April 15, 2016

Dear Friend,

Thank you for taking the time to read my weekly newsletter.

ACTIONS IN THE HOUSE

Protecting Small Businesses

This week, I participated in a Small Business Committee hearing to discuss the lack of accountability within federal agencies and how regulations impact small businesses and consumers. To listen to my comments, please watch the video linked below:

Supreme Court Hears Immigration Case

On Monday, April 18, the Supreme Court will begin hearing oral arguments in United States v. Texas, the case dealing with President Obama's executive action on immigration. The president's plan would allow nearly 5 million illegal immigrants to stay in the U.S. and apply for work permits. Regardless of your stance on immigration reform, the president does not have the authority to write the nation's immigration laws.

Last month, the House of Representatives voted to authorize an amicus brief to the U.S. Supreme Court opposing the Obama administration's executive overreach. Our message is simple: Congress writes the laws, not the president. A decision in this case is expected in June.

Preventing Crimes Against Veterans Act

The House adopted the Preventing Crimes Against Veterans Act, which would create a criminal penalty for anyone who knowingly defrauds a veteran of their benefits. This important legislation would penalize individuals who engage in these schemes by imposing a fine, prison sentence, or both. It is hard to believe this happens to our nation's veterans, and I hope the Senate will act quickly on this legislation.

STAY IN TOUCH

Let me know if there is anything my office can do to assist you. You can keep up with the latest news by signing up for my newsletter and following me on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

hometown news

I had the honor of meeting with leaders from Toyota’s manufacturing facility in Blue Springs. During the meeting, Tanitra Stigger told me about her career and personal story as it relates to Toyota. In February 2011, she was one of the first team members hired in the Quality Control Department at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Mississippi. Five years later, while working a full-time job, she has earned a bachelor's degree in Information Systems Security and master's degree in business administration. Tanitra is currently working on her Information Systems Management Certificate.

Tanitra has been promoted multiple times from Confirmation Team Member to her current position as Quality Control Systems Specialist. She has accomplished these achievements while raising two sons with her husband, Tavoris. While Tanitra is proud of her accomplishments, she is quick to credit the unbelievable support she receives from friends, family, and Toyota. It is people like Tanitra that make up Mississippi's workforce and that is what incentivizes companies like Toyota to locate in our state. I want to congratulate Tanitra on all of her accomplishments, and I am sure it is just the beginning.

Tanitra Stigger

Thanks for reading,

Rep. Trent Kelly (MS-01)
Member of Congress