HONORING COMSTOCK & HOLT, INC. ON THE OCCASION OF ITS 170TH ANNIVERSARY

On 2026-06-29, Representative Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ-5) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING COMSTOCK & HOLT, INC. ON THE OCCASION OF ITS 170TH ANNIVERSARY" in the House.

HONORING COMSTOCK & HOLT, INC. ON THE OCCASION OF ITS 170TH ANNIVERSARY

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 108 (Monday, June 29, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 108 (Monday, June 29, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E630] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING COMSTOCK & HOLT, INC. ON THE OCCASION OF ITS 170TH ANNIVERSARY ______ HON. JOSH GOTTHEIMER of new jersey in the house of representatives Monday, June 29, 2026 Mr. GOTTHEIMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Comstock & Holt, Inc. on the occasion of its remarkable 170th anniversary. Since its founding in 1856, Comstock & Holt has stood as a cornerstone of American trade and remains the Nation's oldest continuously operating duty drawback specialist. For nearly two centuries, the company has exemplified the entrepreneurial spirit, innovation, and dedication that have helped drive American economic growth. Comstock & Holt's legacy is deeply tied to the duty drawback program, the oldest trade instrument in the United States. Established through the Tariff Act of 1789, duty drawback is founded on the principle that duties should not be permanently imposed on goods that do not remain in American commerce. By allowing businesses to recover duties paid on imported products that are later exported, the program strengthens American manufacturing, promotes exports, and enhances the competitiveness of U.S.businesses around the world. Founded in New York City by Charles J. Holt and William H. Holt, the company has provided uninterrupted service for 170 years. Through wars, economic downturns, technological advances, and significant changes in trade policy. Comstock & Holt has remained a trusted partner to American businesses, its expertise has helped countless companies navigate complex customs laws and reclaim funds rightfully available to them under federal law. The company's history includes the incorporation of C.J. Holt & Co. in 1919 and its eventual combination with Comstock & Theakston, Inc., founded in 1894. In 2025, the firms formally united under the name Comstock & Holt, Inc., bringing together more than 300 years of combined industry expertise. Beyond serving clients, the company has played a leading role in shaping modern drawback regulations, educating the trade community, and advancing improvements to the drawback system. For 170 years, Comstock & Holt has remained committed to the principles that have guided American trade since our Nation's founding. Its work supports industries ranging from agriculture and manufacturing to pharmaceuticals and technology, helping American companies compete in the global marketplace. I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Comstock & Holt, Inc. on this historic milestone and in recognizing its extraordinary contributions to American commerce and trade. ____________________