LEGISLATIVE DAY OF APRIL 23, 2026
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Floor U.S. House of Representatives
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Brian Fitzpatrick
He is also a gifted musician and a worship leader using his musical talents across the country and internationally, including work amongst Jewish and Arab communities in Israel and the broader Middle East. Mister speaker, I'm grateful for pastor Durstein's prayer this morning. We thank him for his faithful ministry. Thank you, pastor Durstein, and may God bless you and your continued service. And with that, I yield back.
Speaker 7
Gentleman yields back. The chair will entertain up to five further requests for one minute speeches on each side of the aisle. For what purpose does the gentleman from Ohio. Ohio seek recognition? Where are we getting?
Glenn Thompson
Good morning. Rise to address the house for one minute and extend my remarks.
Troy Balderson
Okay. Thank you, mister speaker. I rise today to recognize and thank a friend and valued member of my team, John Kohler, who's moving on to a new opportunity. John has been on my staff since 2018 after graduating from The Ohio State University and serving in the houses of former congressman Pat Tiberry and former speaker of the house Paul Ryan. During that time, he distinguished himself through his dedication to public service and his commitment to the people of the 12th Congressional District.
He served as a trusted adviser on foreign policy, defense, telecom, tech, and oversight, and helped lead our work on consumer protection policy contributing to the bipartisan passage of the Yawning Safety Act. My team and I will greatly miss John and his beloved chocolate lab, Jeb, who brightened our office and welcomed every constituent who walked through our door. I am deeply grateful for his service, and I wish him continued success. Thank you, mister speaker. I yield back.
Speaker 7
Gentleman yields back. For what purpose does the gentleman from California seek recognition? Without objection, the gentleman is recognized for one minute.
Jimmy Panetta
Mister speaker, I honor the life, the legacy of lieutenant general Robert g Gard junior. General Garde recently passed at 98 years young after a life dedicated to service. A three decade military career serving in Korea, in Vietnam, leadership at educational institutions across the country, and advocacy to ban land mines and for veterans. But while he was a well decorated soldier and well renowned for his service to the country, General Guards impact on our Monterey community was unparalleled. After serving as the commanding general of the former Ford Ord, General Garde spent more than a decade as the president of the Monterey Institute of International Studies.
With his leadership, General Garde bolstered the institution's international reputation while connecting with students, faculty, and the greater Monterey community. He while he served at as he served at all levels, including helping us create the Central Coast Veterans Cemetery. My heart goes out to his wife, Janet, and all those whose lives he touched. I'm deeply deeply grateful for general Guard's lifetime of loyalty, duty, and respect, and thankful for his legacy of service that affects everybody in the 19th Congressional District Of California. Thank you, mister speaker.
I yield back.
Speaker 7
Gentleman yields back. For what purpose, gentlemen from Utah seek recognition.
Mark Takano
Speaker. I seek to address the house for one minute and to rise and extend
my remarks.
Brian Fitzpatrick
Thank you, mister speaker. I rise today to recognize a constituent, a volunteer, and a good friend, Lyman, on the occasion of his 70 birthday. Lyman has volunteered his time and energy on behalf of the people of Utah for many years. He shows up. He does the work, and he does it because he cares about the state and about the people in it.
That kind of dedication deserves to be recognized. I'm thankful for Lyman and those like him who are willing to volunteer their time and serve the people of Utah and the people of The United States Of America. Happy birthday, Lyman. May God bless you, and may God bless the great United States Of America. Thank you, mister speaker.
And with that, I yield back.
Speaker 7
Gentleman yields back. What purpose of the gentleman of California's seat recognition?
Mark Takano
Mister speaker, I ask Ned's consent to address the house for one minute and to revise and extend my remarks.
Mark Takano
Mister speaker, this past week, my Republican colleagues voted to give Donald Trump a blank check to continue his military operation in Iran. And it's regular Americans who are paying the price. Thirteen US service members killed and nearly 400 troops wounded. And this war could end up costing taxpayers $1,000,000,000,000 in the long term. Here at home, Americans are being crushed by higher gas prices, rising health care costs, and bigger electric bills.
Ilhan Omar
Republicans had the chance to rein in a commander in chief who threatens war crimes, attacks our allies, and is wrecking our economy. They chose to let him run rampant. Americans cannot afford this insane crazy agenda any longer. Pass a war powers resolution. Reign in Donald Trump and start investing in the American people at home, not bomb
Speaker 7
minute and revise and extend my remarks. The gentleman without objection, the gentleman is recognized for one minute.
Tony Wied
Mister speaker, I rise today to recognize the life and legacy of Green Bay Packers legend Bob Harlan, who passed away last month at the age of 89. Bob was born on 09/09/1936 in Des Moines and graduated from Marquette University in 1958. He spent six years as the sports publicity director at Marquette before joining baseball's Saint Louis Cardinals. In 1971, Bob was hired by the Packers as the assistant general manager. Over the next eighteen years, he held various administrative positions with the team before being elected president and CEO in 1989, a role he held until 2008.
Under Harlan's leadership, the Packers achieved significant success including victory in Super Bowl thirty one, an NFC championship in 1997, and 13 winning seasons over sixteen year span from 1992 to 2007. Beyond these accomplishments, Bob is remembered for his approachable and personal leadership style. He was a caring leader who inspired trust and confidence in those around him. Bob survived by his beloved wife, Madeleine, with whom he was married for nearly sixty seven years, his three grandchildren, four children, and seven great grandchildren. Mister speaker, on behalf of all Packers fans and everyone across Northeastern Wisconsin, I want to extend my sincere gratitude to Bob for his leadership and send our prayers to his family during this difficult time.
And with that, I yield back.
Speaker 7
Gentleman yields back. For what purpose? Gentlewoman for Pennsylvania seek recognition. Without objection, gentleman is recognized for one minute.
Madeleine Dean
Mister speaker, the world watched in awe as three astronauts from NASA and one astronaut from the Canadian Space Agency became the first people to travel to the moon in more than fifty years. I applaud Reed's Reed Weissman, Victor Glover, Christina Cook, and Jeremy Hansen for their exploration and their excellence. Through Artemis two mission, their courageous four ventured farther from Earth than humankind has ever been, reminding of us of our relative smallness and the love and of our common humanity that binds us together. From 250,000 miles away, they saw a planet with no borders, yet a feat as interstellar as Artemis is, it offers some local pride. Bally ribbons in bal Bally ribbon mills in Bally, PA manufactured a three d woven material super strength textiles to support thermal protections for the spacecraft.
Marcy Kaptur
McDaniel, a company from Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, manufactured the windows. And mission specialist Christina Cook, though a Michigander, is a Philly's, Fort Span.
Marcy Kaptur
Victor Glover summed it up. From up here, you look like one thing we are all
Speaker 7
Gentleman yields back. For what purpose, the gentleman from California seek recognition.
Young Kim
Mister speaker, I ask for unanimous consent to address the house for one minute and to revise and
Young Kim
Thank you, mister speaker. Today, I rise to commemorate the 100 and to honor the resilience and strength of the Armenian people. I'm deeply grateful for our vibrant Armenian American community in Southern California who I cherish very dearly. Your history, your culture, and your contributions are an enduring part of our nation's history. As we reflect on this tragedy, we must also reaffirm our commitment to truth, education, and prevention.
Because remembrance is not just about the past, it's about protecting the future. I will continue to stand with the Armenian community, and I will work to ensure that the promise of never again is upheld. I yield back.
Speaker 7
Gentlewoman yields back. For what purpose does the gentleman from New York take recognition?
Speaker 11
to address the house for one minute, expand and amend my remarks. Without objection, the gentleman is recognized for one minute. Mister speaker, I rise to celebrate Frederick Martinez El Pacha, a defining voice in the Dominican media as he celebrates the three years of El Pacha Officiale, his newest entertainment series. Known to millions of people as El Pacha, Martinez has been a legacy as one of the most dynamic and influential communicators in the Dominican community. From standout programs like He introduced a bold style that broke traditional malls and brought audiences closer to him.
Adriano Espaillat
More than represented, Pacha is a cultural phenomenon. His improvisational talent and authentic voice have inspired generations of broadcasters while defining Caribbean entertainment. Today, we celebrate not just a career but a legacy, one defined by passion, authenticity, and lasting impact.
Speaker 7
Gentleman yields back. For what purpose does the gentleman from Tennessee seek recognition?
Young Kim
I ask unanimous consent to address the house for one minute and to revise and extend my remarks.
John Rose
Mister speaker, I rise today to congratulate the remarkable achievement in Tennessee's 6th Congressional District. The Jackson County High School Blue Devils claimed the t double s double a class one a state championship in boys basketball. The Blue Devils of Jackson County did not just win a title, they earned it. Game by game, practice by practice through early mornings and late nights in the gym, these young men from our corner of Tennessee Tennessee rose above every opponent to stand atop the entire state. The coaches and the staff, your belief in these young men made champions out of them.
To the parents and families who traveled every mile and cheered every possession, this title belongs to you as well. And to the community of Jackson County, you have every reason to be proud. Class one a is where hearts heart beats talent, where small towns prove that greatness has no zip code. The Blue Devils proved that in dramatic fashion this season, and the 6th District is better for it. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Jackson County Blue Devils state champions.
With that, I yield back.
Speaker 7
The gentleman yields back. For what purpose the gentleman from Texas seek recognition?
Speaker 11
Mister speaker, I seek unanimous consent to the president of The United States.
Speaker 11
Mister speaker, I rise today to honor, to commemorate the one hundred and sixtieth anniversary of Antioch Missionary Baptist Church. One hundred and sixty years ago, formerly enslaved persons got together along Buffalo Bayou with nothing but faith and freedom. And there they built a church with their own hands, their own bricks, their own will. That church is Antioch which has served 4th Ward downtown Houston, Texas. Antioch was a hub of activism since reconstruction.
John Rose
It had its doors open during the civil rights movement where people needed organizing and courage. Under pastor Lou McElroy and first lady McElroy, that mission continues today. But Isaiah 43 tells us not to dwell on the former things. Antioch's impact is not just the past, it's present. The congregation is still educating, still organizing, still impacting, showing up for Houston each and every day.
Speaker 11
I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Antioch Missionary Baptist Church on one hundred and sixty years of excellence and service to Houston, Texas and to this nation. With that, mister speaker, I yield back.
Bruce Westerman
HR 20 '66, an act to amend the Small Business Investment Act of 1958 to exclude from the limit on leverage certain amounts invested in smaller enterprises located in rural or low income areas and small businesses in critical technology areas and for other purposes.
Bruce Westerman
Mister speaker, pursuant to house resolution eleven eighty nine, I call up h r fifty five eighty seven and ask for its immediate consideration in the house.
Madeleine Dean
Union calendar number 531, HR fifty five eighty seven, a bill to amend the geothermal steam act of 1970 to waive the requirement for a federal drilling permit for certain activities to exempt certain activities from the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 and for other purposes.
Mike Bost
Pursuant to house resolution eleven eighty nine, the amendment in the nature of a substitute recommended by the committee on natural resources printed in the bill is adopted and the bill as amended is considered red. The bill as amended shall be debated for one hour equally divided and controlled by the chair and ranking minority member of the committee on natural resources or their respective designees. The gentleman from Arkansas, mister Westerman, and the gentlewoman from Arizona, miss I'm sorry. I'm sorry. Each will control thirty minutes.
Bruce Westerman
Mister speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all members have five legislative days to revise and extend their remarks and to include extraneous material on HR 5,587. Without objection. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consider. The gentleman is recognized.
I rise today in support of H. R. 5,587, the Harnessing Energy at Thermal Sources Act or the HEETS Act. This is an important bill to help add to the energy needs that our country has. We can do that very responsibly.
We can do it in a smarter way, in a more proactive way. And I want to thank representative Young Kim for being a leader on this issue and working with our committee to bring this bipartisan legislation to the floor. H. R. 5,587, the HEETS Act, is a common sense bill that would expedite the development of geothermal energy on nonfederal surface lands where the federal subsurface estate is less than 50%.
Currently, geothermal operators on non federal land are required to undergo a full federal permitting process under the National Environmental Policy Act, the Endangered Species Act, and the National Historic Preservation Act if they intersect any quantity of federal subsurface resources, even if the federal, mineral interest is minuscule. This process creates unnecessary delays for geothermal energy project developers who must already comply with rigorous state level permitting requirements. H. R. 5,587 would address this issue by alleviating the need for the Bureau of Land Management to issue permits for geothermal wells on state and private lands, where the federal government holds an ownership interest of less than 50% of the subsurface geothermal estate.
Crucially, this bill upholds strong environmental standards by stipulating that federal requirements may only be waived if operators receive drilling permits and comply with historic preservation laws on the state level. Notably, the bill would not impact the royalties paid to the federal government. Therefore, it will not reduce the federal revenues generated by geothermal production. In fact, this legislation would actually increase federal revenues by reducing the administrative responsibilities of federal agencies and expediting the permitting process so that we can build more geothermal energy projects and do more development in that area. I want to emphasize the importance of this legislation.
Again, energy demand is skyrocketing, and geothermal energy stands ready to meet the moment and bring gigawatts of new baseload power online. Out west, the Great Basin Region encompasses swaths of California, Oregon, Utah and most of Nevada. According to a recent study from the US Geological Survey, this region alone hosts approximately 135 gigawatts of geothermal potential. To unleash geothermal energy's full potential, we must cut unnecessary red tape holding back key projects on these lands. By reducing duplicative federal requirements on state and private lands, this bill will give developers the regulatory certainty needed to spur greater investment in geothermal exploration and production.
Again, this is an opportunity to do something proactive, to do something that is common sense, and something that I think we can all be proud of in the future. I urge my colleagues to join in supporting this bill, and I reserve the balance of my time.
Yassamin Ansari
Arkansas reserves, gentleman from Arizona is recognized. Thank you, mister speaker. My constituents and Americans across the country are struggling under the rising cost of gas, groceries, and electricity from president Trump's tariffs and endless wars. We should be spending our time finding ways to lower cost for families. Instead, we are moving on legislation that is just another chapter in the Republican playbook to gut common sense safeguards for energy development.
I am a strong supporter of geothermal energy. Geothermal is a clean, reliable, affordable, and abundant form of electricity. But unfortunately, I have to oppose HR five five eight seven, the HEETS Act, on the floor today. This is a complex issue. The bill waives the requirement for a federal drilling permit if a project starts on private or state lands and then drills underground into federal lands, provided the total project is made up of less than 50% federal subsurface land.
The bill says these projects don't need to do any analysis under the National Environment Policy Act or NEPA. They don't need to comply with the Endangered Species Act, and they don't need to comply with the National Historic Preservation Act so long as the state has any law that vaguely, and I quote, addresses the preservation of historic properties. The majority says that this is about reducing duplicative reviews, but I see it as an irresponsible waiver of the federal government's obligation to steward our federal resources. Because in practice, this means that in areas where the federal government owns the underground mineral rights, but a rancher owns the surface rights to graze their cattle or a farmer to grow their crops, underground development could take place without that landowner even knowing and without sufficient protections in place. The permit to drill process is the process surface landowners use to work with developers to make sure their lands and resources like groundwater they depend on for their wells or springs are protected when developers are drilling into mineral, federal minerals.
And we're not talking about developers just tapping into a few feet of underground federal lands. Geothermal wells can extend horizontally for kilometers. While geothermal energy is exponentially safer than oil and gas development, that doesn't mean that developers should just skip their environmental reviews altogether. Landowners and communities have the right to provide input into how public lands are developed, whether that development is on the surface of the land or below it. Again, I am a strong supporter of geothermal energy.
It provides twenty four seven carbon free energy and creates good jobs in the clean energy economy. For decades, geothermal energy was confined to naturally occurring hot water reservoirs, But recent technological breakthroughs have created next generation geothermal systems that can be deployed in a wide range of conditions at competitive prices. At this rate of innovation, low cost next generation geothermal could soon be possible all across the country, not in decades, but in the next few years. This could be truly transformational for our energy system. Paired with wind and solar, geothermal can help us break free from fossil fuels and build the reliable homegrown energy system that we need to fight climate change and tackle the affordability crisis.
Speaker 4
I have a bill, the Geothermal Gold Book Development Act, that's part of a package of six bills, three from Democrats, three from Republicans that the Natural Resources Committee passed out of committee by unanimous consent. These bills, including my own, would all help make permitting easier for geothermal through common sense ways like increased coordination at BLM field offices, cost recovery authority, and some categorical exclusions that already exist for oil and gas development on previously disturbed lands. Those are the kinds of things that we should focus on that will actually help move the needle on projects. I've heard arguments that we should provide these waivers so that the Bureau of Land Management's limited staff can focus on bigger problems. I agree that staff in BLM field offices are overworked and understaffed, but let's be honest about the situation.
Yassamin Ansari
The Bureau of Land Management doesn't have enough staff because the president continues to try to zero out the budget for renewable energy, and former presidential aide, Elon Musk, kicked off across the board staff cuts. You cannot break the system, then blame the broken system as your excuse to waive the law. When we waive those federal review obligations, we end up relying on a patchwork of state laws. Under state laws, what happens to the government to government consultation responsibilities required by the National Historic Preservation Act or federally protected endangered species? What if the state doesn't provide opportunities for public input or even public notice?
Again, I strongly support geothermal energy development on our federal lands. It's a very promising and growing source of energy, but instead of spending floor time on geothermal legislation that everyone supports and could help stop skyrocketing electricity bills, we're debating a bill to solve a problem that may not even be a burden on the industry. I'm happy to continue to work across the aisle to advance geothermal legislation, but unfortunately, I must oppose this legislation. I reserve the balance of my time.
Bruce Westerman
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. You know, Mr. Speaker, there are a lot of similarities on both sides of the aisle, but there's a big difference. The similarities are that we, I think, sides of the aisle support geothermal energy.
It's similar that we talk about inflation and high cost and how that affects Americans. The difference is, on this side of the aisle, we actually pass policies that will help those things. On the other side of the aisle, they vote against those policies. We talk about the high cost of living. Republicans voted to give Americans a huge tax cut last year.
All the Democrats voted against it. We talk about high health care costs. Republicans voted to send $50,000,000,000 to help with rural health care. All Democrats voted against it. Today, we're talking about geothermal energy and the opportunities that are there.
We have an opportunity to help make that happen more. Republicans are supporting it. I believe some Democrats will actually support this legislation. But there's a difference between saying you want something to happen and actually voting to make it happen. And again, I thank representative Kim for her leadership on geothermal energy, and I yield her as much time as she may consume.
Speaker 7
The gentleman is recognized for as much time as she may consume from California.
Young Kim
Thank you, chairman for chairman for yielding. And madam mister speaker, I rise in support of my bill, h r five five eight seven, the Harnessing Energy at Thermal Sources Act or the HITS Act. Republicans ran on a simple promise, to unleash American energy dominance and lower prices for families. The HITS Act delivers on those commitments. Geothermal energy is a powerful domestic energy source that can generate electricity and hit homes and buildings without relying on foreign adversaries or suppliers.
Speaker 7
America has enormous geothermal resources sitting right beneath our feet. My state of California has some of the richest geothermal reserves in the world, but burdensome permitting requirements are keeping that energy locked away. The HEETS Act fixes that by cutting red tape and waiving federal drilling permit requirements for geothermal wells on state and local lands. Operators will still go through a rigorous state level permitting process, but they no longer will be subjected to duplicative federal requirements that slow production, raise costs, and kill jobs. This means more American energy coming online faster, lower energy costs for working families, and a stronger domestic supply chain that doesn't depend on adversaries like China.
Young Kim
HR five five eight seven is a common sense pro growth measure that lowers energy costs and strengthens our national security. I wanna thank representative Gray for working with me and co leading this effort, and to chairman Bruce Westerman for your work to accelerate geothermal production and advance American energy independence. I urge my colleagues to support the HEETS Act. Thank you, and I yield back.
Speaker 7
Gentlewoman kneels back. The gentleman from Arkansas reserves. Reserves. And the gentleman woman from, Arizona is recognized.
Yassamin Ansari
Thank you, mister speaker. I yield as much time as he may consume to the gentleman from California, mister Huffman.
Speaker 7
The gentleman from California is recognized with as much time as he may consume.
Jared Huffman
I thank the gentlelady, and thank you, mister speaker. Well, in in the spirit of, geothermal energy, we're sure hearing a lot of hot air, from the other side, with this fantastical narrative that Republicans, I guess, are now lowering costs and saving health care. The American people can decide, whether they wanna believe those whoppers. But today, it is at least refreshing to see our colleagues across the aisle tiptoeing back in the direction of this all of the above energy policy that they always swore they supported. But for the past year plus, they have cheerleaded Donald Trump's insane war on clean energy that is trying to destroy an entire sector to surrender American leadership to China and others and drive up utility bills for the American people.
But nevertheless, I welcome the fact that we're talking today about geothermal energy. Like the gentlelady from Arizona, the ranking member, I like geothermal energy a lot. This is something that we should be working on together in a bipartisan way. I represent the largest geothermal energy plant in America, in my district, and I'm proud of it. I wanna see more of it.
And good geothermal energy projects can move forward with bipartisan support and with very expeditious permitting. But good geothermal energy projects don't need the kind of sweeping waiver that is proposed in this legislation, which simply misses the mark. So let's talk about that. Under this bill, a geothermal project would no longer require a federal drilling permit if it is on land where the surface is not federally owned, but the subsurface is significantly up to 50% of the acreage. Now while this may sound innocuous, oh, it's just, you know, subsurface.
It's below what we can see with our eyes. Without a federal permit, the core safeguards for development affecting federal resources would totally disappear. That includes protections under the National Environmental Policy Act, the National Historic Preservation Act, and the Endangered Species Act. And all of it would be waived for geothermal exploration, for development, and for the production activities that would be covered under this bill. That goes entirely too far, and it's bad news for tribes, for communities, and property owners on the ground.
Again, good projects don't need this kind of sweeping free pass from environmental review. Under the circumstances laid out in this bill, all federal oversight goes away along with public input and consultation requirements, and that includes tribal consultation. It takes away opportunities for public involvement that can make projects better. It takes away the convening process that brings federal, tribal, state, and local entities to the table so they can identify basic health and safety risks, so they can flag concerns and work through conflicts and impacts to protect the resources that are owned by the American people even if they're below the ground, even if they're not something you can see with the naked eye. And this public input and compliance with federal laws like NEPA and others is essential to building a solid foundation for our clean energy future.
We need these type of energy projects, but we need to do them right. Because let's be clear, underground drilling can still have impacts above the ground, like sinking, subsidence, settlement of lands, earthquakes, and other resources like groundwater. Geothermal development is a lot safer than oil and gas, but there still are some risks. It's not zero. And the public deserves the opportunity to engage.
I will say that this game this this bill is also playing games with percentages. The threshold is set at 50% federal subsurface ownership. And that may sound trivial, may sound reasonable, but even my rudimentary math skills tell me that 50% of a project that might be 2,000 acres is a thousand acres. That's a lot of land. That's a lot of potential impacts.
It is not insignificant. And another alarming point about this bill. Without a federal drilling permit, it creates a gray area for underground injection control permits which allows for that these permits allow for the assessment of potential seismic activity. How could we not look at that? These injection control permits aren't in our natural resource committee's jurisdiction, and this is something that I brought up in the markup.
I urged the majority to consider working with the energy and commerce committee to add clarifying language to make sure those permits would still be required. And, unfortunately, the majority failed to address that concern. Now there's no clear opportunity to acquire bonds if this legislation passes, and that would otherwise need to happen because we're talking about federal resources. What happens if there is a subsidence event within the federal resource? States and property owners would be on the hook.
We're talking about publicly owned resources here even if you can't see them. And the federal government has an obligation to steward them responsibly. Now the last thing I wanna emphasize is that this bill is clearly not just about geothermal energy. This is the proverbial camel's nose under the tent. The oil and gas industry has been trying to get this same policy, this same broad waiver for subsurface federal lands for years.
This is a precedent we should not set. And mark my words, if this legislation advances before this sputtering congress comes to an end later this year, you will see another bill where the oil and gas industry is seeking the same treatment. To deploy clean energy, we don't need to create shortcuts and exemptions from oversight. What we need is to fully fund our agencies so that they can have the capacity for thorough, efficient, and timely reviews. I would be happy to work with my colleagues across the aisle to advance responsible and well balanced geothermal and other renewable energy development on federal lands, but I have to urge my colleagues to vote no on this poorly drafted legislation, and I yield back.
Bruce Westerman
Mister speaker, I have to ask the question, what is well balanced and what is fair about requiring a duplicative process? It's almost from the the minority's testimony like there's no permitting that will happen. We're talking about a well that's drilled on state or private property close to federal property. The surface disturbance is all on the state or private property. They have to go through the state permitting process, which is very rigorous.
Speaker 3
It's looking at the same things the federal permitting process looks at. So the argument not to pass this bill is that we want to put on a belt and suspenders. We want to make the developers go through the total duplicative process because the underground well that's thousands of feet below ground will be, receiving thermal energy that's under the federal estate, and all of the historical preservation, all the NEPA, all the ESA has been looked at under the state permitting process. Again, the surface disturbance would not be on federal land. You're only talking about the migration of thermal energy thousands of feet below ground, and we're saying it's reasonable and fair and a good process to make a developer go through double permitting and opening up Pandora's box for people who, for whatever reason, don't like geothermal energy, will have all these federal statutes and the broken permitting process to stop geothermal energy projects.
Bruce Westerman
If we're serious about producing more energy for this country, if we're serious about being energy independent, if we're serious about developing energy sources like geothermal energy, then this is a pragmatic, proactive way to make that happen. It removes duplicity and it makes the process make a little bit more sense. Mr. Speaker, I have no further request for time. I'm prepared to close, I reserve the balance of my time.
Yassamin Ansari
Thank you, mister speaker. In closing, even good energy sources need good permitting policy. I'm a strong supporter of geothermal energy, but the HEETS Act could undermine the on the ground support and good environmental track record that geothermal currently enjoys. The HEETS Act empowers one set of landowners at the expense of their neighbors. This bill allows developers to skip federal permitting when drilling from their property into federally owned subsurface minerals, which often sit under a neighbor's private property.
The federal permit process gives surface landowners who happen to live above federal minerals a say in what happens beneath their homes. And what happens underground doesn't always stay underground. Drilling can cause earthquakes and sinkholes or accidentally contaminate drinking or irrigation water. State laws do not always require the same protections for surface landowners, especially if they are not the ones doing the drilling. And without a federal drilling permit, the federal government can't require financial assurances from developers to cover the cost of cleanup if surface damages do happen.
That means landowners or federal taxpayers will be on the hook to pay for the cleanup. This bill would eliminate real meaningful protections for landowners, not just red tape. I'm disappointed that this bill is the bill that the majority has chosen to bring to the house floor rather than the bipartisan package of real common sense permitting solutions for geothermal that the Natural Resources Committee unanimously supported. That package includes my own geothermal gold book development act to standardize best permitting practices across the Bureau of Land Management to responsibly speed up geothermal development. I hope to keep working across the aisle to advance geothermal energy, but this particular bill is a step in the wrong direction.
I urge opposition, and I yield back the balance of my time.
Bruce Westerman
of her time. The gentleman from Arkansas is recognized. Yeah. Mister speaker, in closing, again, I urge my colleagues to support h r fifty five eighty seven. These reforms will both streamline the permitting process for geothermal energy projects and reduce agency workloads, which will allow BLM to focus on projects that actually have a majority federal nexus.
States, as I've already mentioned, have a robust or they have robust requirements and regulations for developing energy resources within their borders. So by eliminating duplicative federal level bureaucracy, we will help stop the things that are impeding geothermal energy development. This, quite simply, is just common sense. Accelerating geothermal energy production and deployment is a win for our economy. It's a win for national security, and it's a win for American energy dominance.
Again, on this floor today, in not too much, longer, we're gonna have an opportunity to vote for American energy, for American workers, and for common sense, and for doing the right things. I've heard many times, I support this, but it's always a but. But what about this or what about that? Today is an opportunity to actually vote for something good. I urge my colleagues to support this good bill, and I yield back the balance of my time.
Speaker 7
All time for debate the gentleman yields back. All time for debate has expired pursuant to house rule resolution eleven eighty nine. The previous question is ordered in the bill as with the bill as amended. The question is on the engrossed and third reading of the bill. Those in favor say aye.
Those opposed, no. The opinion of the chair, the ayes have it. Third reading.
Madeleine Dean
A bill to amend the geothermal steam act of 1970 to waive the requirement for a federal drilling permit for certain activities to exempt certain active activities from the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 and for other purposes. The question is on passage of the bill. Those in favor, say aye. Those opposed, no. In the opinion of the
Speaker 7
chair, the ayes have it. The bill is passed and without objection, the motion to reconsider on the
Speaker 7
The yeas and nays are requested. Those favoring a vote of the yeas and nays will rise. A sufficient number having risen, the yeas and nays are ordered. Members will record their votes by electronic device. This is a fifteen minute vote.
On this vote, the yeas are two thirty one, the nays are one eighty six. The bill is passed and without objection, the motion to reconsider is laid on the table.
Speaker 3
I ask unanimous consent that when the house adjourns today, it adjourns it adjourned to meet at noon on Monday next for a morning hour debate and 2PM for legislative business.
Mike Bost
Without objection. Chair will entertain requests for one minute speeches. For what purposes gentlemen from Pennsylvania seek recognition?
Dan Newhouse
Mister speaker requests the analyst consent to dress down for one minute and revise and extend my remarks.
Glenn Thompson
Mister speaker, I rise today to recognize Carter Pierce, a senior at Du Bois Area High School, for winning an international vocabulary competition. Vocabulary Bowl is sponsored by vocabulary.com, invites more than 900,000 high school students to compete in a virtual competition with last over a month. Carter, who placed first, mastered over 8,000 words. After winning in the fall, he competed in the spring competition and mastered all the featured words. Carter is also a member of the Dubois area high school vocabulary quiz bowl team and has helped the team win multiple regional competitions since joining two years ago.
Carter has helped the team win four state titles. Carter graduates later this spring and plans to major in history. His goal was to become a history teacher. Mister speaker mister speaker, this is a fantastic achievement, and I thank Carter for representing Pennsylvania so well. I wish Carter all the best in his future endeavors.
Thank you, mister speaker, and I yield back the balance of my
Speaker 4
She asks unanimous consent to address the house for one minute and to revise and extend my remarks.
Speaker 4
Mister speaker, I rise today during second chance month to raise awareness of the challenges faced by millions of individuals with criminal records transitioning back into society. Every day, individuals with criminal records are held back from the opportunity to rejoin society and contribute. Instead of letting their past define them, we must create pathways that allow these folks to rewrite their histories. As a former prosecutor, I'm passionate about diversion programs that help low level non violent offenders especially avoid a carcer incarceration by connecting them with the treatment, support, and life skills training to break the cycle of recidivism. That's why I introduced the BRIDGE Act last month, which expands pathways to employment and economic freedom for justice impacted adults and youth.
Ro Khanna
One bad situation should not define a person's entire story. Let's give people a second chance to make a better life for themselves. When we do so, it has the added benefit of also making our community safer. Thank you. I yield back.
Speaker 3
Mister speaker, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor the life and legacy of my dear friend and colleague, Doctor. Paul Bradley Brad Brechtelsbauer, who passed away on April 15 after a courageous battle with lung cancer. I had the distinct privilege of knowing Brad for more than forty years. We went to college, medical school together, and later practiced medicine side by side in Eastern North Carolina. From the very beginning, he was the kind of man you are proud to call friend, steady, humble, and deeply committed to others.
Jared Huffman
Brad was a gifted physician, accomplished musician of many instruments, most of all, a trusted and beloved friend. For nearly nearly three decades in Greenville, he cared for patients as an ENT doctor, becoming a regional leader in cochlear implantation, giving so many the gift of hearing their very first words. He also gave back through teaching and service, shaping future physicians in Eastern North Carolina at ECU School of Medicine and contributing to the broader medical community with distinction. Beyond the beyond his accomplishments, he will be remembered most for being the great person that he was. Though he literally towered over other people at six foot nine, he was known as a gentle giant, kind, compassionate, beloved by his patients and colleagues and all who knew him.
Speaker 3
I recall the phone call when I spoke with him first about his lung cancer diagnosis. Even in the face of a very daunting illness, he showed remarkable courage, compassion, and grace. He spent the last few years on his life on his beloved farm riding his tractor, tinkering with equipment, and playing in his cherished medical group. As with many in our medical community, I will miss Brad dearly. May god grant comfort and peace to his family in this difficult time.
Thank you. I yield back.
Emilia Sykes
To request unanimous consent to address the house and to extend and revise
Emilia Sykes
Thank you, mister speaker. Today, I rise to recognize the National Inventors Hall of Fame STEM Middle School chess team as Ohio's 13th Congressional District's champion of the week. On March 8, the Akron STEM Middle School students brought home both a first place and third place team trophy from the Ohio State Chess Championship along with several individual awards. Their outstanding performance reflects both their talent and their dedication to excellence. Under the leadership of coach Don Glocar, who has been guiding chess teams for more than two decades, these students have developed not only competitive skill but also discipline and resilience.
As coach Glocar says, the goal is simple, work hard, stay focused, and enjoy the game. Through hours of practice and competition, these young scholars are sharpening critical thinking skills, learning to anticipate challenges, and building confidence that will serve them well beyond the classroom. Their passions for their passion for chess demonstrates that success is not only measured in trophies, but in growth, perseverance, and teamwork. It is always a pleasure to recognize young people doing remarkable things who helped make our district the birthplace of champions. Achievements like these showcase the strength of our community and the bright future of Northeast Ohio.
Speaker 33
These students hard work has certainly made our district proud and we can't wait to see what the future holds. Again, want to congratulate the chess students of the National Inventors Hall of Fame Stem Middle School on their accomplishments and for being named champions of the week. Thank you, mister speaker. I yield back.
Emilia Sykes
I ask you to ask consent to address the house for one minute to revise
Mike Bost
and extend my remarks. Without objection, the gentleman is recognized for one minute.
Josh Brecheen
Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I rise today to honor the life of LaFleur County Deputy Thomas Walker LeMay, who was shot and killed in line of duty on Sunday, 04/19/2026. As we all know, greater love has no one than this that would lay down his life for his friends. Walker's sacrifice while upholding his duty to protect the citizens of LaFleur County will be long remembered.
My words can't fully convey our gratitude for the safety of these brave police officers and that they provide to all of us safety and comfort in our homes. Believe in the Psalms 34 promise that the Lord is near to the brokenhearted. May Deputy LeMay's family, friends, colleagues find the peace that surpasses understanding even in the midst of their grief. With that, I yield the balance of my time.
Josh Brecheen
Mister speaker, I ask unanimous consent to address the house for one minute.
Ro Khanna
Mister speaker, the American people are angry at the corruption in our politics while food and gas prices go up and the American dream seems dead. People feel they have no say while the rich and powerful call the shots. We need an administration to actually stand up to this corrupt power structure. First, appoint a special prosecutor to investigate and prosecute the Epstein class that abused and raped young girls. Second, call a constitutional convention to overturn Citizens United.
This congress isn't gonna take on tech billionaires or private health insurance. Go to the American people and have two thirds of the states pass an amendment to overturn Citizens United, ban ban super PACs and money in politics. Third, ban the insider trading on polymarket, Kashi, and the stock market where people have made millions because of this illegal, immoral war in Iran. Our founders would be rolling over in their grave. We need to restore power to the people.
Tony Wied
Mister speaker, I ask unanimous consent address the house for one minute, then revise or extend my
Dan Newhouse
Thank you, mister speaker. Today, I rise to honor the dedication and the public service of police chief Ken Roskey, who recently retired after nearly nearly four decades with the Pasco Police Department. Ken Ken has served in multiple roles in the department and always with honor and distinction. For decades, Ken's fingerprints have been on efforts to ensure officers' needs are met and the public trust remains strong. Some examples of his work include leading efforts to make PASCO accredited by both state, association of sheriffs and police chiefs, and the international commission on accreditation for law enforcement agencies.
He was also a driving force behind the department's adoption of equipping officers with body cameras, and he brought a regional police academy to Pasco, opening opportunity for people to serve who normally would not be able to do so. Can I speak on behalf of the entire Pasco community in thanking you for your service, and I wish you the best going forward? And I am fortunate and honored to be able to call you friend. Thank you, mister speaker, and I yield back.
George Latimer
Mister speaker, I ask that unanimous consent to address the house for one minute and to revise and extend my
George Latimer
Thank you, mister speaker. Mister speaker, let me recognize the outstanding work of the White Plains Greenberg branch of the NAACP led by the energetic Janice Griffith and powered by women and men in these two communities who have stood up for diversity, equity, and inclusion at a time when these policies are under assault and elimination by this federal administration. The branch reaches into the Fairview section of Greenberg, the urban neighborhoods of White Plains, and well beyond that into Rivertown villages and suburban cul de sacs. Standing up for affordable housing, better health care, educational resources, economic growth for black Americans, and for all of those who are in need, the youth, our seniors, the White Plains Greenberg Branch of the NAACP has celebrated our past and has pointed us forward to the future. From the floor of the House of Representatives, we salute the White Plains Greenberg Branch of the NAACP for their timeless and important tremendous civic contribution.
Thank you, mister speaker, and I yield back.
Jimmy Panetta
For what purpose does the gentlewoman from Wyoming seek recognition? Without objection, gentlemen is recognized for one minute.
Harriet Hageman
I rise today to recognize and congratulate Cody and Crystal Myers on being named honorees for the Boys and Girls Club's sixth annual awards and recognition breakfast this morning. This annual ceremony in Riverton recognizes distinguished in individuals who have demonstrated the best of Wyoming's values with a lending hand to the next generation. Cody and Crystal have gone above and beyond to deliver service, mentorship, and community leadership to Wyoming youth for more than a decade. Cody Myers served as a school resource officer for eighteen years, wearing multiple hats, coaching, teaching, and shaping our young people into the resilient men and women of tomorrow. Today, Cody continues to serve as campus security director at Central Wyoming College.
Crystal Myers was crowned Miss Rodeo Wyoming in 2007 and went on to carry the torch as national director for the Miss Rodeo Wyoming Association for eleven years. Today, she continues to build the confidence of our young people as a preschool special education paraeducator in Shoshone. Cody and Crystal Myers represent the best of Wyoming and their recognition is well deserved, And I yield back.
Yassamin Ansari
Seek unanimous consent to address the house for one minute, extend, and extend my remarks.
Ilhan Omar
Mister speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Dave Becking, a South Minneapolis small business owner and a lifelong community activist. Dave dedicated his life to advancing justice and advocating for meaningful police policing reform in Minnesota. From 2008 to 2010, he served on the Minneapolis, City, Civilian Review Authority, where he worked tirelessly to improve police accountability. He joined Community United Against Police Brutality, helping the organization reform police training standards through the Minnesota Board of Peace Officers Standard and Training. After a fire burned down their facility in 2012, Dave stepped up and brought bought them a new facility that continues to house multiple activist groups today.
Dave will be remembered for his generosity, commitment to peace and justice, and deep love for his family, friends, and community. Thank you, and I yield back.
Speaker 30
State cry asking that it's consent to address the house for one minute or to extend my remarks.
Speaker 30
I rise today to honor the life and legacy of colonel Frank Ott, my uncle, who made his final takeoff on 02/18/2022. To me, he was family. To our nation, he was a hero and a patriot. From a one room schoolhouse in North Dakota to the cockpit of America's most advanced aircraft, colonel Ott lived a life of discipline, courage, and purpose. He earned his wings in 1955 and went on to fly and command missions in the F86, f 100, b 47, b 52, u two, and e b 66, amassing over 5,000 flight hours including hundreds in combat in Vietnam.
His decorations reflect not just achievement, but a willing sacrifice for the nation he loved. But beyond the uniform, he was a man of quiet strength, kind, humble, and deeply devoted to family. He never sought recognition, only purpose. Today, we remember not just his service, but his spirit. A true patriot, a devoted husband, a beloved uncle.
Adriano Espaillat
May we strive to live with the same integrity and vigor he showed every day. Semper Fidelis.
Yassamin Ansari
Mister speaker, I'm seeking his consent to address the house for one minute and to revise and extend my remarks.
Yassamin Ansari
Mister speaker, Amalia, an 18 old, was sent to Dilly Correction Facility Detention Facility, where she began to fall ill. Her parents waited in the health clinic line eight separate times, begging for little Amalia's life. It wasn't until Amalia's blood oxygen levels were low enough to kill off part of her tiny brain that ICE took her concerns seriously. Amalia was admitted to the ICU where she was diagnosed with COVID nineteen, pneumonia, RSV, and was in severe respiratory distress. As a mother, I know that even just one of these diagnoses can be a death sentence for a toddler, and this story is far from unique.
Children as young as two months old are being held at Dilley for more than forty days, which is double the legal limit under nightmarish conditions, worm infested food, unsanitary drinking water, and mothers being separated from their children, all while being screened at by agents. In any other setting, we would call this out for what it is, child abuse. While detained babies sit on lawyers' laps to represent themselves in court, Trump is spending billions of dollars on ICE, which could be used to improve the lives of hardworking families who are just trying to provide stable homes for their children. Trump can stop this chaos now, but the emotional damage is done. The fear, instability, and trauma these children have experienced will never disappear.
It will linger for generations. Thank you, and I yield back.
Mike Bost
For what purposes the gentleman from Washington seek recognition? With that objection, gentlemen is recognized for one minute.
Brian Fitzpatrick
Mister speaker, I rise today to welcome Greater Spokane Incorporated on their annual fly in to Washington DC. Greater Spokane Incorporated is our regional chamber of commerce and a foundational advocate to all businesses across Spokane, serving as a supportive organization that drives jobs growth throughout our region and promotes public policy opportunities. Because of the tremendous impact of GSI on our community, Spokane region can expand business opportunities and promote a better life. It's always wonderful to see GSI every year and they are most welcome in our nation's capital. And to all of you in Eastern Washington, please know that I see enough people in this Washington on a daily basis.
Jared Huffman
You are all most welcome, and it's would be wonderful to host you here as well. Thank you, mister president or mister speaker. And with that, I yield back.
Mike Bost
For what purpose does the gentleman from Ohio seek recognition? With that objection, gentlemen is recognized for one minute.
Marcy Kaptur
Thank you, mister speaker. This Earth Day season, I rise to represent the heart of the Great Lakes, Lake Erie's Western Basin. Our Great Lakes region is home to the largest system of fresh surface water on earth. This gift we hold in trust for future generations to come. These fresh waters are not only our heritage, they are our economy, our health, our source of life.
Water and energy are closely linked. At a time when energy demand is rising and energy bills up 13%, we must produce clean energy that lowers costs, create jobs, and protects our air and water. Northwest Ohio understands stewardship. Through efforts like the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, we have proven that when we steward our environment, especially water and energy, we invest in our people's future. This Earth Day season, let us choose a future that is cleaner, more affordable, and more secure.
Thank you, mister speaker. I yield back.
Brian Fitzpatrick
Mister speaker, I rise today to honor Florence Kowaska of Bucks County, Pennsylvania, a leader, a friend who has devoted her life to helping families build not just houses, but lasting foundations. For more than fourteen years as CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Bucks County, Florence has helped create stability and open doors to new possibilities for families, so many in our region who she's touched forever. Under her leadership, Habitat Bucks partnered with over 50 homeowners, repaired more than 400 homes, and launched innovative programs that ensure lasting affordability for years to come. I've had the privilege of seeing those moments when a family steps into their home for the first time, not just receiving keys, but beginning a new chapter. As Florence retires, we thank her for her legacy that has truly strengthened our community.
Congratulations, Florence. Best wishes in this next chapter. Mister speaker, I yield back.
Marcy Kaptur
Mister speaker, I seek unanimous consent to address the house for one minute and to revise and extend my remarks.
Speaker 33
Thank you, mister speaker. It's a bitter street bittersweet moment as I rise today to honor my deputy chief of staff and legislative director, Emily DeHoveney Silverberg. Born in The Bronx and raised in New Jersey, Emily joined my office in 2012 as an intern and will leave Capitol Hill this week after four
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