Nick LaLota
Representative for New York · Republican · United States
“To me, this patriotic painting is a powerful reminder that the ideals of freedom and love of country are passed from one generation down to the next. It is a privilege to display his incredible artwork for my colleagues and all who visit Washington, especially those Hoosiers coming to our Nation's Capital.”
“Congratulating Tecumseh Braves Softball Victory Mr. MESSMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Tecumseh Braves softball team on bringing home the 2026 Indiana High School Athletic Association Class 2-A softball State championship.”
“It helped advocate for the creation of Jones Beach State Park. It advocated for the Long Island Expressway and the Grand Central Parkway. It was there for the growth of Levittown and the merger of North Shore University Hospital and the Glen Cove Hospital, which laid the foundation for what is now Northwell Health.”
“It might have been a good idea for business and traffic, but it would have ruined my beaches. I have been in public life for over 30 years, first elected as mayor in 1993.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026)] [House] [Pages H4673-H4675] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF LONG ISLAND ASSOCIATION (Under the Speaker's ann…”
“Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Barr-Reeve Vikings softball team on winning the 2026 Indiana High School Athletic Association Class 1-A State softball championship, their first State softball championship in school history.”
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“Mr. Speaker, as my colleagues and I have described during this Special Order, Long Island's success has never happened by accident. Rather, it has always been driven by gritty, proud, hardworking people willing to invest in their communities and build a stronger future. For the last 100 years, the Long Island Association has helped lead that effort, and I have no doubt it will continue to do so for generations to come. I once again congratulate the Long Island Association on its centennial anniversary, thank its leadership and members for their enduring service to our region and wish them continued success ahead. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. Messmer). {time} 1940 Recognizing Ken Eppler, Outstanding Hoosier”
“May its second century be as successful as its first. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from New York (Ms. Gillen).”
“{time} 1930 As someone privileged to represent New York's First Congressional District, I know that Long Island's greatest asset has always been its people--the entrepreneurs, workers, educators, researchers, veterans, community leaders, and innovators whose talent and determination make our region exceptional. For a century, the Long Island Association has brought those voices together in pursuit of a stronger regional economy and a brighter future. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Long Island Association on this extraordinary centennial anniversary. On behalf of the United States House of Representatives and the people of New York's First Congressional District, I thank the association, its leadership, its members, and everyone who has contributed to this remarkable legacy.”
“Meeting those challenges is essential, not only for today's economy but for ensuring that future generations can continue to build successful careers and rewarding lives on Long Island. Mr. Speaker, I will also recognize the outstanding leadership of the Long Island Association, who are joining us in the gallery this evening: Chairman Lawrence J. Waldman; Acting President and Chief Executive Officer Stacey Sikes; and members of the board of directors, including Billy Haugland, Katherine Heaviside, and Luis Vazquez. Their leadership and the dedication of countless other board members, [[Page H4674]] staff, volunteers, and business leaders over the past century have positioned the Long Island Association for continued success in the years ahead.”
“Whether advancing critical infrastructure projects, strengthening workforce development, or helping businesses navigate extraordinary challenges--from the aftermath of September 11 to Superstorm Sandy to the COVID-19 pandemic--the LIA has consistently demonstrated thoughtful leadership and an unwavering commitment to our region. Its work continues today as Long Island confronts many of the challenges that will define our next century, including affordability, housing, infrastructure, energy reliability, and maintaining a business climate that allows employers of every size to succeed. New York's exceptionally high tax burden only makes those challenges more difficult.”
“Founded in 1926 as the Long Island Chamber of Commerce, the organization emerged during a period of tremendous growth with an ambitious mission: to promote Long Island's unique strengths and expand economic opportunity throughout the region. That mission has endured, even as Long Island has evolved from a collection of agricultural communities and seasonal destinations into one of the Nation's most dynamic regional economies. Today, Long Island is home to world-class manufacturers, innovative life science companies, internationally recognized research institutions, thriving small businesses, and vibrant downtowns. Throughout that transformation, the Long Island Association has been a steadfast advocate for policies that encourage investment, innovation, and job creation.”
“Mr. Speaker, tonight, I am honored to host a Special Order in recognition of the 100th anniversary of the Long Island Association. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an institution that has helped shape Long Island's economy, strengthened its communities, and championed its future for the past century. For 100 years, the Long Island Association has served as the leading voice of Long Island's business community, bringing together employers, entrepreneurs, nonprofit organizations, educators, labor leaders, and public officials around a shared mission: ensuring Long Island remains one of the best places in America to live, work, raise a family, and build a business.”
“Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on the topic of this Special Order. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the gentleman from New York? There was no objection.”
“All of Dubois County is proud of this tennis team and these special young ladies for their impressive victory. I congratulate, once again, the Jasper Wildcats girls' tennis team. Mr. LaLOTA. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time. ____________________”
“Congratulations to the Jasper Wildcats Girls' Tennis Victory Mr. MESSMER. Finally, Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Jasper Wildcats girls' tennis doubles team of Adaysha Smiley and Stella Knies for winning the 2026 Indiana High School Athletic Association girls' tennis doubles State championship. In a hard-fought straight-set victory, the doubles team captured the State title, capping off an outstanding season. Hats off to these two athletes for their prowess and sportsmanship throughout the year, which makes this big win all the more sweet for the Wildcats and the fans. I also want to give a shout-out to Head Coach Scott Yarbrough, whose outstanding leadership has, once again, guided the Wildcats to another State championship.”
“Congratulating Tecumseh Braves Softball Victory Mr. MESSMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Tecumseh Braves softball team on bringing home the 2026 Indiana High School Athletic Association Class 2-A softball State championship. This marks the fourth State championship title the Braves have captured in the last 5 years and the seventh in the program's history. What an extraordinary achievement, reflecting incredible amounts of hard work, discipline, and a great commitment to their teammates and their sport. Year after year, the Tecumseh Braves have set the standard for excellence, as their many big wins show. Thanks to Head Coach Gordon Wood, whose outstanding leadership has helped establish Tecumseh as one of Indiana's premier softball programs. Way to make all of us in Warrick County proud. I congratulate them all.”
“Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Barr-Reeve Vikings softball team on winning the 2026 Indiana High School Athletic Association Class 1-A State softball championship, their first State softball championship in school history. With a dominant 6-0 victory in their final game, the Vikings had an outstanding season with 32 wins and only one loss, cementing their names in the Hoosier athletic history books. This championship is the result of years of hard work and great perseverance. A great job was done by Head Coach Josh Huff, whose leadership inspired the discipline these athletes put forth to bring home this victory. Congratulations to the Barr-Reeve Vikings for making all of us proud in Daviess County and throughout the Eighth District, and may they enjoy their well-deserved summer vacation.”
“MESSMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Mater Dei Wildcats for winning the 2026 Indiana High School Athletic Association Class 2-A baseball State championship. In a thrilling 6-3 victory in the final game, the Wildcats captured their second baseball State championship in school history, the last one being back in 1991. I also want to recognize first-year Head Coach Adam Wildeman whose leadership led the Wildcats to 15 consecutive victories, delivering another championship back to Evansville. This victory is a proud moment for Evansville, Vanderburgh County, and all of Indiana's Eighth Congressional District. Congratulations, once again, to the Mater Dei Wildcats. Congratulating the Barr-Reeve Vikings Softball Victory Mr. MESSMER. Mr.”
“To me, this patriotic painting is a powerful reminder that the ideals of freedom and love of country are passed from one generation down to the next. It is a privilege to display his incredible artwork for my colleagues and all who visit Washington, especially those Hoosiers coming to our Nation's Capital. Ken has said that he hopes his artwork inspires students to love our country and encourages young people to learn more about our Nation's great history. I cannot think of a better message to share with the myriads of people who travel to Washington and visit our country's Capital. Indiana's Eighth District is proud to call Ken Eppler one of our own, and I am honored to display his beautiful artwork which I think reflects the very best of Hoosier and American patriotism. Congratulating Evansville Mater Dei Wildcats Baseball Victory Mr.”
“He graciously lent me one of his beautiful paintings, The Enduring Spirit to display here in the Halls of Congress in honor of America's 250th anniversary. Ken served our Nation with honor in the United States Army, earning both Airborne and Air Assault qualifications before serving with the 101st Airborne Division during the Gulf war. He later continued his service in the Indiana National Guard and has made us all proud as a defender of our country and a wonderful member of our community. His commitment to our Nation is reflected not only in his military service, but also in the remarkable artwork he continues to create. The Enduring Spirit depicts three colonial children standing together playing the fife and drum while proudly holding an American 250 flag.”
“I once again congratulate the Long Island Association on its centennial anniversary, thank its leadership and members for their enduring service to our region and wish them continued success ahead. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. Messmer). {time} 1940 Recognizing Ken Eppler, Outstanding Hoosier Mr. MESSMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize an outstanding Hoosier whose dedication to our country did not end when he took off the uniform. This week, I will have the honor of welcoming Evansville Army veteran Ken Eppler and his lovely wife, Cathy, to my congressional office here at the United States Capitol. Following his service to our Nation, Ken found great happiness in his incredible talent as a painter.”
“Working together, Democrats and Republicans, in league with our partners represented by the Long Island Association, we know that Long Island's best days are ahead. Congratulations on an extraordinary first century, and here is to the next 100 years. [[Page H4675]] Mr. LaLOTA. Mr. Speaker, as my colleagues and I have described during this Special Order, Long Island's success has never happened by accident. Rather, it has always been driven by gritty, proud, hardworking people willing to invest in their communities and build a stronger future. For the last 100 years, the Long Island Association has helped lead that effort, and I have no doubt it will continue to do so for generations to come.”
“We must work together to build upon the progress that has been made to increase the SALT deduction and make life more affordable for Long Islanders. We must work together to build more housing in downtowns so that we can expand the tax base and create an environment that is attractive and affordable to young people, and thereby expand our workforce and create cool downtowns. We must work together to ensure that our energy is sustainable, reliable, and affordable. We must work together to improve our infrastructure, reduce traffic, and hasten our commutes. We must work together to protect the environment and to keep our communities safe so that we can maintain one of the greatest qualities of life of any region in the Nation.”
“It knows who needs to be in the room to ensure Long Island stays competitive in a rapidly changing economy. We need the Long Island Association now more than ever. In our contemporary world, with the division between Democrats and Republicans and a fractured media environment, it is hard to know who to trust. We need the Long Island Association to continue to bring us together in search of a common vision to make Long Island the best place to live, work, and enjoy our lives. The challenges we face today are different than they were 100 years ago, but the need for people to work together to cross party lines, to cross from business to labor, from elected officials to the not-for- profit community and education is the same need we have always had.”
“It helped advocate for the creation of Jones Beach State Park. It advocated for the Long Island Expressway and the Grand Central Parkway. It was there for the growth of Levittown and the merger of North Shore University Hospital and the Glen Cove Hospital, which laid the foundation for what is now Northwell Health. The Long Island Association has supported the growth of research and innovation and has brought together leaders to address the workforce development, housing, clean water, energy, and the stewardship of our natural resources like the Long Island Sound. The association knows what businesses and workers need. It knows where Long Island commerce is pulling ahead and where it is falling behind. It understands the challenges we are facing when it comes to housing, transportation, workforce shortages, and energy reliability.”
“It might have been a good idea for business and traffic, but it would have ruined my beaches. I have been in public life for over 30 years, first elected as mayor in 1993. As a result, I had the opportunity to be friendly with each leader of the Long Island Association during that time, from Jim Larocca to Matt Crosson to Kevin Law to Matt Cohen, and now the extraordinary Stacey Sikes. I worked together with Stacey when I was Nassau County Executive. I saw firsthand her intelligence, work ethic, integrity, and her ability to bring people together. She, together with our chairman, Larry Waldman, and so many other good people on the board, we realize the Long Island Association is in very good hands. For a century, the Long Island Association has been in the room for nearly every major conversation about our region's future.”
“It has been a long journey, where over 100 years, a few name changes, under different leadership, and over a transition from farmland to suburbia to one of the densest, most productive regions in the Nation, the Long Island Association has brought together the best minds in business, labor, education, government, and the not-for-profit community to lay out a vision to move our community forward. The Long Island Association has helped lead the way to make Long Island one of the most powerful regional economies in the United States of America. Now, the Long Island Association has not done everything right. In preparing for this speech, I learned that the Long Island Association, along with none other than Robert Moses, proposed a bridge from Connecticut to Long Island.”
“I remain committed to being a trusted voice in Washington for Long Island's businesses and workers. As we celebrate the Long Island Association's 100 years of excellence, I look forward to our continued partnership. Congratulations on this historic milestone and the beginning of another remarkable century of service. Mr. LaLOTA. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman from New York (Mr. Suozzi). Mr. SUOZZI. Mr. Speaker, I am so happy to be joining with my colleagues in the spirit of bipartisanship to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Long Island Association.”
“We must make Long Island more affordable to keep attracting world-class talent and give companies the chance to invest in themselves. That starts with lowering the high cost and taxes our families and businesses pay, including fully and permanently eliminating the SALT cap and undoing harmful tariffs. It means making housing more affordable and ensuring every young professional and hardworking family has a place to call home. We must meet our energy needs with an all-of-the-above strategy and guarantee our infrastructure can support a growing economy. We must cut Federal red tape and invest in our industries to fuel greater opportunity across our region. I am proud to have worked with the association and with my Long Island colleagues across the aisle to tackle these challenges head on.”
“Giving Long Island's businesses a strong base with no limits on their success is how we bolster our local economy and our way of life. Core to its mission, the Long Island Association has been a crucial bridge between businesses and local and Federal government leaders. That partnership is foundational to the success of every entrepreneur, industry, and family-owned business that built Long Island. Our work here in Washington is first and foremost to deliver for our communities through bipartisanship and common sense. Doing so through pro-business and pro-worker policies gives our region the room to grow and stay competitive. The Long Island Association partnership has been instrumental in helping meet the challenges that we face.”
“May its second century be as successful as its first. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentlewoman from New York (Ms. Gillen). Ms. GILLEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Long Island Association. For a century, it has been an institution at the heart of Long Island's economy and business community. I thank Chairman Waldman, Acting President Sikes, and the association's board members who traveled to Washington this week. It is a privilege to reaffirm our shared commitment to prosperity and opportunity for every Long Islander. Long Island's businesses and industries contribute more than $200 billion to our Nation's economy each year. We are an economic powerhouse, driving innovation and discoveries in national security, medicine, and next-generation technologies.”
“{time} 1930 As someone privileged to represent New York's First Congressional District, I know that Long Island's greatest asset has always been its people--the entrepreneurs, workers, educators, researchers, veterans, community leaders, and innovators whose talent and determination make our region exceptional. For a century, the Long Island Association has brought those voices together in pursuit of a stronger regional economy and a brighter future. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating the Long Island Association on this extraordinary centennial anniversary. On behalf of the United States House of Representatives and the people of New York's First Congressional District, I thank the association, its leadership, its members, and everyone who has contributed to this remarkable legacy.”
“Meeting those challenges is essential, not only for today's economy but for ensuring that future generations can continue to build successful careers and rewarding lives on Long Island. Mr. Speaker, I will also recognize the outstanding leadership of the Long Island Association, who are joining us in the gallery this evening: Chairman Lawrence J. Waldman; Acting President and Chief Executive Officer Stacey Sikes; and members of the board of directors, including Billy Haugland, Katherine Heaviside, and Luis Vazquez. Their leadership and the dedication of countless other board members, [[Page H4674]] staff, volunteers, and business leaders over the past century have positioned the Long Island Association for continued success in the years ahead.”
“Whether advancing critical infrastructure projects, strengthening workforce development, or helping businesses navigate extraordinary challenges--from the aftermath of September 11 to Superstorm Sandy to the COVID-19 pandemic--the LIA has consistently demonstrated thoughtful leadership and an unwavering commitment to our region. Its work continues today as Long Island confronts many of the challenges that will define our next century, including affordability, housing, infrastructure, energy reliability, and maintaining a business climate that allows employers of every size to succeed. New York's exceptionally high tax burden only makes those challenges more difficult.”
“Founded in 1926 as the Long Island Chamber of Commerce, the organization emerged during a period of tremendous growth with an ambitious mission: to promote Long Island's unique strengths and expand economic opportunity throughout the region. That mission has endured, even as Long Island has evolved from a collection of agricultural communities and seasonal destinations into one of the Nation's most dynamic regional economies. Today, Long Island is home to world-class manufacturers, innovative life science companies, internationally recognized research institutions, thriving small businesses, and vibrant downtowns. Throughout that transformation, the Long Island Association has been a steadfast advocate for policies that encourage investment, innovation, and job creation.”
“Speaker, tonight, I am honored to host a Special Order in recognition of the 100th anniversary of the Long Island Association. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an institution that has helped shape Long Island's economy, strengthened its communities, and championed its future for the past century. For 100 years, the Long Island Association has served as the leading voice of Long Island's business community, bringing together employers, entrepreneurs, nonprofit organizations, educators, labor leaders, and public officials around a shared mission: ensuring Long Island remains one of the best places in America to live, work, raise a family, and build a business.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 118 (Monday, July 20, 2026)] [House] [Pages H4673-H4675] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF LONG ISLAND ASSOCIATION (Under the Speaker's announced policy of January 3, 2025, Mr. LaLota of New York was recognized for 60 minutes as the designee of the majority leader. ) General Leave Mr. LaLOTA. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may have 5 legislative days in which to revise and extend their remarks and include extraneous material on the topic of this Special Order. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the gentleman from New York? There was no objection. Mr. LaLOTA. Mr.”
“4424, the Vietnam Veterans Liver Fluke Cancer Study Act, a bipartisan bill requiring the VA, in partnership with the CDC, to conduct a nationwide study and finally confront the truth: Bile duct cancer caused by the liver fluke parasite is a service-related illness. Since the VA won't act, Congress must because our Vietnam veterans deserve more than parades and speeches. They deserve answers, care, and our action. Mr. Speaker, every day we wait, more veterans die without the care they deserve. Let's not repeat the failures of the past. Mr. Chairman, I thank Chairman Bost for his support of this legislation. I urge all of my colleagues to join me in standing with those who once stood for us. They answered the call. Now, it is our turn. {time} 1700”
“Instead of urgent action, we got bureaucratic delay. It wasn't until 2024, 6 years later, that a second followup study was finally completed. What did [[Page H1437]] it find? Exactly what our veterans had been saying all along. Marines who served in Vietnam were 30 percent more likely to die from this disease than those who served elsewhere. Still, the VA refuses to acknowledge this as a service-connected condition. Mr. Speaker, that is unacceptable. We have seen this pattern before with Agent Orange, the blue water Navy, and now, again, with liver fluke: Delay, denial, deflection. In response, I introduced H.R.”
“Multiple studies have confirmed what these veterans have suspected for decades. Those who served in Vietnam face a much higher risk of contracting, suffering from, and dying from this disease. Here is the most disappointing part, Mr. Speaker. The Department of Veterans Affairs continues to hide behind a familiar excuse: We don't have enough data. Let me tell you what we do have. In 2018, the Northport VA Medical Center on Long Island, right in the heart of my district, conducted the first of its kind study on this issue. From a small sample of 50 Vietnam veterans, 24 percent tested positive for exposure to the liver fluke parasite. That study raised the alarm and called for further research, standardized treatment, and expanded access to care for affected veterans at VA facilities across the country.”
“Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman for yielding. Mr. Speaker, a weekend or two ago in Suffolk County, I stood with nearly 1,000 Long Islanders at a Vietnam war Veterans Day ceremony. The theme of the day was simple but powerful: Welcome home. Welcome home after serving in a war that was unpopular at home. Welcome home after surviving brutal jungle and guerrilla warfare. Welcome home after losing more than 58,000 brothers and sisters in arms. Welcome home to a nation and a healthcare system that wasn't ready to care for your wounds, seen and unseen. Today, Vietnam veterans across my district and across the country are still fighting. This time, the enemy isn't on a battlefield overseas. It is a silent killer, bile duct cancer, caused by a parasite known as the liver fluke.”