Hello Friend,

Welcome to my e-newsletter, the Ready Room. As a retired Naval Aviator, the Ready Room is special to me because it’s where fellow aviators meet to brief and debrief missions. This is my weekly briefing to you on my mission in Congress. Please follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube for regular updates on how my team and I are working to serve you in Congress.

STANDING WITH OUR ALLY ISRAEL

After the April 13th attacks on Israel, it is critical Congress ensures Israel—the only democracy in the region—has the necessary support to defend itself. That's why I voted for H.R. 8034 to provide assistance to our ally as they protect their homeland. This bill includes:

• $4 billion to replenish Iron Dome and David’s Sling missile defense systems;
• $1.2 billion for the Iron Beam defense system to counter short-range rockets and mortar threats; and
• $2.4 billion for American forces operating and responding in the region.

This emergency security assistance passed the Senate and became public law 118-50. I will always stand with Israel in Congress.

SUPPORTING OUR TROOPS

In 2015, the Department of Defense (DOD) reduced servicemembers’ Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) as a cost-saving measure. This has placed financial strain on our troops, especially those who live in high-cost areas. As a veteran, I know it can be challenging to raise a family and make ends meet on a servicemember's salary, which often lags far behind private-sector compensation. That's why I cosponsored H.R. 2537, the BAH Restoration Act, to require the DOD restore full BAH benefits to help meet servicemembers' needs. Click here to learn more.

ANNOUNCING 2024 CONGRESSIONAL ART COMPETITION WINNERS

Last week, we honored the 2024 Congressional Art Competition winners at the Polk Museum of Art. This year's theme, "Freedom is Not Free," challenged students to portray the service and sacrifice made by our nation’s heroes and their families. I applaud each student-artist for their participation and creativity. 

• 1st Place Best of Show: “Memory,” by Marina Barrientos-Allende, Junior at Harrison School for the Arts
• 2nd Place: “Freedom,” by Layla Sierra, Freshman at Harrison School for the Arts
• 3rd Place: “Breaking Through to Freedom,” Mariyah Grant, Junior at Harrison School for the Arts

Test Your Knowledge #CivicsWithScott!

Which act gave settlers 160 acres of land if they agreed to live on it for five years?

A. Public Lands Act
B. Homestead Act
C. Bounty Land Act
D. Land Act

Last Week's Question

Who was the first president to live in the White House?

A. James Madison
B. George Washington
C. Thomas Jefferson
D. John Adams - Correct answer

It is an honor and privilege to represent you in Congress. Please take a moment to fill out my latest constituent survey here. Your feedback helps me better represent you. For more information on constituent services, current legislation, and to sign up for my e-newsletter, please visit my website at franklin.house.gov. 

Best regards,

C. Scott Franklin
Member of Congress