January 30, 2018

Dear Friend,

Tax reform is good for Mississippi. The reforms will grow jobs and paychecks, make the tax code simpler and fairer for everyone and help middle class families. In just a matter of weeks, we have seen the impact the 2018 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is having in Mississippi and across the nation. To read more of my column in the Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal, please click on the link.

estate tax

In addition to all of the other benefits that come with passage of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, the estate tax provision would help those who have spent a lifetime growing a family business or saving their earnings to create certainty for their family. It brings a sense of relief to Chickasaw County farmer Jan Hill who plans to pass on the family farm to his son, Jason. The new estate tax provision doubles the amount of estate property that is exempt from the death tax.

Now, family-owned farms and businesses can more easily be passed from generation to generation without children being forced to pay hefty taxes or without a parent having to navigate complex estate planning techniques to minimize the death tax. America's family-owned businesses are essential to job creation and growth of the economy. This update to the tax code is another example of how the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is helping families and is good for the economy.

Mississippi soybean association annual producer conference

Last week, I was honored to attend the Mississippi Soybean Association annual producer conference in the Mississippi Delta. I was able to meet with producers and listen to their concerns. This was an opportunity to celebrate a record year for soybean farmers.

Producers averaged 58 bushels of soybeans per acre. It was important to talk with them because they know best how we can help them on Capitol Hill. The input we receive from all of our farmers is critical to the drafting process for the Farm Bill.

Israel: a unique and important ally

Israel is America's most important ally in the Middle East. At a time of rising threats around the world, America and Israel maintain a unique and strong relationship. Last year, I was part of a delegation to Israel at the invitation of the American Israel Education Foundation.

On the trip, we visited with the Office of the Prime Minister and the Knesset, Israel's parliament. We also toured strategic military sites. Former Mississippi State Senator Merle Flowers also had the opportunity to visit Israel, and last week he and I shared our experiences with members of the Olive Branch Rotary Club.

tv99 north mississippi

Last week, I sat down for an interview with TV99 North Mississippi host Evelyn Mason in New Albany. We discussed a number of issues that are important to Mississippians and Americans, including the recent government shutdown. As a member of the Mississippi National Guard for 32 years, it is frustrating to see the military held hostage over issues that have nothing to do with the budget.

We owe our servicemembers who give their all predictable funding. In September, the House passed 12 appropriations bills. There has been no movement on those in the Senate. It is time to make the appropriations process a top priority with passage of legislation that is on time and funds the federal government for the entire year - not temporary funding in the form of a continuing resolution. Nobody wins if you cannot agree.

a week in pictures

Olive Branch Rotary Club President John
Newsom and former Mississippi
State Senator Merle Flowers

Olive Branch Rotary Club member Pat Door

Olive Branch Rotary Club member Cecil Sowell

Olive Branch Rotary Club member
Stephanie Lawson

Mississippi Soybean Association
President Jeremy Jack and American
Soybean Association Board of Directors
member Willard Jack

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