March 17, 2017
Dear Friend,
As an advocate for the American farmer, I remain committed to making sure the next farm bill addresses issues that are having a profound impact on our state's number one industry.
It's my job to make sure Washington hears from people like Bob Moody and Craig Pittman. They operate two of Mississippi's 37,100 farms. Bob is a fifth generation Winston County farmer. Craig's family has been farming in Webster County for six generations.
This week, I met with the Farm Credit Council Board. It is important that Bob, Craig, and Mississippi's other farm families can get the capital they need to ensure they can get a crop in the ground.
Representing farmers isn't limited to my role on the Agriculture Committee. Our field staff regularly works with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Farm Service Agency (FSA) and are always available to assist you. If you need help with one of these agencies, please contact Adam Grubbs in our Columbus office.
ACTIONS IN THE HOUSE
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Veterans Second Amendment Protection Act
If veterans need help to manage their federal benefits, that should not interfere with their Second Amendment right to bear arms. This week, I proudly supported H.R. 1181, Veterans Second Amendment Protection Act. It passed by a vote of 240-175. This legislation will prevent the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) from arbitrarily denying a beneficiary due process and taking away his or her gun rights.
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Reforms
When veterans seek medical treatment at a VA hospital, they deserve a prompt response and service provided by a competent medical professional. This week, the House passed, with my support, legislation that will better connect veterans to the benefits they have earned. The House passed H.R. 1259, by a vote of 237-178, the VA Accountability First Act of 2017, which gives the Secretary of Veterans Affairs (VA) additional authority to remove, demote, or suspend any VA employees, including Senior Executive Service (SES) employees, for poor performance or misconduct.
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honoring fallen soldiers
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Our work continues to honor the lives of service members with ties to Mississippi. These soldiers paid the ultimate sacrifice to protect our nation. We have submitted the details of their service into the Congressional Record.
SFC Clint Daniel Ferrin
SGT Lerando J. Brown, Jr.
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2017 Congressional Art Competition
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Each spring, the U.S. House of Representatives sponsors the nationwide Congressional Art Competition. The winner of the First District competition will have his or her artwork displayed with other contest winners at the U.S. Capitol for one year. Last year, Itawamba Agricultural High School student John Farley took top honors in the First District with his piece entitled, "Discovery."
All high school students are encouraged to submit their artwork. Click here for contest guidelines and instructions. Please contact Melinda Whited at melindawhited@mail.house.gov or call (662) 687-1525 for more information.
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2017 small business persons of the year
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Congratulations to Mary Jennifer Russell, President and founder of Sugaree's Bakery, for being named one of the U.S. Small Business Administration's Small Business Persons of the Year.
Mary Jennifer, a New Albany native, started Sugaree's Bakery 20 years ago. What began in her home has grown into a thriving business in downtown New Albany. Mary Jennifer and her 35 employees bake 1,000 cakes a week that are sold locally and by mail order to all 50 states. Mary Jennifer will travel to DC in May for the awards ceremony. Good work!
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a week in pictures
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| Governor Phil Bryant |
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STAY IN TOUCH
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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.
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Thanks for reading,
Rep. Trent Kelly (MS-01)
Member of Congress
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