Yesterday, the House passed H.R. 6157, the Department of Defense Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2019, which provides a $17.1 billion increase in funding from Fiscal Year 2018.  Our nation’s brave warfighters deserve assurance that their sacrifices for our country will be met with adequate resources and compensation.  Most importantly, this legislation provides our troops with a well-deserved pay increase, fulfills the department’s request for increased personnel, and funds substantial equipment procurement and defense research and development.  Learn more about how the Department of Defense Appropriations Act supports our troops here.

W. Kerr Scott Hydropower Project

Last night, the U.S. Senate passed my bill, H.R. 951, by unanimous consent.  H.R. 951 provides a six-year extension to the deadline for commencement of the W. Kerr Scott Hydropower Project in Wilkes County.  As a federal representative, I give great importance to advocating effectively for the needs of North Carolina businesses to realize their potential in serving the community and expanding the economy.  The company plans to refurbish the W. Kerr Scott Dam into a source of hydroelectricity, currently used only as a system for flood control and water supply.  This project will go a long way to increase overall availability of energy and reduce reliance on non-renewable sources, and I hope to see the president sign H.R. 951 into law soon.

Pro-Life Victory at the Supreme Court

On Tuesday, the U.S. Supreme Court delivered a pro-life victory.  In handing down NIFLA v. Becerra, the court rightly defended the right of pro-life pregnancy care centers to serve women without being compelled to post information that contradicts their mission or burdens their protected speech.  The 5-4 decision allows the challenge to California's Reproductive FACT Act to go forward.  Read more about NIFLA v. Becerra here.

Oversight of Government Reorganization Proposal

Wednesday, I chaired the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform hearing with Margaret Weichert, Deputy Director for Management at the U.S. Office of Management and Budget, who presented proposals for federal structural reorganization.  This is an important conversation for Congress to engage in as our government’s structures and composition is largely isolated from changes occurring in the rest of the economy.  Congress has a great responsibility to spend hard-working taxpayer dollars in as frugal and efficient way as possible.  I look forward to continuing this discussion and pursuing efficiency and organization that will best serve the American people.

60 Plus Association Award

On behalf of the American Association of Senior Citizens, 60 Plus Founder and Chairman Jim Martin and President Saul Anuzis presented me with the Guardian of Seniors’ Rights award.  The Guardian Award is given to Members of Congress in appreciation of their tireless efforts on behalf of senior citizens to ensure the financial stability of Social Security and Medicare.

North Carolinians in the Capitol

Every week I meet with many different constituents, industries and non-profits who bring their concerns to my Washington D.C. office.  Here is a snapshot of recent meetings I’ve held.

Mount Tabor High School JROTC

Congressional Art Competition Winner Nathaniel Wallace with his family and Margaret Weichert

National Association for Music Education

On this date in 1837, former Speaker of the House Nathaniel Macon died at his home “Buck Spring” near Warrenton, NC.  Macon is the only North Carolinian to serve as Speaker of the House, serving from 1801-1807.  Throughout his tenure in government, Macon was known as a close ally of President Thomas Jefferson and a staunch anti-Federalist.

What’s Coming Up?

Next week, as we celebrate Independence Day, I will be in the 5th District for a District Work Period.  I will be travelling around meeting with constituents, visiting local organizations and attending community events.  I look forward to seeing you! 

Sincerely,