A True Turning Point
On Friday, I watched more than 100 adults graduate from the Turning Point Education Center program in Linton. Their perseverance the oldest graduate was 67 years old and desire to pursue their dreams was inspirational. As a co-chair of the Career and Technical Education caucus, I think it’s important to support programs like Turning Point that are providing a service to hard-working Americans who want to take the next step in their education, whether it’s going back to get your high school diploma or pursuing a certificate to become a welder, nursing assistant, teaching assistant, and much more.
WTHI reports more here.
Support for our Troops
The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) is vital for both Hoosiers and National Security. That’s why last week I strongly pushed for the funding it provides for the brave men and women of our armed services.
In a time when we face so many threats, we have a responsibility to supply our military with the best resources and give them the unparalleled means to defend our nation. We must continue to modernize our military and maintain America’s strength and power abroad.
Simultaneously, we must recognize the real driver of our national debt runaway, automatic entitlement spending. Such spending blocks Congress from providing the military with the tools it deserves and interferes with its most important duty protecting the American people.
In a press conference last week, I spoke about the importance of the NDAA. To watch my full remarks, click here.
Congressional Hearings on Iran
With the help of Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC) Chairman Jim Risch (R-Idaho), I secured a hearing on the Authorization for the Use of Military Force (AUMF) with respect to the United States taking military action against Iran the world’s leading state sponsor of terror.
As a Marine, I have always sought to ensure that Congress fulfills its duty of authorizing the use of force. Respecting the responsibility I have to protect the American people, I believe it is crucial we maintain maximum pressure on Iran.
Learn more here.
Protecting Affordable Housing
Last week, I helped introduce bipartisan legislation to protect safe and affordable housing for all Americans. I understand the burdens families face when fair housing isn’t available, and this bill goes a long way to empower the private sector and provide better options for the Hoosiers who need it most.
The Save Affordable Housing Act would prevent the premature loss of affordable housing and see to it that Housing Credit properties remain affordable for at least 30 years. With this bill, Congress can make good on its promise to serve Americans of all income levels.
Celebrating 100 years of the American Legion
I was honored to help create a commemorative coin and introduce a senate resolution to celebrate the 100 year anniversary of the American Legion and its service to the veterans of our armed forces.
As a member of the American Legion, I have seen first-hand the great work it does to improve the lives of veterans. Indianapolis is the home of this important organization, and I am proud to be a part of celebrating this milestone.
Tobacco to 21 Out of Committee
I’m pleased to announce that key components of the Tobacco to 21 Act have passed out of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, and the bill is now one step closer to becoming law.
Tobacco and electronic cigarette use in our middle schools and high schools is a nationwide epidemic that can no longer be ignored
With close to 95 percent of adult smokers admitting they began smoking before the age of 21, this life-saving bill would prohibit the sale of tobacco products and e-cigarettes to anyone under the age of 21.
I’ve seen first-hand the consequences of the smoking-related illnesses affecting Hoosiers and millions of Americans. That is why I will work to ensure that this crucial legislation passes the full Senate and is signed by the President.
Click here or on the image below for more information on the Tobacco to 21 Act.
Establishing Necessary Oversight of SBA Program
Small business is a major component of Indiana’s economy, and last week I introduced the Small Business Investment Improvement Act of 2019 to create much needed oversight of the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Small Business Investment Company (SBIC) program.
As it stands, the SBIC program lacks the statutory timelines for processing applications. This causes uncertainty for funds applying to participate in the program and hurts small businesses seeking investor capital.
This commonsense legislation would not only streamline the application process and provide oversight, but it would also make sure that the SBIC program is running as efficiently as possible so that small businesses all over the nation can continue to grow.
Funding September 11th Victim Compensation
For the survivors, first responders, and families who lost loved ones on September 11th, the wounds of that day can never completely heal. That’s why I am cosponsoring the Never Forget the Heroes: Permanent Authorization of the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) Act.
In the nearly 18 years following the attacks, thousands of survivors and first-responders have become ill and many have lost their lives due to their toxic exposure at Ground Zero.
As Americans, we must remain steadfast in our remembrance and support of those who lost so much on September 11th. We cannot undo the damage of that fateful day, but we can do everything in our power to see that these brave men and women receive the compensation they deserve.
Photo Week in Review
For a quick recap of the last week, click here.
Social Media Recap
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