Recognizing Deputy Administrator Ha McNeill

Floor Speech

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Mr. GARBARINO. Mr. Speaker, today we recognize Ha McNeill as she concludes her service as Deputy Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration.

Before serving as Deputy Administrator, Mrs. McNeill led TSA as Acting Administrator for more than a year--assuming responsibility for an agency of more than 60,000 employees during an exceptionally demanding period.

Throughout her tenure, Mrs. McNeill demonstrated a remarkable ability to inspire TSA's workforce and guide the agency through uncertainty. That leadership was especially evident during multiple government shutdowns, when Transportation Security Officers and other TSA personnel continued reporting for duty to protect the traveling public, despite the financial strain and uncertainty facing them and their families.

At a time when the workforce needed a steady and compassionate leader more than ever, Mrs. McNeill provided one. She understood that TSA's greatest strength is its people. She communicated directly and honestly with employees, listened to their concerns, and made clear that their service and sacrifices were recognized and deeply valued. Her leadership helped sustain morale, preserve the agency's mission, and reassure a workforce carrying an extraordinary burden.

As Chairman of the House Committee on Homeland Security, I had the opportunity to hear directly from Mrs. McNeill on numerous occasions as she testified before the Committee regarding the effects of government shutdowns on TSA's workforce and operations. She was a candid and constructive partner to Congress, ensuring that lawmakers understood not only the operational consequences of a shutdown, but also its very real human impact on TSA employees and their families.

Mrs. McNeill has also been an outstanding advocate for TSA's canine programs and the dedicated canine teams that help secure our Nation's transportation systems. Her support extended to both the highly trained dogs and the TSA handlers who work beside them every day to detect explosives, deter threats, and protect the traveling public.

I was honored to welcome Mrs. McNeill and several TSA canine teams to an event I hosted commemorating the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks and recognizing the vital role canines play in advancing our Nation's homeland security mission. The event paid tribute to the canine teams that supported the search, rescue, and recovery efforts in the aftermath of the attacks, as well as the teams that continue to help safeguard communities and transportation systems across the country.

Mrs. McNeill's participation reflected her deep appreciation for these canine teams and her unwavering commitment to ensuring that their contributions receive the recognition and support they deserve. I thank her for her exceptional support of TSA's canine workforce, including its dedicated handlers and remarkable dogs, and for championing their indispensable contribution to the security of our homeland.

Mrs. McNeill served the agency with integrity, empathy, and an unwavering commitment to its workforce and security mission. Her leadership helped TSA navigate some of its most difficult moments, while continuing to safeguard our Nation's transportation systems and the millions of Americans who rely upon them each day.

On behalf of the House Committee on Homeland Security, I thank Ha McNeill for her distinguished service to TSA and to our Nation. I wish her and her family every success in the next chapter.

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