[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 24 (Tuesday, February 3, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E98]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          RECOGNIZING COURT REPORTING AND CAPTIONING WEEK 2026

                                  _____
                                 

                        HON. JAMES R. WALKINSHAW

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 3, 2026

  Mr. WALKINSHAW. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 
National Court Reporters Association's 2026 Court Reporting and 
Captioning Week, observed each February to honor the dedicated 
professionals who preserve accurate and impartial records of court 
proceedings across our Nation.
  Court reporters and captioners are essential to the fair 
administration of justice. By creating precise and impartial records of 
court proceedings, they safeguard due process, protect the rights of 
individuals, and ensure that judicial decisions are grounded in a 
complete and reliable record. Their work is foundational to 
accountability, transparency, and public confidence in our courts.
  Court Reporting and Captioning Week highlights both the technical 
skills required in this profession and its importance to public 
protection and the rule of law. Court reporters and captioners serve 
throughout our justice system, ensuring that proceedings at all levels 
are accurately recorded and accessible for future use.
  Beyond their technical expertise, court reporters and captioners play 
a critical role in expanding access to justice and ensuring equity 
within our legal system. Court reporters and captioners help ensure 
meaningful participation for individuals who are deaf or hard of 
hearing and support broader public access to court proceedings and 
civic processes.
  I am also proud that the National Court Reporters Association is 
headquartered in Reston, Virginia, within Virginia's 11th Congressional 
District. Their presence in our community reflects the important role 
this profession plays in strengthening access to justice nationwide.
  Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing Court 
Reporting and Captioning Week and in thanking these professionals for 
their indispensable service to our court system and the rule of law.

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