Black American history is not one of a hapless, hopeless community but a celebration of remarkable progress, courage, and tenacity. During Black History Month, we commemorate the trials and triumphs of the countless heroes who made it possible for ALL Americans to achieve the American dream.
HIGHER EDUCATION AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
As the son of two educators, I am honored to serve as the Chairman of the Subcommittee on Higher Education and Workforce Development. Education is the key to unlocking the American Dream, and every student deserves the best possible opportunities. From strengthening the path to higher education to championing apprenticeships and other career-ready programs that lead to good jobs, I will work hard over the next two years to ensure every American can learn, grow, and thrive.
TACKLING AMERICAN INFRASTRUCTURE AND SUPPLY CHAIN CHALLENGES
Businesses in Utah’s Fourth District and across the nation aren’t getting the materials they need to meet the demand of their customers. Watch my full remarks from last week’s House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee hearing on American Infrastructure and Supply Chain Challenges.
I am also proud to announce that I’ve been selected to serve on three key House Transportation and Infrastructure subcommittees: Water Resources and Environment, Aviation, and Highways and Transit. From severe drought and water scarcity to unrivaled growth and a booming population, Utah faces unique challenges and exciting opportunities. I am thrilled to be a voice for my district – and all Americans – as we work to secure an efficient and safe highway system, develop common-sense and reliable water solutions, deliver improvements to passenger air travel, and more.
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
RECOVER Act
America’s students are in free fall, and the push to keep classrooms closed is to blame. Recent stats from the Nation’s Report Card showed the lowest reading scores since 1992, and the largest math declines ever recorded for 4th and 8th graders. I am proud to re-introduce the RECOVER Act to tackle our nation’s learning loss crisis. My bill will get parents off the sidelines and allow states to reallocate billions in unspent education covid relief funds so low-income students can receive the targeted support they need to get back on track.
Pandemic is Over Act
Last week, House Republicans passed the Pandemic is Over Act to IMMEDIATELY repeal the pandemic Public Health Emergency and end COVID-19 vaccine mandates for healthcare workers in federally funded facilities. Twelve extensions of the COVID-19 public health emergency over three years is far too many. The pandemic is over, and it is time for the federal government to return power to the American people.
Denouncing the Horrors of Socialism
Last week, 86 House Democrats voted against a House Resolution condemning the horrors of Socialism, and 14 voted present. Socialism is an evil ideology that inflicts death, poverty, and suffering on hundreds of millions worldwide. House Republicans stand in solidarity with those fighting oppression in every corner of the world, and I was proud to reaffirm our nation’s commitment to freedom, liberty, and justice for ALL.
Bipartisan Wildfire Caucus
Year after year, wildfires leave a trail of destruction to property and livelihoods in Utah and across the west. In Congress, I have supported several efforts, like the Wildland Fire Mitigation and Management Commission Act, to improve wildland fire prevention, mitigation, suppression, management, and rehabilitation methods. As a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I will work hard to deploy top-of-the-line technology and infrastructure. Wildfire mitigation and recovery is a top priority for Utahns, and I look forward to the work ahead on the bipartisan Congressional Wildfire Caucus.
Natural Gas Tax Repeal Act
Families in my district and across the nation are struggling to make ends meet due to President Biden’s inflation, high gas prices, and supply chain upheavals. House Republicans are putting a stop to this administration’s burdensome gas tax that will only worsen the pain at the pump. I am proud to support the Natural Gas Tax Repeal Act to reverse these reckless energy policies and cut costs for hard working Americans.
“Waters of the United States” (WOTUS) Rule
The Biden administration’s new “Waters of the United States” (WOTUS) rule threatens the livelihoods of Utah’s farmers, ranchers, and small business owners. I co-sponsored a joint resolution of disapproval under the Congressional Review Act (CRA) on the Biden Administration’s flawed and burdensome “Waters of the United States” (WOTUS) rule. This rule will lead to sweeping changes to the federal government’s authority to regulate what is considered a navigable water, with enormous impacts on small businesses, manufacturers, farmers, home and infrastructure builders, local communities, water districts, and private property owners.
FIGHTING MODERN DAY SLAVERY
Last week, I wrote an op-ed highlighting Human Trafficking Awareness Month and the bipartisan push in Washington and around the globe to solve these horrific crimes of exploitation that steal freedom for personal profit. I believe this issue can – and should – be solved through a combination of awareness, prevention, and survivor relief policies. Read my full op-ed here.
