[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 121 (Tuesday, July 15, 2025)]
[House]
[Page H3256]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           RECOGNIZING CENTRE COUNTY CRISIS INTERVENTION TEAM

  (Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania asked and was given permission to 
address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize 
a major milestone in Centre County: the graduation of the 500th first 
responder from the Centre County Crisis Intervention Team Training 
Program.
  Since 2011, this initiative has brought together law enforcement, 
EMS, corrections officers, and mental health professionals for 40 hours 
of specialized training.
  These first responders are now better equipped to recognize mental 
health crises, use deescalation techniques, and connect individuals 
with appropriate care.
  Prior to my time serving in Congress, I spent decades as a volunteer 
firefighter and cross-trained as an EMT. I recognize and value the 
commitment these individuals have to their communities and understand 
firsthand the vital role that they play in ensuring public health and 
safety.
  These graduates are more than professionals. They are pillars in our 
community, working each day to ensure public safety with compassion and 
understanding.
  Mr. Speaker, I commend the Centre County CIT team for their 
dedication and congratulate all 500 graduates for their service to our 
community.

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