Record-Setting Week

Record-High Gas Prices

On Friday, gas prices set an all-time high. It was the 11th consecutive day reaching an all-time high. Some analysts expect prices to reach $6 per gallon by August. Yet, instead of pursuing legislation to unleash domestic energy, Democrats continue to block these legislative efforts. Instead of pursuing solutions to ease the burdens all Americans are facing, Democrats have continued to push messaging bills.

Record-High Illegal Border Crossings

Unfortunately, gas prices and inflation are not the only dismal records being broken. April set the record for the most illegal border crossings according to the Department of Homeland Security. April's record may not last long as President Biden still plans to end Title 42 within the week. I've been advocating for Title 42's extension, as well as cosponsoring multiple pieces of legislation to secure our southern border and end this crisis.

Addressing the Baby Formula Shortage

Along with the other ongoing crises, families are also facing an unacceptable baby formula shortage. This was caused largely by the FDA's shut down of Abbott's Sturgis facility, and the Biden Administration’s failure to take action to re-open it sooner. Sadly, Speaker Pelosi proposed a funding bill to increase salaries for FDA bureaucrats, instead of focusing on solutions to get formula back on the shelf.

This week, I cosponsored legislation to increase supply and give parents more options by lifting FDA market barriers so they can access safe formula, including from abroad. I voted for and spoke in support of the bipartisan Access to Baby Formula Act, which requires preparation and planning for supply chain disruptions, ensures appropriate guardrails, and will help prevent disasters caused in part by government contracts altering the market. 

Committee Markups

Both the Education & Labor as well as Energy & Commerce committees held markups this week. During these markups there were many flawed or flat-out bad pieces of legislation; however, there were also some bills I was proud to help advance. In the Energy & Commerce Committee, we advanced the Restoring Hope for Mental Health and Well-Being Act which would help individuals working to overcome substance use disorders. In Education & Labor, we advanced the Enhancing Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Through Campus Planning Act which will help address the concerning mental health issues experienced by students.

Supporting Veterans

Ahead of Memorial Day, the House passed 19 bipartisan veterans bills this week. We owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to our veterans and I was glad the House came together to pass some important legislation. These bills will help improve VA claims processes, improve the VA's advocate program, streamline the transfer of GI benefits to dependents, and much more. 

Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

This week, I was pleased to meet with a group of motorcycle advocates and discuss my bipartisan resolution to increase awareness and to help prevent instances of profiling. I am proud to be a co-chair of the Congressional Motorcycle Caucus, and Motorcycle Safety Awareness month is a great opportunity to encourage riders and drivers to share the road, stay aware, and drive smart.