James Walkinshaw

Mr. WALKINSHAW

Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 9328, the Improving Travel for Military Members Act. Our military servicemembers and their families are required to travel regularly, uprooting their lives to move to new locations. Last year, TSA initiated a pilot program at select airports to provide Active-Duty military and their families front-of-line access to security screening. H.R. 9328 would cement TSA's ongoing pilot program and codify requirements for appropriate security protocols. Expediting wait times for servicemembers and their families makes travel a little bit easier and a little bit less stressful for them, and I support advancing this effort. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. Mr. Speaker, military servicemembers and their families make sacrifices for our Nation every day. We owe it to them to make their lives easier in ways big and small wherever and whenever we can. This bill represents a step toward easier travel for Active Duty military and their families. I thank the gentlewoman for her work on that, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. WALKINSHAW

Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Louisiana (Mr. Carter), the sponsor of this bill.

Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. I thank the gentleman from Louisiana (Mr. Carter) for his work on this legislation. I also thank the chairman for his work. UASI grants have played a critical role in my region, the D.C. metropolitan region, in protecting Northern Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia, including this Capitol complex. This bill that will improve transparency, strengthen congressional oversight, and ensure that important security investments made over many years are not lost is a wonderful piece of legislation. Passage of H.R. 8874 will ensure that Congress has the information needed to understand the impact of UASI transitions and help preserve the critical Homeland Security capabilities our communities rely on. It will strengthen oversight, support our local partners, and help ensure that years of Federal investment and preparedness are not lost. I applaud Congressman Carter for his leadership on this issue and strongly urge my colleagues to support H.R. 8874. I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. WALKINSHAW

Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 9391, the Reimbursable Screening Services Program Extension Act of 2026. The TSA Reimbursable Screening Services Program, or RSSP, is a pilot program that permits TSA to conduct passenger screening outside primary airport terminal screening areas under reimbursable agreements with up to eight TSA-regulated entities, such as an airport operator. RSSP facilities are located at airports across the country, including in Los Angeles, Atlanta, and New York City, and the newest location recently opened in Boston. The pilot program is set to expire at the end of September 2026. H.R. 9391 would extend the pilot program until the end of September 2031 and expand the number of pilot program locations to 14 to allow the program to grow and bring new RSSP concepts online. Passing this bill would provide important clarity for a program that has been operating under repeated short-term extensions. Mr. Speaker, as I said, this bill ensures the RSSP at TSA can continue to operate and develop additional passenger screening locations at airports across the country to improve the travel experience. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bill, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. WALKINSHAW

Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 9388. TSA's one-stop pilot program enables passengers arriving from certain foreign airports to be exempt from rescreening by TSA prior to connecting to domestic flights. The one-stop program requires those foreign airports to meet certain standards deemed comparable to TSA's, which helps improve aviation security at those airports. As more international airports start participating in the program, H.R. 9388 will ensure the program can continue to operate until December 2032, while Congress evaluates and makes any necessary changes to improve the program for the traveling public. These changes will help advance this pilot program to improve the travel experience for passengers. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from Louisiana (Mr. Carter), who is the Democratic co- lead on this bill.

Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. Mr. Speaker, this bill will continue operations for this growing TSA pilot program, helping to improve the travel experience for inbound passengers on international flights. I urge my colleagues to support this measure, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. WALKINSHAW

Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he may consume to the gentleman from New York (Mr. Kennedy), the sponsor of this bill.

Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. Mr. Speaker, I applaud Representative Kennedy's leadership on this bill, and I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 3106. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. WALKINSHAW

Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 8897, the Improving Travel for American Families Act. Every day, thousands of families across our Nation take to the skies, many of them with small children who are not always the easiest of travel companions. I can attest to that. Any parent knows that long lines at checkpoints can make a long day of travel even worse for a kid. That is why since last year, the TSA has started pilot programs at select airports with special lines reserved for families which help decrease wait times while keeping screening efficient for other travelers, as well. H.R. 8897 would codify the ongoing pilot program and ensure appropriate security protocols are upheld. The bill would help advance this initiative to help traveling families. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. Mr. Speaker, the airport experience is difficult enough for young families. This bill will help improve that experience while upholding security standards, and I urge support. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. WALKINSHAW

Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 8168, the Major Non-NATO Ally Terror Threat Assessment Act. This bill directs the Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Secretary of State and the Director of National Intelligence, to provide an assessment of the threats to the United States posed by foreign terrorist organizations and specially designated global terrorists present in countries that the State Department designates as ``major non-NATO allies.'' The assessment required under the bill will give Congress a more comprehensive view of terrorist threats to the homeland, which will inform Congress of authorities and resources needed to combat those threats. Mr. Speaker, I support the bill, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the new member, Mr. Van Epps, on this legislation. I support H.R. 8168, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. WALKINSHAW

Mr. WALKINSHAW. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Speaker, engagement with State, local, Tribal, and territorial law enforcement is essential to the Department of Homeland Security's mission to secure the homeland. State and local law enforcement partners must have clear points of contact within DHS to maximize information sharing and collaboration on issues like emergency and cybersecurity incident response. H.R. 7574 aims to ensure this by directing the Secretary of Homeland Security to realign the functions and personnel within the Office of Intelligence and Analysis' Engagement, Liaison, and Outreach office. Madam Speaker, while it is important for State and local officials to have clear points of contact at DHS for information sharing and collaboration, H.R. 7574's requirement to identify redundancies at the Office of Intelligence and Analysis should not, I hope, be viewed as a pretext to reduce I&A's workforce. I&A is charged with delivering timely and actionable intelligence to our law enforcement on the front lines and unnecessarily slashing their capacity could unintentionally create security gaps and make our communities more vulnerable to cyber terror attacks and other threats. While I understand that H.R. 7574 seeks to improve DHS relationships with law enforcement agencies by establishing clear communication protocols and centralizing points of contact for law enforcement engagement, I urge DHS to consult with Congress on the implementation of this bill and before any staffing changes or reductions are made. We need to strengthen, not undermine I&A's ability to protect the homeland. Madam Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. WALKINSHAW. Madam Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. Madam Speaker, I appreciate the gentleman's and the committee's work on H.R. 7574, and it sounds like, I think, that we are in alignment. I just want to be sure that the language in the bill referring to redundancies isn't used to defund the I&A at the Department of Homeland Security. It sounds like the gentleman and I are on the same page. Madam Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. WALKINSHAW

Mr. WALKINSHAW. Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Speaker, H.R. 8535, the bipartisan Measuring Illicit Fentanyl Trafficking Act, is based on the nonpartisan research and recommendations of the Government Accountability Office, which last year examined the Department of Homeland Security's efforts to detect, deter, and seize illicit fentanyl. GAO identified critical gaps in DHS efforts against fentanyl trafficking: a lack of coordination, information sharing, and measures to assess DHS' effectiveness. As a result, GAO made three straightforward recommendations: first, establish a program to collect data and measure effectiveness; second, ensure access to information across DHS components; and, third, develop performance goals and measures aligned with DHS' strategic objectives. Our bill simply would put into law those commonsense recommendations. Fentanyl remains one of the most devastating public safety and public health challenges facing our Nation. The scourge of fentanyl trafficking is sobering. CDC data showed that fentanyl accounted for over 69 percent of all drug overdose deaths in the United States in 2025. Last year alone, in the D.C. metropolitan region, there were nearly 1,000 deaths due to fentanyl overdose. With lives, resources, and time on the line, it is important for DHS personnel to not only work hard in the fight against illicit fentanyl but to also work smart against this enormous challenge. That requires collaboration and the ability to assess how their operations are having an impact. Madam Speaker, I thank Mr. McCaul, who was my co-lead on this legislation. I thank the chairman, Ranking Member Thompson, and Mr. Correa, as well, who worked hard on it. As I said, this bipartisan legislation would put three GAO recommendations for combating illicit fentanyl into law. It would require the establishment of a program to collect data and measure the effectiveness of current efforts to counter illicit fentanyl, ensure information sharing across DHS components, and require the development of performance goals and measures. Madam Speaker, I urge all Members to join me in supporting H.R. 8535, and I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. WALKINSHAW

Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Lieutenant Colonel Jose Manuel Pizarro Matos upon his retirement from the United States Army after 37 years of distinguished service to our Nation. Throughout his remarkable and decorated career spanning nearly four decades, Lieutenant Colonel Pizarro Mates dedicated himself to advancing military medicine, protecting the health of our service members, and strengthening the Army Medical Department through scientific research and innovation. His work has directly contributed to the readiness and well-being of the men and women who serve our Nation. A deeply respected scientist and Army officer, Lieutenant Colonel Pizarro Matos earned national recognition within his field through decades of research, mentorship, and professional achievement. His contributions include extensive scientific publications, oversight of major research programs, and expert guidance to countless military and civilian professionals whose work continues to benefit the Armed Forces and the broader medical community. His service has been recognized through numerous military awards and honors, including the Order of Military Medical Merit, multiple Meritorious Service Medals, and designation as a leader in Army medical research and development. These accomplishments reflect a career defined by genuine excellence, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to serving others. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Lieutenant Colonel Jose Manuel Pizarro Matos on his retirement and in thanking him for his extraordinary service to the United States Army and our Nation.

Mr. WALKINSHAW

Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding achievement of the Fairfax Connector maintenance team and to congratulate them on securing first place at the 2026 Virginia State Bus Roadeo. Technicians Jerry Salgado, Matthew Bender, and Martin Lopez earned top honors at this year's statewide competition, marking the fifth consecutive year that Fairfax Connector has claimed the championship. The Virginia State Bus Roadeo brings together transit professionals from across the Commonwealth to test their skills in real world scenarios, including vehicle inspection and troubleshooting challenges. This continued success speaks to the high level of expertise, preparation, and consistency demonstrated by this team. Their performance reflects both the technical knowledge and attention to detail required to maintain a safe and reliable public transit system. As a result of their first-place finish, the Fairfax Connector maintenance team will represent the Commonwealth of Virginia at the American Public Transportation Association International Bus Roadeo this month in Salt Lake City, Utah. This event brings together top transit maintenance teams from across North America for a premier showcase of technical skill and precision. While their work often takes place behind the scenes, the impact of their efforts is felt every day by the thousands of riders who rely on Fairfax Connector. This achievement offers a well-earned opportunity to celebrate their skill, dedication, and the vital role they play in keeping our community moving. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Jerry, Salgado, Matthew Bender, and Martin Lopez on their state championship and in wishing them continued success as they represent Virginia on the international stage.

Mr. WALKINSHAW

Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Volunteer Fairfax and express my sincere appreciation to recipients of the 2026 Annual Fairfax County Volunteer Service Awards. Established 50 years ago, Volunteer Fairfax matches the skills and interests of thousands of volunteers with the needs of local non-profit organizations. The success of this model and its impact on delivery of the services needed is beyond question; Volunteer Fairfax has been rated as one of the most effective community service organizations in the Nation. Each year, Volunteer Fairfax selects a few exceptional individuals, groups, or organizations to receive special recognition. I include in the Record the following names of the 2026 Fairfax County Volunteer Service Awards honorees: Barbara Pearson: Braddock District Champion Great Falls Trailblazers: Dranesville Community Champion Leah Lamba-Skidmore: Franconia District Champion Rosa Simon: Hunter Mill District Champion Nancy Moy: Mason District Champion Mary Paden: Mount Vernon District Champion Greater Oakton Community Association: Lauren Crum & Shelley Deutch: Providence District Champion Arnie Daxe: Springfield District Champion Evan Braff: Sully District Champion Craig Dubishar: Gerald E. ``Gerry'' Connolly Lifetime Achievement Award Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join me in commending Volunteer Fairfax for its decades of outstanding community service. I congratulate the recipients of the 2026 Fairfax County Volunteer Service Awards and thank them and the thousands of other local volunteers for their incredible contributions to our community. Their selfless dedication is worthy of our highest praise and is one of the main reasons that our community is often ranked as one of the best places in the country to live, work, and raise a family.

Mr. WALKINSHAW

Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 60th anniversary of the Vienna Community Center, a historic and enduring gathering place that has served the Town of Vienna and Northern Virginia for generations. Since opening its doors in 1966, the Vienna Community Center has served as a shared space for residents of all ages to gather, learn, and stay active. Its creation was the result of a sustained community effort that began decades earlier, when local leaders and organizations came together to raise funds and support the vision of a shared space for the growing town. Since its founding, the center has played a central role in the daily life of Vienna residents. As the home of the Town of Vienna Parks and Recreation Department, it has provided space for educational programs, recreational activities, and community events that bring people together and strengthen local connections. Over the years, the Vienna Community Center has evolved to meet the needs of a growing community. Through renovations and expansions, including a major modernization project that enhanced its facilities and services, the center has remained both a historic landmark and a modern resource for residents. Today, the Vienna Community Center continues to serve as a gathering place where neighbors connect, families participate in programs, and community traditions are built and sustained. Its enduring presence reflects the values of collaboration, civic engagement, and community pride that define the Town of Vienna. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Vienna Community Center on its 60th anniversary and in recognizing its lasting contributions to the Town of Vienna and Northern Virginia.

Mr. WALKINSHAW

Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Workhouse Arts Center and celebrate the annual Workhouse Ball, an event that highlights the importance of the arts and the lasting impact the Workhouse has had on Northern Virginia. The Workhouse Arts Center has become an important gathering place for artists, educators, performers, and residents from across our region. The Workhouse creates opportunities for people of all backgrounds to experience creativity and engage with the arts in meaningful ways. The annual Workhouse Ball serves as both a celebration of the arts and a reflection of the strong community that supports them. By bringing together artists, local leaders, businesses, and supporters from across Northern Virginia, the event highlights the important role cultural institutions play in strengthening community connections and enriching the quality of life throughout our region. The arts are an essential component to any vibrant and healthy community. They inspire creativity, encourage dialogue, preserve culture, and bring people together through shared experiences. Institutions like the Workhouse Arts Center help ensure that the arts remain accessible and vibrant within our community while supporting local artists and fostering the next generation of creative talent. I would also like to recognize the staff, volunteers, artists, and supporters whose dedication has helped the Workhouse Arts Center grow into one of Northern Virginia's leading cultural institutions. Their work continues to expand opportunities for artistic expression and community engagement. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the Workhouse Arts Center and celebrating the annual Workhouse Ball and its contributions to the cultural life of Northern Virginia.

Mr. WALKINSHAW

Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 2026 recipients of the Fairfax County Special Education PTA Awards, an annual tradition that honors the extraordinary educators, students, staff, and community members who champion inclusion and excellence in special education across Fairfax County Public Schools. These individuals and teams exemplify dedication in supporting students of all abilities, ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive. I include in the Record the following names of the 2026 SEPTA Award recipients: Kely Herrera and Samina Butt: Outstanding Instructional Support Staff Jae Lee: Outstanding Secondary Administrator James Racine: Outstanding Support Staff Jason Collazo and Jan Fisher: Outstanding Secondary Special Educators Claire Soyeon Lee and Malika Bougri: Outstanding Preschool Special Educators Patricia Rothweiler, Larissa Miller Pullam, Colleen O'Carroll, and Liz Smith: Mark Stewart Memorial Award for Outstanding Elementary Special Educators Nia Ravenstahl: Secondary Educator of the Year Katherine Charlotte ``Casey'' McLellan: Elementary Educator of the Year Liz Busch: Preschool Educator of the Year Courtney Kim and Beth Beal: Outstanding Elementary General Educators Alina Jimenez Rosa: Outstanding Secondary General Educator. Megan Pitts and Stephanie Schauder: Outstanding Related Services Providers Hunters Woods SACC Team and Scott Elliott: Community Champions for Special Education Cara Chaapel and Anne Hollis: Outstanding Co-Curricular Staff Evelyn Harocopos: Outstanding Central Office Staff. Becky Timm and Eric Kopacz: Outstanding Elementary Administrators Devansh Saraff: Outstanding Student Sheel Patel and Reema Patel: Abbie Bachmore Memorial Award for Students Most Supporting Inclusion Jenna Cook and Kathryn Guard: Outstanding Inclusive FCPS Program Cathy Adames, Anice Denton, and Laura Cerda: Outstanding Collaborative Team Stephanie Curb: Volunteer of the Year Avi Levy: Reflections: Silver Award of Excellence Ben Smith: Reflections: Bronze Award of Merit Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing the 2026 Fairfax County SEPTA Award recipients for their exceptional contributions to students, families, and schools. Their dedication to inclusion, equity, and excellence represents the very best of our community and serves as an inspiration across the Commonwealth and our Nation.

Mr. WALKINSHAW

Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an outstanding member of our Northern Virginia community, Kurt Rose, on the occasion of being named the 2026 Citizen of the Year by the Rotary Club of Herndon-Reston. For decades, Kurt Rose has exemplified the very best of public service through his unwavering commitment to children, families, and community organizations throughout the Herndon and Reston areas. His leadership reflects the Rotary ideal of ``Service Above Self,'' and his impact can be felt across countless lives in our region. In 2005, Kurt helped bring the Dolly Parton Imagination Library to the Herndon-Reston community, a transformative initiative that provides free books each month to young children from birth to age five. Through this effort, thousands of local children have gained access to books in their homes, fostering early literacy and a lifelong love of reading. Kurt is also the co-founder of Aspen Jewelry Designs, where he has demonstrated that business success and community service can go hand in hand. Through his work, he has supported numerous charitable initiatives and strengthened local partnerships. In addition, he co- founded the Ro-Sigle Community Giving Foundation, which raises funds and awareness to expand access to literacy resources for children and families in need. Beyond these accomplishments, Kurt has generously given his time and support to organizations such as Kids R First, Cornerstones, the South Lakes High School PTSA Food Pantry, the South Lakes and Herndon High School Bands, the Reston YMCA, and the Reston Museum's Annual Cardboard Boat Regatta. He has also served as a dedicated board member of the Reston Historic Trust & Museum, helping to preserve the unique heritage of the Reston community. The Citizen of the Year distinction awarded by the Rotary Club of Herndon-Reston carries deep significance within the community. Each year, this honor is bestowed upon an individual whose service, leadership, and compassion have made a lasting and measurable impact on the lives of others. It is a recognition not only of professional achievement, but of a sustained commitment to uplifting neighbors, strengthening families, and building a more connected and resilient community. The annual celebration brings together community leaders, local organizations, families, and friends to reflect on the values that define Herndon and Reston: service, generosity, and civic engagement. It serves as a powerful reminder of the role that local leadership plays in addressing community needs and inspiring others to contribute their time and talents in meaningful ways. Kurt Rose's selection as the 2026 honoree reflects a lifetime of dedication to these ideals. His work in advancing childhood literacy, supporting local nonprofits, and fostering community partnerships embodies the very spirit of this award. Through both his professional endeavors and volunteer service, he has set a standard of leadership that continues to inspire those around him. On April 26, 2026, the Rotary Club of Herndon-Reston honored Kurt Rose at the Reston Community Center, celebrating a lifetime of service that has strengthened our community and uplifted those most in need. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Kurt Rose on this well-deserved recognition. His leadership, generosity, and steadfast dedication to others serve as an inspiration to us all and embody the very spirit of community that defines Northern Virginia.

Mr. WALKINSHAW

Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the recipients of the 2026 Fairfax County Student Peace Awards. The Fairfax County Student Peace Awards began with one high school in 2006 to encourage high school aged students to think about peace as both a means and an end, and to recognize young people who work as peacemakers. By 2013, the program was being offered in every public high school in Fairfax County, as well as in many private schools. Participating high schools choose one Junior or Senior, or one student group active in promoting peace or removing the causes of conflict. Examples of outreach include committing to peace by engaging in activities that strive to end conflict, either locally or globally, promoting the understanding of divisive issues and situations to bridge differences, and working to resolve conflicts among students or members of the community who feel isolated or alienated. I include in the Record the names of this year's Student Peace Award winners: Lily Rumpf, Annandale High School Caleb Crawford, Cedar Lane School Sheba Ahmadzal, Centreville High School Voices of Chantilly, Chantilly High School Aaya Ali, Edison High School Damanika Ravi, Fairfax High School Gabriella (Gabi) Henriquez, Falls Church High School Sinaiyah Emami, Hayfield Secondary School Fredis Alexander Guillen Ayala, Herndon High School The Verdict Publication Club, Justice High School Yenni Ly Do, Lake Braddock Secondary School Ryan Musmar, Langley High School Rachel Chanel Yousaf, John. R. Lewis High School Madison Red Cross Club, Madison High School Lucia Castellon Soria, Marshall High School Chloe Jeong, McLean High School Savonne Clark, Mount Vernon High School Sana Stanikzai, Mountain View High School Yanis Mahenni, Oakton High School Brycen Smith, Quander Road School Caitlyn Murphy, Robinson Secondary School Kayhan Kandahari, South County High School Alden Walcott, South Lakes High School Anwar Kiyar, Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology Annalise Richardson, West Potomac High School Natalie Ignacio, West Springfield High School Student Equity Ambassador Leaders, Westfield High School Maria Kim, Woodson High School Mr. Speaker, the efforts of these young people are the building blocks of a more peaceful and tolerant world. I commend them on their efforts and dedication and ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating each award recipient and thanking them as well as Fairfax County Public School System and sponsor organizations for all they have done for our community.