This week, Senator Ted Cruz and I introduced the Officer John Barnes Act, a critical piece of legislation aimed at ensuring timely support for our nation's law enforcement officers and their families. Named in honor of Officer John Barnes, who demonstrated exceptional bravery during the Santa Fe, Texas shooting tragedy, this bill seeks to address the delays faced by officers and their families in receiving benefits from the Public Safety Officers' Benefits Program (PSOB).

The PSOB Program provides crucial support, including death and education benefits to survivors of fallen law enforcement officers, firefighters, and other first responders, as well as disability benefits to officers catastrophically injured in the line of duty. However, despite applying for these benefits, Officer Barnes and his family have experienced an excruciating wait for a determination from the Department of Justice (DOJ) since the 2018 shooting.

Under the provisions of the Officer John Barnes Act, the DOJ would be mandated to issue a determination on benefit claims within 270 days of receipt, providing much-needed clarity and support to officers and their families during times of crisis.

In America, we pride ourselves on supporting those who risk their lives to protect our communities. Yet, the burdensome delays within our federal government have left officers like John Barnes waiting in limbo for over six years.This is unacceptable, and no officer should have to endure such bureaucratic hurdles. The Officer John Barnes Act is a crucial step towards ensuring that our law enforcement heroes receive the timely assistance they deserve, without unnecessary obstacles hindering their access to vital benefits.

Yesterday, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection announced 170,723 illegal immigrant encounters at our Southern Border in May. This marks the 39th consecutive month with higher monthly illegal immigrant encounters than the highest month seen under President Trump.

This week, Joe Biden announced an executive order granting mass amnesty to hundreds of thousands of illegal immigrants. This executive order incentivizes further illegal immigration, evidenced by a 185% increase in May encounters compared to the average May under President Trump. Just weeks ago, Biden issued another executive order permitting a minimum of 1.8 million illegal immigrants to enter the country. The numbers confirm what experts predicted: Biden's executive orders do nothing to address the border crisis.

President Biden's move to grant amnesty via executive order is a clear abuse of power, aimed at pandering to a few Democrats and granting voting rights to illegal aliens. From day one, Biden has pursued policies to provide Medicare and Social Security benefits to illegal immigrants, burdening American taxpayers with the cost. This is a slap in the face to hardworking citizens who follow the rules and shows reckless disregard for our nation's sovereignty and fiscal responsibility.

This week, I had the privilege of hosting a reception honoring the Congressional Art Contest Winners in League City! Every year, these students continue to amaze me with their talent. I also got to speak to the Galveston Rotary Club about all the vital federal projects that are underway on the Gulf Coast. From port improvements to hurricane defense systems, these initiatives are critical investments in Galveston’s future. They will strengthen our infrastructure, create jobs, and ensure the safety and prosperity of our community. Galveston is a treasure of Texas and a key hub for our nation’s economy and security.

Around other parts of the district, Team Weber attended and had a booth at the Hurricane Preparedness and Safety Expos in Galveston and Brazoria County! Thank you to everyone who came out to learn about keeping our families safe during hurricane season. They also met with the U.S. Army Houston Recruiting Battalion Community Relations Team to strengthen relationships between active duty and veteran resources in the community. They also attended the Golden Triangle Industrial Group, League City Chamber of Commerce, and the Texas City Commissioners Meetings throughout Southeast Texas. 

This week, we celebrate Juneteenth, the day in 1865 when news of the Emancipation Proclamation finally reached Galveston, Texas. This marked a significant milestone in our nation's history, a triumph of freedom and justice.

As Americans, we hold dear the principles of liberty and equality that our great nation was founded upon. Juneteenth serves as a powerful reminder of the progress we've made and the work that still lies ahead.

“The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are freed.”- General Order Number 3.