I had the opportunity to travel with Speaker Ryan to see the devastation in Florida from Jacksonville to Miami and back to the Houston area. As Homeland Security Appropriations Chairman I’m charged with and given responsibility of funding the hurricane disaster relief. This process and my decisions continue to be extremely vital.
I also met with Killeen ISD students and administrators to discuss trade/vocational education and funding for our students at Fort Hood here in TX-31. In addition, I met with representatives from the National Stone, Sand, and Gravel Association in Cedar Park who work to support Texas transportation. I had an opportunity to discuss current issues and needs with constituents from Round Rock, Cedar Park, and Georgetown who work hard to help out our kids through our local Head Start centers.
The House passed important pro-life legislation this week that I cosponsored. This legislation will ban abortions after 20 weeks.
I’ve also introduced the Securing Energy Infrastructure Act, which establishes a pilot program to evaluate vulnerabilities in US energy security. My fellow co-chair of the House Army Caucus, Rep. Ruppersberger from Maryland, introduced this bill together and it shows a bipartisan commitment to defending our nation from security threats. Recently, the House passed the 2018 House Budget. The House Budget will balance the budget in 10 years, and put our nation on a path for responsible spending, and it unlocks the opportunity for pro-growth tax reform.
This past week the House passed the supplemental funding package to bring relief to Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. It also helps those in California rebuild from the wildfires. There is still lots of work to do, but this is a first step help to communities in need.
Finally, the House passed legislation to name a border checkpoint after Javier Vega. Agent Vega made the ultimate sacrifice, protecting his family and upholding the law when attacked by two illegal aliens. I was proud to have worked with Rep. McCaul, Rep. Vela, Senator Cornyn, and Senator Cruz to get this important legislation passed. The Bill to rename a border checkpoint after him passed the House & the Senate this past week and is headed to the President’s desk!
