The Hill Report: Week of February 26 - March 2, 2018
This week I was delighted to join my Texas colleagues on the House Floor to discuss just how tax reform has impacted the 32nd Congressional District of Texas. As North Texans opened their paychecks this month, 9 out of 10 saw an increase in their take home pay. Like Matt Bennett from Dallas who saw an increase of $164 that he is going to put towards his wedding and Robert from Garland who has seen a $74 increase that he can use for extra spending money. Tax reform is working. Hard working North Texans are taking home more of their hard earned money, small businesses are increasing wages and providing more benefits, and our economy is thriving. To watchthe full clip, click here. Also, if you have a tax reform story that you would like to share, please fill out this survey on my website.
Ending Human Trafficking
It is inexcusable for any entity or individual to condone or participate in human sex trafficking. Unfortunately, the internet has provided these predators with a tool to advertise and solicit sex trafficking causing this horrific practice to spread like a cancer across our county and infect in our communities. Any website that engages in illegal prostitution or turns a blind eye to this heinous crime should be duly prosecuted and held accountable. Today’s bill provides prosecutors with thetools that they need to hold these websites accountable and stop these predators in their tracks.
I proudly joined my House colleagues in passing this critical measure to end this modern day slavery. I urge my Senate colleagues to act swiftly so we can provide justice for the hundreds of thousands of Americans who have been impacted by sex trafficking.
Meetings with Texans
Texas Civil Air Patrol
I was delighted to sit down with Texans from the Civil Air Patrol's Texas Wing to discuss some of thegreat work the group has accomplished in the recovery efforts for Hurricane Harvey. As an all-volunteer organization that seeks to supplement the mission of the US Air Force, today the CAP works to provide critical, domestic emergency services such as inland search and rescue missions and disaster relief. In the case of Hurricane Harvey specifically, the CAP logged over 1800 hours of flight time and provided critically important mapping and logistical information for recovery efforts. I am proud to support the CAP in their mission of not only saving lives but also working to help our gulf coast region rebuild.
Congressman Sessions meeting with Texans form the Civil Air Patrol's Texas Wing
Texas Women¹s University in Dallas
I had the pleasure of meeting with Karen Long-trail from the Dallas Center of Texas Women¹s University. Karen serves as the Coordinator of Admissions, Registrar and Financial Aid for theUniversity. We discussed the importance of higher education and specifically the need for reform of our nation¹s financial aid system. I look forward to discussing the needs of our higher education system with stakeholders like Karen as Congress continues its discussions on this issue.
Karen Long Trail, Dallas Financial Aid & Registrar at Texas Women’s University met with Congressman Pete Sessions to discuss financial aid counseling for college students and various funding mechanisms for federally supported student financial aid.
Texas Public Power Association
This week, I met with Texans representing the Texas Public Power Association to discuss federal energy issues including infrastructure safety, cyber and electrical grid security, and environmental regulations. 5.1 million Texans are served by public power and these associations serve an important role in building needed power plants, enhancing overall economic development, and utilizing energy efficient and renewable resources. As Congress works toward a greater infrastructure package, I look engaging my colleagues and promoting smart utility policies that will give Texans the energy they need to continue to grow and prosper.
Members of the Texas Public Power Association met with Congressman Pete Sessions this week in his Washington D.C. office.
Robokind
Autism affects 1 in 68 children, with boys four times more likely to have autism than girls. This week, I met with Robokind, a company that has developed a robot named Milo that teaches children with autism. Milo is a product of research from UT Dallas and is significantly comprised of technology from Texas Instruments---He's a wonderful example of how innovation from our Congressional district is helping people across the world.
Dr. Gregory Firm, Chief Operating Officer at RoboKind met with Congressman Sessions and his staff to demonstrate the world of possibilities that RoboKind’s new robot, Milo, can bring to various educational settings.
Texas Broadcasters Association
This week I was delighted to meet with North Texans representing the Texas Association of Broadcasters during their annual visit to Washington, D.C. Broadcasters play an important role in my district, whether it be through the radio or television. That is why I am a proud cosponsor of H.Con.Res 13, the Supporting the Local Radio Freedom Act, with over 200 of my colleagues. This resolution declares that Congress should not impose any new performance taxes and royalties on thelocal radio stations that deliver free services such as the news, emergency information and weather services that so many Americans rely on.
Congressman Sessions met with members of the Texas Public Broadcasting Association to discuss radio broadcasting in the D/FW. Pictured is Gary Schneider, President and General Manager of KTVT and KTXA, as well as Tami Honesty, Vice President and General Manager for Radio One Dallas, 97.9 The Beat.
ZERO Prostate Cancer Advocacy Summit
Every 18 minutes another American man dies from prostate cancer. Advances in early detection and treatment save lives, and it is important that policy makers support research that lead to life-saving medical discoveries. I met with representatives from ZERO during their Prostate Cancer Advocacy Summit to discuss how my colleagues and I can help tackle this brutal cancer.
Congressman Pete Sessions meeting with participants of ZERO - The End of Prostate Cancer group which include survivors of prostate cancer, family members and other advocates
Report to the Nation
I was honored to host Scouting's 2017 Report to the Nation Delegation with other members of Congress and Eagle Scouts from all over the country. The Secretary of the Interior, Ryan Zinke, delivered a keynote address about his experience in Scouting and the challenges facing Scouts today. I have worked with the Boy Scouts of America for over fifty years because I want to help generations of future Scouts build the character and life skills that will help them succeed. The Scouting Delegation represents some of best and brightest and I look forward to following them as they continue to grow and make an impact on the Scouting, their community and our country.
Congressman Pete Sessions hosted the Boy Scouts of America, Report to the Nation event Wednesday on Capitol Hill. Pictured are Report to the Nation Delegates (left to right) Andrew Chin of Cedar Knolls, New Jersey, Sean Golding of San Diego, California, Bogan Garcia of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma and (center) Donnell Thomas of South Haven, Michigan.
Celebrating 150 Years of Pi Kappa Alpha
I am eternally grateful to the Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity for helping me become the man I am today. I was delighted to attend a celebration of Pike's 150th anniversary this past week host in the Capitol Complex. Pike allowed me to both build lifelong bonds with many of my other brothers, but also offered me an invaluable experience in leading young men. It was inspiring to interact with so many of our nation's young leaders and celebrate our fraternity's anniversary.
Congressman Sessions speaking with young men for PIKE’s 150th Anniversary Celebration