On June 9, 2015, I was sworn into office by Speaker John Boehner and then immediately began voting on amendments to the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations bill. It was a quick transition and symbolic of the fast-paced environment for the upcoming year.
In the beginning, I hired a majority of the late Rep. Alan Nunnelee’s staff. Leadership includes trusting your team, and my staff has been a valuable resource in helping me adjust to working on Capitol Hill. I consistently tell people that this job is about relationships. Developing and maintaining working relationships with constituents and other members is incredibly important to me because that is how you affect change for Mississippi and our nation. Throughout the year, I have enjoyed meeting a diverse group of Mississippians, touring businesses across the district and state, and advocating for the First District of Mississippi in Washington. Thank you for allowing me to serve.
Committee Assignments
I serve on both the House Committee on Agriculture and the House Small Business Committee.
House Committee on Agriculture
Agriculture is a top industry in Mississippi, contributing $7.4 billion to the state economy and employing roughly 29 percent of the state’s workforce either directly or indirectly. I value my role on the committee and use my position to advocate for issues important to our state. My goal is to put forth policies that encourage rural development and strengthen the agriculture economy.
House Small Business Committee
It is vital to our economy that small businesses have the tools they need to promote economic growth and boost employment opportunities in our communities. Small businesses employ half of all American workers and create 63 percent of all new jobs in this country. When I tour businesses the message is clear, "Get Washington out of the way so we can innovate and grow." As a member of the Small Business Committee, that is the mindset I have whenever we discuss legislation or an upcoming rule.
Legislative Work
I have introduced the Maximizing Small Business Competition Act and legislation to name the U.S. Postal Service facility in Oxford, Mississippi for fallen soldier, Army First Lieutenant Donald Carwile.
H.R. 4332: Maximizing Small Business Competition Act
The goal of this legislation is to level the playing field and ensure small businesses have the tools they need to navigate and compete in the federal marketplace. With this legislation, we are making sure that opportunities exist for all small businesses. H.R. 4332 passed the House of Representatives by voice vote and was included in final passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA).
H.R. 5309: To designate the United States Postal Service facility in Oxford, Mississippi, as the "Army First Lieutenant Donald C. Carwile Post Office Building."
Army First Lieutenant Donald "Donnie" Carwile's life embodied service to family, state, and country. He was the type of man who put others before himself and paid the ultimate sacrifice to keep our country safe. He is truly a hero, and I am proud to honor his legacy. H.R. 5309 has been referred to the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform where it awaits further action.
Constituent Services
My office is here to be a resource for you. We can provide assistance with a federal agency or help you plan a Capitol tour. Please go to my website to view the services my office provides: Constituent Services.
Internships
Do you know someone who is interested in applying to be an intern in one of my district offices or DC office? Please go to my website for information on how to apply for an internship: Internships.
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