Bruce Westerman, an Arkansas Republican who manages many Natural Resources bills on the House floor, focuses almost entirely on public lands, forests, water, fisheries, mining and tribal affairs. He often speaks in support of bills from other members—praising their leadership, listing cosponsors and endorsing organizations—and closes with a call to support the bill, sometimes giving only a description of its provisions and no reason to back it. His most distinctive habit is answering something other than the question at hand: he regularly pivots mid-debate to his own priorities, as when a speech about a bird habitat bill turned into a plug for the Senate to pass the Fix Our Forests Act, and in a water research debate he spent most of his time on forest fires he had recently flown over in Utah and Colorado. He also frequently asserts conclusions without reasons—for instance, that a land dispute bill is justified or that permitting should be codified—though on permitting he does often cite figures, such as the average 19 years to permit a mine and comparisons of project counts between administrations. He refers often to his home State of Arkansas, from law enforcement groups to his hometown of Hot Springs, and discusses Democrats largely on the substance, more often crediting the minority for cooperation than criticizing it personally.Written by AI from their statements. Updated .
Average grade
B
The average grade of 46 analysed statements. 26 more were analysed but were too short to grade.
79 / 100 over 46 statements
Signal64 / 100
Relevance93 / 100
RespectNot scored yet
Clarity91 / 100
Averaged over the 46 of 72 statements graded so far.
In their own words
Loses points more than most for
Talking about something other than the matter at hand: the question asked, or the bill, motion or speech under debate.2 times as often as most members.What the tags mean →×2.0
Loses points less than most forA remark off to the side of the point.Less often than most members.What the tags mean →A story that illustrates instead of making a point.Less often than most members.What the tags mean →Greetings and pleasantries.Less often than most members.What the tags mean →
“I support this bill. The Chesapeake Bay is very important for fishing, seafood, and boating. This bill keeps a federal office open to protect local wildlife, restore oysters, and run job training programs. It also requires reports to Congress on that work.”
“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 6893, the Chesapeake Bay WATERS Act. The Chesapeake Bay is one of the most important resources in the mid- Atlantic region, including for the commercial seafood sector and the recreational boating and fishing community. I know that my colleague from Maryland (Ms. Elfreth) feels even more so about that statement. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Chesapeake Bay Office is an important partner for the Chesapeake Bay region by contributing scientific research, protecting habitat, and advancing oyster restoration. H.R. 6893 reauthorizes this office and several of its training and workforce programs. It also requires the office to submit a report to the Secretary of Commerce and Congress on its progress in conserving the Chesapeake Bay and the ways NOAA can work with other Chesapeake Bay Program partners. Mr. Speaker, I support this legislation, and I reserve the balance of my time.”
Official Congressional Record
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 6893, the Chesapeake Bay WATERS Act. The Chesapeake Bay is one of the most important resources in the mid- Atlantic region, including for the commercial seafood sector and the recreational boating and fishing community. I know that my colleague from Maryland (Ms. Elfreth) feels even more so about that statement. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Chesapeake Bay Office is an important partner for the Chesapeake Bay region by contributing scientific research, protecting habitat, and advancing oyster restoration. H.R. 6893 reauthorizes this office and several of its training and workforce programs. It also requires the office to submit a report to the Secretary of Commerce and Congress on its progress in conserving the Chesapeake Bay and the ways NOAA can work with other Chesapeake Bay Program partners. Mr. Speaker, I support this legislation, and I reserve the balance of my time.
“I am asking the House to pass this bill to keep supporting the Chesapeake Bay Office.”
“Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 6893) to reauthorize the Chesapeake Bay Office of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and for other purposes, as amended. The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows:”
Official Congressional Record
Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 6893) to reauthorize the Chesapeake Bay Office of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and for other purposes, as amended. The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows:
“I want the House to pass this bill. It gives grants to the National Law Enforcement Museum. This money will help the museum run programs for public education, community outreach, and officer health and safety. Police groups across the country support it.”
“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 309, the National Law Enforcement Officers Remembrance, Support, and Community Outreach Act, which provides temporary grants from the Department of the Interior to enhance the community outreach, public education, and officer safety and wellness programs of the National Law Enforcement Museum here in Washington, D.C. Supporting our brave men and women in law enforcement should not be a partisan issue, and the overwhelming support behind this bill is a true testament to that scenario. This bill is led by Representative Nehls of Texas. The bill has 124 bipartisan cosponsors. This legislation has also been endorsed by numerous law enforcement organizations across the Nation, including the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association, the Fraternal Order of Police, the National Association of Police Organizations, and the National Sheriffs’ Association. In my home State of Arkansas, this legislation also enjoys support from the Arkansas Association of Chiefs of Police; the city of Sheridan, Arkansas, Police Department; and the Arkansas Game Warden Association. In fact, Chief Gary Sipes, the executive director of the Arkansas Association of Chiefs of Police, said: A sustained national effort to restore confidence and understanding in law enforcement is urgently needed, now more than ever. That is precisely what this bill would do. I could not agree more. Every day, law enforcement officers across the country put themselves in harm’s way to protect their fellow Americans. They make tremendous sacrifices to keep our communities safe, uphold the rule of law, and answer the call when their neighbors need them most. They deserve our respect, our gratitude, and our support. Here in the heart of our Nation’s Capital, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial honors Federal, Tribal, State, and local law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Nearby, the National Law Enforcement Museum helps share the history of American law enforcement through exhibits, educational programming, historical collections, and outreach. H.R. 309 builds on that mission by authorizing the Department of the Interior to provide grants to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund to expand its education and community outreach initiatives. These grants will support free museum access for officers, expansion of digitized collections, and broader distribution of officer safety and wellness resources to law enforcement agencies across the country. I am proud to support this legislation, stand with our police officers across the country, and honor the service and sacrifices of America’s law enforcement officers. Mr. Speaker, I thank Representative Nehls for his leadership on this legislation. I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 309, and I reserve the balance of my time.”
Official Congressional Record
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 309, the National Law Enforcement Officers Remembrance, Support, and Community Outreach Act, which provides temporary grants from the Department of the Interior to enhance the community outreach, public education, and officer safety and wellness programs of the National Law Enforcement Museum here in Washington, D.C. Supporting our brave men and women in law enforcement should not be a partisan issue, and the overwhelming support behind this bill is a true testament to that scenario. This bill is led by Representative Nehls of Texas. The bill has 124 bipartisan cosponsors. This legislation has also been endorsed by numerous law enforcement organizations across the Nation, including the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association, the Fraternal Order of Police, the National Association of Police Organizations, and the National Sheriffs’ Association. In my home State of Arkansas, this legislation also enjoys support from the Arkansas Association of Chiefs of Police; the city of Sheridan, Arkansas, Police Department; and the Arkansas Game Warden Association. In fact, Chief Gary Sipes, the executive director of the Arkansas Association of Chiefs of Police, said: A sustained national effort to restore confidence and understanding in law enforcement is urgently needed, now more than ever. That is precisely what this bill would do. I could not agree more. Every day, law enforcement officers across the country put themselves in harm’s way to protect their fellow Americans. They make tremendous sacrifices to keep our communities safe, uphold the rule of law, and answer the call when their neighbors need them most. They deserve our respect, our gratitude, and our support. Here in the heart of our Nation’s Capital, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial honors Federal, Tribal, State, and local law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Nearby, the National Law Enforcement Museum helps share the history of American law enforcement through exhibits, educational programming, historical collections, and outreach. H.R. 309 builds on that mission by authorizing the Department of the Interior to provide grants to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund to expand its education and community outreach initiatives. These grants will support free museum access for officers, expansion of digitized collections, and broader distribution of officer safety and wellness resources to law enforcement agencies across the country. I am proud to support this legislation, stand with our police officers across the country, and honor the service and sacrifices of America’s law enforcement officers. Mr. Speaker, I thank Representative Nehls for his leadership on this legislation. I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 309, and I reserve the balance of my time.
“I want the House to pass this bill. It gives money to the National Law Enforcement Museum.”
“Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 309) to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to provide funding for the National Law Enforcement Museum, and for other purposes, as amended. The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows:”
Official Congressional Record
Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 309) to authorize the Secretary of the Interior to provide funding for the National Law Enforcement Museum, and for other purposes, as amended. The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows:
“Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support S. 603, and I yield back the balance of my time. The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Yakym). The question is on the motion offered by the gentleman from Arkansas (Mr. Westerman) that the House suspend the rules and pass the bill, S. 603. The question was taken; and (two-thirds being in the affirmative) the rules were suspended and the bill was passed. A motion to reconsider was laid on the table.”
Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support S. 603, and I yield back the balance of my time. The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Yakym). The question is on the motion offered by the gentleman from Arkansas (Mr. Westerman) that the House suspend the rules and pass the bill, S. 603. The question was taken; and (two-thirds being in the affirmative) the rules were suspended and the bill was passed. A motion to reconsider was laid on the table.
“I want the House to pass this bill. It connects General George C. Marshall's home to the National Park System to honor his service. A private group will still manage and pay for the property, so it will not become federal land.”
“Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of S. 603, which would designate the George C. Marshall House in Virginia as an affiliated area of the National Park System. General George C. Marshall was a war hero, statesman, master strategist, and one of the most important figures in modern American history. From his distinguished service in both World Wars to his prominent role in shaping the postwar peace, he was the rare American whose service touched every dimension of national strength. This bill recognizes George Marshall’s legacy and ensures that Americans can continue to draw inspiration from his story by designating his historic home and estate as an affiliated area of the National Park System. This designation conveys honor and recognition while keeping the estate’s management and fiscal responsibilities within the George C. Marshall International Center. This bill does not put property under Federal management or add to the Federal estate. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this legislation, and I reserve the balance of my time.”
Official Congressional Record
Madam Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of S. 603, which would designate the George C. Marshall House in Virginia as an affiliated area of the National Park System. General George C. Marshall was a war hero, statesman, master strategist, and one of the most important figures in modern American history. From his distinguished service in both World Wars to his prominent role in shaping the postwar peace, he was the rare American whose service touched every dimension of national strength. This bill recognizes George Marshall’s legacy and ensures that Americans can continue to draw inspiration from his story by designating his historic home and estate as an affiliated area of the National Park System. This designation conveys honor and recognition while keeping the estate’s management and fiscal responsibilities within the George C. Marshall International Center. This bill does not put property under Federal management or add to the Federal estate. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this legislation, and I reserve the balance of my time.
“I want the House to pass this bill. It makes General George C. Marshall's house in Virginia an affiliated area of the National Park System.”
“Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (S. 603) to designate the General George C. Marshall House, in the Commonwealth of Virginia, as an affiliated area of the National Park System, and for other purposes. The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows:”
Official Congressional Record
Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (S. 603) to designate the General George C. Marshall House, in the Commonwealth of Virginia, as an affiliated area of the National Park System, and for other purposes. The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows:
“I support this bill. It trades federal forest land with the Yuhaaviatam Tribe so both sides can connect their parcels, manage the land better, and slightly reduce the amount of federal land.”
“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 3925, introduced by Congressman Obernolte, as has been said, authorizes a land exchange between the U.S. Forest Service and the Yuhaaviatam Tribe of San Manuel Nation. Again, this land exchange would create a more contiguous land base for the Yuhaaviatam, and it would reduce checkerboard land holdings in the region. Under the exchange, the Yuhaaviatam would receive approximately 1,475 acres of Forest Service land, and the Tribe would transfer 1,460 acres to the Forest Service. These conveyances would not only improve land management for both the Federal Government and the Tribe but would also reduce the overall size of the Federal estate. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from California (Mr. Obernolte) for working with the Yuhaaviatam to develop H.R. 3925. I have no further requests for time. I am prepared to close. I support the bill, and I reserve the balance of my time.”
Official Congressional Record
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 3925, introduced by Congressman Obernolte, as has been said, authorizes a land exchange between the U.S. Forest Service and the Yuhaaviatam Tribe of San Manuel Nation. Again, this land exchange would create a more contiguous land base for the Yuhaaviatam, and it would reduce checkerboard land holdings in the region. Under the exchange, the Yuhaaviatam would receive approximately 1,475 acres of Forest Service land, and the Tribe would transfer 1,460 acres to the Forest Service. These conveyances would not only improve land management for both the Federal Government and the Tribe but would also reduce the overall size of the Federal estate. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from California (Mr. Obernolte) for working with the Yuhaaviatam to develop H.R. 3925. I have no further requests for time. I am prepared to close. I support the bill, and I reserve the balance of my time.
“I want the House to pass this bill. It allows a land trade in California between the federal government and a Native American tribe.”
“Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 3925) to provide for a land exchange in San Bernardino County, California, and for other purposes, as amended. The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows:”
Official Congressional Record
Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 3925) to provide for a land exchange in San Bernardino County, California, and for other purposes, as amended. The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows:
“I support this bill. Birds help our environment and our economy, but they face many dangers in cities. This bill makes an existing program part of federal law so communities can keep getting grants to protect urban bird habitats with better government oversight. I also urge the Senate to pass the Fix Our Forests Act.”
“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 3276, the Local Communities & Bird Habitat Stewardship Act of 2025. Birds are an important part of our Nation’s natural heritage and play an important role in healthy and resilient ecosystems. Millions of Americans also enjoy bird-watching each year, supporting local economies and businesses across the country. Unfortunately, birds face several challenges in urban areas, including habitat loss and hazards such as building collisions and light pollution. H.R. 3276 addresses these challenges by codifying the Urban Bird Treaty Program within the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service currently provides grants and technical assistance to communities and other eligible partners to conserve, restore, and enhance urban bird habitat, reduce hazards to birds, and engage the public in monitoring and conservation efforts. This legislation will enable this important work to continue with greater congressional oversight and accountability. Mr. Speaker, I just recently had the opportunity to visit Audubon, Arkansas, and see the great work that they are doing with bird habitat and also to discuss again how healthy forests not only provide us with clean air and clean water, but they also provide excellent bird habitat. It is another reason the Senate should pass the Fix Our Forests Act. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.”
Official Congressional Record
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 3276, the Local Communities & Bird Habitat Stewardship Act of 2025. Birds are an important part of our Nation’s natural heritage and play an important role in healthy and resilient ecosystems. Millions of Americans also enjoy bird-watching each year, supporting local economies and businesses across the country. Unfortunately, birds face several challenges in urban areas, including habitat loss and hazards such as building collisions and light pollution. H.R. 3276 addresses these challenges by codifying the Urban Bird Treaty Program within the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service currently provides grants and technical assistance to communities and other eligible partners to conserve, restore, and enhance urban bird habitat, reduce hazards to birds, and engage the public in monitoring and conservation efforts. This legislation will enable this important work to continue with greater congressional oversight and accountability. Mr. Speaker, I just recently had the opportunity to visit Audubon, Arkansas, and see the great work that they are doing with bird habitat and also to discuss again how healthy forests not only provide us with clean air and clean water, but they also provide excellent bird habitat. It is another reason the Senate should pass the Fix Our Forests Act. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
“I want the House to pass this bill to protect birds in cities and towns.”
“Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 3276) to direct the Secretary of the Interior to establish the Urban Bird Treaty Program, as amended. The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows:”
Official Congressional Record
Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 3276) to direct the Secretary of the Interior to establish the Urban Bird Treaty Program, as amended. The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows:
“I want the House to pass this bill to rename the historic trails center in Wyoming.”
“Mr. Speaker, again, I thank Representative Hageman and Senators Lummis and Barrasso for their leadership on S. 790, and I urge my colleagues to support the bill. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.”
Mr. Speaker, again, I thank Representative Hageman and Senators Lummis and Barrasso for their leadership on S. 790, and I urge my colleagues to support the bill. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
“I want the House to pass this bill. It renames the trails center in Casper, Wyoming, after former Representative Barbara Cubin. She was the first woman elected to federal office from Wyoming, and she wrote the law that created the center.”
“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise in support of S. 790, a bill to redesignate the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center in Casper, Wyoming, as the ``Barbara L. Cubin National Historic Trails Interpretive Center,’’ sponsored by Senator Cynthia Lummis in the Senate and led by Representative Harriet Hageman in the House. This bill honors former Representative Barbara Cubin, Wyoming’s first woman elected to Federal office. During her 14 years in Congress, Representative Cubin strongly advocated for Wyoming and the West. As a founding member of the Congressional Western Caucus and chair of the House Committee on Natural Resources Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources, she worked to advance responsible development of America’s natural resources and improve the management of our Federal lands. Representative Cubin also played an important role in shaping and telling the history of the American West. In 1998, her legislation authorizing the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center in Casper was signed into law. The center is managed by the Bureau of Land Management, in partnership with local and private organizations, and offers free interactive exhibits and educational programming about America’s westward expansion. Unfortunately, last year, Representative Cubin publicly announced she had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. We continue to hold her, her family, and all who know and love her in our prayers. It is a fitting tribute to her legacy that the center Representative Cubin helped establish will now bear her name. S. 790 recognizes her years of service to Wyoming and ensures that her contributions to the history and heritage of the American West are remembered for generations to come. I thank Representative Hageman and the entire Wyoming delegation for their leadership on this legislation and their commitment to honor Representative Cubin’s life and legacy. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support S. 790, and I reserve the balance of my time.”
Official Congressional Record
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. I rise in support of S. 790, a bill to redesignate the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center in Casper, Wyoming, as the ``Barbara L. Cubin National Historic Trails Interpretive Center,’’ sponsored by Senator Cynthia Lummis in the Senate and led by Representative Harriet Hageman in the House. This bill honors former Representative Barbara Cubin, Wyoming’s first woman elected to Federal office. During her 14 years in Congress, Representative Cubin strongly advocated for Wyoming and the West. As a founding member of the Congressional Western Caucus and chair of the House Committee on Natural Resources Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources, she worked to advance responsible development of America’s natural resources and improve the management of our Federal lands. Representative Cubin also played an important role in shaping and telling the history of the American West. In 1998, her legislation authorizing the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center in Casper was signed into law. The center is managed by the Bureau of Land Management, in partnership with local and private organizations, and offers free interactive exhibits and educational programming about America’s westward expansion. Unfortunately, last year, Representative Cubin publicly announced she had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. We continue to hold her, her family, and all who know and love her in our prayers. It is a fitting tribute to her legacy that the center Representative Cubin helped establish will now bear her name. S. 790 recognizes her years of service to Wyoming and ensures that her contributions to the history and heritage of the American West are remembered for generations to come. I thank Representative Hageman and the entire Wyoming delegation for their leadership on this legislation and their commitment to honor Representative Cubin’s life and legacy. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support S. 790, and I reserve the balance of my time.
“I want the House to pass this bill. It renames a historic trails center in Casper, Wyoming, after Barbara L. Cubin.”
“Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (S. 790) to redesignate the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center in Casper, Wyoming, as the ``Barbara L. Cubin National Historic Trails Interpretive Center.’’ The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows:”
Official Congressional Record
Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (S. 790) to redesignate the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center in Casper, Wyoming, as the ``Barbara L. Cubin National Historic Trails Interpretive Center.’’ The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows:
“I want the House to pass this bill. Right now, Native American patients only have 72 hours to tell the Indian Health Service about emergency care they got from an outside hospital. That is not enough time during a health crisis, and missing the deadline means patients get stuck with the bills. This bill gives them at least 15 days to report their emergency care.”
“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 8658, introduced by Congressman Mike Kennedy from Utah, would amend the Indian Health Care Improvement Act to require that non-elderly and nondisabled Indian patients have at least 15 days to notify the Indian Health Service when they receive emergency treatment or are admitted to a healthcare facility through the purchased/referred care program. The IHS uses the purchased/referred care program, or PRC, to pay outside providers when needed services are unavailable at an IHS or Tribal health facility. IHS approves a PRC payment if a patient meets specific requirements, including timely notification of IHS. The law currently provides elderly or disabled Indians a 30-day emergency notice window, while the rule for all other patients is 72 hours. During an emergency, 72 hours is a very short window. While extensions can be granted, the 72-hour window remains the standard. This timeframe is unrealistic for a patient dealing with a health crisis who may be transferred between facilities, recovering from surgery, or relying on assistance from someone unfamiliar with PRC notice rules. When the 72-hour deadline is missed, a claim that would otherwise be approved may be denied, and the patient is at risk of being billed or sent to collections for emergency care. This legislation would amend the Indian Health Care Improvement Act to provide at least 15 days to notify IHS of emergency treatment or admission for PRC purposes, while preserving the existing 30-day notification window for elderly or disabled Indians. Mr. Speaker, I thank Dr. Kennedy of Utah for championing this important legislation for Indian Country. I urge my colleagues to support the bill, and I reserve the balance of my time.”
Official Congressional Record
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 8658, introduced by Congressman Mike Kennedy from Utah, would amend the Indian Health Care Improvement Act to require that non-elderly and nondisabled Indian patients have at least 15 days to notify the Indian Health Service when they receive emergency treatment or are admitted to a healthcare facility through the purchased/referred care program. The IHS uses the purchased/referred care program, or PRC, to pay outside providers when needed services are unavailable at an IHS or Tribal health facility. IHS approves a PRC payment if a patient meets specific requirements, including timely notification of IHS. The law currently provides elderly or disabled Indians a 30-day emergency notice window, while the rule for all other patients is 72 hours. During an emergency, 72 hours is a very short window. While extensions can be granted, the 72-hour window remains the standard. This timeframe is unrealistic for a patient dealing with a health crisis who may be transferred between facilities, recovering from surgery, or relying on assistance from someone unfamiliar with PRC notice rules. When the 72-hour deadline is missed, a claim that would otherwise be approved may be denied, and the patient is at risk of being billed or sent to collections for emergency care. This legislation would amend the Indian Health Care Improvement Act to provide at least 15 days to notify IHS of emergency treatment or admission for PRC purposes, while preserving the existing 30-day notification window for elderly or disabled Indians. Mr. Speaker, I thank Dr. Kennedy of Utah for championing this important legislation for Indian Country. I urge my colleagues to support the bill, and I reserve the balance of my time.
“Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 8658) to amend the Indian Health Care Improvement Act to modify the notification requirement for emergency contract health services for certain beneficiaries, and for other purposes. The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows:”
Official Congressional Record
Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 8658) to amend the Indian Health Care Improvement Act to modify the notification requirement for emergency contract health services for certain beneficiaries, and for other purposes. The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows:
“Mr. Speaker, I support H.R. 7889, and I yield back the balance of my time. The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Fong). The question is on the motion offered by the gentleman from Arkansas (Mr. Westerman) that the House suspend the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 7889, as amended. The question was taken; and (two-thirds being in the affirmative) the rules were suspended and the bill, as amended, was passed. A motion to reconsider was laid on the table.”
Mr. Speaker, I support H.R. 7889, and I yield back the balance of my time. The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Fong). The question is on the motion offered by the gentleman from Arkansas (Mr. Westerman) that the House suspend the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 7889, as amended. The question was taken; and (two-thirds being in the affirmative) the rules were suspended and the bill, as amended, was passed. A motion to reconsider was laid on the table.
“I support this bill. Healthy forests protect our drinking water and prevent costly disasters like mudslides after wildfires. We need to keep funding this water research so we can protect our water supplies.”
“Mr. Speaker, as we consider water in our country, I want to point out a couple of trips that I have made recently. One was to the little town of Beaver, Utah, where they had a 100,000-acre forest fire, and a few weeks later, they had an inch to an inch and a half of rain, which normally would be very welcome there, but because this forest fire basically clear-cut this whole canyon that provides the water for the town of Beaver. Instead of replenishing their water supply, what it did was wash vast amounts of soil and debris into the watershed. It took out three hydropower plants. It washed mud and debris across bridges and took them out. It also washed all this debris into the town and had their water system offline for an extended period of time. We often don’t associate forest health and water as much as we should. This is a crisis that is facing us across the country. That is why it is important to have legislation like Representative Wittman has proposed here. I was in southwest Colorado at the end of last week, and we flew over another 100,000-acre fire. We saw, again, how when the land is denuded, to use a word from Teddy Roosevelt, and soil is no longer held in place and we get rain, it causes catastrophes. It doesn’t have to be this way. We can have safe, healthy drinking water all across this country. Actually, about two-thirds of our water comes from forested landscapes. We have seen how important this is, even in places like New York City, where they have a tremendous water system that people, putting a lot of forethought into this many, many decades ago, protected the watershed and protected the water going into New York. We see it in Boston. We typically think of these forest issues out West, but the Quabbin Reservoir in Boston is another forested area that is protected and managed strictly for water. It is because of research and efforts that have happened for many years that give us the science to understand how to manage the landscape to produce the water that we all need. When we talk about an ounce of prevention being worth a pound of cure, we know that managing our forests gives us that ounce of prevention. It saves a lot of money in the long run and saves a lot of headaches and hard work to restore these systems in the long run, and it is important that we continue to do the research and fund these programs so that we can provide safe, clean water to all Americans. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.”
Official Congressional Record
Mr. Speaker, as we consider water in our country, I want to point out a couple of trips that I have made recently. One was to the little town of Beaver, Utah, where they had a 100,000-acre forest fire, and a few weeks later, they had an inch to an inch and a half of rain, which normally would be very welcome there, but because this forest fire basically clear-cut this whole canyon that provides the water for the town of Beaver. Instead of replenishing their water supply, what it did was wash vast amounts of soil and debris into the watershed. It took out three hydropower plants. It washed mud and debris across bridges and took them out. It also washed all this debris into the town and had their water system offline for an extended period of time. We often don’t associate forest health and water as much as we should. This is a crisis that is facing us across the country. That is why it is important to have legislation like Representative Wittman has proposed here. I was in southwest Colorado at the end of last week, and we flew over another 100,000-acre fire. We saw, again, how when the land is denuded, to use a word from Teddy Roosevelt, and soil is no longer held in place and we get rain, it causes catastrophes. It doesn’t have to be this way. We can have safe, healthy drinking water all across this country. Actually, about two-thirds of our water comes from forested landscapes. We have seen how important this is, even in places like New York City, where they have a tremendous water system that people, putting a lot of forethought into this many, many decades ago, protected the watershed and protected the water going into New York. We see it in Boston. We typically think of these forest issues out West, but the Quabbin Reservoir in Boston is another forested area that is protected and managed strictly for water. It is because of research and efforts that have happened for many years that give us the science to understand how to manage the landscape to produce the water that we all need. When we talk about an ounce of prevention being worth a pound of cure, we know that managing our forests gives us that ounce of prevention. It saves a lot of money in the long run and saves a lot of headaches and hard work to restore these systems in the long run, and it is important that we continue to do the research and fund these programs so that we can provide safe, clean water to all Americans. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
“I support this bill. Water problems are getting harder to solve. This bill funds university research to help communities and leaders fix water issues before they turn into crises.”
“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 7889, the Advancing Water Research and Collaboration Act of 2025, sponsored by Representative Wittman from Virginia. Water is one of our Nation’s most important resources, and the challenges facing our water systems are becoming more complex. This legislation takes a practical approach to strengthening the science and partnerships we need to manage those challenges. The bill reauthorizes the Water Resources Research Act Program, which supports water research and education through a network of university- based institutions. It extends the program through fiscal year 2029 and increases funding from $15 million to $16 million annually, consistent with currently enacted levels. By investing in research at the universities across the country and encouraging collaboration on State and regional water issues, the bill helps ensure that policymakers, communities, and water managers have the science and tools needed to find solutions before water challenges become crises. Mr. Speaker, I support this bill, and I reserve the balance of my time.”
Official Congressional Record
Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 7889, the Advancing Water Research and Collaboration Act of 2025, sponsored by Representative Wittman from Virginia. Water is one of our Nation’s most important resources, and the challenges facing our water systems are becoming more complex. This legislation takes a practical approach to strengthening the science and partnerships we need to manage those challenges. The bill reauthorizes the Water Resources Research Act Program, which supports water research and education through a network of university- based institutions. It extends the program through fiscal year 2029 and increases funding from $15 million to $16 million annually, consistent with currently enacted levels. By investing in research at the universities across the country and encouraging collaboration on State and regional water issues, the bill helps ensure that policymakers, communities, and water managers have the science and tools needed to find solutions before water challenges become crises. Mr. Speaker, I support this bill, and I reserve the balance of my time.
“Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 7889) to amend the Water Resources Research Act of 1984 to reauthorize the water resources research and technology institutes program, and for other purposes, as amended. The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows:”
Official Congressional Record
Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 7889) to amend the Water Resources Research Act of 1984 to reauthorize the water resources research and technology institutes program, and for other purposes, as amended. The Clerk read the title of the bill. The text of the bill is as follows:
