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May 3, 2024
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Remembering Kevin Burnette: A Pillar of Service and Leadership
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| Congressman Sessions and Kevin Burnette |
My heart is heavy, and I am sad to announce the passing of my longtime friend Kevin Burnette. A veteran of public service and congressional politics for over five decades, Kevin worked a fulfilling career ranging from service as Chief of Staff for former Texas Congressman Beau Boulter to leading the Texas operations for my team. Kevin left an enduring impact on his state and peers. He was a dependable and thoughtful leader in my office, whose presence and value will be greatly missed.
Kevin and I began working in politics together in 1976. We shared a vision of a better future for the United States and the State of Texas. I greatly benefited from the wisdom he imparted over many years, often referring to him as the brains of the operation. It was an honor to know him and a privilege to work with him.
My wife Karen, my congressional staff, and I extend our deepest sympathies to Kevin’s loving wife, Patricia, his daughters Anna Grace and Callie, and the rest of the Burnette family.
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Improving Federal Agency Responsiveness
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| Congressman Sessions giving his remarks to OMB Deputy Director Miller |
On Tuesday, as the Chairman of the House Oversight & Accountability Subcommittee on Government Operations and the Federal Workforce, I took a leading role in a significant hearing that addressed the effectiveness of the U.S. Office of Management & Budget (OMB).
During this hearing, members of the Committee engaged with Jason Miller, Deputy Director at OMB, discussing critical issues that impact every American, from how Social Security checks are issued to the management of federal telework policies. The focus was clear: ensuring our government is accountable and operates in the best interest of the people it serves.
One of the primary concerns that I addressed was the continued extensive telework policies instituted during the COVID-19 pandemic. While initially needed, the lack of data to justify ongoing massive telework raises questions about its impact on service delivery. Americans deserve a government that meets their needs efficiently and effectively, without unnecessary overhead.
Another significant point I made was the influence of federal employee unions on telework policies. Decisions about federal operations must be made based on what's best for the taxpayer – not what's preferred by unions.
I am committed to scrutinizing these policies and practices to ensure they serve the best interest of the American people. The OMB plays a pivotal role in this, as they help shape the execution of the President’s Management Agenda across all federal agencies.
I will continue to hold these agencies accountable and advocate for policies that prioritize the needs and expectations of our citizens over bureaucratic preferences. My goal is to shape a federal workforce that is as dynamic and efficient as the people it serves.
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Addressing the Reckless Rescheduling of Marijuana
This week, the Department of Justice (DOJ) endorsed a proposal to change marijuana’s classification from a Schedule I to a Schedule III drug under the Controlled Substances Act. This follows wide reporting that the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will recommend the White House to lower marijuana’s classification.
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| Congressman Sessions and Sheriff Parnell McNamara sit for an interview |
Marijuana has been listed as a Schedule I drug since 1970 due to its high potential for abuse. The proposal to lower its classification overlooks significant dangers associated with its use and could increase illegal activities that threaten our national security and public health.
Research links marijuana use to serious mental health problems, including anxiety, paranoia, schizophrenia, and suicidal thoughts. I introduced H.Con.Res 87, “Randy’s Resolution,” to increase awareness of the risks of marijuana and potent THC products. Reclassification could make marijuana more accessible, potentially worsening these public health issues.
Moreover, this change could benefit drug cartels and the Chinese Communist Party, which have been involved in illegal marijuana cultivation within our borders. Last year, I led a letter urging the DEA to maintain marijuana’s Schedule I classification, and more recently, I co-authored a bipartisan letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland to address the threats from foreign-run marijuana operations.
As the most vocal anti-marijuana Member of Congress, I am disappointed by the Administration’s disregard for the scientific evidence and the risks involved. The proposed reclassification fails to consider the families who have suffered due to marijuana-related incidents.
I will continue to oppose this decision and advocate for policies that prioritize public safety and scientific evidence.
Yesterday, McLennan County Sheriff Parnell McNamara joined me for an interview with KWTX to discuss marijuana rescheduling and the dangers of THC products. You can watch the full interview here. |
Opportunities Provided by Community Banking
On Tuesday, I had the distinct pleasure of meeting with representatives from the Independent Community Bankers Association. We discussed several crucial issues affecting our rural communities and the banking sector.
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| Congressman Sessions with the Independent Community Bankers Association |
Community banks are often the lifeblood of rural economies, offering loans, savings, and financial services that large banks often cannot provide to smaller communities. We discussed ways to enhance financial support and resources for these banks to ensure they continue to serve as economic pillars in rural America.
Regarding regulatory overreach, while guidelines are necessary, it must be sensible and not stifle innovation or impose undue burdens on community banks. These institutions face unique challenges, and regulations must be tailored to support rather than hinder their operations.
I am committed to taking our discussions forward to Congress to advocate for policies that support the growth and sustainability of community banks. |
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KWTX→ Reclassification of marijuana: What to know and be aware of
The Drug Enforcement Administration recently announced they will soon move medical marijuana from being a class one drug. Congressman Sessions and McLennan County Sheriff Parnell McNamara voice their concerns about dangerous new THC and marijuana products.
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| Sincerely, |
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| Pete Sessions |
| Member of Congress |
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