[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 214 (Thursday, December 18, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1228]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        THANKING LAURA FALENDER

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. NIKKI BUDZINSKI

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, December 18, 2025

  Ms. BUDZINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the service of 
and express my deep gratitude for my Veterans Affairs Policy Fellow, 
Laura Falender, and her outstanding service to my office over the past 
year.
  Since joining my team from the Department of Veterans Affairs earlier 
this year, Laura became an integral member of my policy staff and 
helped spearhead my work on Veterans Affairs issues--especially as I 
have taken on the role of Ranking Member of the Technology and 
Modernization Subcommittee of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs. 
During her time in my office, Laura proved invaluable to both me and my 
staff, while also serving as a strong voice for veterans across my 
district and throughout the country. Upon joining our office, Laura 
also led several legislative initiatives. These include, but are 
certainly not limited to, the VA Mental Health Engagement Act, the 
Improving Veterans' Experience Act of 2025, and the Edith Nourse Rogers 
STEM Scholarship Opportunity Act, which unanimously passed the House of 
Representatives earlier this year. Laura's dedication to improving 
access to benefits for our Nation's more than 18 million veterans 
played a significant role in her ability to expertly introduce and 
advance legislation in support of those who have served.
  Beyond her policy contributions, Laura has been a key member of our 
team, helping to foster a culture of collaboration, camaraderie, and 
hard work.
  While I am saddened to see Laura's time in my office come to an end, 
I am encouraged that she will continue her public service by returning 
to the Veterans Experience Office at the Department of Veterans 
Affairs, where she will build on her important work on behalf of our 
Nation's veterans.
  I want to once again thank Laura Falender for her service to my 
office, our Nation's veterans, and my constituents. While she will be 
missed, I am confident she has a bright future ahead in public service.

                          ____________________