Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2024, which includes my bill, H.R. 7702, to prevent tragedies like the Port Newark fire. This bill is personal to me and to our district. In July of last year, a fire broke out aboard a vessel docked at Port Newark. Two firefighters made the ultimate sacrifice while responding, Augusto ``Augie'' Acabou and Wayne ``Bear'' Brooks, Jr. Newark and the entire State of New Jersey will always remember these heroes for their bravery on that day. They were beloved by their families, communities, and the Newark Fire Department. While we can't bring them back, we can work to prevent tragic accidents like this one from happening again. Responding to vessel fires is incredibly difficult. Each vessel is unique, and the presence of smoke in extremely tight, unfamiliar spaces makes them even more difficult to navigate and that much more dangerous for our firefighters. Our bill tasks the GAO to study vessel fires, examine non-Federal collaborations to address vessel fire risk, and make recommendations on preparedness, responses, and training for fires of this nature. I am proud this bill was included in the Coast Guard Reauthorization Act in honor of Augie and Bear. I urge my colleagues to vote for this important bill.”