 designates the forest as a sanctuary in a manner which embraces the multiple use of our Nation's natural resources. The legislation protects the forest by prohibiting the cutting or removing of the forest's trees while also providing protections for national security and law enforcement activity, commercial and recreational fishing, and energy production that was previously permitted or authorized. I commend my colleague, Representative Carl, for his efforts to advance the legislation. Mr. Speaker, I support H.R. 897, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. WESTERMAN

Mr. WESTERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 5441, the Long Island Sound Restoration and Stewardship Reauthorization Act of 2023. Representative LaLota's legislation reauthorizes programs that promote collaboration between Federal agencies, State and local governments, and other stakeholders to protect and preserve the Long Island Sound. H.R. 5441 reauthorizes the Long Island Sound Study through 2028 at current funding levels. The Long Island Sound Study was created in 1985, and for several decades it has been instrumental in protecting the sound and its broader watershed. The Long Island Sound Study established the Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan that focuses on habitat restoration, water quality monitoring, and sets ecosystem targets for the next 20 years. A component of the program also provides grants to local officials deploying restoration projects. The program has been responsible for the restoration of more than 2,000 acres of habitat. With 4 million people living in the sound's communities, and 9 million in its watershed, protection of this resource helps to safeguard the region's economy and the environment. The Long Island Sound Study has been updated in recent decades to create more effective partnerships to manage the sound, to ensure that all stakeholders are at the table, and to provide resources to local officials carrying out projects. I thank Representative LaLota for his work on a bipartisan basis to reauthorize these important programs. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support the legislation, and I reserve the balance of my time. Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, House of Representatives, Washington, DC, June 21, 2024. Hon. Bruce Westerman, Chairman, Committee on Natural Resources, Washington, DC. Dear Chairman Westerman: I am writing to you concerning H.R. 5441, the Long Island Sound Restoration and Stewardship Reauthorization Act of 2023. The bill was referred primarily to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, with an additional referral to the Committee on Natural Resources. Specifically, there are certain provisions of H.R. 5441 that fall within the Rule X jurisdiction of the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. I recognize and appreciate your desire to bring this legislation before the House of Representatives in an expeditious manner, and accordingly, agree the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure shall be discharged from further consideration of the bill. However, this is conditional on our mutual understanding that by foregoing consideration of H.R. 5441 at this time, we do not waive any jurisdiction over the subject matter contained in this or similar legislation that falls with the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure's Rule X jurisdiction, and the Committee will be appropriately consulted and involved on this or similar legislation as it moves forward. Further, this does not prejudice the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure with respect to the appointment of conferees and should a conference on the bill be necessary, I would appreciate your agreement to support my request to have the Committee represented on the conference committee. Finally, I would ask that a copy of this letter and your response acknowledging our jurisdictional interest in the bill be included in the Committee Report and Congressional Record during consideration of H.R. 5441 on the House floor. Sincerely, Sam Graves, Chairman, Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.

Mr. WESTERMAN. Mr. Speaker, the management of the United States' natural resources requires effective coordination between all levels of government and local stakeholders. The legislation sponsored by Representative LaLota reauthorizes programs that support the health and well-being of the Long Island Sound. By reauthorizing these programs, we allow this critical work to continue, conserving an important resource that is vital for the region's economy and the environment. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bill, and I yield back the balance of my time.

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

Mr. WESTERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members have 5 legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on H.R. 5441, the bill now under consideration.

Mr. WESTERMAN. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 5441) to reauthorize Long Island Sound programs, and for other purposes.