Weekly Memo
Inflation continues to spiral out of control, and Americans still face shortages of basic goods. The COVID-19 pandemic and the economic challenges and supply chain disruptions that came with it have made it painfully clear that we must put our country in a position to maintain control of our own supply chain.
Every year, one of Congress’ most fundamental constitutional responsibilities is to “provide for the common defense” by debating and passing the annual National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). I’m pleased to report that the Fiscal Year 2023 NDAA recently passed the House with strong bipartisan support.
It’s no secret that military service – and wartime service in particular – comes with great personal sacrifice, especially the risk of severe injury and even death.
Over the last couple of weeks, I’ve been fortunate to be home in West Michigan as the House has been out of session for a district work period.
By now, you might have seen the tragic, horrific news that at least 51 migrants were recently found deceased inside an abandoned semitruck in San Antonio, Texas. It is speculated that some were under the age of 18. Twenty-two were Mexican nationals, seven were from Guatemala, and two from Honduras.
West Michigan is home to some of the world’s most beautiful natural resources and landscapes. Our community relies on our environment for many things, not the least of which are recreational activities and hobbies. As you may know, the North Country National Scenic Trail (NST) – the longest of the 11 NSTs – runs through the Third District.
On June 10th, the Treasury Department released the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) Report. The report confirmed what many Americans experience each time they go to fill up their gas tanks or buy groceries for their families: inflation is at a 40-year high, with the prices of consumer goods up 8.6% since May 2021.
Every two years, Congress negotiates and passes a bipartisan piece of legislation called the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), which provides funding for improvements to our nation’s waterways, flood control, and coastal resiliency projects. The bill also provides authority for the U.S.
It’s hard to believe we’re closing out another school year, and it seems like just yesterday that I was a student in the East Grand Rapids Public School District. Over the last 12 months, I’ve been fortunate to have several opportunities to visit with West Michigan students.
During the month of May, people across the country participate in a national movement to raise awareness, fight the stigma, provide support, educate the public, and advocate for policies supporting individuals with mental illness.