Chairman Burgess Opening Remarks on H.R. 8932, 7408, 8446

As prepared for delivery:

Good afternoon.

For four years, Americans were left to fend for themselves amidst the fallout of the Biden-Harris Administration’s failed decision-making. Under their leadership, inflation soared, energy prices reached record highs, illegal immigration exploded, and the geopolitical order our nation created over generations crumbled. Instead of owning up to their mistakes, Democrats refused to acknowledge reality.

The only problem was everyday Americans didn’t have the luxury of burying their heads in the sand. When they questioned Democrats’ hollow messaging or asked for help, they were widely dismissed. Elements on the Left even went as far as questioning their sanity with the sitting President branding them as “garbage.”

Across the aisle, House Republicans begged our colleagues to truly listen to all Americans, including those left behind by this Administration. Our cries fell on deaf ears.

It’s no wonder last Tuesday was a reckoning. The results can’t be interpreted as anything other than a clear mandate to right the wrongs of the Biden-Harris Administration and Radical Democrats.

Bottom line, Americans have placed their faith in Republicans. That isn’t something we take lightly. As we look to the years ahead, House Republicans will still use the time before us to improve and rightsize the federal government. With that in mind, the Rules Committee will consider three measures meant to cut red tape and make our government work for all Americans.

The Biden-Harris Administration has spent more time pursuing an illegal student loan scheme than adhering to critical, congressionally mandated Free Application for Federal Student Aid deadlines. As the White House delays, prospective students and their families are left in the dark with a looming financial decision. H.R. 8932, the FAFSA Deadline Act, delivers much needed clarity to this process.

Additionally, the Committee will take up two measures meant to harness American resources amidst the left’s keep-it-in-the-ground agenda and corresponding regulatory labyrinth. H.R. 7409, the Harnessing Energy at Thermal Sources Act streamlines the regulatory requirements of geothermal energy infrastructure exploration and development. Furthermore, H.R. 8446, the Critical Mineral Consistency Act of 2024, ensures parity between two bureaucratic processes of deeming our natural resources as critical.

It's good to be back. Now let’s get to work. I will now yield to our ranking member, Mr. McGovern, for any remarks he wishes to make.
 

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