Rudy Yakym

Mr. YAKYM

Mr. YAKYM. Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate and wish a very happy and special 100th birthday to World War II veteran Robert Bohyer. Robert embodies what it means to be a member of the ``Greatest Generation.'' When the forces of fascism threatened the peace, security, and freedom of millions upon millions, Robert answered the call to serve, joining the U.S. Army Air Corps--which later became the Air Force--when he was only 18 years old. As a B-17 tail gunner, Robert was assigned to the 486th Bombardment Group near Sudbury, England and then later to the 483rd Bombardment Group in Italy. All told, Robert flew 35 missions from England and Italy, and he faced down mortal danger with the kind of heroic courage and valor that we desperately need more of today. Robert succinctly captured the danger he confronted by saying ``We were shot up but never shot down.'' Robert distinguished himself in service, and he has the medals and citations to prove it. President Ronald Reagan reminded us that freedom is fragile and must constantly be fought for and guarded by each generation. That noble mission is exactly what Robert helped carry out when he wore the uniform of the United States Military. Because of the service and sacrifice of veterans, generations of Americans have been able to experience the blessings of liberty and live in a land that is free. For that, all of us owe Robert and his fellow veterans a debt that we can never fully repay. As Robert celebrates a century of life lived to the fullest, I join his family and countless Hoosiers in wishing Robert Bohyer a very Happy 100th Birthday. I commend him for his loyal service to our Nation in uniform and the many great contributions he has made to our country. May God bless Robert.

Mr. YAKYM

Mr. YAKYM. Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate and wish a very happy and special 100th birthday to World War II and Korean War veteran Frank Walerko, M.D. Born on July 28, 1924, Dr. Walerko embodies what it means to be a member of the ``Greatest Generation.'' When the forces of fascism and tyranny threatened the peace, security, and freedom of millions upon millions of people throughout the world, Frank answered the call to serve. Frank served in the Navy during World War II, and later as a Captain in the Army Medical Corp during the Korean War. President Reagan reminded us that freedom is fragile and must constantly be fought for and guarded by each generation. That noble mission is exactly what Dr. Walerko helped carry out when he wore the uniform of the United States Military. Because of the service and sacrifice of veterans, generations of Americans have been able to experience the blessings of liberty and live in a land that is free. For that, all of us owe Frank and his fellow veterans a debt that we can never fully repay. In addition to his military service, Dr. Walerko holds a Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Notre Dame, and his Medical Degree from the St. Louis University School of Medicine. He also established a family practice in Mishawaka and South Bend, where he met the specific medical needs of Hoosiers in our area. As Dr. Walerko celebrates a century of life well lived, I Join Hoosiers throughout Indiana's Second District and beyond in wishing Frank a very happy 100th birthday. I commend him for his loyal service and the many positive contributions he has made to the Second District and our country. May God bless Frank Walerko.

Mr. YAKYM

Mr. YAKYM. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate Judge Robert O. Bowen of the Marshall County Superior Court No. 1 as he prepares to retire from serving on the bench. A 1974 graduate of Indiana University, Judge Bowen obtained his Juris Doctor from Valparaiso University in 1977. In addition to his service on the bench, Robert also served as a Legislative Assistant in the Indiana General Assembly. Since his tenure on the Marshall County Superior Court No. 1 began on January 1, 1995, Judge Bowen has dedicated himself to advancing the principles of justice and ensuring that Hoosiers get a fair shake before the law. The Rule of Law tradition we have inherited helps secure individual liberty and promotes the conditions necessary for human flourishing. It is incumbent on us to do our part to make sure these principles of justice and Rule of Law precepts are passed seamlessly from one generation to the next. That mission is one Judge Bowen has embraced wholeheartedly and worked tirelessly to advance. While serving on the Court, Judge Bowen has also demonstrated his steadfast commitment to the local community, most especially in his church membership where he taught adult education over the years. Additionally, the Sagamore of the Wabash Award he has been honored with is another testament to Judge Bowen's leadership abilities and his civic-oriented nature. As Judge Bowen's career comes to a close, I have no doubt that the Marshall County community is better off because of his service. I know that Robert's wife Patty and their three children--Andrew, Chris, and Betsy--are all very proud of him, and I am too. I join Hoosiers throughout Indiana's Second Congressional District in expressing our gratitude to Judge Robert O. Bowen for his service and in wishing him a very happy retirement and all the best going forward.

Mr. YAKYM

Mr. YAKYM. Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate excellence in athletics and to highlight a very special group of Hoosiers. A year ago, the New Prairie High School girls softball team won the 3A State championship, marking the Cougars first-ever State title in any sport. Apparently, the boys didn't want to be shown up by the girls because last month the New Prairie baseball team also won the 3A State title for their first title in program history. In their 7-2 win over the Brebeuf Jesuit Braves, the Cougars were carried by a stellar and outstanding performance from starting pitcher Tyson Greenwood. All season long, the Cougars counted on the bat of sophomore sensation Reed Robinson whose 43 RBIs were the second most in all of Indiana. Congratulations to Cougars Head Coach Mark Schellinger and all the young men on an incredible season and for bringing another State title back to Indiana's Second District. Mr. Speaker, I thank them for making the New Prairie community very proud. May God bless them, and go Cougars.

Mr. YAKYM

Mr. YAKYM. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize and congratulate Kimberly Dudeck, who is retiring on June 27 after 43 years of providing care to Hoosiers in northern Indiana as a recreational therapist, including for the past 36 years at Memorial Hospital of South Bend's Inpatient Rehabilitation center. Raised in South Bend, Kim has spent over four decades embodying compassionate care and addressing the mental, physical, and spiritual health needs of the patients she has been tasked with looking after. In her vocation as a recreational therapist, Kim has cared for all kinds of patients, including stroke victims, those suffering from traumatic brain injuries, cardiac patients, amputees, trauma patients, people with spinal cord injuries and neurological disorders, and cancer patients. With every patient, Kim has provided tailored and individualized therapy and care that fits the person's specific needs and interests, and which helps them successfully re-enter their community after they have experienced a life altering event. Part of what has made Kimberly such a special person to all those who know her is how she has consistently gone above and beyond to help others and how she has been an agent for positive change. This passion for helping others has included starting the therapy dog program on the rehabilitation unit, spearheading a neuro group for stroke survivors and their families, coordinating the annual rehab reunion for previous rehab patients, and serving on the Board of Directors for the Special Olympics. So many people have benefited from Kim's care over the years, and she has undoubtedly made the greater South Bend community a better and kinder place to live. I and many other Hoosiers are extremely grateful to Kimberly Dudeck for her many years of caring for patients and doing diligent, dedicated work to help others recover and lead better, more fulfilling lives. I wish Kim and her family all the best going forward and a very well-deserved and happy retirement as she begins the next chapter of her life. God bless Kimberly Dudeck.

Mr. YAKYM

Mr. YAKYM. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize South Bend Police Officer Dan Napolitan, whose quick thinking and decisive action last month likely saved the life of one of his coworkers. On the evening of May 6, 2024, Officer Napolitan was working the front desk at the South Bend Police Department. Normally, Dan would have been out walking the beat or patrolling the streets of South Bend that night. However, sidelined by a foot injury, Officer Napolitan had recently started light duty assignment while his foot healed. As he was working, Dan noticed something was wrong when his coworker seated nearby started coughing forcefully. When she stood up from her chair and began walking toward him, Officer Napolitan immediately realized that she was choking. Acting quickly, Dan delivered several back blows to his coworker to try to dislodge the food, but she continued to struggle to breathe. Dan then performed the Heimlich maneuver and some additional back blows, which ultimately cleared his coworker's airway and averted an even scarier outcome. Officer Napolitan's ability to keep a clear head and execute quickly and professionally under pressure likely saved his coworker's life. For his actions, Officer Napolitan has already been recognized with the South Bend Police Department's Lifesaving Award; an award presented to those who have shown exceptional courage and learned measures in order to save lives. I am proud to recognize Officer Napolitan. I and Hoosiers throughout Indiana's Second Congressional District are extremely grateful to Officer Napolitan on this occasion and to all our law enforcement officials serving on the Thin Blue Line for the dedicated--and often dangerous--work they do day in and day out to go after the bad guys and keep our communities safe. God bless Officer Dan Napolitan and all those who protect and serve.

Mr. YAKYM

Mr. YAKYM. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize and congratulate Fire Chief Tom Butler, who is retiring as Fire Chief of the Rochester Fire Department in Rochester, Indiana, at the end of this month. Serving as Rochester Fire Chief since 2008, Tom's career in public safety spans back three decades when he started as a volunteer firefighter for the Department in 1994. Chief Butler's 16 and a half years in his current role means that when he retires on June 28, he will hold the title for the longest serving Fire Chief in Rochester history. Chief Butler's career with the Rochester Fire Department is but one reflection of his lifelong passion for helping others. Since he was a young man, Chief Butler felt a calling to serve our Nation in uniform. That calling led Tom to enter military service, where he was a military medic for 24 years with stints in both the Army and the Indiana Army National Guard. Part of that service was spent on two tours in the Middle East, including a deployment during Operation Desert Storm. Tom distinguished himself in service, and his military awards include a Bronze Star, expert field medical badge, and combat medical badge. Because of his service as Fire Chief, the Rochester community and Fulton County are unquestionably better off and safer thanks to this good man who exemplifies what it means to be a true public servant who sacrifices for others. Chief Butler's example and leadership are also reminders that first responders are on the frontlines of some of the most difficult situations our communities face. When there is a problem, first responders like Tom answer the call and willingly put themselves in danger's path to keep us safe. For that, all of us are extremely grateful. I am proud to join so many Hoosiers throughout Indiana's Second District in expressing our appreciation to Chief Butler for his impressive career spent in service to others. I wish Tom and his family--including his wife Samantha and their two children Alison and Daniel--all the best going forward as Tom begins the next chapter of his life and a very well-deserved retirement. May God bless.

Mr. YAKYM

Mr. YAKYM. Madam Speaker, I rise to celebrate the University of Notre Dame men's lacrosse team who, 1 week ago today, won their second straight national championship. Madam Speaker, we all know that the sequel is rarely better than the original, but that wasn't the case last Monday as my family and I watched the Fighting Irish beat the Maryland Terrapins in dominant fashion in Philly. With their impressive 15-5 win, the Irish became the first D1 men's lacrosse team to capture back-to-back titles since the Duke Blue Devils did so a decade ago. Across college athletics, Notre Dame is renowned for their slogan ``play like a champion today.'' That is exactly what the Irish men did almost all season long, going 16-1 overall, and ending the year on an exhilarating 14-game win streak. Madam Speaker, I congratulate Head Coach Kevin Corrigan and all the Irish for bringing more championship hardware back to our region. I thank them for making Notre Dame a national champion once again. God bless and go Irish.

Mr. YAKYM

Mr. YAKYM. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Kathy Daily for the incredible work she does day in and day out caring for those who have worn the uniform of the United States Military. As a registered nurse for mental health at the Jackie Walorski VA Clinic in Mishawaka, Indiana, Kathy serves on the frontlines in the ongoing battle to make sure Hoosier veterans are well-cared for and receive the quality mental health treatment they need and deserve. When our veteran heroes return home from battle, they often struggle with invisible scars and wounds that are not physically noticeable. Kathy works tirelessly to bind up and heal those wounds and support veterans in crisis situations. Kathy's extensive background in the military and with veterans' groups is part of what makes her such an effective advocate for them. From serving in the U.S. Army during Operation Desert Storm to now serving as Vice Commander of the Edwardsburg VFW Post in Cass County, Michigan, along with various veteran suicide prevention groups, there are few people who better understand the veteran community and their challenges and needs better than Kathy does. One of the veterans who Kathy went above and beyond for in a time of crisis is someone I have also had the privilege of getting to know well: retired Sergeant Ted Grubbs. An Operation Iraqi Freedom veteran, Ted was diagnosed with service-connected complex post-traumatic stress disorder and complex traumatic brain injury after returning home from duty. In April 2023, Ted experienced a severe mental health crisis and put a pistol in his mouth before, fortunately, putting the pistol down. In the immediate aftermath of that incident, Kathy was there and available for Ted 24/7, and she made sure he was supported and received the treatment he needed. It is not hyperbole to say that Kathy saved Ted's life, and there are other veterans who woke up this morning and can say the same because they had Kathy in their corner. As we reflect on all the tremendous sacrifices our veterans have made across the generations defending liberty and preserving this great American experiment, it is equally important to express our gratitude to those individuals who care for them when they return home. I, and many others, are extremely grateful to Kathy Daily for being a voice for veterans when no one else will speak up for them, and to make sure crisis situations don't turn into tragedies. I thank Kathy and all those doing diligent, dedicated work supporting and caring for America's veterans.

Mr. YAKYM

Mr. YAKYM. Mr. Speaker, I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 222.

Mr. YAKYM

Mr. YAKYM. Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate my friend and fellow Hoosier Judge Dean Colvin of Marshall County Superior Court No. 2 as he prepares to retire this coming September after more than 37 years of serving on the bench. Born and raised in Marshall County, Judge Colvin's distinguished career in public service goes back 50 years to 1974. Starting out as a special deputy with the Marshall County Sheriff's Department, a Plymouth Police Officer, Investigator with the Marshall County Prosecutor's Office, and Deputy Attorney General for the State of Indiana. Dean was appointed to serve the citizens of Marshall County as judge in 1986. In that time, Judge Colvin has dedicated himself to advancing the principles of justice and ensuring Hoosiers get a fair shake before the law. The Rule of Law tradition we have inherited helps secure individual liberty and promotes the conditions necessary for human flourishing. It is incumbent on us to do our part to make sure these principles of justice and Rule of Law precepts are passed seamlessly from one generation to the next. That mission is one Judge Colvin has embraced wholeheartedly and worked tirelessly to advance throughout his career. As Judge Colvin's career comes to a close, I am reminded of the saying ``I like to see a man proud of the place in which he lives. I like to see a man live so that his place will be proud of him .'' I believe this quote applies uniquely well to Judge Colvin. The Plymouth community and all of Marshall County are unquestionably better off thanks to this good man with a servant's heart. I am also very happy for him personally in that with his upcoming retirement, Dean will have more time to devote to his three great passions in life in addition to his family: baseball, cars, and cooking. I join Hoosiers throughout Indiana's Second Congressional District in expressing our gratitude to Judge Dean Colvin for his service, and in wishing him a very happy retirement and all the best going forward. I thank Dean.

Mr. YAKYM

Mr. YAKYM. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of this resolution, which denounces the Biden administration's failed border policies, and I do so because of this chart next to me. I have sat here and listened to the debate of who is responsible and why. Let's look at the facts and the data. This chart shows southwestern border crossing encounters over the first 38 months of the last six Presidential terms. It doesn't say whose line it is, but if you guessed the Biden administration is the red one at the top with nearly six times the number of illegal border crossings, then you would be correct, Mr. Speaker. The seeds of this crisis were planted on day one when 64 executive orders were signed by President Biden that undermined border security and encouraged illegal immigration. What followed has been an unprecedented surge of illegal immigration. Instead of acknowledging this failure, we get denial. Biden administration officials wrote off the crisis as ``cyclical'' and ``seasonal'' right about here, 11 months into his term. Biden administration officials continued to insist that the border crisis was just part of the normal ``ebbs and flows'' at 35 months into his Presidency. President Biden only finally admitted that the border is ``not secure'' all the way up there at the top, right at the 36-month mark. What changed, Mr. Speaker, from ``ebbs and flows'' to just 2 weeks later that the border is ``not secure''? Mr. Speaker, there were no laws that changed during that time, just the will to enforce them. The Biden administration created this crisis at the border with the stroke of a pen and these 64 executive orders, and, Mr. Speaker, he can end it with the stroke of a pen. Be that as it may, there is no leadership. Instead, Biden administration officials treat border policy like a hot potato because it is politically thankless, and it shows. Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague, Mr. Gonzales, for introducing this resolution that methodically and thoroughly documents the Biden administration's border failures, and I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes.''

Mr. YAKYM

Mr. YAKYM. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 7032) to amend the Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974 to provide the Congressional Budget Office with necessary authorities to expedite the sharing of data from executive branch agencies, and for other purposes.

Mr. YAKYM. 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. 7032.

Mr. YAKYM. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of the Congressional Budget Office Data Sharing Act. First, I thank my colleague and friend, the ranking member of the Budget Committee, Mr. Boyle of Pennsylvania, for working with me on this commonsense, bipartisan reform. I also thank our Budget Committee chairman, Jodey Arrington, for his leadership and work on this effort, as well. As a Congress, there is one thing we can all agree on: The current budgetary process is not working for the American people. Congress has adopted a budget resolution by its statutorily required April 15 deadline only four times in the last four decades. We have to find ways to address this brokenness so we can serve and steward the American people's hard-earned tax dollars. A key part of this is process reform. To me, process is a set of incentives that drive behavior, and we must change the current behavior that is failing this country, especially our children and grandchildren. Right now, the CBO encounters ongoing challenges in obtaining necessary data from executive branch agencies in a timely manner without restrictions. CBO's recent interactions with the Social Security Administration reveal a systemic issue that extends beyond a single agency. The process of renewing data agreements, which are vital for the CBO's analyses, has been met with significant delays. For example, a particular Social Security agreement with the Social Security Administration, critical for ongoing access to essential data, required over a year of negotiations before it was finalized and renewed. This consumed significant resources and time and deprived Congress of valuable information. It is clear that the current framework is broken. There are many interpretations of various legislative mandates that bring inefficiencies and obstacles to data access. These challenges impact how quickly CBO can provide vital information to Congress and hinder Members' ability to make fully informed decisions regarding the budgetary impact of proposed legislation. Our bill will put an end to this troubling dynamic. The Congressional Budget Office Data Sharing Act would ensure the CBO has the tools it needs to deliver for us, their customer, timely and accurate information. It assists CBO in providing Congress with cost estimates for legislation and other fiscal reports that are critical for bringing accountability and transparency. We streamline the CBO's ability to obtain necessary data, enabling timely completion of its work. We also strengthen and clarify the CBO's ability to request and receive data from executive branch agencies. This doesn't threaten the confidentiality of sensitive information. Rather, the CBO would be required to maintain confidentiality in a way similar to the executive branch agency that is providing it. This bill also ensures that future laws will not limit or modify this enhanced authority unless explicitly stated. Finally, the bill provides increased transparency by requiring the CBO to report to the House and Senate Budget Committees on the requests it makes to agencies and any challenges encountered in retrieving necessary information. I am proud to support this measure that will give CBO some of the tools it needs to provide timely, accurate, and complete information to Congress. This legislation is smart, bipartisan, and a step in the right direction to improving the way that we budget Americans' hard-earned tax dollars. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this bill, and I reserve the balance of my time.

Mr. YAKYM. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Georgia (Mr. Carter).

Mr. YAKYM. Mr. Speaker, I am ready to close, and I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I ask to include in the Record letters in statement of support from various organizations and individuals as part of H.R. 7032. These include from the Congressional Budget Office, several former directors of the Congressional Budget Office, including: Dan Crippen, Doug Elmendorf, and Doug Holtz-Eakin; Sandy Davis who served as the Congressional Budget Office's Associate Director for Legislative Affairs from 2003-2015, and the Economic Policy Innovation Center. I will include in the Record the Bipartisan Policy Center, the Cato Institute, the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, and the National Taxpayers Union Foundation. Dan Crippen, Former CBO Director I applaud the House Budget Committee for its legislation allowing CBO more access to data from federal agencies. I urge the House to pass the bill in time for the Senate to act expeditiously as well. Having once served as Director, I can report first-hand that agencies collect data valuable to CBO analysis of legislation and important issues to the Congress. Unfortunately, many of those agencies are reluctant to share the data for any number of reasons, including: privacy; enabling statutes; and, the inherent power of ``owning'' the data (often unspoken). The bill the House plans to consider will help clarify the ability of agencies to overcome any legislative restrictions that might impose concern about the legality of transfers. Other concerns can be mitigated using an MOU. Privacy has often been the reason given for not sharing data. Various deidentification techniques can protect privacy. I was often told that I could identify Bill Gates tax return without any identifying information . . . of course, with more taxpayers at his level of income, it would be more difficult now. Nonetheless, it is possible to eliminate entirely a few cells that would be identifiable without severe masking of all data, destroying the statistical properties of the information. With the help of Chairman Moynihan, CBO gained access to IRS data, but under all the same laws and rules of the IRS itself . . . including go-to-jail provisions for leaking. Some analysts at CBO were initially chagrined at the new exposure, but subsequently understood the security measures we needed to take to successfully comply. This legislation would do the same for all agencies. The Census Bureau often claimed that its charter made any census data available only to the Census Bureau . . . to help improve its data collection. I once encouraged the House Appropriations Committee to include CBO access to Census Bureau data, which they did, only to have the Bureau launch a large and successful campaign against it. The Bureau claimed leaks by CBO would discourage people from returning the census survey when, at least at that point, the only agency to leak data was the Bureau itself. This bill would make it clear that it is appropriate and legal for agencies to allow CBO to use data collected by the government. No matter what the reason, nor how good the motives, withholding data from CBO deprives the Congress of better estimates and analysis. This legislation will make it more straightforward and less ambiguous, without jeopardizing existing privacy. The folks at CBO, along with other fine qualities, are not a leaky lot . . . as shown by their history.

Mr. YAKYM. -Mr. Speaker, I also include in the Record letters and statements of support from various organizations and individuals as part of H.R. 7032. These include statements of support from the National Taxpayers Union, the CATO Institute, and the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget. Romina Boccia, CATO Strengthen budget data sharing. The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) plays a critical role in informing Congress about the fiscal state of the nation as well as in providing forward-looking guidance for how policy changes will affect the budgetary picture. At times, CBO has encountered difficulties accessing necessary data from other government agencies which complicates the production of objective, impartial, and timely analyses of legislative proposals. The Congressional Budget Office Data Sharing Act (H.R. 7032) empowers CBO to get the data it needs to get the job done, ensuring legislators can make informed budgetary decisions. Improving fiscal reporting should be a nonpartisan priority and it's encouraging to see that this is the case for H.R. 7032. which was reported out of the House Budget Committee with unanimous support. Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget Maya MacGuineas, president of the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, said. ``The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) needs timely access to government data to provide information to lawmakers as they make decisions affecting our country's fiscal path. The Congressional Budget Office Data Sharing Act would streamline the process for CBO to obtain such data and thus contribute to improved and more timely information for lawmakers. Policymakers should pass this bill.'' National Taxpayers Union Foundation The Congressional Budget Office Data Sharing Act introduced by the House Budget Committee's Chairman Jodey Arrington (R- TX) and Ranking Member Brendan Boyle (D-PA) will help CBO to respond to congressional requests for legislative analyses in a timelier manner. Under current policies, CBO can encounter roadblocks in getting information it needs from federal agencies that lead to avoidable delays. The bill would add the CBO to the same exemption to the Privacy Act of 1974 that is provided to the Government Accountability Office and both chambers of Congress. It is also important to note that CBO is obligated to protect data in the same way as other federal agencies. The bipartisan CBO Data Sharing Act would help improve CBO's important work by streamlining its access to needed information. In turn, CBO can provide lawmakers and taxpayers with more accurate and timely cost estimates of legislative proposals. Demian Brady, Vice President of Research, National Taxpayers Union Foundation.

Mr. YAKYM. Mr. Speaker, again, I express my sincere gratitude to the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Boyle), my friend and fellow Notre Dame graduate, and the ranking member of the Budget Committee for his bipartisan work and his partnership on the CBO Data Sharing Act. It is a testament to the spirit of bipartisanship that we have on the House Budget Committee. I, again, thank our budget chair, the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Arrington) for his work and his commitment on this bill. I also extend my deep appreciation to my fellow members of the Budget Committee for their work in support of this legislation, as well as the Budget Committee staff, both on the Republican and Democratic side. It is critical that the Congressional Budget Office has access to the data needed to support the budget process and ensure that we are the best stewards of Americans' hard earned tax dollars. The CBO plays a meaningful role in the legislative process by determining the fiscal impact of important potential policy decisions that we undertake here in this House. Too often, the CBO struggles to obtain the necessary data from executive branch agencies in a timely manner. As was mentioned earlier, this has ripple effects on its ability to deliver prompt budgetary analysis to Congress. As we all know, this, in turn, delays the Congress in making fully informed decisions regarding the budgetary impact of legislation. H.R. 7032 removes this hurdle and helps streamline the budget process. This bipartisan legislation will grant the CBO the authority to request and receive key data from executive branch agencies, ensuring it is able to fulfill its mission as laid out in the Congressional Budget Act of 1974. While expanding access, however, this bill also recognizes the importance of protecting data privacy and ensures that the CBO continues to be subject to congressional oversight. Given the critical nature of the CBO's work, we can't allow them to continue to operate in a broken budgetary system. This bipartisan legislation supports strengthening the CBO while allowing us as lawmakers to make the most informed and forward-thinking decisions possible. I am grateful to everyone who played a part in moving this bill, and I commend the bipartisan members of the Budget Committee who voted unanimously for this bill during committee markup. I am proud to express my strong support for the CBO Data Sharing Act. I look forward to voting in favor of this piece of legislation. I urge my colleagues to do the same. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.

Mr. YAKYM

Mr. YAKYM. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize and congratulate everyone at Leadership South Bend-Mishawaka on their upcoming 50th anniversary celebration in May, and in particular, the members of Class 50 on their commencement ceremonies. As a proud member of Leadership SBM's Signature Leadership Class 43 back in 2017, I know firsthand what an invaluable resource and great organization Leadership SBM really is. Leadership SBM plays a vital role in getting young people better connected within our community and with their peers across a wide spectrum of professions and fields. In fact, I'm still proud to count many of my classmates from Class 43 as dear friends to this day. Leadership SBM is instrumental in forming tomorrow's local leaders; leaders who will create the kinds of opportunities we all will benefit from. Additionally, the opportunities Leadership SBM provides for continued learning, social connection, and community service projects is a big part of what makes our region in northern Indiana so special. For all these reasons and more, I am proud to be counted as one of Leadership SBM's many alumni going back a half-century. Congratulations to Leadership SBM on this impressive milestone and on 50 years of excellence. I hope everyone enjoys the very well-deserved 50th anniversary celebration in May, and I look forward to congratulating Leadership SBM on many more anniversaries in the years ahead.

Mr. YAKYM

Mr. YAKYM. Mr. Speaker, I rise to commemorate Warsaw Masonic Lodge No. 73 F.&A.M in Warsaw, Indiana, as they prepare to celebrate their 175th anniversary on May 30, 2024. Since its founding in 1849, the Warsaw Masonic Lodge has played an integral role in the Kosciusko County community. As a fraternal organization, the Warsaw Masonic Lodge is dedicated to the kind of values that all of us should espouse: respect for history, duty to country, a desire to serve others, and a commitment to forge a better future. As the oldest institution still in existence in Warsaw, Indiana, the Warsaw Masonic Lodge has stood the test of time and made significant and long-lasting contributions to the social and cultural life of Warsaw and all of Kosciusko County. This is above all a testament to quality of its members and the men who have walked through the Lodge's doors over the years. The Warsaw Masonic Lodge and organizations like it do much to contribute to the health of our communities in northern Indiana, and for that I am extremely grateful. I join many other Hoosiers in wishing the Warsaw Masonic Lodge a very happy 175th anniversary and many more successful and active years ahead.

Mr. YAKYM

Mr. YAKYM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to continue to call for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages being held by Hamas in Gaza. Hamas committed unspeakable war crimes 186 days ago on October 7. Since that day, we have borne witness to stories of the atrocities committed by Hamas from survivors of the attack and from hostages who have been released. Last week, I traveled to Israel and saw the aftermath of Hamas' slaughter firsthand. While in Israel, I visited Kibbutz Nir Oz, which prior to Hamas' attack had 400 residents. In that kibbutz, we walked through homes where men, women, children, and elderly were murdered or taken hostage. It is estimated that 25 percent of Nir Oz's residents were either killed or abducted and taken hostage by Hamas. Hamas showed utter disregard for human life. I also met with Rachel Goldberg and Jon Polin, whose American-Israeli son, Hersh, was taken hostage by Hamas. Hersh remains in captivity today. I am grateful that Rachel and Jon are here tonight, along with several other families whose loved ones are being held in Gaza. I admire their strength, especially in a time of such immense hardship. I hope they know that their loved ones are not forgotten. We must continue to call for the release of every last hostage until they have all come home. The fastest way for this conflict to end is for Hamas to release every hostage and surrender. It is past time to bring them all home. I thank my good friend, the gentleman from Illinois, Brad Schneider, for organizing tonight's Special Order. I thank him for his leadership.

Mr. YAKYM

Mr. YAKYM. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Julie Shambarger for the incredible work she has done to revitalize downtown Rochester, Indiana, by spearheading the effort to refurbish and reopen The Times Theater in Rochester. As is the case with so many venues on Main Streets across America, The Times Theater was an iconic symbol of Main Street Rochester before closing its doors in 2014. Rather than accept The Times Theater's apparent fate as a project of the past, Julie Shambarger poured her heart and soul into the mission of ensuring this cherished community fixture would be open for business and welcome visitors once again. Guided by her belief that The Times Theater could be restored as the vibrant heart of the Rochester community, Julie marshalled the effort to acquire the grants and donations needed to renovate The Times Theater so its reopening could be not only a possibility, but a reality. Today, The Times Theater is host to not only movies but also live music and community events, and it has welcomed over 9,000 guests since reopening last February. It has elevated the cultural landscape of Rochester and been a beacon of artistic innovation and creative expression. At a time when many of America's social and civic ties are fraying, places like The Times Theater--places the community can take pride in and congregate at--are all the more important. I and so many other Hoosiers are immensely grateful to Julie Shambarger for the dedicated and diligent work she has done to bring more energy and life back to downtown Rochester and all of Fulton County. I look forward to visiting The Times Theater again soon and seeing how Julie Shambarger's efforts will continue to pay dividends in the years ahead.

Mr. YAKYM

Mr. YAKYM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my strong support for the Dr. Michael C. Burgess Preventive Health Savings Act. This bipartisan bill is essential to helping us, as lawmakers, make the most informed decisions possible when it comes to preventive healthcare legislation. So often, when the CBO scores preventive health measures, the 10-year scoring window greatly limits their ability to show the full impact of the legislation. This bill would allow such measures to be scored over a 30-year timeframe, giving us a more accurate picture of the impact the policy would have. I am proud to be a cosponsor of this bill, which originated in the House Budget Committee. I look forward to voting in favor of this piece of legislation, and I urge my colleagues to do the same. Mr. Speaker, I include in the Record a letter from the Bipartisan Policy Center in support of H.R. 766. Bipartisan Policy Center Action, Washington, DC, March 18, 2024. Hon. Michael C. Burgess, M.D., Washington, DC. Hon. Diana DeGette, Washington, DC. Dear Congressman Burgess and Congresswoman DeGette, BPC Action commends you for your leadership in introducing and advancing H.R. 766, The Preventive Health Savings Act (PHSA). BPC Action supports this bipartisan effort to better account for the full impact of preventive health care in Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimates and encourages all members to support the bill on the House floor this week. The Bipartisan Policy Center (BPC) has long focused on the importance of prevention. In 2014, BPC's Prevention Task Force--advised by former Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, Agriculture Secretary Dan Glickman, and former CBO director Alice Rivlin--recommended that the CBO use ``present discount accounting'' to bring long-term savings from prevention ``up'' in time and to align better with CBO's current 10-year scoring window. This could have helped ensure that CBO accounts for benefits that might be seen 20-25 years out. While slightly distinct in method but similar on principle, the Preventive Health Savings Act would provide policymakers with information related to the benefits of disease prevention and health promotion beyond the 10-year scoring window to 20- and 30-years out. Further, in 2019, BPC Chief Medical Advisor Dr. Anand Parekh in his book Prevention First (advised by former Senate Majority Leaders Bill Frist and Tom Daschle) recommended greater funding for prevention research so that there are more published studies and a better evidence-base for CBO to determine the cost-effectiveness of prevention interventions and more appropriately score future federal legislation related to prevention. BPC Action applauds your commitment to this issue and urges Congress to pass the Preventive Health Savings Act. Sincerely, Michele Stockwell, President.

Mr. YAKYM

Mr. YAKYM. Mr. Chair, I was unavoidably detained. Had I been present, I would have voted ``nay'' on rollcall No. 74.