It’s been a productive week in Washington. We passed over a dozen bills to strengthen veterans programs, legislation to fund groundbreaking medical innovation, and a bill to improve the infrastructure of our ports, canals, locks, and waterways. Meanwhile, the Christmas season was in full swing with the annual lighting of the Capitol Christmas Tree, a 50 year old tradition that I look forward to every year.
Tomorrow, I am looking forward to delivering the commencement address to graduates at Middle Tennessee State University but, in the meantime, I wanted to share with you three quick highlights from my week in Washington:
Our Troops Deserve A Raise
I have always been committed to fully funding our military and providing the brave men and women of our armed forces with the training and resources they need. Just this week, the Senate approved the House-passed National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA)the legislative vehicle by which we authorize funding for our troops to carry out their mission at home and abroad. The NDAA, which has been passed by Congress annually for the last fifty years, is how Congress meets its Constitutional duty to “provide for the common defense.” This year’s bill will give our troops the largest pay raise in six years, improve information sharing to combat cyber threats, strengthen military health care, and provide important tools in the fight against ISIS. Importantly, the bill also continues the ban on transferring detainees from Guantanamo Bay to U.S. soil. I urge the President to act quickly and sign this vital legislation into law.
It’s Time to Put States Back in the Driver’s Seat
It’s time to put states back in the driver’s seat when it comes to matters of energy policy so that America can realize its full energy potential. That is why I introduced the Federal Land Freedom Act to allow states to have full-permitting authority during the process of energy exploration. Putting states – rather than the inept federal government – in charge of the leasing, permitting and regulatory programs would prove to be a much more efficient way to foster energy development. Earlier this week, I spoke with TheBlaze about the possibility of seeing my legislation passed and signed into law by the incoming Trump Administration. Click HERE to read the article.
White Plains Academy: A School of Second Chances
This morning I visited with students and administrators from White Plains Academy, an alternative school in Cookeville, to experience their community of second chances, firsthand. The Academy has a unique way of fostering a positive and uplifting environment for at-risk students, and I was so deeply touched by the inspiring stories I heard in each classroom I visited. Principal Joe Matheney and his team take very seriously their duty to promote an inclusive and encouraging educational atmosphere for all of their students. I can’t wait to wear my t-shirt they gave me!
