John,
It’s been a busy week co-sponsoring legislation that puts Americans first, so I wanted to take a moment to update you on how they help advance our conservative values.
Representative David Schweikert (R-AZ) has introduced the Innovate Less Lethal to De-Escalate Tax Modernization Act, designed to modernize the National Firearms Act to keep pace with advancements in technology. This legislation will expand access to less-than-lethal self-defense options by amending the Internal Revenue Code to exempt certain projectile devices from ammunition and firearms taxes. I am pleased to co-sponsor this bill, which recognizes the valuable role less-than-lethal devices can play in empowering individuals and enhancing public safety. While fully supporting Americans' Second Amendment rights, we want to also ensure that everyone has access to every possible tool to protect themselves, their families, and their communities. Devices such as stun guns, tasers, and pepper sprays offer additional and affordable means to enhance personal security. I look forward to working with my House colleagues to pass this bill and further expand Americans' ability to defend themselves and their loved ones.
A new medical school has opened in St. Cloud with a mission to recruit more students from rural parts of the state. This is an encouraging step forward to support and strengthen our agricultural communities. It’s exactly the kind of targeted investment we need to revitalize rural areas, and that’s why I introduced the Investing in Rural America Act earlier this year. Rural communities deserve more than just recognition. They need real resources: affordable childcare, senior living homes, and nearby access to quality medical care. Our communities give everything to feed and fuel our country. Expanding access to essential services and quality jobs is the least we can do to ensure they aren’t left behind. They are the backbone of America, and they deserve our support.
I’m proud to co-sponsor the reintroduction of the Safeguarding American Food and Export Trade Yields Act (SAFETY). This important bipartisan legislation protects U.S. food producers from unfair foreign trade practices. Global competitors have increasingly targeted American-made food and beverage products by restricting the use of common names under the guise of geographical protections. That means products proudly made in states like Minnesota and Wisconsin, renowned for high-quality cheeses and agricultural exports, are being penalized for using names like “cheddar” or “parmesan.” These tactics directly harm U.S. farmers, producers, and workers. It’s time we stand up for our food producers and ensure American-made goods are treated fairly on the global stage. I urge my colleagues to support this bill and level the playing field.
As always, thank you for your continued trust and support. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need assistance with anything.