FEDERAL GOVERNMENT MUST PLAN FOR EMERGENCIES

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT MUST PLAN FOR EMERGENCIES

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 56 (Wednesday, March 25, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 56 (Wednesday, March 25, 2026)] [House] [Pages H2684-H2685] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] FEDERAL GOVERNMENT MUST PLAN FOR EMERGENCIES (Mr. Cline of Virginia was recognized to address the House for 5 minutes.) Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to recognize bipartisan legislation that I have introduced called the Fiscal Contingency Preparedness Act, which has garnered widespread support from Members on both sides of the Chamber. Just this week, the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus endorsed the bill. At its core, this bill reflects a simple principle: Just as American families plan ahead for emergencies, the Federal Government must do the same. Whether facing a natural disaster, an economic crisis, or a national security threat, Washington must understand its financial readiness to respond effectively. For too long, the Federal Government has failed to seriously assess its ability to weather major national emergencies. Families across Virginia save for unexpected expenses and prepare for uncertainty. It is only reasonable that the government entrusted with safeguarding the Nation apply the same level of responsibility and foresight. This bill would require the Federal Government to conduct regular stress tests and publicly report on its capacity to respond to major emergency situations, ensuring transparency and sound decisionmaking during times of crisis. Preparedness should never be a partisan issue. By identifying risks ahead of time, we can strengthen our response and protect taxpayers from avoidable failures during moments of national urgency. Mr. Speaker, the Fiscal Contingency Preparedness Act is about responsibility and readiness. I urge my colleagues to support this bipartisan effort and take a meaningful step toward ensuring that our government is prepared to meet tomorrow's challenges. Honoring the Life and Legacy of Mildred Scott Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of a great lady, Mildred Scott, a dear friend and a remarkable Virginian whose dedication to her community, her church, and civic life left a lasting impact across the Roanoke Valley and Virginia's Sixth Congressional District. Mildred passed away on March 6 of this year at the age of 97, remaining as witty and spirited at the end of her life as she was throughout her nearly 100 years. Originally from Roanoke, Mildred graduated from Jefferson High School and studied finance at Roanoke College. Mildred built a successful career in banking before continuing her service in the Roanoke County Treasurer's Office and later with the town of Vinton. For more than four decades, she was devoted to her church family at Thrasher Memorial United Methodist Church, raising funds for missions through cooking and catering. Known across the region for her exceptional baking, she created countless cakes for weddings and community gatherings at the Vinton War Memorial. Mildred also devoted well over 30 years to the Roanoke Valley Republican Women's Club, serving as president, vice president, and treasurer, and helping organize numerous Sixth District Republican galas and Roanoke County shrimpfests and baking those wonderful cakes for them. Mildred Scott will be remembered as a pillar of her community whose generosity, work ethic, and joyful spirit touched countless lives. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring her life and legacy. Recognizing Jordyn Miller Mr. CLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an extraordinary young athlete whose grit, discipline, and determination exemplify the very best of our next generation. Mr. Speaker, 15-year-old Jordyn Miller of Clarke County recently captured the 2025 NASCAR Youth Series Heavy Honda Dirt National Championship, [[Page H2685]] leading every lap when it mattered most. Jordyn's success is no accident. It is the result of years of hard work, countless hours studying her craft, and a deep family bond forged at racetracks across the country. With the guidance of her father, Jason Miller, a veteran racer himself, Jordyn learned not just how to drive fast but how to compete with focus, resilience, and humility. In a sport defined by pressure and precision, Jordyn rose to the challenge, winning 17 races this past season. As she prepares to take the next step in her racing career, we celebrate her achievement and wish her continued success. Mr. Speaker, Jordyn Miller reminds us that dreams, when met with effort, can turn into championships. ____________________