Cole Floor Remarks on H.R. 7147, The Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2026

Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.

I rise in support of H.R. 7147, the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act. This bill marks the final measure in our FY26 agenda. Our work here is about one of our most important duties: keeping the American people and our homeland safe. This legislation delivers just that and upholds the America first agenda through supporting: 

• Border patrol and enforcement agents;
• Detention and deportation efforts;
• Cutting-edge technology to detect illicit activity; and
• Coast guard investments to counter Communist China's aggression in the maritime sphere. 

We enhance resources to combat fentanyl and other deadly drugs while safeguarding children through expanded investigations into human trafficking and forced labor.

From our borders and ports to aviation and cyberspace, this legislation delivers the personnel, training, and technology needed to reinforce our defenses and confront those who wish us harm. It also prioritizes strong and resilient communities by bolstering disaster preparedness, response, and recovery efforts. Subcommittee Chairman Mark Amodei prioritized safety at every level. Even in the face of political challenge, he and Ranking Member Henry Cuellar worked together to produce a serious, responsible bill.

H.R. 7147 is focused on outcomes – not partisan rhetoric. It equips frontline personnel, strengthens enforcement, and provides the certainty DHS needs to carry out its mission effectively. I thank our members and staff for their work, and I urge support for this bipartisan legislation. With that, I reserve the balance of my time.