In a sharp contrast from Democrat-controlled Washington’s approach which pushes Medicare closer to bankruptcy, the “The Path to Prosperity” budget ensures Medicare’s viability for future generations. I am pleased to join my colleagues in supporting a plan to preserve and protect Medicare by empowering patients, instead of the board of unaccountable bureaucrats created in ObamaCare.  

I believe that North Texas families and small businesses deserve relief from the Administration’s tax, borrow and spend policies that stifle job creation and innovation.  That is why we will continue to pass legislation that gets government out of the way to allow free enterprise to thrive and protect the American Dream. I thank Chairman Ryan for his leadership on this proposal to save our children and grandchildren from the burden of debt, protect our nation’s seniors and create a sound financial future for the American people.

Spirit of Enterprise Award
On Thursday, I received the “Spirit of Enterprise” award from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce for my support of pro-jobs, pro-business legislation in the first session of the 112th Congress.

The “Spirit of Enterprise” award was established to recognize annually Members of Congress who support the Chamber’s position on at least 70% of legislation they deem as key votes for the business community. During the first session of the 112th Congress, the U.S. Chamber designated 16 votes as key votes in the House of Representatives.  

I have received this award from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce each year that I have served in Congress, and this year I received a 100% ranking. I strongly believe that by supporting pro-growth solutions and providing tax relief for business investment, we can ensure that American enterprises remain competitive globally. I remain committed to supporting the free enterprise system and encouraging job creation throughout the remainder of the 112th Congress.

Preparing for Greater Dallas Area Spring Games
Last Saturday while spending time in Dallas, I enjoyed going to J.J. Pearce High School in Richardson to support the Richardson Road Runners and Notre Dame Shooting Stars while they practiced for the Special Olympics Texas Greater Dallas Area Spring Games coming up on April 27th and 28th at Cedar Hill High School. As you may remember, my son Alex participates in Special Olympics track, swimming and basketball and I proudly serve as an Advisor to the President of Special Olympics Texas.
 

Participants and volunteers on the track at JJ Pearce High School

If you are interested in volunteering for the Greater Dallas Area Spring Games or other Special Olympics Texas events, email sotx-dallasvolunteers@mail.com for more information. You can learn more by visiting the Special Olympics Texas website at http://www.sotx.org/.
 

Academy Forum
Next month, I am joining my North Texas congressional colleagues as well as Senators Kay Bailey Hutchison and John Cornyn in hosting the North Texas U.S. Service Academy Forum. The forum is an informational event for North Texas high school students interested in learning about Academy opportunities.

This year the forum will be held on Saturday, April 21st from 8am – noon at the First Baptist Church, located at 2400 North Josey Lane in Carrollton. This event is free and open to the public. The North Texas U.S. Service Academy Forum will highlight the opportunities available, the nomination process, and evaluation requirements for the nation’s five Service Academies.  For more information, please contact Sandy Pappas in my Dallas District Office at 972.392.0505.