May 16, 2025

Fireside Sessions

Police Week

Image
Congressman Sessions meets with the TMPA

This week was National Police Week in Washington, a time to honor the service and sacrifice of law enforcement officers across the nation. Officers and their families gathered on Capitol Hill to remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice and to engage with legislators.

I had the privilege of meeting with members of the Texas Municipal Police Association (TMPA), including one from TX-17. TMPA is a vital voice for law enforcement in Texas, promoting professionalism and advocating for the safety and well-being of our officers. I am grateful for their continued work and proudly stand with them as we remember the over 20,000 police officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Image Image
Congressman Sessions presents an award to the USACE Congressman Sessions speaking to USAV
On Wednesday, I met with senior leadership from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Fort Worth District to discuss ongoing and future infrastructure projects within TX-17. During their visit, I took to the House floor to honor Kathy Spillane, Chief of Civil Project Management for the district. You can watch those remarks here.
Additionally, I was honored to present an award to the USACE on behalf of U.S. Advocacy for Value (USAV) in recognition of their outstanding commitment to value management. USAV promotes maximizing the efficiency and impact of government projects, an approach I fully support as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Government Operations.

Korea International Trade Association

Image
Congressman Sessions meets with KITA
This week, I engaged with members of the Korea International Trade Association (KITA), including executives from Samsung. KITA members have invested over $160 billion in Texas, creating more than 800,000 American jobs. Samsung’s state-of-the-art facility in Taylor, Texas is a shining example of how global partnerships can strengthen our economy and secure our technological future.

Service Academy Announcement

Image
Congressman Sessions speaks and presents a flag and certificate to Jake Pineda

On Monday morning, I visited Centerville High School in Leon County to celebrate Jake Pineda on his appointment to the United States Military Academy Class of 2029. Jake will be playing baseball at West Point, and we’re incredibly proud of his achievement and dedication to serving our country.

Congressional Veterans Commendations

My office is accepting nominations of exceptional veterans in our community to receive a Congressional Veterans Commendation. If you know a veteran in TX-17 that not only served our country with distinction but continued in selfless service to their community, please consider nominating them for this honor. More information can be found at sessions.house.gov/congressional-veteran-commendation.

Legislation of the Week

This week, the House passed key legislation to back our law enforcement officers:

H.R. 2243LEOSA Reform Act
This bill allows qualified law enforcement officers to continue protecting our communities by expanding their concealed carry rights after retirement. I voted YES.
 
H.R. 2255Federal Law Enforcement Officer Service Weapon Purchase Act
Gives officers the ability to purchase their retired service weapons at market value, a small but meaningful gesture of respect. Another YES from me.

H.R. 2240Improving Law Enforcement Officer Safety and Wellness Through Data Act
I voted YES on this legislation that directs the Department of Justice to collect better data on violent attacks against law enforcement and identify gaps in government response.

Committees moved forward this week on President Trump’s comprehensive “One Big, Beautiful Bill.” The House Committee on Agriculture saved $233 billion, exceeding budget goals. Energy & Commerce Committee cut $912 in wasteful spending and ended access to Medicaid for illegal immigrants. The House Ways & Means Committee worked to make the 2017 Trump tax cuts permanent, preventing a 22% tax hike on American families. This bill is a team effort, and we are working to bring it to the House floor and deliver real results for the American people.

I introduced two bipartisan bills this week, the Words Matter Act and the Websites and Software Applications Accessibility Act. Both bills are aimed at protecting and offering fairness for Americans with disabilities. The Words Matter Act removes more than two dozen uses of the term “mentally retarded” in U.S. Code to ensure that individuals with intellectual disabilities are treated with the God-given dignity they deserve. The Websites and Software Applications Accessibility Act clarifies that all entities covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) must operate accessible websites and applications, ensuring digital inclusion for people with disabilities. You can read a press release from my office here.


In the News

NewsmaxThe Pulse
 
NewsmaxTodd Starnes Show

Sincerely,
Image
Pete Sessions
Member of Congress

 

Image
Image
Image
imageimage