In honor of National Police Week, the House passed three bills and a resolution designed to honor the sacrifices of our nation’s law enforcement and ensure they have the necessary resources to keep the public safe.  I took this opportunity to recognize those brave men and women who have given their life in the line of duty and thank the 900,000 sworn law enforcement officers currently serving our communities.  Click below to view my remarks.

Improving Veterans’ Care

On Wednesday, the House passed H.R. 2372, the VA MISSION Act.  This bill provides the needed funding for the VA Choice program and expands access to care for veterans that live far from a VA facility.  Supported by 38 Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs), the bill consolidates the VA Choice program with other VA programs for streamlined efficiency and improved quality of care.

Protecting Privacy & Promoting Data Security

In our society, access to technology and access to personal information are increasingly intertwined.  It is imperative to ensure our schools are up-to-date on cybersecurity as technology becomes more widely implemented in our classrooms.  Yesterday, the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, which I chair, held a hearing to examine how students’ personally identifiable information is protected by schools, states, and other individuals.  Read my opening remarks here.

North Carolinians in the Capitol

Thomas Jefferson Middle School

Dawson Buchanan, Student Body President of Avery High School, shadowed me this week.

On this date in 1953, Jackie Cochran became first woman to break the sound barrier.  Cochran was an aviation pioneer and American patriot.  She not only accomplished this great milestone, Cochran also served as the director for the Women Airforce Service Pilots program during WWII.

What’s Coming Up?

Next week, the House is expected to take up the National Defense Authorization Act.  Congress debates this legislation every year to ensure our policies, programs and spending adequately support our nation’s defense priorities and fully protect our warfighters.