Media

In a historic moment for our nation’s farmers, ranchers, small businesses, and landowners, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Zeldin announced a new proposed ruling to define Waters of the United States (WOTUS) under the Clean Water Act. This common-sense regulation protects our state’s waters while also unleashing American economic prosperity, and it was an honor to be in attendance and provide a few words of my support.

Nearly 250 years ago, our great nation was born. The decades that came before it were measured by a people whose spirit yearned for freedom from tyranny and the right to self-determination. We were founded by a people whose grit was equally matched by their hope for a new, free nation. But we all know how the story goes, and our freedom wasn’t easily won. It was fought for, and has since been, maintained by men and women who have taken on the duty of preserving our liberty. This week, we reflect on their service and thank them for their sacrifice.

The rural landscape that makes up a large portion of the Fourth District of Arkansas is a hallmark of our great state. From the beautiful hills of the Ozarks to the Arkansas River Valley to the forests and farmlands in the south you will be hard-pressed to find a corner of the Natural State that is not worth a visit. However, the beauty of these areas comes with a cost, creating distinct challenges for our rural communities when accessing urban areas and vital resources like health care.

The deadline is fast approaching for Congress to reauthorize surface transportation legislation, with the current bill expiring on September 30, 2026. Regular, continued reauthorization of our nation’s surface transportation programs is integral to maintaining the safety and integrity of our local infrastructure. Without essential repairs and improvements, our roadways and bridges will continue to take on more wear and tear, leading to major issues down the road.

Serving as the only licensed forester in Congress provides many unique opportunities to work on legislation that brings a commonsense and conservative approach to forest management across the nation. Additionally, it is a great privilege to serve as the Chairman of the House Committee on Natural Resources. In this committee, the stewardship of our public lands remains a top priority for all its members, and this week, great steps were made to push our committee’s Fix Our Forests Act (FOFA) closer to the finish line and the President’s desk to be signed into law.

Dyslexia may be the most common learning disability, but it unfortunately remains misunderstood in many parts of the country. This learning disability should never be a roadblock for students’ success in the classroom; however, the lack of public awareness further hinders early diagnoses, preventing our students from receiving the tools they need to succeed early in their educational journey.