October 30, 2017

Dear Friend,

We need tax reform in America. For far too long, Mississippians and all Americans have been forced to navigate the confusing and complicated tax code. To read more of my column in the Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal, please click on the link.

ACTIONS IN THE HOUSE

Establishing the congressional budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2018

Adoption of the Senate-passed budget by the House sets in motion a plan to bring pro-growth tax reform to Americans. Taxpayers expect fiscal responsibility and it is our duty to make sure that happens with every dollar. The House passed, with my support, H. Con. Res. 71, the Fiscal Year (FY) 2018 Budget Resolution, which will set the stage for tax reform and enable Congress to pursue legislation that will strengthen our economy and create more jobs for Mississippians and all Americans.

national defense authorization act conference committee appointment

As a member of the Mississippi Army National Guard for 31 years, I have seen firsthand the critical need to adequately fund the U.S. military. We are seeing readiness levels similar to those following World War II. Repeated budget cuts have put our service members at risk because they are not being properly trained. Equipment is aging and in many cases obsolete. More members of the military have died this year because of accidents than in combat. That is unacceptable.

I remain committed to making sure military men and women have the tools they need to defend America. Through my role on the House-Senate Conference Committee for the 2018 National Defense Authorization Act, I will work with my colleagues to rebuild our military, give our troops a much-needed pay raise, and restore defense readiness levels that will protect Americans at home and overseas. I am proud to be a member of this bipartisan committee which will negotiate a final bill to be passed by both chambers and signed into law.

national women's small business month

Did you know that women-owned businesses are the fastest growing sector of the economy? Recently, the National Association of Women's Business Owners discussed the issues that are important to them and to celebrate National Women's Small Business Month, recognized each October. This is also an opportunity for us to show our appreciation for the women who have invested in the First District. Belinda Stewart, owner of Belinda Stewart Architects, PA, opened her firm in 1990 in Eupora. Belinda and her team have worked on numerous design projects over the years including the renovation and restoration of many historic buildings throughout Mississippi. Belinda said it was important to preserve Mississippi's rich history.

From top left: Belinda Stewart, Belinda
Stewart Architects team, Calico
Mushroom, and Laura Dunnam

In New Albany, Laura Dunnam and Samantha Morris began operating the Calico Mushroom boutique earlier this year. Since then, they have already expanded their bridal registry and gift shop with an online gift store. Laura said operating a business is fulfilling, but has its share of challenges including regulations. Paperwork consumes a large portion of her time. As a member of the Small Business Committee, I want to make it easier for small business operators to innovate and grow. We will continue our work to roll back more regulations that will encourage more Mississippians to pursue their dream to operate a small business.

Toyota celebrates anniversary

It is hard to believe that Toyota Motor Manufacturing Mississippi broke ground on their two million square foot facility 10 years ago. Since then, TMMMS has grown to nearly 2,000 team members who assemble the best selling car in the world - the Toyota Corolla. Earlier this year, TMMMS announced plans to build a $10 million, 15,000 square foot visitors and interactive training center adjacent to their Blue Springs plant.

This week, TMMMS is celebrating their anniversary with a free concert at Fairpark on the grounds of the Tupelo City Hall. Toyota's investment in the First District has had a profound impact on the quality of life for Mississippians. For more information about the celebration, please click on the link.

smw manufacturing

Last week, SMW Manufacturing cut the ribbon on their new operation in the First District. SMW, a manufacturer of components for the heavy truck, automotive, mining, construction and industrial markets, is taking over operations at the former Caterpillar facility in Lafayette County. With plans to invest $15 million and hire up to 50 employees - most of whom will be former Caterpillar employees, SMW joins a long line of companies who are eager to invest in our great state.

honoring fallen soldiers

Our work continues to honor fallen soldiers with ties to Mississippi. These soldiers have paid the ultimate sacrifice to protect America. We have submitted details of their service into the Congressional Record.

SGT Eric C. Newman
PFC Christopher McCraw
SGT Jacob Dan Dones

a week in pictures

For more photos from a week in pictures, please visit my Facebook page.

Mitul Patel with Asian American Hotel
Owners Association

Cala Tabb from Webster County

Dale and Kelly Hare from Hernando

Golden Triangle Regional Airport
Executive Director Mike Hainsey

Entergy Mississippi President of Public
Affairs John Arledge

Going to vote with Abby Wilds

For more photos from a week in pictures, please visit my Facebook page.

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.

Thanks for reading,

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