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Foxx Report
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This week Pope Francis visited the United States Capitol and became the first leader of the Holy See to address a joint meeting of Congress. It’s easy to see why people around the world have embraced Pope Francis. His example of love, mercy and compassion is one that we all should strive to emulate. The United States, and the world, are facing difficult challenges, and Pope Francis is correct that the gravity of these challenges demands that we work together to find solutions that respect our differences and conscience.
It also was gratifying to hear Pope Francis speak for those who cannot by urging us to “protect and defend human life at every stage of its development” and recognize the vital importance of a strong family to our nation’s progress and prosperity.
Due to the unprecedented nature of his visit, Pope Francis' address was broadcast live to members of the public, including constituents from North Carolina’s 5th District, on the West Front of the Capitol. It was a pleasure to have Carol Markey, a member of St. Leo the Great Catholic Church in Winston-Salem, as my guest in the House gallery for the Holy Father’s remarks.
RAPID Act
Today the House passed legislation to address the growing delays in critical federal energy and infrastructure projects. The bipartisan RAPID Act would streamline the review, approval and permitting processes required by the National Environmental Policy Act for federally-funded projects.
The permitting process for federally-funded construction is bogged down by endless bureaucratic delays and litigation. The U.S. ranks 41st worldwide in the procedures, time and costs needed to obtain a government green light for construction. Removing artificial government barriers and unnecessary red tape will help preserve and strengthen the American economy.
A March 2011 study found 351 projects stuck in permitting that could generate $1.1 trillion and 1.9 million jobs a year during construction. Once built, each year of these projects’ operations could produce another $145 billion and involve 791,000 jobs.
U.S. Service Academy Day
Tomorrow I will host a U.S. Service Academy Day from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Clemmons Branch Library, 3554 Clemmons Road, Clemmons, NC 27012. This event will help familiarize students with the application and nomination process for applying to the nation's five military service academies.
North Carolina’s 5th Congressional District has a proud tradition of military service, and it’s a privilege to help some of the area’s finest young men and women contribute to this legacy by attending our country’s prestigious military service academies. I look forward to seeing high school students of all ages and their parents at this informative event.
What’s Coming Up
Next week the House will again consider legislation on Planned Parenthood, including the establishment of a Select Subcommittee at the Committee on Energy and Commerce to investigate Planned Parenthood and a bill to explicitly allow states to prevent abortion providers such as Planned Parenthood from receiving Medicaid reimbursements. Legislation concerning funding the government for fiscal year 2016 is also likely to be considered.
Sincerely,
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