Katie Porter: “As a Christian, I am offended that my colleague on the other side of the aisle would suggest that I hate Christmas. This…”

“As a Christian, I am offended that my colleague on the other side of the aisle would suggest that I hate Christmas. This bill is not about and has nothing to do with inhibiting people from celebrating their religious holidays, including through having a Christmas tree. This bill is about this amendment, and this debate is about the fact that this amendment does not do what the gentlewoman from Colorado claims that it does. This bill does not require regional foresters to do anything. I support the Forest Service using its existing authority to permit the harvesting of Christmas trees and trees for firewood, but that is not what this amendment actually does. I close by observing to my colleague that many of us make happy family memories with trees that are living. We have ways to enjoy trees without cutting them down or burning them. Mr. Chair, I yield back the balance of my time. The Acting CHAIR. The question is on the amendment offered by the gentlewoman from Colorado (Ms. Boebert). The amendment was agreed to. Amendment No. 16 Offered by Mr. LaLota The Acting CHAIR. It is now in order to consider amendment No. 16 printed in part D of House Report 118-705. Mr. LaLOTA. Mr. Chair, I have an amendment at the desk. The Acting CHAIR. The Clerk will designate the amendment. The text of the amendment is as follows: At the end of title III add the following: SEC. 307. STUDY ON PINE BEETLE INFESTATION.…”