Babin Bulletin | February 25, 2018 Click here if you have trouble viewing this email
Babin Office Holds Opioid Crisis Meeting

This week, we gathered key stakeholders in the Southeast Texas Region to discuss the importance of working collaboratively to develop strategies to reduce the opioid crisis in our region. We had a panel of experts that discussed current resources as well as gaps from the national, state, and local grassroots perspective. Among the wide variety of participants were representatives from those involved in treatment, education, law enforcement, healthcare, recovery and prevention. There are varying needs and approaches to prevention, treatment and interdiction across our large state and communities large and small.

In addition to sharing ideas and approaches we also identified the need to enhance the collection of accurate data collection as Texas and our communities compete for funding. Meeting participants were given an opportunity to express their concerns and share their willingness to be involved in the future working groups to address this growing need. This was an important first step in informing stakeholders, identifying challenges and introducing to one another those who are engaged in addressing various aspects of the opioid crisis. Working together we hope to foster a greater collaboration on successful strategies to combat this growing epidemic.
I want to thank my staff and all of the participants for what they did to make this meeting successful. And, I offer a special thanks to Associate Commissioner for Behavior Health and IDD Services, Sonja Gaines, who serves with Texas Health and Human Services Commission and traveled from Austin to the meeting this week to listen to and offer her assistance to our community.

National Space Council Meeting

I had the opportunity to participate in the second meeting of Vice President Mike Pence's National Space Council at Kennedy Space Center. The Vice President affirmed the strong commitment of the Trump Administration to American leadership in space.

I am proud to see the work by Chairman Lamar Smith, Congressman Jim Bridenstine and me on the American Space Commerce Free Enterprise Act (H.R. 2809) was included as one of the steps the Administration is supporting to streamline the regulatory process, remove unnecessary barriers, and open up America for business in space.America’s future in space is bright with continued commitment from our civil space agencies, the private sector and our military leaders. I am looking forward to working with the Administration and my colleagues in the coming months to advance a bold space agenda that will keep America the world leader in space.To view the Vice President's speech click here .


To read article click here.
WWII Veteran Finally Receives Medals 71 Years After Discharge
Seventy-one years after his heroic acts, Army veteran, John Jerrell Nichols, Sr. is honored by a grateful nation. First Sergeant Nichols was awarded the Bronze Star Medal, European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal (with two campaign stars), Combat Infantry Badge, Good Conduct Medal, Army Occupation Ribbon, and American Theatre Ribbon for his service during World War II.  When we heard that First Sergeant Nichols had earned these medals but never received them, my office and I, went to work to secure these medals for him. I would like to encourage veterans who have not received their medals to call my office at (832) 780-0966. We would consider it a high honor to serve you in this way.
 
 Rep. Babin to Hire Wounded Warrior

The office of Rep. Brian Babin (TX-36) has been selected by the U.S. Congress to hire a wounded warrior or medically retired veteran for two-year paid fellowship through the House Wounded Warrior Program. The U.S. House of Representatives established this program to assist recently discharged wounded warriors transitioning from active duty. To qualify, veterans must meet all of the following requirements that have been established by the Committee on House Administration: Honorably discharged, released from active duty within the last five years, terminal pay grades at or below E-5 or O-3, 20% or greater service connected disabilities (waived if you have a Purple Heart). Veterans who are in receipt of a 20-year or Temporary Early Retirement Authorization (TERA) retirement are not eligible for the program. Veterans interested in applying to work in one of Rep. Babin’s Texas offices are required to apply through www.USAjobs.gov and search “Wounded Warrior Fellowship Program” for more information or to apply. Applications must be submitted through www.USAjobs.gov and not to the Congressional office directly.

Benefits from Utility Companies 
Due to the tax cut law, utility companies in at least 39 states are taking the savings they're receiving from lower corporate tax rates and are lowering costs for almost 80 million customers. The benefits of this tax cut continue to grow in unexpected ways. Over 4.7 million employees have already received bonuses and 90% of Americans are seeing larger paychecks.
Tell us how you are planning to use your tax savings by clicking here.
The Passing of Billy Graham
The world lost a great American, Billy Graham, who went home to his reward at the age of 99. From preaching across the world, to being a trusted counsel for many presidents and world leaders, Billy Graham changed the lives of millions and left a monumental influence on American culture. He was a good and faithful servant with tremendous integrity who always pointed others to Christ. I am grateful for his life, faith and the path he paved for this country. The words from the Apostle Paul could not be more true with respect to Billy Graham, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith”—2 Timothy 4:7. 

Reverend Graham will 'Lie in Honor' in the rotunda of the U.S. Capitol in the upcoming week.
 Babin Commends the Heroic Actions of Captains Michael McGee and Michael Phillips
 It was my distinct honor to present Captain Michael McGee and Captain Michael Phillips with a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol in their honor, recognizing them for their heroic efforts aboard the 800ft tank-ship AFRAMAX RIVER. In September of 2016, one of the ship’s fuel tanks was ruptured after it hit parts of the docking station following an engine failure. After the ruptured fuel tank caught fire, Captains McGee and Phillips worked to put the fire out and kept it from spreading to nearby ships. Their bravery earned them the 2017 Award for Exceptional Bravery at Sea, which is given by the International Maritime Pilots Association. We are proud to have these heroic fellow Texans serving and working in our community.
Mayor from Colmesneil Turns 90
 It was an honor to attend the 90th birthday party of my friend, Mr. Don Baird. Don has been mayor of Colmesneil, TX for 16 years and is an outstanding leader for his town, community and Tyler County. 
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Babin Earns Top Award from Family Research Council
Babin Earns Top Award from Family Research Council