| Speaker | Time | Text |
|---|---|---|
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H.R. 495: Border Security Oversight
00:15:03
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| What this is what we do every day. | ||
| Members of the council, we're talking to members today. | ||
| We're talking all of the time to members, and we will continue our dialogue with the White House. | ||
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unidentified
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Okay. | |
| This idea that DC gets treated as a federal agency again. | ||
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unidentified
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Do you worry at all that this scrutiny on federal spending, the workforce, the cuts that are made could then turn to the district government itself? | |
| Well, what I'm worried about is that we have an approved balance budget and that any disruption of that budget and our processes affect direct services. | ||
| There are lots of reasons why we're not a federal agency, but most of it is people's lives and on the street and their day-to-day is affected by what we do. | ||
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unidentified
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All right. | |
| Thank you, everybody. | ||
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unidentified
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Thank you. | |
| Mayor Bowser. | ||
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unidentified
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Hey, Mayor Bowser. | |
| Mayor Bowser. | ||
| Thank you. | ||
| Is it true that if my situation gets addressed? | ||
| And this press conference coming to an end here shortly, we will take you live to Capitol Hill, where the U.S. House will gavel in today. | ||
| Members are expected to work on several bills related to Homeland Security, immigration, and countering threats from China. | ||
| Live coverage of the U.S. House in just a moment here on C-SPAN. | ||
| Pursuant to Clause 8 of Rule 20, the chair will postpone further proceedings today on motions to suspend the rules on which a recorded vote or the yeas and nays are ordered or vote subjected to under Clause 6 of Rule 20. | ||
| The House will resume proceedings on postponed questions at a later time. | ||
| For what purpose does the gentleman from Tennessee seek recognition? | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill H.R. 495. | ||
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unidentified
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The clerk will report the title of the bill. | |
| H.R. 495, a bill to require annual reports on counter illicit cross-border tunnel operations and for other purposes. | ||
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unidentified
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Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from Tennessee, Mr. Greene, and the gentleman from California, Mr. Correa, will each control 20 minutes. | |
| The chair recognizes the gentleman from Tennessee. | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all members have five legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and to include extraneous material on H.R. 495. | ||
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unidentified
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Without objection. | |
| Thank you, Mr. Speaker. | ||
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unidentified
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I yield myself such time as I may consume. | |
| Gentleman is recognized. | ||
| I rise today to support H.R. 495, the Subterranean Border Defense Act. | ||
| The collective failure of the last administration and its refusal to secure our borders allowed transnational criminal organizations to go unchecked in their efforts to infiltrate the United States. | ||
| Illicit tunnel pathways into our country have only made it easier for criminals to bring their illegal businesses into the homeland, from human trafficking to drug smuggling, deadly fentanyl, and other drugs that are being funneled from nations afar, including Communist China. | ||
| Formerly, President Trump, Border Czar Homan, and fortunately, President Trump, Border Czar Homan, and Secretary Noam have arrived to set the situation right. | ||
| H.R. 495 will require DHS to provide annual reports on its efforts to counter illicit tunnel operations at our borders. | ||
| I commend my colleague from Arizona, Mr. Crane, for his leadership on this effort, and I urge strong support for the measure I reserve. | ||
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unidentified
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Gentlemen of Reserves. | |
| Gentlemen from California is recognized. | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I yield myself as much time as I may consume. | ||
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unidentified
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Gentlemen is recognized. | |
| Mr. Speaker, today I rise in strong support of H.R. 495 because we need more oversight and information on the threat of tunnels going under our border. | ||
| It's a fact that tunnels, clandestine tunnels under our borders, have been an issue for not years but decades. | ||
| And it's time we take action. | ||
| It's time that Congress be informed of our progress to prevent such tunnels from happening. | ||
| That's why I support H.R. 495. | ||
| Tunnels are used by transnational criminal organizations looking to make a profit at the expense of our taxpayers. | ||
| Over the last 30 years, cartels have created illegal and sophisticated tunnels under our border walls to smuggle drugs into our country and as well as money and weapons out of our country. | ||
| And this bill creates an annual reporting requirement to keep Congress informed on the Department of Homeland Security's efforts to counter illicit cross-border tunnels and hold the bad actors accountable. | ||
| This information will help us, Congress, address the issue at the border and let us, as members of Congress, better respond to the challenges. | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time. | ||
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unidentified
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Gentleman Reserves. | |
| Gentleman from Tennessee is recognized. | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I yield as much time as he may consume to the gentleman from Arizona, the author of this HR, Mr. Crane. | ||
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unidentified
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Gentleman is recognized. | |
| Thank you, Mr. Speaker. | ||
| I rise today to speak in favor of my bill, the Subterranean Border Defense Act, a bipartisan piece of border security legislation that I've introduced alongside Congressman Correa from California. | ||
| Effective border security is created by overlapping deterrence, something we always need at our borders. | ||
| The Subtrading Border Defense Act would help us address the growing threat of illicit cross-border tunnels by requiring annual reports to Congress on counter-tunneling operations, fortifying our security system at the border. | ||
| Put simply, this would help ensure that Congress has the necessary data to forge another much-needed layer of defense. | ||
| As transnational criminal organizations continue to grow in both size and sophistication, illicit cross-border tunnels along the southwest border of the United States represent a significant and growing threat to national security. | ||
| Congress must address this deadly threat and ensure U.S. Customs and Border Protection has the resources needed to acquire counter-tunnel technology. | ||
| Since 1990, officials have discovered more than 140 tunnels that have breached the U.S. border, with an 80% increase in tunnel activity occurring since 2008. | ||
| Over the years, CBP has worked to combat these tunnels as part of their overall strategy. | ||
| In fact, the United States conducts research, development, and test activities with Israel, who must contend with a vast network of Hamas tunnel originating in the Gaza Strip. | ||
| This partnership helps us to detect and destroy tunnels in our respective countries. | ||
| The FY23 NDAA mandated that CBP submit a one-time report to Congress on a strategic plan for counter-illicit cross-border tunnel operations. | ||
| This singular report has since led Congress to conduct critical oversight and has enabled CBP to formalize many of the processes, technologies, and resources needed to counteract illicit tunnels under the U.S.-Mexico border. | ||
| My bill would expand on this success by mandating a report every year going forward to ensure Congress has sufficient knowledge and oversight regarding this dynamic threat. | ||
| With border crossings thankfully going down since January, I think it's safe to assume this will drive threats at our border underground through these tunnels. | ||
| I thank Mr. Correa for co-leading with me, and I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support this legislation for a secure southern border. | ||
| Thank you, and I reserve the balance of my time. | ||
| I reserve. | ||
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unidentified
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Gentlemen Reserves, gentlemen from California is recognized. | |
| Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I believe this bill is an important step in the right direction. | ||
| Receiving information from the Department of Homeland Security on an annual basis will improve Congress's efforts to counter illicit cross-border tunnels and hold bad actors accountable. | ||
| I support this bipartisan piece of legislation and I yield back the balance of my time. | ||
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unidentified
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Gentleman yields back. | |
| Gentlemen, Tennessee is recognized. | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I again thank both my colleagues, Mr. Correa and Mr. Crane, for putting this together. | ||
| I have no more speakers, and I'm prepared to close after the gentleman from California closes. | ||
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unidentified
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Gentleman is recognized. | |
| I yield back. | ||
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unidentified
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Gentlemen, Tennessee is recognized. | |
| Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time, and I again urge my colleagues to support H.R. 495, and I yield back the balance of my time. | ||
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unidentified
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Gentleman yields back. | |
| The House will suspend the rules and pass Bill H.R. 495. | ||
| Those in favor say aye. | ||
| Aye. | ||
| Those opposed, no. | ||
| In the opinion of the chair, two-thirds being in the affirmative, the rules are suspended. | ||
| The bill is passed without objection. | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I request the yeas and nays. | ||
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unidentified
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The yeas and nays are requested. | |
| Those in favor of taking this vote by the yeas and nays will rise and remain standing until counted. | ||
| A sufficient number having risen, the yeas and nays are ordered pursuant to clause 8 of rule 20. | ||
| Further proceedings on this question will be postponed. | ||
| For what purpose does the gentleman from Tennessee seek recognition? | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill H.R. 706. | ||
|
unidentified
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The clerk will report the title of the bill. | |
| H.R. 706, a bill to improve the biodetection functions of the Department of Homeland Security and for other purposes. | ||
|
unidentified
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Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from Tennessee, Mr. Green, the gentleman from California, Mr. Correa, will each control 20 minutes. | |
| The chair recognizes the gentleman from Tennessee. | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all members have five legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and to include extraneous material on H.R. 706. | ||
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unidentified
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Without objection. | |
| Thank you, Mr. Speaker. | ||
|
unidentified
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I yield myself such time as I may consume. | |
| Gentlemen is recognized. | ||
| I rise today in support of H.R. 706, the DHS Biodetection Improvement Act. | ||
| Amidst the vast and evolving threat landscape we face today, our vigilance against biological weapons must remain strong. | ||
| This bill will direct DHS to address the shortcomings it has faced in acquiring technologies for biodefense. | ||
| I thank Mr. Strong of Alabama for his work on this legislation and I reserve. | ||
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unidentified
|
gentlemen reserves the gentleman from california is recognized mr speaker i yield myself such time as the mic consume Gentlemen is recognized. | |
| I rise today in support of Representative Strong's bill, H.R. 706, the DHS Biodetection Improvement Act. | ||
| This legislation is essential in advancing the Department of Homeland Security's efforts to protect Americans from emerging biological threats. | ||
| Specifically, it seeks to enhance biodetection capabilities within DHS by requiring the Secretary to assess how the Department can leverage the research and development of the Department of Energy's national laboratories. | ||
| Biotechnology threats, including deadly pathogens and bioterrorist agents, represent a constant and emerging danger to the public health and security of our nation. | ||
| However, The BioWatch program, which has been the cornerstone of our biodetection efforts, is now outdated. | ||
| H.R. 706 takes a crucial step forward by requiring DHS to assess how the Department of Energy's national laboratories can play an even greater role in improving our biodetection capabilities. | ||
| These labs are equipped with cutting-edge research and development capabilities that can help modernize our detection system. | ||
| The national labs have the expertise and technologies necessary to enhance DHS's ability to detect, identify, and respond to biological threats much more effectively. | ||
| Accessing this valuable research will enable DHS to modernize its biodetection tools and systems. | ||
| The bill also directs DHS to establish specific programs and technical requirements essential for advancing biodetection efforts, including vital research and development. | ||
| Furthermore, the bill requires Homeland Security to submit to Congress a strategy for regular external evaluations to identify capability gaps and purpose contingency plans if biodetection technologies fall short. | ||
| As security threats continue to evolve, it's important that Congress support improvements in biodetection capabilities. | ||
| With that, I encourage my colleagues to support the bill and reserve the balance of my time. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Chairman Reserves. | |
| Gentleman from Tennessee is recognized. | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I yield as much time as he may consume to the gentleman from Alabama, Mr. Strong, the author of the legislation. | ||
| Thank you, Mr. Speaker. | ||
| Thank you, Chairman Green, for your support, as well as my colleagues who joined me in introducing this legislation, H.R. 706, the DHS Biodetection Improvement Act. | ||
| The anthrax attacks of 2001 opened our eyes to a new dimension of national security risk, including the possibilities of bioterrorism. | ||
| In response to this tragic event, the Department of Homeland Security launched the BioWatch program, a monitoring system that collects and tests air samples for biological agents likely to be used in a bioterrorism act. | ||
| This program has played an essential role in keeping us safe, providing valuable data on potential biological threats. | ||
| We must do everything we can to ensure that the tools we rely on remain as advanced and effective as possible, providing us with fast, accurate, and reliable data. | ||
| Unfortunately, DHS has faced continuous challenges in acquiring capabilities to replace BioWatch. | ||
|
Tsa Commuting Fairness Act
00:15:27
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| And while DHS has the authority to utilize the Department of Energy's national lab to identify and develop new technologies related to biodefense, they have yet to take advantage of these resources. | ||
| My legislation will advance America's bioweapon defense posture by directing the Secretary of Homeland Security to conduct an assessment of how, if at all, DHS has utilized this resource to address Homeland Security's needs. | ||
| It also directs DHS to submit a strategy for how the agency will coordinate with DOE to address biodetection research and development moving forward. | ||
| And to ensure accountability, H.R. 706 requires DHS to report to Congress on the assessment and strategy no later than one year after the date of enactment. | ||
| As a first responder, I know there is more work to be done to harden our defense against bioterrorism, and this legislation will ensure that DHS is utilizing all available resources and tools to do just that. | ||
| In the 118th Congress, I was proud to have the support of my colleagues in passing this legislation in the House. | ||
| I urge my colleagues to join me once again in supporting this common sense bill to ensure the security of our communities against biological threats. | ||
| With that, I yield back. | ||
| The balance of my time. | ||
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unidentified
|
Gentleman Reserves, gentlemen from California is recognized. | |
| Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentlemen is recognized. | |
| While DHS has made tremendous efforts to enhance its biodetection capabilities, we still have a long way to go. | ||
| And that's why it's important to pass this legislation, H.R. 706, which will foster innovation in biodetection and ultimately strengthen our ability to protect our communities from biological threats. | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentleman yields back. | |
| Gentlemen, Tennessee is recognized. | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time, and I again urge my colleagues to support H.R. 706. | ||
| I yield back the balance of my time. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentleman yields back. | |
| The question is, will the House suspend the rules and pass the bill H.R. 706? | ||
| Those in favor say aye. | ||
| Aye. | ||
| Those opposed, no. | ||
| In the opinion of the chair, two-thirds being in the affirmative. | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I object to the vote on the ground that a quorum is not present and make the point of order that a quorum is not present. | ||
|
unidentified
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Pursuant to clause 8 of Rule 20, further proceedings on this motion will be postponed. | |
| That's good to answer. | ||
| FOR WHAT PURPOSE DOES THE GENTLEMEN FROM TENNESSEE SEEK RECOGNITION? | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill H.R. 862. | ||
|
unidentified
|
The clerk will report the title of the bill. | |
| H.R. 862, a bill to reduce commuting burdens on Transportation Security Administration employees and for other purposes. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Pursuant to the rule of the gentleman from Tennessee, Mr. Green, and the gentleman from California, Mr. Korea, will each control 20 minutes. | |
| The chair recognizes the gentleman from Tennessee. | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all members have five legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and to include extraneous material on H.R. 862. | ||
| Thank you, Mr. Speaker. | ||
|
unidentified
|
I yield myself such time as I may consume. | |
| Gentlemen is recognized. | ||
| I rise today in support of H.R. 862, the TSA Commuting Fairness Act. | ||
| TSA often struggles to adequately employ enough personnel, and given the high cost of housing near airports, travel time to and from work, may be an inhibitor for current and future employees. | ||
| This bill would require the TSA administrator to conduct a feasibility study to address this issue. | ||
| I appreciate the gentleman from New York, Mr. Kennedy's work on this bill, and I reserve. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Reserves. | |
| Gentlemen from California is recognized. | ||
| Mr. Speaker, myself, such time as I may consume. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentlemen is recognized. | |
| Mr. Speaker, the ability of the TSA or Transportation Security Administration to recruit and retain highly skilled, well-trained workforce is critical to our national security. | ||
| Since the agency was created in the aftermath of 911, TSA has helped prevent terrorist attacks against U.S. aircraft from happening. | ||
| The job of TSA employees is difficult from the Transportation Security Officer's perspective, who screen millions of passengers a day, to federal air marshals providing in-flight security, to canine handlers, inspectors, cybersecurity experts, all helping to secure our air transportation system. | ||
| In recent weeks, life has only become harder for this workforce as probationary employees have been fired and TSO collecting bargaining rights have also come under attack. | ||
| But thankfully, we have the opportunity today, Mr. Speaker, to make life a bit easier for the hardworking civil servants of TSA. | ||
| The TSA Commuting Fairness Act, offered by my colleagues from New York, Mr. Kennedy and Mr. Gabbardino, would require TSA to study the possibility of allowing employees shift to start upon arrival at the airport parking lot and bus and transit stops. | ||
| These employees often face long commutes to get to the airport from the parking lot and then must travel long distances from the airport parking lots and transit stops to get to the TSA checkpoints. | ||
| But letting employees clock in using cell phones and location data would help alleviate the stress caused by irregular shuttles and the traffic that's very unpredictable around the airports. | ||
| This is a sensible bill, Mr. Speaker, that would address important quality of life concerns for a very critical workforce and ultimately our national security when it comes to commercial airline security. | ||
| And I want to thank my colleagues for working in a bipartisan fashion to advance this measure, and I'm glad to support it. | ||
| And with that, Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentleman Reserves. | |
| Gentleman from Tennessee is recognized. | ||
| I reserve. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentlemen, Reserves, gentlemen from California is recognized. | |
| Mr. Speaker, I yield myself as Mr. Speaker. | ||
| I yield as much time as he may consume to the gentleman from New York, Mr. Kennedy, the offer of this measure. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentleman is recognized. | |
| Thank you, Mr. Speaker. | ||
| I rise in support of my bill H.R. 862, the TSA Commuting Fairness Act. | ||
| Year after year, through holiday seasons and spring breaks, air travel continues to break records. | ||
| These numbers are at an all-time high and are expected to increase this upcoming spring. | ||
| The Transportation Security Administration, or TSA, reported over 3 million travelers on the Sunday after Thanksgiving in 2024, with the 10 busiest days in TSA's history occurring last year. | ||
| Each day we depend on hardworking TSA employees to keep our skies safe. | ||
| Transportation Security Officers, or TSOs, inspect travelers as they move through checkpoints. | ||
| Federal air marshals ensure in-flight security. | ||
| And canine handlers enhance the system's security. | ||
| However, TSA employees face unique challenges when commuting to work. | ||
| Many employees find that housing they can afford is far from airports, lending to long commutes with limited public transit options and heavy traffic. | ||
| Airport employees often begin their workday by parking or being dropped off in a designated parking lot where they must then wait for inconsistent shuttle service to reach the terminal. | ||
| From there, they may face a lengthy trek to the security checkpoint where they officially then clock in for work. | ||
| According to the Government Accountability Office, TSOs have reported that just getting from the parking lot to the checkpoint to clock in for work can take as long as 45 minutes to an hour at some airports. | ||
| My bill, the TSA Commuting Fairness Act, will help improve conditions for these civil servants by directing TSA to conduct a feasibility study on using mobile location data to allow employees to clock in for work upon arrival at the airport transit stops instead of when they reach that security checkpoint. | ||
| Doing so will help reduce commuting costs and improve the quality of life for TSA employees while allowing agency leadership to manage the workforce appropriately. | ||
| This study will also provide important insight for TSA and Congress as we collectively seek innovative ways to recruit and retain top talent to help secure our transportation systems. | ||
| My bill will help us build the workforce we need to address evolving threats and keep air travel trusted and secure. | ||
| Now, more than ever, it's critical that we advance policies like the TSA Commuting Fairness Act to make it a clear impression that we value the critical work of our transportation security workers. | ||
| I want to thank Congressman Garbarino and my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for working with me to develop this legislation. | ||
| And with that, Mr. Speaker, I yield back. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentleman Reserves, gentlemen from Tennessee is recognized. | |
| Mr. Speaker, I have no more speakers and am prepared to close after the gentleman from California closes. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentleman Reserves, gentlemen from California is recognized. | |
| Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentleman is recognized. | |
| Mr. Speaker, given the recent attacks against our federal workers, we must seek innovative ways to compete for the top talent. | ||
| This bill would require a feasibility study to improve the quality of life for the TSA workforce while ensuring that TSA leadership retains the ability to manage the workforce appropriately and maintain security standards. | ||
| I urge all members of Congress to support this measure. | ||
| And with that, Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentleman yields back. | |
| The gentleman from Tennessee is recognized. | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I yield the balance of my time, yield myself the balance of my time, and I again urge my colleagues to support H.R. 862, and I yield back the balance of my time. | ||
|
unidentified
|
The gentleman yields back. | |
| The question is: Will the House suspend the rules and pass the bill H.R. 862? | ||
| Those in favor say aye. | ||
| Aye. | ||
| Those opposed, no. | ||
| In the opinion of the chair, two-thirds being in the affirmative, the rules are suspended. | ||
| The bill is passed, and without objection, the motion to reconsider is laid on the table. | ||
| For what purpose does the gentleman from Tennessee seek recognition? | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill H.R. 708. | ||
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unidentified
|
The clerk will report the title of the bill. | |
| H.R. 708, a bill to establish in the Department of Homeland Security a working group relating to countering terrorists, cybersecurity, border and port security, and transportation security threats posed to the United States by the Chinese Communist Party and for other purposes. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Pursuant to the rule of the gentleman from Tennessee, Mr. Greene, and the gentleman from California, Mr. Korea, will each control 20 minutes. | |
| The chair recognizes the gentleman from Tennessee. | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all members have five legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and to include extraneous material on H.R. 708. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Without objection. | |
| Thank you, Mr. Speaker. | ||
|
unidentified
|
I yield myself such time as I may consume. | |
| I rise today in strong support of H.R. 708, the SHIELD AGAINST THE CCP Act. | ||
| The Chinese Communist Party continues to increasingly threaten the security of our homeland. | ||
| We must begin to come up with serious solutions to this serious problem. | ||
| And this bill is an important start. | ||
| This bill would require that DHS establish a working group to take the important step of appropriately addressing and countering these threats. | ||
| I commend my colleague, the gentleman from Alabama, Mr. Strong, for his important work on this measure and on this subject. | ||
| We must alter our posture to appropriately address the threat posed by the CCP to our homeland. | ||
| This is not optional. | ||
| Our reserve. | ||
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unidentified
|
Gentleman of Reserves, the gentleman from California is recognized. | |
| Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentlemen is recognized. | |
| Mr. Speaker, I think we all agree that the United States, our main competitor, is China and the Chinese Communist Party, who are intent on tilting the global playing field to their benefit, undermining our national standing. | ||
| To do this, China is expanding its cohort influence, seeking to turn public opinion and effective policies that are more favorable to China and against the United States. | ||
| Additionally, the CCP seeks to exploit American openness to steal economic secrets and undermine our national security. | ||
| This bill will require the Department of Homeland Security to establish a working group to coordinate its efforts to address the threats posed to the Homeland Security by the Chinese Communist Party. | ||
| The working group will include examining the threats posed by the CCP, identifying ongoing department efforts to address those threats, identify any gaps in such efforts, and then facilitate coordination across DHS to holistically address the threats from the CCP. | ||
| This bill will help ensure the DHS implements a coordinated and effective response to the Chinese Communist Party's efforts to undermine the United States. | ||
| And with that, Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentleman Reserves. | |
| The Chair recognizes the gentleman from Tennessee. | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I yield as much time as he may consume to the gentleman from Alabama and the author of this legislation, Mr. Strong. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentleman is recognized. | |
| Thank you, Mr. Speaker. | ||
| I rise today in support of my legislation, H.R. 708, the Shield Against CCP Act. | ||
| I want to first thank Chairman Green and each of the members who have joined me in introducing this bill. | ||
| There's no question that the Chinese Communist Party poses a clear and present threat to both the security and democracy of the United States of America. | ||
| As detailed in DHS 2025 Homeland Threat Assessment, the Chinese government possesses a wide array of dangers to our nation. | ||
| These threats span across various sectors, including public safety, border, immigration, critical infrastructure, and economic security. | ||
| Threats of this nature undermine the global competitiveness and national security and in some cases impose a significant financial burden on our economy. | ||
|
Research Security and Accountability Act
00:15:21
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| It is absolutely essential that the Department of Homeland Security takes decisive action to address these complex threats both at home and abroad. | ||
| This is why I have reintroduced H.R. 708, the Shield Against CCP Act. | ||
| This legislation requires DHS to establish a dedicated working group focused on countering the threats posed by the CCP to our homeland security. | ||
| Specifically, it requires them to examine, assess, and report on DHS effort to address these threats. | ||
| To ensure accountability, my bill also mandates that the DHS provide an annual report to Congress allowing us to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of their efforts. | ||
| As a member of Congress, it is our solemn duty to ensure the safety and well-being of our great nation. | ||
| We cannot afford to ignore the increased aggression and influence of China on the global stage. | ||
| In the 118th Congress, I was honored to have the backing of my colleagues in advancing this legislation through the House. | ||
| I now urge all members to join me once again in supporting the SHIELD AGAINST CCP Act to protect our national security and safeguard our interests. | ||
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unidentified
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With this, I yield back. | |
| Mr. Speaker, I have no more speakers and I'm prepared to close after the gentleman from California closes. | ||
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unidentified
|
Gentlemen Reserves, Gentleman from California is recognized. | |
| Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I'd like to thank our Representative Strong for sponsoring this legislation. | ||
| But I must acknowledge that over the past few weeks, the Trump administration has taken several alarming actions that work to counter the work we are trying to do today with this legislation. | ||
| And so, Mr. Speaker, I urge the Trump administration to work with Congress and not against Congress's efforts to strengthen America's ability to compete with China, like this bill that aims to do exactly that. | ||
| And I urge all members to support this legislation, and I yield back the balance of my time. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentleman yields back. | |
| The gentleman from Tennessee is recognized. | ||
| I yield the balance of my time. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentleman is recognized. | |
| Gentleman yields the balance of his time. | ||
| The question is, will the House suspend the rules and pass the bill H.R. 708? | ||
| Those in favor say aye. | ||
| Aye. | ||
| Those opposed, no. | ||
| In the opinion of the chair, two-thirds being in the affirmative, the rules are suspended. | ||
| The bill is passed, and without objection, the motion to reconsider is laid on the table. | ||
| For what purpose does the gentleman from Tennessee seek recognition? | ||
| Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass Bill H.R. 901. | ||
|
unidentified
|
The clerk will report the title of the bill. | |
| H.R. 901, a bill to require the Under Secretary of the Science and Technology Directorate of the Department of Homeland Security to develop a department-wide policy and process to safeguard research and development from unauthorized access to or disclosure of sensitive information in research and development acquisitions and for other purposes. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Pursuant to the rule of the gentleman from Tennessee, Mr. Greene, and the gentleman from California, Mr. Korea, will each control 20 minutes. | |
| The chair recognizes the gentleman from Tennessee. | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all members have five days in which to revise and extend their remarks and to include extraneous material in H.R. 901. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Without objection. | |
| Thank you, Mr. Speaker. | ||
|
unidentified
|
I yield myself as much time as I may consume. | |
| I rise today in support of H.R. 901, the Research Security and Accountability and DHS Act. | ||
| The Science and Technology Directorate is the principal of research and development for DHS. | ||
| In 2022, the DHS Office of Inspector General found that S ⁇ T failed to safeguard sensitive information in research and development projects. | ||
| This bill requires S ⁇ T to develop a proper standard for safeguarding sensitive information, which has become especially critical given the heightened activity of our adversaries. | ||
| This bill, carried by former Representative Anthony D. Esposito, passed the House last Congress, and I thank the gentleman from Alabama, Mr. Strong, for his attention to this issue this Congress. | ||
| With this, I reserve the balance of my time. | ||
|
unidentified
|
The chair recognizes the gentleman from California. | |
| Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of a excuse me. | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I yield myself at such time as I may consider. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentlemen is recognized. | |
| Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 901, the Research Security and Accountability Act in the DHS Act. | ||
| This bill seeks to enhance security measures by directing the Department of Homeland Security's Science Technology Directorate to establish a comprehensive policy and process to protect research and development activities from unauthorized access or disclosure of sensitive information. | ||
| Additionally, this bill will task the Government Accountability Act to assess DHS's adherence to the National Science and Technologies Council 2022 Implementation Guidance and a 2021 National Security Presidential Memorandum focused on safeguarding U.S. research from foreign interference. | ||
| This bill also requires the Secretary of Homeland Security to provide Congress with a briefing on its implementation. | ||
| Time and time again, we've seen bad actors attempt to exploit our sensitive information, and this measure strengthens DHS's ability to prevent such threats and protects our national security. | ||
| This bill is a critical step to ensuring DHS upholds strong policies and procedures to secure our research and our development efforts. | ||
| And with that, Mr. Speaker, I encourage my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 901, and I reserve the balance of my time. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentleman Reserves, the chair recognizes the gentleman from Tennessee. | |
| Mr. Speaker, I yield as much time as he may consume to the gentleman from Alabama, Mr. Strong. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentleman is recognized. | |
| Thank you, Mr. Speaker. | ||
| I rise today in strong support of H.R. 901, the Research Security and Accountability and DHS Act. | ||
| I understand how important new technologies are in saving lives and protecting the American homeland as threats and challenges evolve. | ||
| Whether the Department of Homeland Security is working to prevent a terrorist act inhibiting drug traffic at the southwest border or responding to a life-threatening natural disaster, DHS relies heavily on research and development projects to enhance its operational effectiveness. | ||
| The critical role that RD projects and new technology play in helping protect our homeland cannot be understated, but it is no secret that the federal RD projects are a target for foreign theft, espionage, and influence. | ||
| It is our responsibility to safeguard them from malicious actors and prevent the unauthorized access to or disclosure of sensitive information. | ||
| This is why I reintroduced H.R. 901, the Research Security and Accountability and DHS Act. | ||
| This legislation requires the Science and Technology Directorate to develop a process that safeguards sensitive information in RD projects across all components of the department. | ||
| Both the Trump and Biden administration have made federal research security a priority by issuing executive orders and federal research security guidance for government agencies like DHS to follow. | ||
| Despite this, ST has not demonstrated how it will protect its $461 million worth of RD projects from unauthorized access. | ||
| Every tax dollar spent on RD to improve our national security should be safeguarded from foreign and domestic bad actors who seek to do us harm. | ||
| This is why H.R. 901 also requires GAO to submit a report on how DHS has complied with existing federal guidance to safeguard these RD projects. | ||
| I want to thank Chairman Green and all the members who have supported this legislation. | ||
| By passing this common sense bill and protecting sensitive RD projects throughout the department, we will improve the effectiveness of DHS mission, the safety of our nation's law enforcers, and ultimately our national security. | ||
| I urge all members to join me in supporting this vital piece of legislation to better safeguard DHS and the American people. | ||
|
unidentified
|
With this, I yield back. | |
| Mr. Speaker, I have no other speakers and am prepared to close after the gentleman from California closes. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentleman Reserves, the chair recognizes the gentleman from California. | |
| Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentleman is recognized. | |
| Mr. Speaker, the passage of this legislation is a key step in protecting DHSS research and development capabilities from bad actors. | ||
| With that, I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 901, and I yield back the balance of my time. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentleman yields back. | |
| The chair recognizes the gentleman from Tennessee. | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time, and I again urge my colleagues to support H.R. 901. | ||
| I yield back the balance of my time. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentleman yields back. | |
| The question is, will the House suspend the rules and pass the bill H.R. 901? | ||
| Those in favor say aye. | ||
| Aye. | ||
| Those opposed, no. | ||
| Request the yays and nays. | ||
|
unidentified
|
In the opinion of chair two-thirds being in the affirmative. | |
| For what purposes, the gentleman requests recognition? | ||
| Request the yays and nays. | ||
|
unidentified
|
The yeas and nays are requested. | |
| All those in favor of taking this vote by the yeas and nays will rise and remain standing until counted. | ||
| A sufficient number having risen, the yeas and nays are ordered pursuant to clause 8 of rule 20. | ||
| Further proceedings on this question will be postponed. | ||
| For what purpose does the gentleman from Tennessee seek recognition? | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill H.R. 993. | ||
|
unidentified
|
The clerk will report the title of the bill. | |
| H.R. 993, a bill to require the Secretary of Homeland Security to develop a plan to identify, integrate, and deploy new innovative, disruptive, or other emerging or advanced technologies to enhance or address capability gaps in border security operations and for other purposes. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from Tennessee, Mr. Greene, and the gentleman from California, Mr. Correa, will each control 20 minutes. | |
| The chair recognizes the gentleman from Tennessee. | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all members have five legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and to include extraneous material on H.R. 993. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Without objection. | |
| Thank you, Mr. Speaker. | ||
|
unidentified
|
I yield myself such time as I may consume. | |
| I rise today in support of H.R. 993, the Emerging Innovative Border Technologies Act. | ||
| As the tactics of the cartel evolve, we must ensure that our frontline border patrol personnel are equipped with the proper technologies to be prepared. | ||
| This bill would position Congress to better equip frontline personnel with the tools and resources necessary to aid President Trump in his mission to secure and protect the United States border. | ||
| I thank the gentleman from California, Mr. Correa, for his work on this matter. | ||
| I reserve. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentleman Reserves, the Chair recognizes the gentleman from California. | |
| Thank you, Mr. Speaker. | ||
| I yield myself such time as I may consume. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentlemen is recognized. | |
| Mr. Speaker, I'm pleased that we are here today to consider my legislation, H.R. 993, the Emerging Innovative Border Technologies Act. | ||
| With this legislation, the House has the opportunity to improve the Department of Homeland Security's ability to quickly acquire and deploy new and innovative technologies like artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance our border security. | ||
| With more innovative technology, we can improve CBP's targeting and our detection capabilities, which will help officers find and stop more illegal drugs like fentanyl before they reach our communities and harm our communities and children. | ||
| My bill requires the Secretary of Homeland Security to create a plan to address capability gaps and integrating innovative technologies into our border security operations. | ||
| This bill requires DHS to think strategically about opportunities to work with the private sector and others developing and implementing our latest technologies. | ||
| This bill also authorizes CBP's innovation team to work with frontline agents and officers to develop pilot programs that help them do their job in keeping America safe. | ||
| Their work is another great example of why federal workers are so important to making our country safe and prosperous. | ||
| The innovation team finds and tests new commercial technologies and collaborates with companies to adapt them for use along our border. | ||
| These federal employees also help companies and CBP navigate procurement and other processes that we need to move these technologies as quickly as possible to the front lines. | ||
| New technologies don't just help with catching drugs. | ||
| These technologies also help detect victims of human trafficking or immigrants in need of a rescue. | ||
| These technologies can also help Border Patrol agents communicate reliably in remote areas. | ||
| When an agent gets ill or injured or runs across an injured individual, the ability to communicate quickly and effectively can mean the difference between life and death. | ||
| Advanced technologies will also help prevent long lies and delays at our ports of entry. | ||
| And of course, strengthening our supply chains and reducing travel delays will also be helped. | ||
| I'm a long-time resident of Southern California, Mr. Speaker. | ||
| I've been at the border many times. | ||
| I know what long waits are all about. | ||
| These long lines, these waits, hurt our businesses. | ||
| For example, produce will spoil in trucks rather than reaching our grocery stores. | ||
| In fact, delays that are ports of entry between California and Mexico cost our economy an estimated $3.4 billion in economic output and an estimated 88,000 jobs. | ||
| Besides this tremendous cost, no one likes to wait in line at airports. | ||
|
Decoupling From Foreign Adversarial Batteries
00:15:22
|
||
| I represent Disneyland, and I know many tourists from across the world want to come and hang out with Mickey and Minnie, and they don't want to wait to spend those tourist dollars in my district. | ||
| While we need more manpower at our ports of entry, technologies will help get people and goods across our borders quickly and safely. | ||
| This bill is just one of many solutions we need to fix the border. | ||
| I want to thank Congressman Luttrell and his team for working with us on this legislation. | ||
| And I look forward to getting together on a variety of bills that this Congress has to offer to show the American people that we can work across the aisle to keep them safe in our economy moving forward. | ||
| With that, Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this measure, and I yield back. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentleman yields back. | |
| The chair recognizes the gentleman from Tennessee. | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I have no more speakers and am prepared to close after the gentleman from California closes. | ||
|
unidentified
|
The gentleman from Tennessee has the only time remaining. | |
| Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time and again urge my colleagues to support H.R. 993, and I yield back the balance of my time. | ||
|
unidentified
|
The gentleman yields back. | |
| The question is, will the House suspend the rules and pass the Bill H.R. 993? | ||
| Those in favor say aye. | ||
| Aye. | ||
| Those opposed, no. | ||
| In the opinion of the chair, two-thirds being in the affirmative. | ||
| Request the yais and nays the yais and are requested. | ||
| Those in favor of taking this vote by the yais and aes will rise and remain standing until counted. | ||
| A sufficient number having risen, the yais and are ordered pursuant to clause 8 of rule 20. | ||
| Further proceedings on this question will be postponed. | ||
| For what purpose does the gentleman from Tennessee seek recognition? | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill H.R. 1166. | ||
|
unidentified
|
The clerk will report the title of the bill. | |
| H.R. 1166, a bill to prohibit the Secretary of Homeland Security from procuring certain foreign-made batteries and for other purposes. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Pursuant to the rule of the gentleman from Tennessee, Mr. Greene, the gentleman from California, Mr. Korea, will each control 20 minutes. | |
| The chair recognizes the gentleman from Tennessee. | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all members have five legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and to include extraneous material on H.R. 1166. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Without objection. | |
| Thank you, Mr. Speaker. | ||
|
unidentified
|
I yield myself such time as I may consume. | |
| Gentlemen is recognized. | ||
| I rise today in strong support of H.R. 1166, the decoupling from Foreign Adversarial Battery Dependence Act. | ||
| Our world continues to be incredibly reliant on battery technology. | ||
| Currently, the People's Republic of China produces the vast majority of the world's batteries. | ||
| Dependence on batteries that are largely manufactured in an adversarial nation presents a serious risk to national security. | ||
| H.R. 1166 will prohibit DHS from procuring battery technology from companies with known ties to the Chinese Communist Party. | ||
| I commend my colleague from Florida, Mr. Jimenez, for his strong work to address this issue. | ||
| I reserve. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentlemen of Reserves, the Chair recognizes the gentleman from California. | |
| Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentlemen is recognized. | |
| My fellow Democrats and I strongly support the intent of this bill, which is to confront our global adversaries and build up an industrial manufacturing base here at home in the United States. | ||
| We can't give the Communist Party of China any opportunity to undermine our homeland security. | ||
| And I support this goal of this legislation to prohibit DHS from buying batteries from certain Chinese companies. | ||
| And because of a Democratic amendment to this bill in the last Congress, this prohibition was expanded to include any companies using Uyghur forced labor or companies identified with Secretary of Defense as Chinese military companies and those companies engaged in activities contrary to U.S. national security or foreign policy interests against the United States, according to the Department of Commerce. | ||
| This bill also includes democratic language requiring DHS to produce a report on the potential impacts and the costs associated with carrying out the intent of this legislation before it becomes effective. | ||
| That report will help DHS and Congress manage any unanticipated negative consequences of this legislation. | ||
| And with that, Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentlemen Reserves, the Chair recognizes the gentleman from Tennessee. | |
| Mr. Speaker, I yield as much time as he may consume to the gentleman from Florida, Mr. Jimenez. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentlemen is recognized. | |
| Thank you, Mr. Speaker. | ||
| I rise today in support of H.R. 1166, the decoupling from Foreign Adversarial Battery Dependence Act. | ||
| As Communist China seeks to gain influence in critical industries around the world, the United States must be at the forefront of combating and decoupling from the CCP. | ||
| This includes battery technology. | ||
| As we become more and more dependent on battery technology, we need to ensure that these batteries are sourced from non-adversarial countries. | ||
| As it stands, Communist China produces approximately 80% of the world's batteries and roughly 70% of the world's lithium-ion batteries. | ||
| This dependence puts U.S. supply chains at risk and threatens our national security. | ||
| Our government should not be spending tax dollars to produce batteries to procure batteries from companies that profit from slave labor or provide another avenue for the CCP to expand their surveillance apparatus here in the United States. | ||
| As an agency tasked with protecting the homeland, the Department of Homeland Security should not be procuring batteries from a geopolitical adversary. | ||
| H.R. 1166, the decoupling from Forum Adversarial Battery Dependence Act, is a critical first step in addressing this issue. | ||
| Modeled after previous provisions included in the FY 2024 NDAA, my legislation builds off these efforts and prohibits the Department of Homeland Security from procuring batteries from companies that have deep ties to the CCP and engage in human rights abuses. | ||
| H.R. 1166 helps our Nation take a step forward in advancing our efforts to decouple from the PRC and safeguard critical supply chains from exploitation. | ||
| I am proud that this bill passed out a committee on homeland security in a bipartisan manner last Congress and passed on the House floor. | ||
| I look forward to seeing it pass in the 119th Congress and it become law. | ||
| I urge all of my colleagues to vote yes, thank you, and I yield back. | ||
| Reserve. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentleman Reserves, Chair recognizes the gentleman from California. | |
| Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentlemen is recognized. | |
| Before I close, Mr. Speaker, I will note that the last Congress, the Senate, made further improvements to this measure not reflected in this bill today. | ||
| I support advancing H.R. 1166 today so that the Senate can continue to work on this measure. | ||
| And I also want to thank Mr. Jimenez for this legislation. | ||
| And with that, Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time. | ||
|
unidentified
|
The gentleman yields us back. | |
| The chair recognizes the gentleman from Tennessee. | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. | ||
| I again urge my colleagues to support H.R. 1166, and I yield the balance of my time. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentleman yields. | |
| The question is, will the House suspend the rules and pass the bill H.R. 1166? | ||
| Those in favor say aye. | ||
| Aye. | ||
| Those opposed, no. | ||
| In the opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being in the affirmative, the rules are suspended. | ||
| The bill is passed, and without objection, the motion to reconsider is laid on the table. | ||
| For what purpose does the gentleman from Tennessee seek recognition? | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill H.R. 1692. | ||
|
unidentified
|
The clerk will report the title of the bill. | |
| H.R. 1692, a bill to amend the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to enable secure and trustworthy technology through other transaction contracting authority and for other purposes. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Pursuant to the rule of the gentleman from Tennessee, Mr. Greene, the gentleman from California, Mr. Correa, will each control 20 minutes. | |
| The chair recognizes the gentleman from Tennessee. | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all members have five legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and to include extraneous material on H.R. 1692. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Without objection. | |
| Thank you, Mr. Speaker. | ||
|
unidentified
|
I yield myself such time as I may consume. | |
| Gentlemen is recognized. | ||
| I rise today in support of H.R. 1692, the PATHS Act. | ||
| DHS Other Transaction Agreement or OTA authority is an incredibly important tool in the Department's limited arsenal of mechanisms to acquire innovative new research and prototypes. | ||
| This bill reauthorizes the Department's OTA authority and also includes some common sense transparency reforms to DHS's use of OTAs. | ||
| I thank my colleague, the gentleman from Mississippi, Mr. Guest, for his work on this measure. | ||
| I reserve. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentlemen Reserves. | |
| The Chair recognizes the gentleman from California. | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentlemen is recognized. | |
| H.R. 1692 would once again allow the Department of Homeland Security to use Other Transaction Authority, or OTA, for three years. | ||
| Despite the efforts here in the House and the Senate, Democrats, DHS lost its OTA authority last year because one senator allowed it to lapse. | ||
| OTA was a vital tool that enabled DHS to work with non-traditional government contractors to more quickly obtain cutting-edge emerging technologies that addressed evolving threats. | ||
| Since September 2024, the lapse in OTA, 15 projects have been disrupted, including ones relating to identifying fraudulent documents, improving passenger screening, and enhancing disaster response. | ||
| Furthermore, 26 projects with approximately $20 million invested in them, taxpayer-invested money, are at the risk of being terminated by OTA at this time. | ||
| These projects include projects such as border security, cybersecurity, counter-narcotics, counter-narcotic security, and a few others. | ||
| The expiration of DHS's other transaction authority essentially will mean inefficiency, waste, things that will impede the Department's ability to develop solutions to keep homeland, our homeland, safe. | ||
| It's past time, Mr. Speaker, to advance this legislation and bring back DHS's ability to develop novel Homeland Security technologies. | ||
| And with that, Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentleman Reserves. | |
| Mr. Chair, the Chair will receive a message. | ||
| Mr. Speaker, messages from the President of the United States. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Mr. Speaker. | |
| Mr. Secretary. | ||
| I am directed by the President of the United States to deliver to the House of Representatives a message in writing. | ||
| Delta, Tennessee is recognized. | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I yield to the Speaker. | ||
| As much time as he may consume to the gentleman from Mississippi to answer this legislation, Mr. Guest. | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 1692, the Producing Advanced Technologies for Homeland Security Act, which I am proud to have introduced along with Congressman Cherie Thanadar. | ||
| The Department of Homeland Security has a constantly evolving mission, and to meet those threats, the Department was previously granted the authority to enter into other transactional agreements, commonly known as OTAs. | ||
| These legally binding agreements allow the Department to engage with non-traditional contractors that would not normally do business with the federal government. | ||
| This includes small business innovators, public universities, and other cutting-edge technological incubators that help meet the research and development needs of the Department of Homeland Security. | ||
| These entities have produced technology that serves as a force multiplier to our Border Patrol agents and include technology that assists agents in cargo and vehicle screening that can detect illegal substances attempting to be smuggled into the United States. | ||
| The applicability and usefulness of this authority has been demonstrated recently in my home state of Mississippi as the University of Southern Mississippi played a leading role in developing sensors for unmanned vehicles for use by both DHS and the United States Coast Guard. | ||
| Unfortunately, this was allowed to expire on September the 30th, 2024. | ||
| My bill would reauthorize and extend the program's OTA authority by three years to 2028, while also providing additional safeguards for the American taxpayer. | ||
| The bill would also require advanced notification to Congress should the authority be used in advancement of artificial intelligence technology. | ||
| Given the rapid advancement in AI, it is critical that Congress remain informed and aware of how federal agencies are utilizing AI to advance their mission. | ||
| To ensure greater transparency, the safeguards in this bill would require DHS to report on its website any contract in excess of $1 million, reducing the amount that was previously required to be reported from $4 million to $1 million. | ||
| As we look to prevent waste, fraud, and abuse, this legislation has increased transparency requirements to ensure maximum accountability to the American people. | ||
| Again, I would like to thank Dr. Thanadar for his work on this important legislation, and I appreciate Chairman Green and the committee staff for their work on this issue. | ||
| I urge all members to support H.R. 1692, and with that, I would yield back. | ||
| Reserve. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentleman Reserves. | |
| The Chair recognizes the gentleman from California. | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentlemen is recognized. | |
| I want to thank Representatives Michael Guest and Sri Tanathar for sponsoring this legislation. | ||
| And I urge all members to restore other transaction authority to the Department of Homeland Security. | ||
|
Securing Cities Improvement Act
00:05:02
|
||
| And with that, Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentleman yields back. | |
| The chair recognizes the gentleman of Tennessee. | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. | ||
| I again urge my colleagues to support H.R. 1692, and I yield back the balance of my time. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentleman yields. | |
| The question is, will the House suspend the rules and pass the bill H.R. 1692? | ||
| Those in favor say aye. | ||
| Aye. | ||
| Those opposed, no. | ||
| In the opinion of the chair, two-thirds being in the affirmative. | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I object to the vote on the ground that a quorum is not present and make the point of order that a quorum is not present. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Pursuant to clause 8 of Rule 20, further proceedings on this motion will be postponed. | |
| For what purpose does the gentleman from Tennessee seek recognition? | ||
| Mr. Speaker. | ||
| Move to suspend the rules and pass the bill H.R. 1374. | ||
|
unidentified
|
The clerk will report the title of the bill. | |
| H.R. 1374, a bill to amend the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to make improvements to the Securing the Cities program and for other purposes. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Pursuant to the rule of the gentleman from Tennessee, Mr. Greene, the gentleman from California, Mr. Korea, will each control 20 minutes. | |
| The chair recognizes the gentleman from Tennessee. | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all members have five legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and to include extraneous materials on H.R. 1374. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Without objection. | |
| Thank you, Mr. Speaker. | ||
| I yield as much time. | ||
|
unidentified
|
I yield myself such time as I may consume. | |
| Gentlemen is recognized. | ||
| I rise today in support of H.R. 1374, the Securing the City's Improvement Act. | ||
| Since the inception of DHS's securing the city's program, uncertainty about standards to qualify as high-risk area and metrics necessary to remain in the program once admitted have been unclear. | ||
| This bill will direct DHS to establish appropriate performance metrics and milestones. | ||
| I thank Mr. Carter of Louisiana for his work on this legislation and reserve the balance of my time. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentleman Reserves, the Chair recognizes the gentleman from California. | |
| Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentlemen is recognized. | |
| Mr. Speaker, I'm pleased that we are here today to consider Representative Carter's Bill H.R. 1374, the Securing the Cities Improvement Act, or STC. | ||
| This bill is essential for enhancing city security against nuclear and radiological threats. | ||
| The STC program was created by the Department of Homeland Security in 2007. | ||
| It began as a pilot program in high-risk cities to detect nuclear and radiological threats. | ||
| Since then, it has expanded to include additional cities, offering equipment training, technological support, and program guidance. | ||
| The program supports major events by ensuring cities are prepared for potential threats. | ||
| However, its reliance on annual urban area security initiative, or WASI, designation, creates uncertainty for local governments as the designation of high-risk areas can change and usually does. | ||
| This bill aims to improve the program's stability and strengthen partnerships with at-risk cities by allowing the Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction Office to select STC cities based on their preparedness, capabilities, rather than WASI designations. | ||
| The bill, Mr. Speaker, also establishes performance matrix, enhanced oversight expenditures, and requires DHS to report to Congress on the program participation and any further changes. | ||
| I applaud Representative Carter's leadership on this measure, and I encourage my colleagues to support H.R. 1374. | ||
| And with that, I reserve the balance of my time. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentlemen of Reserves, Chair recognizes the Gentleman of Tennessee. | |
| Mr. Speaker, I have no more speakers and am prepared. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Reserve. | |
| Gentleman Reserves, Gentleman from California is recognized. | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I yield as much time as he may consume to the gentleman from Louisiana, Mr. Carter, the author of this legislation. | ||
|
unidentified
|
Gentlemen is recognized. | |
| Thank you, Representative Correa, for yielding. | ||
| Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of my bill, the Securing Cities Improvement Act, a critical piece of legislation designed to help us build and maintain our nation's security capabilities. | ||
| Specifically, this bill will provide participating cities with more reliable guidance and support from the Department of Homeland Security's Securing Cities program, which seeks to reduce the risk of terrorist attacks in high-risk urban areas like my hometown of New Orleans. | ||
|
Tragedy on Bourbon Street
00:03:00
|
||
| I want to specifically thank Ranking Member Benny Thompson and Congressman Clay Higgins for their support in co-sponsoring this bill. | ||
| I'd like to also thank Lou Corea for managing the bill today and Chairman Green for his leadership, as well as the Homeland Security staff, especially Lauren McCall, who has tirelessly led us through this effort. | ||
| The need for this legislation has been tragically underscored by the recent terrorist attacks in the city of New Orleans on New Year's Day, which claimed 15 lives and left dozens of others injured. | ||
| In the early hours of New Year's Day, a 42-year-old U.S. citizen from Texas drove a rented F-4150 pickup truck into a crowd on Bourbon Street in the French Quarter neighborhood during the city's New Year's celebration. | ||
| After crashing, he exited the vehicle and engaged in a shootout with law enforcement before being fatally shot by courageous New Orleans police officers who rushed to the scene, putting themselves in harm's way to protect our citizens, visitors, and guests. | ||
| Prior to the pickup trucks attack, the terrorists planted two improvised explosive devices, or IEDs, concealed within coolers at separate locations along crowded Bourbon Street. | ||
| These rudiment pipe bombs were filled with shrapnel material such as nails, screws, and tacks, and were designed for remote detonation using a wireless device found in his vehicle. | ||
| Luckily, he was not able to detonate these bombs and cause any further carnage. | ||
| An ISIS flag was found in the truck, and the FBI confirmed that ISIS had not coordinated with the attacker, but in fact had inspired him. | ||
| This heinous, sick, cowardice act not only shattered the lives of victims and their families, but also exposed vulnerabilities in our urban security infrastructure. | ||
| While the New Orleans attack did not involve radiological or nuclear materials, it serves as a grim reminder of the evolving tactics of terrorists and the potential for more catastrophic methods used. | ||
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Targeted Security Investments
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| It also underscores why continued security investments in New Orleans and other highly targeted cities with programs like Secure the Cities is so, so crucial. | ||
| The Department of Homeland Security launched the Securing the Cities initiative in 2007 as a pilot program to assist the New York City metro area in detecting and preventing nuclear or radiological threats. | ||
| The program has since expanded and currently provides 14 municipal governments nationwide, including the City of New Orleans. | ||
| With detection equipment, training, exercise, and expertise of support, operational and technical expertise, the programmatic assistance makes a huge difference. | ||
| However, the program's participation criteria has caused uncertainty and inconsistencies for cities that rely on its support. | ||
| Eligibility for the program is currently restricted to high-risk urban areas, as determined by FEMA under the Urban Area Security Initiative Program, under which the composition of jurisdictions can vary from year to year. | ||
| This eligibility criteria led to some jurisdictions being funded and supported by Securing the Cities program, but not the next. | ||
| The inconsistency has caused great harm. | ||
| This bill clears up the eligibility criteria from the program so that it can be a steady, reliable source of support for cities. | ||
| It removes the statutory requirements restricting participation in the program areas be designated by FEMA. | ||
| Instead, it requires Homeland Security Office of Countering Weapons and Mass Destruction to decide which cities to partner with for the program based on the jurisdiction's capability and capacity to prepare and respond to terrorist attacks and high consequence events. | ||
| This legislation also sets performance matrix and goals for the Department of Homeland Security to report back to Congress. | ||
| Through these changes, the Security of the Cities Improvement Act offers a more targeted and effective approach to national security preparedness and response. | ||
| It ensures that our cities that need support are reliably equipped with the advanced detection technologies and will have the infrastructure and training to utilize them ready at hand. | ||
| Last, Congress, This bill would pass the House and the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, and I hope it will be signed into law this Congress. | ||
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Passing the Securing Cities Act
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| Passing this legislation is a proactive step towards safeguarding our citizens from the unimaginable. | ||
| By enhancing our detection and response capabilities, we deter adversaries from contemplating radiological or nuclear attacks and reassure the public that our commitment to their safety is sound, real, and committed. | ||
| In the memory of the lives lost in New Orleans and in recognition of the ever-present and evolving threats, I urge my colleagues to support the Securing the Cities Improvement Act. | ||
| Let's honor the victims by taking decisive action to protect our nation from future atrocities and future cowardice acts. | ||
| We are America. | ||
| We stand firm in our protection. | ||
| Thank you, Mr. Speaker, and I encourage my colleagues to join me in supporting H.R. 1374, and I reserve the balance of my time. | ||
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unidentified
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General Reserves. | |
| Gentlemen from Tennessee is recognized. | ||
| No more speakers and I'm prepared to close after the gentleman from California closes. | ||
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unidentified
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Gentlemen of Reserves, gentlemen is recognized. | |
| Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. | ||
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unidentified
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Gentlemen is recognized. | |
| Mr. Speaker, let me start by thanking Mr. Carter for H.R. 1374. | ||
| This legislation will play a critical role in ensuring that our local jurisdictions maintain the ability to detect and respond to chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats. | ||
| Without initiatives like this legislation or STC, efforts to combat these dangers could be significantly hindered or even discontinued, putting the safety and security of our communities, of our taxpayers, of our citizens at risk. | ||
| Passage of this legislation is very essential to preserving our national readiness and to strengthen security against emerging threats and those who would do us harm. | ||
| I strongly encourage my colleagues to support H.R. 1374, and I yield back the balance of my time. | ||
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unidentified
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Gentleman Yields, the Chair recognizes the Gentleman of Tennessee. | |
| Mr. Speaker, I yield myself the balance of my time. | ||
| I again urge my colleagues to support H.R. 1374, and I yield back the balance of my time. | ||
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unidentified
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Gentleman Yields, the question is, will the House suspend the rules and pass the bill H.R. 1374? | |
| Those in favor say aye. | ||
| Aye. | ||
| Those opposed, no. | ||
| In the opinion of the chair, two-thirds being in the affirmative, the rules are suspended. | ||
| The bill is passed, and without objection, the motion to consider is laid on the table. | ||
| The Chair lays before the House a message. | ||
| To the Congress of the United States, Section 202-D of the National Emergencies Act, 50 United States Code 1622D, provides for the automatic termination of a national emergency at less within 90 days prior to the anniversary date of its declaration. | ||
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Continuing Emergency With Iran
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| The President publishes in the Federal Register and transmits to the Congress a notice stating that the emergency is to continue in effect beyond the anniversary date. | ||
| In accordance with this provision, I have sent to the Federal Register for publication the enclosed notice stating that the national emergency with respect to Iran that was declared on March 15th, 1995, is to continue in effect beyond March 15, 2025. | ||
| The actions and policies of the government of Iran continue to pose an unusual and extraordinary threat to the national security, foreign policy, and economy of the United States. | ||
| Therefore, I have determined that it is necessary to continue the national emergency, declared in Executive Order 12957 with respect to Iran and to maintain and force comprehensive sanctions against Iran to respond to this threat. | ||
| Signed, Donald J. Drump. | ||
| Donald J. Trump, the White House, March 7th, 2025. | ||
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unidentified
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Referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs and ordered printed. | |
| Pursuant to clause 12A of Rule 1, the Chair declares the House in recess until approximately 6:30 p.m. today. | ||
| The House returns later today to continue work on several bills related to Homeland Security, illegal immigration, and countering threats from China. | ||
| Additionally, this week, House Republicans are planning to pass a spending package that will fund the federal government until September 30th. | ||
| Current funding expires on Friday at midnight. | ||
| You can read the legislative text in full if you go to our website, c-span.org. | ||
| And keep it here for live coverage of the U.S. House when members return on C-SPAN. | ||
| Next, a discussion about combating anti-Semitism on college campuses with university leaders hosted by the Anti-Defamation League. | ||