Protecting SNAP for Kansans | Chairing a Social Security Hearing

Headline: Social Security Subcommittee Hearing

.On Tuesday I chaired a Social Security Subcommittee hearing titled “Untapped Talent in America: Removing Barriers to Work and Supporting Opportunity for Individuals with Disabilities.” The hearing was held jointly with the Work & Welfare Subcommittee.

Roughly 60% of Social Security Disability Insurance (DI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients would like to find a job, gain new skills, or advance their careers. However, the reality is that the current system is complex and full of red tape for individuals who would like to work. My hope is that our programs can be modernized so Americans who want to participate in the workforce will be able to do so.

In our hearing, we heard from individuals who navigated these policies firsthand, and we learned about opportunities to remove government barriers to work.

You can watch my opening remarks here and my questioning of the witnesses here.

.On Thursday, our nation remembered the lives tragically lost 24 years ago because of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. My condolences to the families who lost a loved one on that tragic day. We will never forget.

.On Wednesday, Charlie Kirk was horrifically assassinated while speaking to college students at Utah Valley University. He was known for his faith, love for his family, and the conversations he had with those who disagreed with him. The loss of Charlie Kirk will be felt by all corners of the conservative movement and anyone who values our First Amendment right to free speech. Charlie touched the lives of many people – but most of all, America's youth.

His bright spirit and determination to bring about a better future for his children and his fellow Americans will never be forgotten, and I’m confident that there are so many young Americans who will carry on his movement across the country. We must continue to pray for his wife, his two young children, and all those who were in his life.

.Every week, I enjoy going home to Kansas and meeting with constituents throughout the 4th District when I can.

Recently I visited Clinic In A Can, a local business in Bel Aire that converts shipping containers into global health clinics. They send these clinics to people in need or in disaster areas. It’s always great to learn about the incredible men and women who make our region special.

In addition, I met with Colonel Wall and Chief Master Sergeant Crawford at McConnell Air Force Base. We talked about their priorities and ongoing projects. I was happy to also meet the KC-46 and KC-135 crews.

.Last week, we celebrated National Aerospace Week and recognized the contributions of aviation companies, workers, and organizations in the United States. Last year, the aerospace and defense industry generated more than $955 billion in sales, greatly contributing to our economy.

It is my honor to represent the Air Capital of the World in the U.S. House of Representatives. Whenever I travel throughout the district, I’m always happy to meet the hardworking men and women who manufacture and design airplanes that are used throughout the world.

As Co-Chair of the House Aerospace Caucus, I’m always excited to celebrate American aviation and innovation.

.Republicans’ Working Families Tax Cut, signed into law by President Trump, is historic because it delivers for workers and families in Kansas and around the country. The legislation includes tax cuts that will allow Kansans to keep more of their hard-earned money. In fact, Americans who earn between $15,000 and $80,000 annually can expect a 15% tax cut on average. I’m happy to have voted for this legislation so that Kansans can benefit from the tax relief.