Weekly Columns
The war against opioids and deadly illicit drugs still rages on, but there’s a light at the end of the tunnel for those who struggle with substance abuse. As we learn more about the successful ways to address substance use disorders, more opportunities for treatment and recovery are created that reach into our communities and create viable paths forward. Many of these opportunities for recovery are thanks in part to work done not only on the local and state levels, but at the federal level through legislation passed by Congress.
Deeply woven into the fabric of our nation’s history is the importance of second chances, fresh starts, and new beginnings. Before the United States was even established, those facing challenges in their home countries – whether through religious persecution or socioeconomic strains – looked toward our shores for hope and opportunity. And when our nation was finally conceived, those who fought hard to establish our democratic republic carried that hope with them to establish a rule of law that provided opportunity, not affliction, for those looking for second chances.
Across the nation, conversations this week likely revolved around the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” that passed out of the House, delivering on the mandate handed down by over 77 million Americans to address concerns like border security, increasing costs, healthcare, and more. It was especially exciting to be a part of this process, not only as Chairman of the House Natural Resources Committee, but also in my capacity as a member of the Transportation & Infrastructure Committee.
The badge and uniform our law enforcement officials wear come with a weighty responsibility and reality. They come with service and sacrifice, and a deep commitment to the communities these brave men and women have sworn to protect. This week is National Police Week, and our nation honored those who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty to ensure the safety of our cities, state, and nation.
Commonsense, science-based, and economically sound legislation successfully passed out of the Natural Resources Committee through our portion of the reconciliation legislation this week, as House Republicans continue to deliver on our promise to generate savings and boost new revenue for the federal government. As Chairman of this great committee, it was an honor to lead my colleagues in delivering an incredible federal savings of $18.5 billion dollars, greatly surpassing our requested amount of $1 billion dollars.
After the 119th Congress was sworn in on January 3, House Republicans hit the ground running to deliver on their promise to the American people to lower the cost of living, reduce frivolous government spending, secure our borders, and unleash energy dominance. Since then, every House committee has been working diligently to meet those demands and this week, we kicked off one of the most important steps in the reconciliation process with full committee markups.
For over 100 years, the National Park Service has been a diligent steward of the beautiful lands our nation is blessed with. In 1872, President Ulysses S. Grant established Yellowstone as the very first National Park, setting precedence for future generations to preserve and enjoy the incredible natural beauty that our country so uniquely boasts. From the beautiful Cape Cod National Seashore to the desert lands of the Saguaro National Park and the glacial majesty of Denali National Park, our country is second to none in its beauty.
The current federal permitting process hamstrings every corner of American life. Everything from gravel road repairs to simple agricultural maintenance and large-scale industrial projects are smothered under the weight of this cumbersome process. Once a powerhouse for innovation, expansion, and production, the United States is now severely lacking in the resources needed to push necessary production across the finish line – being cut off at the knees by senseless, bureaucratic red tape.
Americans, and certainly Arkansans, are no strangers to adversity. In our most challenging times, folks across Arkansas have always been courageous, shown sincere determination and grit, and come together in order to emerge more united and stronger than we were before. Last week’s storms certainly brought adversity and uncertainty, and it was encouraging to see the state come together to provide relief and help to friends and neighbors.
The American Dream has lived in the hearts and minds of Americans for countless generations – the idea that your class or your past does not define you or determine your value and that your success can be achieved through hard work and dedication – not the family you were born into or even your past.