December 26, 2017

Dear Friend,

This Christmas, I pause and reflect on the many blessings we have been given as Americans. To read more of my column in the Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal, please click on the link.

Merry Christmas from Trent, Sheila,
John Forrest, Morgan and Jackson

ACTIONS IN THE HOUSE

Tax Cuts and Jobs Act

Mississippians and all Americans have called for tax reform and now they are going to get it. Citizens want to keep more of their paychecks which will help them to better provide for their families. Business owners will also be able to grow and create more jobs with a simple and predictable tax system. The last time meaningful and effective reforms were made to improve the tax code, President Ronald Reagan was in the White House. I was proud to support the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act which passed the House and the Senate and has been signed into law by President Trump. This legislation lowers tax rates while significantly increasing the standard deduction. To read more about what tax reform will mean for you and your family, please visit https://fairandsimple.gop. Last week, I talked about the passage of this historic legislation during an interview on the J.T. Show on SuperTalk Mississippi. To listen to the interview, please click on the link.

2018 farm bill

Agriculture is a $7 billion industry in Mississippi and critical to the success of our economy. Every year, farmers invest their time, energy and money to grow crops that will feed and clothe the nation. It is a difficult task that is becoming more challenging in recent years under the weight of burdensome government rules and regulations. As a member of the House Agriculture Committee, I regularly meet with farmers throughout the district to listen to their concerns because it is important their voice be heard on Capitol Hill. Their input on the 2018 Farm Bill is essential.

Ahead of the 2018 Farm Bill, the House Agriculture Committee has launched a new online resource that will provide updates and information as we move forward with the process. Please click on the link to learn more about the bill and to monitor our progress.

2018 official state highway map of Mississippi

Mississippi is fortunate to have many tourist attractions including the award winning Tishomingo State Park. Every year, an average of 65,000 people visit the park. It is also one of the most popular stops along the Natchez Trace Parkway. You could say it has firmly established its place on the map.

In 2018, Tishomingo State Park's swinging bridge will be featured on the official map for the State of Mississippi. The Mississippi Department of Transportation distributes them across the nation. Gary Mathews, Tishomingo County Development Foundation executive director, said it is an honor for the state park to be featured on the map. "Tishomingo State Park has been recognized with numerous awards for their hiking trails, scenic views, and family campgrounds," Gary said. "This national exposure has everyone excited about the anticipated boost in tourism."

camp McCain celebrates 75 years

Congratulations to Camp McCain which is celebrating the installation's 75th anniversary this month. Camp McCain was established in 1942 as a U.S. Army WWII Infantry Post in Grenada County. Later, it was converted to a National Guard tactical training facility. Throughout my 32-year career in the Mississippi Army National Guard, Camp McCain has been like a second home to myself and thousands of other soldiers.

I have trained at the installation as a part of the 168th Engineering Brigade and the 155th Armored Brigade Combat Team. Many lessons are learned there that prepare us to protect our nation in times of peace and war. Facilities like Camp McCain, led by proven leaders and seasoned soldiers, help to support our nation's defense readiness capabilities.

a week in pictures

Patricia Hamilton and grandson, Jack
Henry Hamilton, from Taylor

Taylor Mayor Jim Hamilton

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