▶ 0:22:54on. It's on. Pursuant to committee rule 6F House rule 11 clause 2H4. The chairman may postpone further proceedings today on any question of approving any measures or matter or adopting an amendment in which recorded vote of the A and is ordered. I'd ask unanimous consent. The chairman be authorized to declare a recess at any time during today's meeting without objection. That is so ordered. All amendment all bill and amendment texts have been distributed electronically and paper copies are also available here in the hearing room.
▶ 0:23:21As a reminder, the committee will use an electronic system for any requested recorded votes. Today the committee is considering HR 2390, the Maritime Supply Chain Security Act HR 2351, the direct to direct the comedon of the Coast Guard to update the policy of Coast Guard regarding the use of medication to treat drug overdose or or other purposes.
▶ 0:23:46An amendment in the nature of a substitute to HR 252, the Secure Our Ports Act 2025, HR 2035, the American Cargo for American Ships Act, HR18, the Amtrak Transparency and Accountability for Passengers and Taxpayers Act, HR248, the Baby Changing on Port Act, an amendment in the nature of a substitute to HR 1373, the Tennessee Valley Authority Transparency Act 2025, HR1 1948 to authorize International Boundary and Water Commission to accept
▶ 0:24:16funds for activities related to wastewater treatment and flood control works and for other purposes and an amendment in the nature of a substitute to HR137 designating the House Press Gallery rooms H 315 316 317 318 and 319 of the United States Capital as the Frederick Douglas Press Gallery. Finally, I'd ask unanimous consent for the committee to use an amendments roster for any items under consideration by the committee. Without objection, that is so ordered.
▶ 0:24:47Our first item for consideration is HR 2390, the Maritime Supply Chain Security Act. I'd ask unanimous consent to discharge the subcommittee on Coastg Guard Maritime Transportation from further consideration of HR2390. And without objection, that is so ordered. I now call up the bill for consideration. Without objection, the first reading of the bill is dispensed with. The bill is now considered as read and open for amendment at any point. I recognize myself for five minutes.
▶ 0:25:15Introduced by our colleague, Representative Rouseer, this bill strengthens the ability of ports to confront potential threats to the United States supply chain posed by Chinese-made cranes and associated software and hardware. Simply put, the bill is going to allow PIDP funds to be used to replace Chinese cranes at our nation's ports, allowing for the replacement of infrastructure supplied by one of our adversaries. I urge all members to support this uh common sense piece of legislation.
▶ 0:25:43I recognize ranking member Larson for statement. Thank you, Mr. Chair, and support HR 2390 legislation to clarify that funding provided by the PIDP grants can be used to replace or upgrade Chinese-made cranes at ports. The PA program provides grants to projects that improve the safety, the efficiency, and the reliability of the movement of goods at our nation's ports. And since 90% of everything we wear, eat, consume is carried by water, ports are the bedrock of our supply chain.
▶ 0:26:10The bipartisan infrastructure law provided $2.25 billion and muchneeded advanced appropriations for PIDP and um ports around the country are using these dollars. I look forward to working with the majority to ensure the PP maintains robust funding into the future and I urge my colleagues to support this legislation. Yield back. Uh recognize Representative Larson, bill sponsor. Mr. Rouser. Uh thank you, Mr. Chairman.
▶ 0:26:38Uh given the u interest of all members today and everybody wanting to get out of town, I'm going to sum it up this way. If you're for China, vote no. If you're for the United States, vote yes. I yield back. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I'm proud to support HR 2390, which was introduced by my colleague and friend from North Carolina, Mr. Rouseer.
▶ 0:27:04This bill will strengthen the ability of our nation's ports to confront threats posed by the Chinese cranes by clarifying that port infrastructure development program, PIDP, funds can be used to replace port crane hardware software of Chinese origin. This legislation is one step that we can secure our ports against foreign adversaries. I urge my colleagues to support this bill and with that, Mr. Chairman, I yield back.
▶ 0:27:30Does anyone else wish to be heard on the Seeing no one, we now proceed to final passage of the legislation. The question is now on the adoption of favorable reporting of HR 2390. All those in favor signify by saying I. I. All oppose signify by saying nay. In the opinion of the chair, the eyes have it and HR 2390 is agreed to and would be favorably reported to the house.
▶ 0:27:54Without objection, the motion to reconsider is laid on the table. Next item for consideration is HR 2351, a bill to direct the comedon of the Coast Guard to update the policy of the Coast Guard regarding the use of medication to treat drug overdose and for other purposes. I'd ask unanimous consent to discharge the subcommittee on Coastg Guard maritime transportation from further consideration of HR2351. Without objection, that is so ordered. I now call up the bill for consideration.
▶ 0:28:22Without objection, the first reading of the bill is dispensed with. The bill is now considered, read, and open for amendment at any point. Recognize myself for a statement. HR 2351 was introduced by the subcommittee and Coast Guard maritime transportation's vice chair, Representative McDow. The bill strengthens the Coast Guard's ability to go after drug traffickers and to respond to uh opioid opioid overdoses in various settings and location.
▶ 0:28:50I urge all members to support the bill and now recognize ranking member Larson. Thank you, Mr. Chair. I support HR 2351 because the health of the women and the men who serve in the Coast Guard is paramount. Members of the Coast Guard face incredible challenges. They perform life or death search and rescue missions. They regularly interdict drugs and migrants at sea, and they break ice in the most difficult environments. Unfortunately, they have not always enjoyed the support that they deserve. They often live in subpar housing, operate out-of-date technology.
▶ 0:29:20They don't always receive the best healthcare. This legislation, which conforms with the Department of Defense policy, ensures that members of the Coast Guard have access to the lock zone at all coastg guard stations and operating environments. HR 2351 further allows the Coast Guard to uh prosecute drug smuggling that occurs with unmanned and remote vessels where an individual may not be on the vessel. So, I urge my colleagues to support this legislation and yield back. Uh, McDow.
▶ 0:29:51Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I I'm proud to speak in support of of my bill HR2351, which amends the Maritime Drug Law Enforcement Act to equip the US Coast Guard to inspect vessels for elicit drugs and gives the Coast Guard parody with other armed services overdose response capabilities by ensuring that Nlloxxone is available in the event of a worst case scenario.
▶ 0:30:15Last month, two Coast Guard cutters intercepted hundreds of millions of dollars of illicit drugs and an unprecedented bust. The Coast Guard's drug interdiction responsibilities will continue to play a key role in protecting our communities from fentinel and opioid abuse. Moving forward, our Coast Guard is the first line of defense against illegal drugs reaching American shores. And this bill ensures that they have what they need to respond swiftly and effectively.
▶ 0:30:42It's long overdue that we close the loopholes that traffickers exploit and ensure the Coast Guard has the support it needs. I urge my colleagues to support this crucial legislation and I yield back. Miss Gillan. Thank you, Chairman Graves and Ranking Member Lrison for organizing this markup and for advancing these bipartisan measures. I am proud to support HR 2351 introduced by my Republican colleague, Representative McDow of North Carolina.
▶ 0:31:12which will help the Coast Guard conduct its critical law enforcement responsibilities and keep our Coast Guardsmen safe. I'm so proud that the fourth Congressional District of New York is home to Coast Guard Station Jones Beach, which is responsible for Coast Guard operations on the southshore of Long Island, Inland Waters. And I'm deep deeply grateful to these men and women who are serving our country and for the critical role that they play in conducting search and rescue law enforcement missions and part of the Long Island Sound Coast Guard sector.
▶ 0:31:43This bill will help Coast Guard do more to stop the flow of illicit drugs, fentinel, and into our communities. Mr. Chairman, as you know, the epidemic of illicit fentinel and fentinyl related substances has ravaged countless communities across our country. Families throughout my district have experienced unimaginable pain and suffering from losing their loved ones due to this deadly drug.
▶ 0:32:05A family in my district just a year ago dropped off their precious child to college and went back shortly thereafter to press up pick up their child's body because of fentinol. We must get fentinyl off our streets and away from our kids. This crisis has killed Americans of every age, every background, and every walk of life. A single ounce of fentinol can have a devastating effect upon a community. It's time we take on the cartels and hold traffickers accountable.
▶ 0:32:34Unfortunately, current law limits the Coast Guard's ability to go after bad actors by requiring that drug smugglers be on board a vessel while a crime is committed. This hinders the Coast Guard's ability to go after operators of unmanned or autonomous vessels or criminals who stow drugs on ships without the knowledge of the crew. This common sense legislation will clarify that the focus should be on the location of the crime regardless of the location of the criminal.
▶ 0:33:00Put simply, this bill will allow the Coast Guard to go after the criminals, save lives, and keep our communities safe. This bill will also require the Coast Guard to make uh Nanaxalone and other similar medication available on all Coast Guard installations, including station Jones Beach, and in all operational environments, enabling the Coast Guard to treat any opioid and fentinel overdoses that they encounter. Mr.
▶ 0:33:24Chairman, I encourage all of my colleagues to join me in supporting this important bipartisan legislation to help the Coast Guard do their jobs. Thank you, and I yield back, Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I'm proud to support HR 2351, which was introduced by my colleague from North Carolina, Mr. McDow.
▶ 0:33:47The bill will strengthen the Coast Guard's ability to go after drug traffickers by clarifying authority to prosecute cases involving unmanned or autonomous vehicles, vessels, as well as instances where drugs have been hidden aboard a vessel without the crew's knowledge. This bill will also strengthen the service ability to respond to opioid overdoses by requiring the availability of the locks on on Coast Guard bases aboard cutters and other operational environments.
▶ 0:34:17These common sense reforms will help the Coast Guard as it conducts drug interdiction operations. Thank you for offering the bill, Mr. McDow. I urge my colleagues to support this bill and I yield back my Does anyone else wish to be heard on the bill? Seeing no one, we will now proceed to final passage of the legislation. The question is now on the adoption of favorable reporting of HR 2351. All those in favor signify by saying I. All opposed signify by saying nay.
▶ 0:34:47Any opinion of the chair, the eyes have it and HR 2351 is agreed to and will be favorably reported to the house. Without objection, the motion to reconsider is laid on the table. Our next item for consideration is HR 252, the Secure Our Ports Act of 2025. I'd ask unanimous consent to discharge the com subcommittee on Coastg Guard Maritime Transportation from further consideration of HR 252. And without objection, that is so ordered. I now call up the bill for consideration.
▶ 0:35:17Without objection, the first reading of the bill is dispensed with. The bill is now considered as read and open for amendment at any point. I recognize Mr. Riselle to offer his amendment in the nature of a substitute. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I have an amendment at the desk. Please designate an amendment in the nature of a substitute to HR252 offered by Mr. Eel of Mississippi. Without objection, the amendment in the nature of substitute is going to be considered as read and shall be considered as base text for the purpose of further amendment.
▶ 0:35:46I now recognize Mr. Dazelle for 5 minutes. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I'm proud to support HR 252, which was introduced by my colleague from California, Mr. Calbert. The bill simply prohibits Chinese, Russian, North Korea, or Iranian state-owned enterprises or an entity with any percent ownership of those countries from entering into contracts for the ownership, leasing, or operations of US port facilities that are subject to security plans.
▶ 0:36:15I think we can all agree that it would be in our best interest for those countries not to operate portables in this country. I urge my colleague to support this bill and I yield back my time. Uh Mr. Carbajal. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. In wake of the CO 19 pandemic, we saw the importance of a resilient supply chain as port congestion and vessel backlogs disrupted the free flow of commerce.
▶ 0:36:44HR 252, the Secure Our Ports Act, works to minimize interference in US ports from foreign As ranking member of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, I am proud to have worked with my colleagues and former President Biden to invest 2.5 billion in port infrastructure development through the bipartisan infrastructure law.
▶ 0:37:07We all now understand the importance of a strong, resilient supply chain, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to ensure robust funding for the maritime industry. For this reason, I will vote yes on this bill. I yield back. Do any other members wish to be heard on the bill or on the amendment? Seeing none, are there any other amendments to the amendment in the nature of a substitute to HR 252?
▶ 0:37:38Hearing none, the question is on the adoption of the amendment the nature of a substitute to HR 252. All those in favor signify by saying I. All oppose signify by saying nay. In opinion of the chair, the eyes have it and then the amendment in the nature of substitute is adopted. The question is now on adoption and favorable reporting of HR 252 as amended. All those in favor signify by saying I. All oppose signify by saying nay. In opinion of the chair, the eyes have it.
▶ 0:38:07And HR 252 as amended is agreed to and ordered favorably reported to the house. And without objection, motion to reconsider is laid on the table. Our next item for consideration is HR 2035, the American Cargo for American Ships Act. I'd ask unanimous consent to discharge subcommittee on Coastg Guard and Maritime Transportation for further consideration of HR 2035. And without objection, that is so ordered. I now call up the bill for consideration.
▶ 0:38:34Without objection, the first reading of the bill is dispensed with. The bill is now considered as read and open for amendment at any point. I recognize myself for a statement. HR 2035 was introduced by the Coastg Guard Maritime Transportation Subcommittee's ranking member, Representative Carbajal, along with the subcommittee's chairman, Representative Viselle. This bill requires the Department of Transportation to increase its cargo preference requirement to 100% making the department a leader in supporting the domestic maritime sector and I'd urge support for the legislation.
▶ 0:39:05Now recognize ranking member Larson. Thank you, Mr. Chair. uh as for HR 2035 because the US flag maritime fleet is at a critical juncture and now is the time that we act. Currently there are around 80 American ships participating in the international transportation of waterborne commerce. As a result, we have become dependent on foreign flight vessels to carry our commerce. This bill guarantees US vessels will have US cargo to transport which will bolster the strength of the industry and the long-term the number of ships flying the US flag.
▶ 0:39:34And while the Department of Defense is currently required to ship 100% of its cargo on US flag vessels, the Department of Transportation and the Maritime Administration, the agency tasked with promoting the US maritime industry are only required to ship 50% of their cargo on US flag ships. This bill rectifies that difference. If it's good enough for the DoD, it's good enough for the DOT. And I appreciate Ranking Member Carbajal's leadership on this issue and urge my colleagues to support this legislation. With that, I yield back.
▶ 0:40:04Now recognize represent Carbajal. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I would like to express my support for my bill HR 2035, the American Ships for American Cargo Act. I would like also like to thank Chair Eel for co-sponsoring this important piece of legislation highlighting the bipartisan nature of maritime commerce and the need to grow the industry.
▶ 0:40:28In recent years, our US flag fleet has shrunk to an unacceptable small size. As ranking member of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, I and other stakeholders have been championing the need to grow the fleet, and now is the time to act. My bill strengthens the American Merchant Marine by guaranteeing that 100% of US cargo shipped by the Department of Transportation will be transported on US flagged ships.
▶ 0:40:58It is that simple. This bill is the maritime industry's version of by America. Cargo preference laws exist to maintain our robust American shipping capability and to ensure that federal dollars are being invested back into the American workforce. Not only is this a bipartisan effort, but the maritime industry isol wholly supportive. 14 industry partners have provided support for this bill, including labor unions, shipping companies, and trade associations.
▶ 0:41:28I am optimistic that this bill will grow the US merchant marine and strengthen our national security, and I look forward to it becoming law. I yield back. Now recognize Representative Zel. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I'm proud to support HR 2035 as an original co-sponsor to the legislation introduced by my colleague from California, Mr.
▶ 0:41:49Carbajal HR 2035 will strengthen the US maritime industry by requiring that 100% of cargo pro procured, furnished or financed by the Department of Transportation be transported by owned US fleet privately operated commercial vessel. Our aim here is to reduce our resilience on foreignowned vessels and crew and build up our maritime base here at home strengthening our national security.
▶ 0:42:17I thank Representative Carbajal and urge my colleagues to support this bill and I yield back my time. Does any other members wish to be heard on the bill? Seeing none, we will now proceed to final passage of the legislation. The question is now on the adoption of favorable reporting of HR 2035. All those in favor signify by saying I. I. All oppose signify by saying nay. Opinion of the chair. The eyes have it and HR 2035 is agreed to and would be favorably reported to the house.
▶ 0:42:47Without objection, the motion to reconsider is laid on the table. Our next item for consideration is HR 188, the Amtrak Transparency and Accountability for Passengers and Taxpayers Act. And I'd ask unanimous consent to discharge the subcommittee on railroads, pipelines, and hazardous materials from further consideration of HR18. Without objection, that is so ordered. I now call up the bill for consideration. Without objection, the first reading of the bill is dispensed with.
▶ 0:43:15The bill is now considered as read and open for amendment at any point. I recognize myself for opening statement. HR 188, the Amtrak Transparency and Accountability for Passengers and Taxpayers Act establishes some necessary transparency standards for the Amtrak board of directors. The bill applies the open meetings requirement under the government in the sunshine act providing exceptions for contract negotiations collective bargaining agreements and matters of employment.
▶ 0:43:43HR18 holds Amtrak to the same standards as other executive branch agencies and provides some long overdue transparency to the taxpayers. Last Congress, the legislation favorably reported from this committee and passed the House under suspension of the rules and I'm proud to support 188 and urge my colleagues to do the same. I now recognize ranking member Larson. Thank you, Chair. I support HR 188. This bill, which passed the House on suspension last Congress, requires the Amtrak's board of directors to hold open meetings.
▶ 0:44:13The legislation requires the public is notified of all upcoming meetings and is allowed to observe board meetings. The bill increases transparency and allows some exceptions when certain contractual obligations are discussed, including contract negotiations with Amtrak's workers. However, Amtrak has identified additional instances where sensitive or confidential business information may come up at board meetings that are not protected under this legislation. So, I port I support improvements to address these concerns. I look forward to the chair as this legislation moves forward. Uh, with that, uh, I yield back.
▶ 0:44:44I now recognize Representative Webster. Thank you, Chair. Um, it's been said more than once that uh, Sunshine's the best disinfectant. Transparency is important uh to the Democratic government. It helps keep the people informed and the actions being taken in their their name. While Amtrak was intended to operate as a private nonprofit business, its current structure makes it it a government entity.
▶ 0:45:13Additionally, uh, in recent rulings, the courts have found Amtrak to be a government entity. This bill simply ensures that Amtrak is subject to the same level of transparency as other government agencies. I urge my colleagues to support this legislation. Yield back. Any other members wish to be heard on the bill? Seeing no one, Mr. Nadler.
▶ 0:45:47Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, uh while I appreciate the stated goal of promoting greater transparency, I'm concerned that this bill could undermine the progress Amtrak has made to increase transparency and disrupt the bipartisan momentum of Amtrak's board. The board, confirmed with bipartisan support last year, comprises both Democrats and Republicans who were just sworn in three months ago.
▶ 0:46:15They deserve time and space to collaborate effectively without premature changes to their structure and operations. It's also important to acknowledge the transparency work Amtrak is already undertaken. The board is committed to making portions of its meeting public of its meetings I should say public sharing redacted minutes and resolutions and engaging with stakeholders nationwide.
▶ 0:46:38These are promising steps and I believe this committee should continue to encourage that progress, not complicated with new mandates that aren't typically applied to other federally chartered institutions. The timing of this bill also raises concerns. With the next surface transportation reauthorization on the horizon, we'll soon have an opportunity to revisit Amtrak's governance and funding in a more comprehensive manner after providing this board time to implement reforms.
▶ 0:47:08Moving this bill forward now may limit the full deliberation these issues deserve. Finally, while I believe there's room for healthy debate on the future of Amtrak, it's hard to ignore the broader context. Republican proposal to significantly reduce Amtrak's funding by over $1 billion in the House Republicans proposed fiscal year 2025 transportation hut appropriations bill and caused by some Republicans to privatize it altogether.
▶ 0:47:37send a conflicting message to Americans on where Republicans stand on Amtrak. Amtrak service, especially along the Northeast Corridor, is essential to my constituents who rightly expect it to be maintained and improved, not weakened. I remain committed to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to ensure that Amtrak remains safe, efficient, and accountable to the American people. However, I respectfully believe we can do better than this bill in its current form.
▶ 0:48:05I plan to vote no on final passage if this bill receives a recorded vote and I encourage others to carefully consider the broader implications before moving forward. I back. Do any other members wish to be heard on the bill? Seeing no one, we're now considering the bill for amendments. What purposes? Miss Titus seek recognition. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I have an amendment at the desk.
▶ 0:48:31Please designate an amendment to HR18 offered by Miss Titus of Nevada number 007. Without objection, the amendment will be considered as read. Miss Titus, uh, you're recognized for 5 minutes. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. This amendment allows Amtrak to go into executive session for confidential commercial discussions and when the safety of Amtrak customers or employees are at risk.
▶ 0:48:58Amtrak's police department has over 500 sworn and civilian personnel who conduct a range of behind the scenes and frontline security measures to ensure Amtrak employees and customers are safe. These officers partner with federal, state, and local rail and transit law enforcement agencies in the communities that Amtrak serves. The Amtrak board needs to be aware of and have input into these activities.
▶ 0:49:27My amendment ensures that insensitive discussions about security measures to keep riders safe, such as the number of officers on board a specific train or potential security vulnerabilities, are not revealed to potential bad actors. Through the bipartisan infrastructure law, this committee made historic investments in passenger rail. And we're seeing the impacts of this already in my district in Las Vegas.
▶ 0:49:54Thanks to a $3 billion federal state partnership for inner city passenger rail grant, Bright Line West began construction last April on this project. Across the United States, current and future rail passengers are seeing the benefits of the BIL's investments. With this funding comes a need for additional transparency, which is why I support this bill.
▶ 0:50:21We also need to fully fund Amtrak, as you just heard my colleagues say, so that we don't go back on the progress that we've been making over the past five years. There's not a passenger rail system in the world that operates without some government investment in capital projects. I appreciate Chairman Graves, Ranking Member Larson, and Representative Nell's work to increase transparency and to support passenger rail.
▶ 0:50:47I believe the discussion on funding and transparency is best suited for the upcoming surface transportation authorization. But I support this bill and urge my colleagues to support the amendment. Thank you. And I yield back. Do any other members wish to be heard on the amendment? Seeing none, recognize myself real quick. I do support this amendment.
▶ 0:51:12Um, it allows for the bill's underlying goals of increasing transparency to be achieved and while making clarifications to ensure information that could compromise passenger safety or confidential commercial information is not disclosed. I'd urge my colleagues to support the amendment. With that, I yield back. Are there does anyone else wish to be heard? Seeing none, the question is on the amendment. All those in favor signify by saying I. I. All oppose signify by saying nay. The eyes have it.
▶ 0:51:40The amendment is to. We'll now proceed to final passage of the legislation. The question is now on the adoption favorable reporting of HR 188 as amended. All those in favor signify by saying I. All oppose signify by saying nay. In opinion of the chair, the eyes have it. HR 188 as amended is agreed to and will be favorably reported to the house. Without objection, the motion to reconsider is laid on the table.
▶ 0:52:09Next item for consideration is HR 248, the baby changing on board act and I'd ask unanimous consent to discharge subcommittee on railroads, pipelines, and hazardous materials from further consideration of HR 248. Without objection, that is so ordered. I now call up the bill for consideration. And without objection, the first reading of the bill is dispensed with. The bill is now considered as read and open for amendment at any point. Recognize myself real quick for a statement.
▶ 0:52:34HR 248, the Baby Changing on Board Act, is effective bipartisan legislation that's intended to help parents better care for their young children by requiring baby changing tables on board Amtrak owned trains. And I'd appreciate I very much appreciate my colleagues work on this legislation. last Congress. The legislation was reported favorably from the committee by unanimous consent and I'd urge adoption today by the committee. I now recognize Representative Larson. Thank you, Mr. Chair.
▶ 0:53:02I support the baby changing on board act introduced by Representatives Underwood and Van Drew. This bill requires Amtrak to install baby changing stations and accessible bathrooms on new passenger rail cars and include clear signage in indicating their availability. and pleased we can support this legislation and uh make traveling by Amtrak more accessible for parents and caregivers traveling with young children. So I urge all members to support this bill bill bill and I yield back. Uh Representative Webster.
▶ 0:53:33Thank you, Chairman Graves. Um, my colleague from Illinois introduced this uh very good uh amendment and uh I think that uh there should be baby changing abilities on any kind of Amtrak train. So it's bipartisan overdue for a long time. I urge my colleagues to support this bill reel back.
▶ 0:54:00Does anyone else wish to be heard on the Seeing no one, we'll now proceed to final passage of the legislation. The question is now on adoption and favorably reporting of HR 248. All those in favor signify by saying I. All opposed, signify by saying nay. In the opinion of the chair, the eyes have it and HR 248 is agreed to and will be favorably reported to the house. Without objection, the motion to reconsider is laid on the table.
▶ 0:54:27Our next item for consideration is HR 1373, the Tennessee Valley uh Authority Transparency Act of 2025. And I'd ask unanimous consent to discharge the subcommittee on water resources environment from further consideration of HR1 1373. And without objection, that is so ordered. I now call up the bill for consideration. Without objection, the first reading of the bill will be dispensed with. The bill is now considered read and open for amendment at any point. I'd recognize uh Mr.
▶ 0:54:56McDow to offer his amendment in the nature of a substitute. I'm offering an amendment in the nature of the substitute on behalf of Mr. Burchett and the amendments at the desk. Clerk, please designate. An amendment in the nature of a substitute to HR1373 offered by Mr. McDow of North Carolina. Without objection, the amendment in the nature of a substitute will will be considered as read and shall be considered as a base text for the purpose of further amendment. Recognize Mr. McDow. Five minutes. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
▶ 0:55:24The TVA is a government chartered power company operating in Tennessee and six surrounding states, including part of my home state in North Carolina. Millions of people rely on the TVA services and deserve to know how the company operates. On Monday, the TVA appointed a new CEO without consideration from the public or members of Congress.
▶ 0:55:50Despite the TVA's CEO being the highest paid federal employee in the country, the TVA Transparency Act is simple. It requires Tennessee Valley Authority meetings to be open to the public and requires 7 days notice online for future meetings. It is important for Congress to continue delivering on our commitment to improve transparency, efficiency, and accountability.
▶ 0:56:15I will be supporting this legislation which was introduced by representatives Tim Burchett and Steve Cohen and I urge my colleagues to do the same. I yield back. Recognize Mr. Larson. Thank you, Mr. Chair. I support the ANS to HR 1373, a bipartisan bill to promote additional transparency at board meetings at the TVA. I want to thank Representatives Cohen and Burchett of Tennessee for their leadership on this bill, their tireless work to improve the TVA.
▶ 0:56:44TVA is the nation's largest government-owned wholesale power producer, supplying power to 10 million people across um seven states. This legislation requires TVA's board meetings to be publicly available when possible, which will increase transparency for the communities impacted by the board's decision. I support ANS to HR 1373 and encourage my colleagues to do the same. With that, back. Does anyone else wish to be heard?
▶ 0:57:14I would like to commend uh Congressman Burchett and Cohen for their continued work to make the Tennessee Valley Authority transparent for all of its customers. With that, are there any other amendments to the amendment in the nature of a substitute to 1373? Hearing none, the question is on the adoption of the amendment in the nature of a substitute to HR 1373. All those in favor signify by saying I. All oppose signify by saying nay.
▶ 0:57:42opinion the chair the eyes have it and the amendment in the nature of a substitute is adopted. The question is now on adoption and favorably reporting of HR1 1373 as amended. All those in favor signify by saying I. All oppose signify by saying nay. In the opinion of the chair, the eyes have it. And HR 1373 as amended is agreed to and order favorably reported to the house. And without objection, the motion to reconsider is laid on the table.
▶ 0:58:10Next item for consideration is HR1 1948, a bill to authorize the International Boundary and Water Commission to accept funds for activities relating to wastewater uh treatment and flood control works and for other purposes. And I'd ask unanimous consent to discharge from the sub discharge the subcommittee on water resources environment from further consideration of HR 1948. Without objection, that is so ordered. I now call up the bill for consideration. Without objection, the first reading is dispensed with. The bill is now considered read and open for amendment at any point.
▶ 0:58:40Recognize myself real quick. HR 1948 would allow the United States section of the International Boundary and Water Commission or the IBWC to receive additional funding from other federal and non-federal partners to support water and wastewater infrastructure. The IBWC is already authorized to receive funds from the Environmental Protection Agency and will be allowed and this bill will allow the IBWC to partner with other entities to address the maintenance backlog for critical water infrastructure.
▶ 0:59:09This bill will give the IBWC another tool to help address water infrastructure issues in its service area. I'd urge colleagues to support it and I now recognize ranking member Larson. Thank you, Mr. Chair. I support this legislation to assist the US section of the International Boundary and Water Commission, IBWC, in carrying out its critical water related missions.
▶ 0:59:30This bill, which passed this committee last Congress with bipartisan support, provided the IBWC with the authority to accept contributed funds from other federal and state agencies. This authority, which most other federal infrastructure agencies already possess, will allow the IBWC to partner with other federal agencies and non-federal interests to carry out critical water related projects, including projects for wastewater treatment, water conservation, and flood control. I support the legislation and urge my colleagues to do the same.
▶ 0:59:59With that, I back. Do any other members wish to be heard on the legislation? Seeing no one, we will now proceed to final passage of the legislation. The question is now on the adoption of favorable reporting of HR1 1948. All those in favor signify by saying I. All oppose signify by saying nay. Any of the chair the eyes have it. HR1948 is agreed to and will be favorably reported to the house. And without objection, the motion to reconsider is laid on the table.
▶ 1:00:28Our next item for consideration is House Resolution 137 designating the House Press Gallery Rooms H315, H316, H317, H318, and H319 of the United States Capital as the Frederick Douglas um press gallery. I'd ask unanimous consent to discharge the subcommittee on economic development, public buildings, and emergency management from further consideration of House Resolution 137. Without objection, that is so ordered. I now call up the bill for consideration.
▶ 1:00:56Without objection, the first reading of the bill is dispensed with and the bill is now considered read and open for amendment at any point. Now recognize Mr. Owens to offer his amendment in the nature of a substitute. Mr. Chairman, I have an amendment nature of a substitute at the desk. Clerk, please designate the amendment. An amendment in the nature of a substitute to HRES 137 offered by Mr. Owens of Utah. Without objection, the amendment in the nature of a substitute shall be considered read and shall be considered as base text for the further uh for the purpose of further amendment. And I now recognize Mr.
▶ 1:01:26Owens for 5 minutes. Thank you, Mr. Mr. Sherman. Today we honor man whose life story embodies the American dream. A dream built on grit, faith, and refusal to accept anything less than freedom. Frederick Douglas was born in slavery. He had no inheritance, no powerful connections, and no road map to success. He had instead a relentless will for freedom to own his own mind, his voice, and ultimately his future. He taught himself to read and write. He defied his system that told him he wasn't meant to think, speak, or lead.
▶ 1:01:57He didn't just free himself. He spent the rest of his life fighting for those others to do the same. This is the America that we know of. This is the honor. This is the the honor we we give them today. In 1871, Frederick Douglas walked these halls, not as a lawmaker, but as the first black member of the Congressional Press Galleries, reporting on the work of this very institution during reconciliation. I'm sorry.
▶ 1:02:23the rec reconstruction he understood that freedom required not just laws but knowledge and truth more than 150 years ago we have later we have the opportunity to ensure that Douglas legacy isn't just remembered in history books but permanently embedded within these halls my amendment formally uh designates the house US house of representatives press gallery as a Frederick Douglas press gallery a lasting tribute to a man who ensured the truth truth was told.
▶ 1:02:53This isn't a Republican or Democrat effort. It's an American one. I'm honored to co-lead this bipartisan initiative along alongside my colleagues and representatives Byron Donald's, Andre Carlson, Steven Holsford, Wesley Hunt, and John John James. At a time when so many are quick to divide us, let this be something that unites us. A recognition that no matter where we come from, our country is one that's at its best. We honor those who have fought to make it better. Fer Douglas didn't just escape slavery.
▶ 1:03:23He transformed this nation with his words, his courage, his conviction that all men and women should be free. It is only right that we honor him today in this very place that he made history. I urge my colleagues to support this amendment and I yel back. Mr. Carson. Thank you, Chairman. Um, I seek recognition and support of the amendment to HR 137. It's been a pleasure to work with my TNI colleague, the gentleman from Utah, Mr.
▶ 1:03:51Owens, to help advance the bill through our markup today. We are both original co-sponsors of this resolution. The gentleman from Florida, Mr. Donald's, HR137 will rename the House Press Gallery for an amazing American, Frederick Douglas. Many know Mr. Douglas as an abolitionist and an orator. Formerly enslaved, he emancipated himself. Yet, many don't know Douglas as a journalist.
▶ 1:04:16first working with William Lloyd Garrison's abolitionist newspaper, The Liberator, and then he founded and published his own newspaper, The North Star. The title recognized the way so many former slaves found liberation by following the North Star. After the Civil War, Douglas published other newspapers like the National The New National Era, a black weekly newspaper. Douglas and his sons covered Congress for this publication.
▶ 1:04:44Frederick Douglas was the first black man to report on Congress and be allowed into the Capitol Press Gallery where he was a member from 1871 to 1875. He covered the critical debates in Congress during reconstruction following the 13th, 14th, and 15th amendments to the Constitution. There is a plaque and a painting of Mr.
▶ 1:05:07Douglas in the National Press Gallery or in the press gallery, but it's past time for a permanent recognition of the groundbreaking and legendary work by renaming the House Press Gallery the Frederick Douglas Press Gallery. Mr. Chairman, I urge all of my colleagues to join us and Mr. Owens in supporting passage of the resolution. Thank you and I yield back. And the members wish to be heard.
▶ 1:05:33Are there any amendments to the amendment in the nature of substitute to house resolution 137? Seeing none, the question is on the adoption of the amendment in the nature of a substitute to HR to house resolution 137. All those in favor signify by saying I. All oppose signify by saying nay. Any of the chair the eyes have it. The amendment in the nature of a substitute is adopted. The question is now on adoption in favorable reporting of H resolution 137 as amended. All those in favor signify by saying I.
▶ 1:06:03All oppose signify by saying nay. Opinion of the chair the eyes have it. And house resolution 137 as amended is agreed to and order favorably reported to the house. Without objection, motion to reconsider is laid on the table. Since all uh all of the uh legislation this morning was passed by voice vote, we're going to conclude the uh uh the markup. And I want to thank everybody for sticking around for the Mr. Larson. Yeah.
▶ 1:06:33Just a quick moment to speak out of turn. I want to thank all the members for uh for coming this morning with the schedule change and I want to thank the the chair for moving the mark up an hour so we could accommodate schedules travel or otherwise. Appreciate that very much. Thank you. Neil back. With that, I'd ask unanimous consent that each measure ordered reported today be reported as a single amendment in the nature of a substitute incorporating any amendments adopted. Without objection, that is so ordered.
▶ 1:06:56I'd ask unanimous consent that the staff be authorized to make all necessary technical, clarifying, and conforming changes to each of the measures ordered reported uh today to reflect the actions of the committee without objection that is so ordered. Pursuant to House Rule 22, clause one. I'd ask unanimous consent that the chairman or his designate be authorized to offer such motions as may be necessary in the House to go to conference with the Senate on the legislation adopted today in any similar measure. Without objection, that is so ordered.
▶ 1:07:22I ask unanimous consent that the chairman have consultation after consultation with the ranking member have authority to strike or revise any provision of the measures ordered reported today that would cause a sequential referral to another committee or that would cause the bill to be subject to budget act or rule 21 cutgo point of order without objection that is so ordered.
▶ 1:07:41Pursuant to House Rule 11, clause 2, LI, I ask unanimous consent that all members of the committee have at least two calendar days in which to file in a supplemental minority, additional or descending views on the legislation adopted today. Without objection, that is so ordered. Pursuant to rule six of the rules of the committee on transportation infrastructure, I note the presence of quorum for all actions taken on all committee business today. And with that, um, everybody enjoy your weekend. The committee on transportation infrastructure has completed its business committee stands adjourned.