Reforming the Endangered Species Act for Species and Landowners | |
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Yesterday, my legislation, the Endangered Species (ESA) Amendments Act, passed out of the House Natural Resources Committee. This paves the way for it to come to the floor for a vote before the full House of Representatives.
This bill makes reforms to the outdated ESA to incentivize conservation, protect landowner rights, and implement transparency in the recovery of species. It is also the product of the ESA Working Group, which I co-founded with House Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman.
Since its inception in 1973, the ESA has only recovered or de-listed 3% of its species.
Only in the federal government would a 3% success rate be considered acceptable, further proving that the ESA needs reform—not only for the sake of our species, but for the people of Central Washington affected by its land usage restrictions, impact on property values, and costly permitting requirements.
Our species and landowners have suffered too long from the misuse of the ESA, and the ESA Amendments Act puts an end to that. I am committed to working with my colleagues in Congress to provide tangible, common-sense solutions for the betterment of the landowners and species recovery.
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Talking China and Spending with the Washington Journal | |
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This morning, I joined C-SPAN's Washington Journal to discuss the importance of a fiscally responsible budget, as well as my legislation that passed the House last week, the Protecting American Agriculture from Foreign Adversaries Act.
The CCP has been working around the clock to influence our institutions and our way of life, which includes purchasing swaths of our domestic farmland.
I have been working on the House Select Committee on the CCP to prevent our foreign adversaries from gaining a foothold in our system, and this legislation is a great step towards curbing their ability to purchase our land.
We still have a lot of work to do, but I am proud to be leading the effort in Congress to get it done.
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Protecting Consumer Choice | |
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Today, I proudly voted YES on H.J. Res 136, providing for Congressional disapproval of "multi-pollutant emissions standards for model years 2027 and later light-duty and medium-duty vehicles."
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has continuously tried to force a transition to EVs, and the rules they have implemented amount to an effective EV mandate.
A forced EV transition is an attack on the rural way of life. Unnecessarily strict tailpipe emission standards are designed to restrict consumer choice, goes against the wishes of many Americans, and places an unnecessary burden on rural communities—like Central Washington—where EV infrastructure is lacking.
Americans should be able to choose a vehicle that works best for them and their needs, which is why I co-sponsored this legislation. EVs have a place in the marketplace, however, the federal government should not be mandating their purchase as necessary.
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Supporting Small Business in Central Washington | |
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This week, I was proud to receive the National Federation of Independent Business' (NFIB) Guardian of Small Business award.
Most people do not realize how many small businesses are all around us, but the truth is, they make up a large percentage of the businesses we frequent. Whether it be a storefront on Main Street in uptown Richland, a family-owned restaurant in Moses Lake, or a construction company in the Yakima Valley, it is likely you know someone who considers themselves to be a small business owner or small business employee.
When Main Street is successful, we all are successful, and I will continue to support Central Washington's small businesses.
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Meeting with McCain Foods | |
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On Tuesday, I met with representatives from McCain Foods.
We discussed the importance of agricultural research, as well as labor and transportation concerns.
The food manufacturing industry is crucial in Central Washington, and ensuring its reliability is of the utmost importance to me.
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Learning About the Newest Developments in Cancer Research | |
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On Tuesday, I met with the American Cancer Society Network.
We talked about the importance of allocating resources for cancer research and prevention programs—especially in rural regions like Central Washington.
For the first time ever, it is projected that there will be over 2 million new cancer cases in 2024, making the need for resources greater than ever before.
I have long been an advocate for expanded rural healthcare access, and I remain committed to ensuring these programs have the funding they need for research, prevention, and treatment response.
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Discussing the Need for Nuclear Energy Initiatives | |
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This week, I met with the new CEO of Framatome, Tony Robinson.
Framatome is a nuclear energy supplier and fuel producer located in Richland, and they have been working to advance clean energy initiatives.
During our meeting, we discussed continued improvement of the nuclear energy space and the importance of the clean energy economy. Nuclear is an important part of an all-of-the-above energy solution, and I look forward to continuing our conversations.
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Expanding Rural Healthcare Access in Central Washington | |
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On Wednesday, I met with representatives from the Washington State Hospital Association.
We discussed the opportunities and challenges currently facing hospitals in our region, specifically rural labor and delivery services.
The need for these services in rural areas is skyrocketing, and I will continue to advocate for the allocation of resources to ensure the safety of our residents.
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Discussing the Continued Operations of Walla Walla's Facilities | |
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This week, I met with the Commander of the Walla Walla District U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Lieutenant Colonel Werback.
We discussed Walla Walla's facility operations and water resource matters along the Snake River Basin.
The Snake River is just one of many rivers that power our dams, and their continued operations is of the utmost importance.
As long as I remain in Congress, I will fight for the survival of our dams as we move towards an energy independent future.
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Meeting with Washington Beef | |
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On Wednesday, I spoke with representatives from Washington Beef.
They updated me on their Lower Yakima Valley facilities and shared their thoughts on the Farm Bill.
Livestock and agriculture production are a huge part of the economic success of Central Washington, and passing a comprehensive Farm Bill is essential for our producers.
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This week, my staff traveled to Twisp and Othello for mobile office hours.
Mobile office hours are a great opportunity for folks to come out and let my office know how I can better serve you.
If you are having an issue with a federal agency or want to come ask a question, I urge you to stop by!
Missed this week's session? Don't worry, mobile office hours will occur on a weekly basis.
Next week, join my office on Wednesday, September 25 from 10 AM - 12 PM at Pangborn Memorial Airport, 1 Pangborn Drive, Ease Wenatchee, 98802 and Thursday, September 18 from 1 - 3 PM at the USDA Service Building, 1251 Second Ave S, Okanogan, 98840.
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Services My Office Provides
Having trouble navigating the bureaucratic red-tape of a federal agency? Need assistance with VA benefits? Looking to book a tour of our nation's capital?
Visit my website to see all the services my office provides.
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Don't Forget: Sign Up for the App Challenge Today
The App Challenge is open to all middle and high school students who reside in or attend a school in Washington’s 4th Congressional District. Students may participate individually or in a team of students up to four.
The competition will run until October 24, 2024, and applicants are welcome to submit their application any time during this period.
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