May 12

Fireside Sessions

Title 42 Expires, House GOP Pass Solution

The Biden Administration continues to demonstrate what can only be described as a complete lack of respect for the rule of law on our southern border. Their failure to address the current crisis frankly amounts to dereliction of duty. Now that Title 42 has expired, the brave men and women patrolling the border do not have the necessary legal authority needed to turn back migrants.

This lack of attention to our country’s interests has had severe implications for our national security. Like his reckless and dangerous withdrawal from Afghanistan, President Biden has jeopardized the safety of U.S. citizens by failing to enforce the law at the border. The federal government has a mandate to strive for security, peace, and prosperity for its people. Still, we find ourselves grappling with the consequences of a President who is not prioritizing American security and sovereignty.

ImageThe results of these decisions are not abstract or distant; they are immediate and stark. Since President Biden took office in January 2021, an unprecedented 6 million illegal migrants have arrived in the United States, including approximately 1.3 million “got-a-ways”. Border Patrol has seized over fourteen thousand pounds of fentanyl across the southern border – enough to kill every American many times over.

In response to President Biden’s border crisis, House Republicans passed H.R. 2, the Secure the Border Act. This is a bill I proudly cosponsored that, if enacted, this bill would secure the border and force the Biden Administration to address the surge of illegal immigration. The legislation would:

  • Require an immediate restart of the border wall using previously appropriated and unexpired funds that the Biden administration cancelled on January 20, 2021.
  • Provide Border Patrol retention bonuses and funding to hire almost 3,000 more agents – there are currently around 19,000 on the force according to Homeland Security Committee.
  • Authorize the Secretary of State to negotiate “Remain-in-Mexico” type policies with Mexico and asylum cooperative agreements between the U.S., Mexico, Honduras, El Salvador, Guatemala, and other countries.
  • Create penalties for visa overstays that are equal to the criminal penalties for illegally crossing the border.
  • Require DHS to provide transparency regarding illegal border crossings.
  • Combat the exploitation and trafficking of unaccompanied children by treating all children equally under the law (regardless of their home country), while ensuring they are not victims of trafficking and remain entitled to expeditiously make a claim of asylum in the United States.
  • End “catch and release” by ensuring that detention for the pendency of their immigration court proceedings, removal, or a Remain-in-Mexico type program are the only options for those who illegally cross the border.
The American people deserve leadership that respects the law, values their safety, and works to uphold the ideals upon which this nation was built. It is time for us to reaffirm these principles and take decisive action to end this crisis.

Today I joined CNN This Morning to discuss the current state of our southern border and the expiration of Title 42. Click here to watch the full interview.

Introducing Real Health Care Solutions

This week I introduced H.R. 3129, the Health Care Fairness for All Act. This bill represents a significant stride towards a more innovative health care system, offering a new means for Americans to secure health care coverage through a portable, fair, and universally accessible health insurance tax credit.

ImageOur current system often corners many American families and individuals into high-cost health care with limited choices. The Health Care Fairness for All Act aims to fix this system by reducing health care costs, promoting transparency in pricing, and encouraging competition. Furthermore, it will allow Americans to save and pay for health care with a tax-advantaged Roth Health Savings Account (HSA), thereby increasing their financial autonomy over health decisions.

The Health Care Fairness for All Act empowers Americans to make informed and effective health care decisions for themselves and their families. It also encourages private markets to innovate and compete more effectively. In line with our country's founding principles of freedom and opportunity, this legislation aims to transform our health care system to better serve every American.
You can see my full statement here.

Police Week 2023

I am deeply committed to recognizing the invaluable service provided daily by law enforcement officers. This week was National Police Week, a time to honor the courageous men and women who put their lives on the line to keep our communities safe. Let us remember those who have paid the ultimate price in service to their communities. All too often, the effects of dangerous encounters on our law enforcement officers' health and wellness are unnoticed.

ImageIn the Texas 17th Congressional District, we are blessed to have attentive and community-oriented law enforcement agencies. Our State Troopers, Sheriff's departments, and City Police departments do an excellent job fulfilling the needs of East and Central Texas, keeping us safe.  

However, honoring our law enforcement officers is not confined to a single week. It's a commitment we should uphold every day. It is critical that we support them - by providing the necessary resources, equipment, and training they need to do their jobs effectively and safely.
Additionally, I would be remiss if I did not mention the officer killed while responding to an emergency call in Milam County this week. Cameron Police Sergeant Joshua Clouse served his community with distinction. My prayers are with his family, loved ones, and the Cameron Police Department.

2023 Congressional Art Competition

I am thrilled to announce Kalilah Gomez as the winner of the 2023 Congressional Art Competition. Each spring, this competition provides a platform for our high school students to express their artistic talents. This year, the theme was "Patriotism in America," and Kalilah's piece, "Child of Freedom," brilliantly captured this sentiment.


I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all finalists. The extraordinary talent and the depth of patriotism displayed in the artwork of these students are truly remarkable. I was also deeply moved by numerous entries that showcased the values of courage, hope, and freedom at the heart of our country.


Kalilah's winning piece will be proudly displayed in the Cannon Tunnel in the Capitol Complex, while the second-place artwork will find a home in my Washington, D.C. office. The third and fourth place pieces will be exhibited in my Waco District Office. I am pleased to recognize all our winners and the names of their artwork:

Their creativity and talent truly make our district proud.


In the News

Local

Groesbeck Journal: GHS JUNIOR, KALILAH GOMEZ, WINS CONGRESSIONAL ART COMPETITION

KBTX: Rep. Sessions introduces legislation aimed at making healthcare fair for all

National

The Daily Caller: ‘Do You Want Me To Say That?’: GOP Rep Gets Testy With CNN Host After She Cuts Him Off Mid-Thought

The Washington Examiner: Comer targets Cardona for 'student loan bailout scheme' at risk for fraud

CNN: Congressman Sessions Discusses Title 42 Expiration

Sincerely,
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Pete Sessions
Member of Congress

 

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