Columns
Jun 12, 2015
New legislation that I’m proudly co-sponsoring does just that by helping industries voluntarily and proactively come into compliance with workplace safety guidelines. Known as the Voluntary Protection Program, VPP is an Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) program that has been successful since its creation in 1982. However, it was never authorized into law, making it subject to the whims of the Executive Branch. H.R. 2500 would finally authorize VPP in the law, making it permanent and allowing Congress to oversee and fund it properly through the appropriations process.
Jun 5, 2015
An important part of my job in Congress is making sure national Veterans Affairs leaders pay attention to Alabama and remain focused on improving the health care system our veterans depend on. That’s why this week I spoke from the House Floor to mark one year since former VA Secretary Eric Shinseki resigned amid scandal and to draw attention to the fact that many problems still persist at the Central Alabama VA.
May 29, 2015
One of my favorite parts of serving in Congress is the honor and responsibility I have to nominate young men and women for an appointment to our nation’s military academies. Each year, my office conducts a rigorous process by which applicants are reviewed and interviewed by an independent panel of service academy alumni.
May 22, 2015
More than 60,000 fighter pilots have served in the U.S. Armed Forces through the years. Among them, only 1,447 have earned the designation of “Fighter Ace,” a merit given to those who downed five or more enemy aircraft in combat. Only 77 remain alive today, and one of them, Lieutenant General Charles “Chick” Cleveland, lives here in Central Alabama.
May 20, 2015
Montgomery's "Fighter Ace," Lt. Gen. Charles "Chick" Cleveland will be honored with the Congressional Gold Medal today at a special ceremony in the U.S. Capitol.
May 15, 2015
Did you know that federal water regulators have been trying to greatly expand their reach into private lands by seeking to make small ponds, puddles and ditches subject to strict federal regulations?
May 8, 2015
I recently took advantage of a brief break in Congressional action and made my way around Alabama’s 2nd Congressional District visiting with constituents and meeting with groups. It’s always good to be out and about hearing directly from those I represent about their views and concerns.
May 4, 2015
It is imperative that Alabama students have access to first-rate education opportunities that prepare them for the careers of tomorrow. That’s why I am a proud proponent of Career and Technical Education (CTE), and Alabama is blessed to be home to a strong network of programs.
Apr 24, 2015
The House Appropriations Committee has approved the Military Construction and Veterans Affairs Appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2016. This is the annual legislation that provides resources for military training, equipment and services, as well as base maintenance and infrastructure. The bill also funds veterans’ benefits and programs, including the Veterans Heath Administration (VA).
Apr 17, 2015
Some troubling news: the Central Alabama Veterans Health Care System (CAVHCS) has been home to the highest percentage nationwide for extended delays in veteran appointment completions, according to an in-depth report by the Associated Press.