United States Congressman Pete Sessions

Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17) Announces Federal Partnership with Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller to Establish Agriculture Freedom Zones Nationwide

Wed, 56 Feb 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Pete Sessions today announced a formal federal partnership with Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller to advance legislation establishing Agriculture Freedom Zones (AFZs) nationwide, recognizing that food security is national security and must be treated as a strategic federal priority. Farmland is the foundation of America’s food security, and the families who steward that land sustain our national strength through its productive use.

The proposed legislation will create a voluntary, incentive-based federal framework designed to protect America’s most productive farmland while responsibly guiding large-scale development toward areas less critical to domestic food production. The initiative reflects growing concerns about the rapid conversion of prime agricultural land and the long-term implications for America’s supply chain resilience, water resources, and national sovereignty.

Agriculture Freedom Zones would align federal tax policy with strategic land-use priorities by encouraging resource-intensive development, such as data centers, renewable energy facilities, and other major infrastructure projects, to locate in marginal lands, brownfields, arid regions, or areas with existing infrastructure capacity. By doing so, the policy seeks to preserve irreplaceable farm and ranchland that underpins America’s domestic food supply.

Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller emphasized the urgency of the issue, stating:

“Congressman Pete Sessions has seen firsthand the dramatic impact data center expansion is having on landowners, family-run agricultural operations, and rural Texas communities,” Commissioner Miller said. “These facilities consume vast amounts of land and water resources that are vital to food production and our national security. He shares my belief that a properly structured tax incentive could help restore balance by encouraging responsible siting decisions and protecting the agricultural resources that sustain rural America.”

Congressman Sessions underscored that safeguarding agricultural capacity is not simply an economic concern, but a matter of national defense and strategic independence.

“At a time of global instability and increasing competition, America cannot afford to weaken its agricultural foundation,” said Congressman Sessions. “Our farmers and ranchers feed our nation and support global markets. If we allow prime farmland and critical water resources to be permanently lost without a national strategy, we risk compromising our food supply and our national security. This legislation ensures we protect our agricultural strength while continuing to support innovation and economic growth.”

Under the forthcoming federal bill, Agriculture Freedom Zones would unlock targeted federal tax incentives, including capital gains tax deferrals, reduced long-term investment rates, and tax-free appreciation for extended holdings. The incentives are designed to steer growth away from prime agricultural land and toward areas more suitable for development.

Congressman Sessions represents Texas’ 17th Congressional District, which includes rural communities and agricultural producers who form a critical part of the state and national economy. Through this federal partnership with Commissioner Miller, he aims to establish Agriculture Freedom Zones as a nationwide framework that balances responsible development with the protection of America’s food-producing capacity.

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Congressman Pete Sessions Secures $750,000 for Pflugerville Water Infrastructure, Announces Funding at Press Conference with Mayor Doug Weiss

Fri, 37 Feb 2026 12:00:00 EST

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 6, 2026

Congressman Pete Sessions Secures $750,000 for Pflugerville Water Infrastructure, Announces Funding at Press Conference with Mayor Doug Weiss

Pflugerville, Texas – Today, Congressman Pete Sessions held a press conference alongside Pflugerville Mayor Doug Weiss to announce $750,000 in federal funding he secured for the City of Pflugerville’s Pump Station and Storage Tank Project, a critical investment in local water infrastructure that will support current needs and future growth.

The funding was included in H.R. 6938, the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2026, which passed both chambers of Congress and was signed into law by the President on January 23, 2026.

This investment will help modernize Pflugerville’s water system, strengthen reliability, and ensure the city can continue to serve residents and businesses as the community grows. The project reflects the importance of proactive infrastructure planning to protect public health and sustain economic development across Texas’ 17th Congressional District.

Speaking at today’s press conference, Congressman Sessions highlighted his efforts to deliver results for Pflugerville and communities across TX-17, emphasizing that federal appropriations should prioritize projects with clear, local impact.

"This investment ensures that our infrastructure keeps pace with growth and that our community continues to receive safe, reliable water service," said Pflugerville Mayor Doug Weiss. "Congressman Sessions, thank you again for your partnership, your commitment to our city, and your continued support of the communities you serve."

“I am proud to have secured this funding for Pflugerville and for the people of Texas’ 17th Congressional District,” said Congressman Pete Sessions. “Announcing this investment today with Mayor Weiss underscores our shared commitment to strengthening local infrastructure and ensuring our community is prepared for the future.”

The $750,000 allocation underscores Congressman Sessions’ continued focus on advancing district priorities through the federal appropriations process and working closely with local leaders to deliver meaningful outcomes for Central Texas communities.

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Congressman Pete Sessions Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Combat Identity Fraud and Theft

Fri, 30 Jan 2026 12:00:00 EST

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 30, 2026

Congressman Pete Sessions Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Combat Identity Fraud and Theft

Waco, Texas- Congressman Pete Sessions of Texas introduced bipartisan legislation to strengthen America’s digital identity infrastructure and protect individuals, businesses, and government programs from rapidly rising identity fraud and theft. The Stop Identity Fraud and Identity Theft Act establishes a government wide approach to addressing vulnerabilities in online identity verification that are increasingly exploited by organized criminal networks and hostile nation states.

Identity theft and fraud continue to impose massive costs on Americans and taxpayers. In 2023 alone, more than 353 million people were impacted by data breaches. The Government Accountability Office has estimated that federal programs could lose between $233 billion and $521 billion annually to fraud, much of it tied directly to compromised identities. During the COVID era, identity based fraud in unemployment programs alone was estimated between $100 billion and $135 billion. Financial Crimes Enforcement Network reporting shows that more than 70 percent of suspicious activity reports filed by banks are now tied to identity fraud, encompassing hundreds of billions of dollars in transactions.

The legislation responds to these growing threats by establishing an identity fraud prevention innovation grant program for states. These grants would help states modernize identity systems, develop secure digital versions of existing credentials where they choose to do so, and protect against emerging risks such as artificial intelligence driven deep fakes. The bill builds on work already directed by Congress for the National Institute of Standards and Technology to develop voluntary digital identity guidelines, while recognizing that many states and local agencies lack the resources to implement them.

Importantly, the bill does not mandate digital identification, does not eliminate physical credentials, and does not require any individual to obtain or use a digital driver’s license or digital identity. Participation by states and individuals remains voluntary.

“Identity fraud is one of the fastest growing threats facing American families, our financial system, and the integrity of government programs,” said Congressman Pete Sessions. “Criminal organizations and hostile nation states are exploiting outdated identity systems, costing taxpayers hundreds of billions of dollars and putting Americans’ personal information at risk. I am grateful to Congressman Foster for co leading this important, bipartisan legislation, and for his partnership in advancing common sense solutions that strengthen security and protect privacy.”

“It is important that Congress responds to the growing wave of identity theft and fraud in the United States by strengthening our digital identity infrastructure,” said Congressman Foster. “I am proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation with Congressman Sessions to provide states with the support they need to safeguard Americans’ personal information and strengthen consumers’ ability to protect themselves against identity theft and fraud.”

Jeremy Grant, Coordinator of the Better Identity Coalition, welcomed the bipartisan effort.

“Millions of Americans are victims of identity theft and fraud each year, leading to billions of dollars in losses, because it is far too easy for criminals and hostile nation states to compromise the tools we use to protect identity online,” said Grant. “We’re thrilled to see Congressmen Sessions and Foster come together to recognize the importance of these challenges and put forth common sense legislation to help Americans better protect their security and privacy in the digital world.”

The Stop Identity Fraud and Identity Theft Act is designed to protect consumers, safeguard government benefit programs, and strengthen the integrity of the United States financial system while preserving individual choice and state authority.

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Congressman Sessions Co-Leads Letter to President Trump Strongly Urging Him to Reject Marijuana Rescheduling

Thu, 352 Dec 2025 12:00:00 EST

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

House Conservatives Strongly Urge President Trump to Reject Marijuana Rescheduling

Washington, DC– A coalition of House Republicans, Co-Led by Congressman Pete Sessions, Chairman of the House Oversight and Government Reform Subcommittee on Government Operations, and Congressman Andy Harris, Chairman of the House Freedom Caucus, and joined by Main Street Caucus Chairman Congressman Flood and Vice Chairman of the House Republican Conference Congressman Moore, among 24 other Members, today sent a letter to President Trump urging him to oppose any effort to reschedule marijuana under federal law, warning that such a move would undermine public safety, deepen the nation’s addiction crisis, and send a dangerous message to America’s youth.

The letter, Co-Led by Congressman Andy Harris, Chairman of the House Freedom Caucus, reflects growing concern among members that reclassifying marijuana would reverse decades of drug policy grounded in public health, scientific review, and congressional intent.

In the letter, members stress that marijuana rescheduling is not required to advance legitimate medical research. Congress has already acted on a bipartisan basis to expand research while maintaining marijuana’s Schedule I classification. They warn that rescheduling would instead normalize an addictive substance, increase youth exposure to high potency products, and deepen the nation’s ongoing drug crisis.

“We don’t need rescheduling to do medical research on marijuana- all we are doing is exposing more of our youth to an addictive drug,” said Congressman Andy Harris.

The letter also highlights broader public safety and national security concerns, including the impact on road safety, drug testing for safety-sensitive professions, and the risk of providing financial benefits to large marijuana companies and foreign criminal organizations tied to fentanyl trafficking. Members further note that public opinion is shifting as Americans become more aware of marijuana related harms, particularly among families and younger voters.

The letter, attached HERE is signed by the following Members of Congress:

Congressman Pete Sessions

Congressman Andy Harris, M.D.

Congressman Doug LaMalfa

Congresswoman Mary E. Miller

Congressman Paul A. Gosar, D.D.S.

Congressman Michael V. Lawler

Congressman Robert B. Aderholt

Congressman Ralph Norman

Congressman John H. Rutherford

Congressman Russ Fulcher

Congressman Chuck Edwards

Congresswoman Sheri Biggs

Congressman David Rouzer

Congressman Michael K. Simpson

Congressman Christopher H. Smith

Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger, Pharm.D.

Congressman Mark Harris

Congressman Aaron Bean

Congressman Blake D. Moore

Congressman Michael Cloud

Congressman Ron Estes

Congressman Joe Wilson

Congressman Barry Loudermilk

Congressman John Rose

Congressman Mike Flood

Congressman Nathaniel Moran

Our Fox News exclusive is attached HERE.

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Congressman Pete Sessions Introduces the Independence Investment Fund Act to Strengthen U.S. Leadership in Biotechnology and Emerging Technologies

Wed, 337 Dec 2025 12:00:00 EST

Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17) has introduced the bipartisan Independence Investment Fund Act, legislation establishing a dedicated investment fund within the Department of the Treasury to support U.S. based companies developing critical and emerging technologies, including biotechnology. He is joined in this effort by Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan as Co-lead, with Congressman Ro Khanna, Congresswoman April McClain Delaney, and Congresswoman Stephanie Bice serving as original cosponsors.

Congressman Sessions Statement on the End of the Government Shutdown

Wed, 316 Nov 2025 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON–Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17) released the following statement after the passage of the Senate Amendment to HR 5371.

Congressman Sessions said, "Today, I voted YES on the Senate Amendment to H.R. 5371 to end the government shutdown. This was a costly and painful shutdown that lasted 43 days, driven by the Democrats’ gridlock over the Affordable Care Act and reckless federal spending that continues to expand our deficit and debt.

This legislation closes the hemp loophole that allowed intoxicating and dangerous high-potency THC products like Delta-8 to flood our communities. It protects American farmland from foreign adversaries by ensuring Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins has a seat on the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States, strengthening our ability to counter China’s acquisitions of U.S. farmland. It also fully funds veterans’ medical care and benefits, totaling $400 billion, to ensure our veterans receive the care and respect they have earned, while safeguarding their Second Amendment rights by preventing the VA from sharing private data with the FBI without judicial consent. In addition, it guarantees retroactive pay for all federal employees impacted during the continuing resolution.

Importantly, I was proud to secure $3.3 million in this measure for the construction of a new water tower in the City of Mexia. This project represents a vital investment in our rural infrastructure and will strengthen the community’s water system for generations to come. I am especially grateful to former Brazos River Authority Director Lance Phillips for his partnership and advocacy in helping deliver this project for the people of Limestone County."

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Congressman Sessions Announces $30 Million FEMA Grant for Lake Livingston Dam Repairs

Wed, 302 Oct 2025 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, DC–Congressman Pete Sessions today announced that the Trinity River Authority (TRA) has received a critical $30 million grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to fund repairs to the Lake Livingston Dam following flooding in the spring of 2024.

The grant will reimburse the TRA for their work to restore the essential infrastructure that provides water to Houston, the nation’s fourth-largest city, and to communities throughout East Texas. Congressman Sessions advocated for the funding and urged FEMA to expedite the approval process due to the dam’s vital role in supplying water to millions of Texans and supporting regional industry.

Congressman Sessions said, “I am pleased to assist the TRA in this matter. Lake Livingston provides critical infrastructure to Houston and the East Texas region. These damages were costly and required swift repair which TRA provided. Thank you to FEMA Region 6 for their hard work in expediting the distribution of these funds, TDEM for their swift assistance, and to TRA General Manager Kevin Ward, TRA Board of Directors President Megan Deen, and TRA Board Member Jeff Bradley for their leadership.”

“As the General Manager of the Trinity River Authority of Texas, I know firsthand how hard Congressman Sessions works for his district and for the State of Texas,” said Kevin Ward. “The Congressman and his staff shepherded this grant and did not quit until the funds were received. Lake Livingston provides water to our nation’s fourth-largest city and most of the petrochemical industry, and Congressman Sessions and his team understood the importance and urgency of this matter.”

“On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Trinity River Authority of Texas, I would like to say thank you for the receipt of FEMA Grant 4781-06 that was used for emergency repairs made to the Lake Livingston Dam,” said TRA’s Board of Directors President Megan Deen. “TRA received funds within eight months of the initial application.”

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Congressman Sessions Statement on Schumer Shutdown

Tue, 273 Sep 2025 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C.–Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17) released the following statement after Senate Democrats voted against the House-passed Continuing Resolution. As a result, the federal government will shut down at midnight.

Congressman Sessions said, "House Republicans did our job to keep the government open and avoid a shutdown. In the past, when Congress reached this point, we have come together to pass a clean continuing resolution so negotiations could continue without hurting the American people. This time, Democrats chose a different path. By blocking the short-term stopgap we passed last week, they have blocked paychecks for our servicemembers, denied veterans timely access to care at the VA, and added unnecessary burden on American taxpayers. I urge my Democrat colleagues to come to the negotiating table to end this shutdown and get the government open for the people we serve."

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Congressman Sessions to Speak on House Floor in Support of HR 5125

Wed, 260 Sep 2025 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, DC- Today, Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17) will address the House floor in support of his bill, HR 5125, the District of Columbia Judicial Nominations Reform Act of 2025. This legislation will strengthen the DC court system by streamlining the judicial nominations process, reducing case backlogs and ensuring timely justice. Under the current system, the DC Judicial Nomination Commission prioritizes politics over justice, creating delays that burden the courts and endanger DC residents and visitors. HR 5125 eliminates this bureaucratic hurdle to ensure the DC courts are equipped to do their job.

Congressman Sessions said, “As the son of a federal judge, I have a great respect for the judiciary and the process Constitutionally ordained to ensure fairness in our courts. Empowering the courts to convict criminals is essential for improving public safety in our beautiful capital city. Importantly, my bill does not remove any sitting judges but simply streamlines the process for future nominations. The President must be able to quickly nominate judges to fill vacancies that allow criminals to escape justice. We must prioritize actions that will allow the court system to do its job and go after repeat offenders and other criminals that make DC unsafe.”

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HR 5125 Passes Out of House

Wed, 260 Sep 2025 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, DC- Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17) released the following statement following House passage of his bill, HR 5125, the District of Columbia Judicial Nominations Reform Act of 2025.

Congressman Sessions said, “I am proud my bill to abolish the DC Judicial Nomination Commission has passed the House. As the son of a federal judge, I have a great respect for the judiciary and the process Constitutionally ordained to ensure fairness in our courts. As it stands, the DC Judicial Nomination Commission has too often prioritized politics over justice, creating delays and heavy caseloads. The President must be able to quickly nominate judges to fill vacancies that allow criminals to escape justice. The DC courts must be equipped to do their job: hold criminals accountable, protect victims, and maintain order in our nation’s capital.”

HR 5125 amends the 1973 Home Rule Act to move the power to nominate judges to the executive branch, stopping the DC Judicial Nomination Commission from limiting the President’s ability to nominate qualified judges. Under Article II of the Constitution, the President has the power to nominate judges, subject to Senate confirmation. Established over 50 years ago, the Commission has slowed judicial appointments, creating prolonged vacancies and worsening case backlogs. With crime rising in Washington, DC, these delays further undermine public safety and justice.

Notably, HR 5125 does not remove any current judges, simply restoring the traditional process for filling new vacancies moving forward, aligning DC with every other state.

Click here to watch Congressman Sessions speak in favor of the bill on the House floor.

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Congressman Sessions Leads Letter Opposing Marijuana Rescheduling

Thu, 240 Aug 2025 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, DC- Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17), joined by colleagues Andy Harris (MD-01), Robert Aderholt (AL-04) , Chip Roy (TX-21), Paul Gosar (AZ-09), Blake Moore (UT-01), Gary Palmer (AL-06), David Rouzer (NC-07), and Mary Miller (IL-15) sent a letter to Attorney General Pam Bondi urging the Department of Justice to reject marijuana rescheduling.

The lawmakers warned that rescheduling marijuana would deliver a multi-billion-dollar tax break to Big Marijuana and CCP-connected cartels operating inside the United States. If marijuana were reclassified, industry analysts estimate corporations could receive more than $2 billion annually in federal tax relief. Additionally, research shows that marijuana use carries a 30% addiction rate and is linked to impaired cognitive development, psychosis, and worsened mental health outcomes.

Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17) said, “Rescheduling marijuana is bad policy, no matter the administration. The data is clear: marijuana is a dangerous drug that has only become more dangerous over time. That is why I have spent my entire career in Congress opposing the rescheduling of marijuana. We must protect our children from predatory marijuana businesses that want to make them addicted consumers for life.”

“Rescheduling marijuana risks undermining President Trump’s determination to address the growing health crisis in America by signaling that it is safe, despite clear evidence of harm. Today’s marijuana is far stronger than in past decades, and higher potency is linked to greater risk of addiction, psychosis, anxiety, and cognitive impairment. We should aim to reduce exposure to addictive, impairing substances, not reclassify them in ways that expand access and downplay risks. Rescheduling marijuana invites heavier use, more health and wellness burdens, and long-term costs for individuals and communities,” stated Congressman Paul Gosar (AZ-09).

“President Trump is laser-focused on getting drugs off the streets. Rescheduling would set back those efforts. Rejecting reclassifying marijuana aligns with the President’s priorities of combatting China and narco-terrorist cartels. Taking a step toward fulfilling George Soros’ lifelong goal of making drugs legal will not Make America Great Again,” said Dr. Kevin Sabet, Smart Approaches to Marijuana President & CEO.

Read the letter here.

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Congressman Sessions Announces EPA Award to City of Huntsville

Wed, 239 Aug 2025 12:00:00 EST

WACO, TX- Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17) will hold a press conference today to announce that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded $1,000,000 to the City of Huntsville for Wastewater Treatment Plant Rehabilitation. This funding, secured through the Appropriations process at the request of Congressman Sessions, will expand the plant’s capacity to meet the needs of a growing population while ensuring water quality standards are maintained for Lake Conroe and Elkins Lake.

Congressman Sessions said, “I am proud to announce that the EPA is awarding $1 million to the City of Huntsville for critical rehabilitation to the N.B. Davidson Wastewater Treatment Plant. This investment will expand water capacity to support Huntsville’s growing population while protecting water quality in Lake Conroe and Elkins Lake. I’m grateful my request worked to secure this funding, which will provide essential infrastructure improvements and strengthen the future of this beautiful community.”

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Congressman Sessions to Join President Trump in Kerr County

Thu, 191 Jul 2025 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, DC- Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17) will join President Donald Trump in Kerr County at the Hill Country Youth Event Center on Friday, July 11, to survey flood damage and ongoing recovery efforts following the recent disaster.

As Chairman of the Subcommittee on Government Operations under the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, Congressman Sessions has been closely engaged in federal disaster response efforts across the country, including in Hawaii and North Carolina. Now, as the need has emerged in his home state of Texas, he is working to ensure the Hill Country receives the resources and supported needed to recover.

Statement on Hill Country Flooding

Sat, 186 Jul 2025 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, DC- Today, Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17) released the following statement on the tragic flooding in Central Texas.

Congressman Sessions said, “I am heartbroken by the tragic flooding in the Hill Country. Our prayers are with those who have been lost, those still missing, and all the families affected. We pray for comfort, strength, and healing. May God also watch over the emergency response team and volunteers continuing their courageous efforts.”

Congressman Sessions Votes Yes on Senate Amendment to One Big Beautiful Bill

Thu, 184 Jul 2025 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, DC- Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17) released the following statement regarding today’s vote on the Senate Amendment to HR 1, One Big Beautiful Bill Act

“I am pleased to see this important legislation moving forward with Senate revisions that maintain the priorities of preventing a return to the Obama-era policies of higher taxes and excessive government spending, while protecting American taxpayers. This bill blocks a harmful tax increase and reins in reckless federal spending that began in 2009. Additionally, this legislation secures critical reimbursement to Texas for Operation Lone Star and extends the Pandemic Response Accountability Committee, which is tasked with rooting out waste, fraud, and abuse in federal programs. This is a major step toward protecting taxpayer dollars, securing our border, and putting hardworking Americans first.”

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Congressman Sessions Votes "YES" on President Trump's "One Big, Beautiful Bill"

Thu, 142 May 2025 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C.–Following an early morning vote, Congressman Sessions released this statement regarding the passage of H.R. 1, One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

Congressman Sessions said, “I am proud that we came together as a team to deliver real results for the American people by passing legislation that prevents the return of burdensome Obama-era tax policies and strengthens Medicaid by ensuring it is no longer extended to illegal immigrants. This bill also secures reimbursement for the State of Texas’s vital efforts to protect the border through Operation Lone Star, a top priority for the entire Republican Texas Delegation. Texas has been on the front lines of the previous administration’s irresponsible open-border policy and has apprehended over 531,700 illegal aliens, at a significant cost to Texas taxpayers. I am pleased to see this victory achieved and remain committed to delivering more results for Texans and all Americans in the 119th Congress.”

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Congressman Sessions Introduces the Words Matter Act to Update Outdated Language in U.S. Code

Fri, 136 May 2025 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17) has introduced the bipartisan H.R. 3420, the Words Matter Act, a bill aimed at modernizing federal language to reflect dignity and respect for individuals with intellectual disabilities. He is joined in this effort by Congressman Mark Pocan (WI-02), Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), and Congressman Richard Hudson (NC-09).

The Words Matter Act replaces more than two dozen instances of the term “mentally retarded” in U.S. Code with contemporary, respectful language. This update reinforces the principle that all individuals deserve to be treated with dignity.

“As the proud father of a young man with Down syndrome, I know firsthand that words matter. My son Alex is an Eagle Scout, a loving uncle, and accomplished young man whose abilities far exceed his disabilities. This legislation ensures that federal law recognizes people like Alex with the God-given dignity they deserve,” said Congressman Sessions.

"This bill just makes sense," Congressman Pocan said. "Federal law should reflect the time in which we live and not include outdated, harmful slurs. The Words Matter Act will modernize our laws and remove offensive language from the U.S. Code. I thank my colleagues on both sides for supporting this effort and urge its swift passage so we can finally retire this language."

“Words indisputably matter,” said Congresswoman Norton. “My own daughter Katherine has Down syndrome, and I’m appalled at the thought of anyone referring to her by using the R-word. It is inexcusable that this word is still part of the U.S. Code. Our country must be better than this, which is why I am proud to co-lead this bill with Rep. Sessions, Rep. Pocan and Rep. Hudson.”

“The Words Matter Act is important for our friends, family and children who are uniquely-abled,” said Congressman Hudson. “This bill will ensure they can live their lives equal to their peers without insulting legal language. I’m proud to support this legislation.”

This bill is endorsed by the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS), National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD), and the Global Down Syndrome Foundation (GLOBAL).

“NDSS is proud to support the Words Matter Act, a bipartisan effort to ensure that all individuals with disabilities, including those with Down syndrome, are treated with the dignity they deserve,” said Kandi Pickard, President and CEO of the National Down Syndrome Society. “In recent months, we’ve seen a troubling rise in the use of the R-word – a word that dehumanizes and marginalizes people with intellectual disabilities. Outdated, offensive terms like the R word have no place in our society and especially our federal code. We thank Congressman Pete Sessions and Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton, two champions for the Down syndrome community, for their leadership on this important issue.”

“Words matter. The R-word is hurtful and wrong, and it should never be used to describe people like me,” said Kayla McKeon, Manager of Public Policy at the National Down Syndrome Society and the first registered lobbyist with Down syndrome. “I’m proud to use my voice to support the Words Matter Act so that our federal laws treat all people with disabilities with respect. This bill shows that people with Down syndrome are not invisible. We are strong, capable, and worthy of respect.”

“The Global Down Syndrome Foundation applauds Representatives Sessions, Pocan, Hudson, and Holmes Norton, for reintroducing this important bipartisan legislation to remove derogatory and hurtful language from our federal laws,” said GLOBAL Co-Founder, President, and CEO, Michelle Sie Whitten. “There has been an increase in the use of demeaning language in society, and I am honored to join our congressional champions in this effort to ensure people with intellectual disabilities are treated with dignity and respect.”

You can read the full text of the bill HERE.

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Congressman Sessions Introduces the Websites and Software Applications Accessibility Act of 2025

Thu, 135 May 2025 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C.–Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17) has introduced H.R. 3417, the Websites and Software Applications Accessibility Act of 2025, aimed at ensuring that websites, applications, and online services are accessible to all Americans, including individuals with disabilities.

The bill affirms that entities covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) must not operate or maintain websites and software applications that are inaccessible to people with disabilities. It establishes a clear, enforceable standard for digital accessibility, reflecting today’s digital-first world and closing longstanding gaps in online access.

“The Websites and Software Applications Accessibility Act of 2025 is about fairness, ensuring that Americans with disabilities are given a level playing field as technology continues to evolve. This bipartisan effort is essential for millions of Americans that face discrimination by digital barriers,” said Congressman Sessions.

Original Co-sponsor Congressman Steny Hoyer (MD-05) added:

“I helped draft and enact the Americans with Disabilities Act to ensure that Americans with disabilities have equal access to all spaces. That ought to include digital spaces. The internet is no longer a luxury; it is essential to economic opportunity and everyday communication in the twenty-first century. This bill establishes clear standards to guarantee that all Americans – no matter their disability status – can access apps, websites, and other services online. I am proud to partner with Rep. Sessions on this bill. Together, we will ensure disability rights remains a bipartisan issue.”

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Congressman Sessions Introduces RED TAPE Act to Rein in Bureaucracy

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 12:00:00 EST

Last week, Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17) introduced the Regulations Evaluated to Determine the Anticipated Price and Effect Act (RED TAPE) Act to rein in bureaucratic spending. As Chairman of the Subcommittee on Government Operations and the Co-Chair of the DOGE Caucus, Congressman Sessions is committed to preventing government agencies from wasteful spending on non-monetized or unqualified factors.

Congressman Pete Sessions to Continue as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Government Operations

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 12:00:00 EST

Today, Chairman James Comer (KY-01) announced Congressman Pete Sessions (TX-17) will continue to serve as the chairman of the Subcommittee on Government Operations on the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. This is a role that Chairman Sessions held during the 118th Congress.