Come and Read It Report
Dear Texans,
Last Tuesday, after over 30 years of a broken and complex tax code, Americans said goodbye and good riddance to an archaic filing system, thanks to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Moving forward, businesses in our district and across America will continue to expand and invest back into their operations. Moms and dads will be able to take advantage of an increased child tax credit that they can save for their kids' college fund, and the typical family of four in the 25th District of Texas will receive an average tax cut of $2,746. Next year, Americans will continue to see more jobs, fairer taxes, better wages, and less federal government in our lives. To find out more on tax reform, visit fairandsimple.gop.
Statement on Former First Lady Barbara Bush
I join my fellow Americans in mourning the loss of former First Lady Barbara Bush. She wore many titles throughout her time on this Earth - wife, mother, grandmother, literacy advocate, First Lady - but for me, her best title was simply, 'proud American.' She possessed an old-fashioned love of country and service to others. She believed that America was a great nation because of its good people, and she inspired us all to love America and to give back. Our country is better because of Mrs. Bush; she will always be missed, but she will never be forgotten. You can find my full statement here.
Fort Hood Update
I am pleased to announce that after a concerted effort between Washington and the Fort Hood community, ‘The Great Place' is receiving $117.4 million in barracks funding. There's nothing more important to me than the well-being of our servicemen and women, and this critical funding is a step in the right direction in providing for those who selflessly serve in our Army. These brave men and women put their lives on the line for our nation, and the last of their concerns should ever be the living conditions that they return to each night. I am proud to represent these soldiers in Congress and I will continue to fight on their behalf to secure additional funds for Fiscal Year 2019 (FY19) and beyond. You can find my full statement here.
Southern Border Update
As the former Secretary of State of Texas under former Texas Governor Rick Perry, I know firsthand how important it is to secure our nation's borders. Right now, there 683 National Guardsmen and women at the Southern Border - Governor Greg Abbott is doing a great job and we will continue to do everything we can to keep Americans safe.
In case you missed it, I joined Fox Business' Varney & Co. to discuss the matter further. You can watch below or click here.
Legislative Update
Last week: in addition to voting on 8 legislative items, I participated in a Financial Services Committee hearing where we received testimony from the Honorable Randal Quarles, who is the Vice Chairman for Supervision on the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System. If you missed it, you can watch it here.
Congressional Art Competition Update
Each spring, a nation-wide high school art competition is sponsored by the Congressional Institute. The Artistic Discovery Contest is an opportunity to recognize and encourage the artistic talent in the nation, as well as in our congressional district. All entries must be: original in concept, design and execution; two-dimensional; framed; and weigh no more than 15 pounds (including frame) and measure no more than 26 inches wide by 26 inches tall by 4 inches deep (including frame). Applicants must complete a release form, and submit entries by Monday, April 30, 2018. For more information on rules and how to submit, please click here.
I have included some articles and releases you may find interesting located on the right side of this newsletter. It is an honor and privilege to represent the people of Texas' 25th Congressional District and as always, please reach out to me with any issues and concerns that are important to you.
In God we trust,
Roger Williams
Member of Congress