-Legislative Update-
House Votes on Balanced Budget Amendment |
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This week, I spoke on the House floor in support of the Balanced Budget Amendment (H.J. Res 2). This Amendment was based on a very simple principle: that Washington should not be allowed to spend more than it takes in.
Unless the federal government is forced to cut spending, it will never balance the budget. If there is any doubt, simply look at last month’s $1.3 trillion omnibus spending bill – which I voted against.
I was disappointed that this Constitutional Amendment to rein in spending fell short of the two-thirds vote needed for passage, but I remain committed to working to get Washington on the path of fiscal responsibility.
To watch Rep. Babin speak in support of H.J. Res 2, click here.
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| Military Service Academy Day |
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On Saturday, May 12th, I will be hosting U.S. Service Academy Day in Deer Park (203 Ivy Avenue) from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and in Lumberton (103 South LHS Drive) from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
This will be a great opportunity for interested students to meet representatives from each of our five U.S. military academies and learn about the academies and their admission processes. For more information or to RSVP, please email Rachel.Iglesias@mail.house.gov.
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| Goodbye to the Old Tax Code |
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As everyone finishes up their taxes for 2017, remember this: it's the last time working under the old tax code thanks to the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act. Next year, American families will be able to file their 2018 taxes in simpler form, and most importantly, keep more of their hard-earned money.
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| Meeting with Constituents from the Arc of Greater Beaumont |
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It was an honor to meet with constituents from The Arc of Greater Beaumont - Joni Copty, Bella Garcia, Joey Garcia, Rose Garcia and Terry Hawthorne - who were in town this week for the National Down Syndrome Society Buddy Walk.
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| FEMA Program Announces Important Inspection Deadline |
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For Texans who are affected by Hurricane Harvey and eligible for FEMA's Direct Assistance for Limited Home Repair (DALHR), please note that the last date to have inspections scheduled is Friday, April 20, 2018. It is critical to meet this deadline as inspection is required to discuss what repairs might be available through the DALHR program moving forward in Harvey recovery.
Local, state and federal partners are all working together to help Texans rebuild after Harvey. Final eligibility is determined by FEMA for services including repairs and the short-term housing program. For more information on eligibility and programs, please call the GLO Hotline: 1-888-958-0877.
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| Accepting Applications for Wounded Warrior Staff |
| Our office has been selected by the U.S. Congress to hire a wounded warrior or medically retired veteran for a 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. Qualified veterans must meet the following requirements that have been established by the House Administration Committee: honorably discharged, released from active duty within the last five years, terminal pay grades at or below E-5, O-3, 20% or greater service connected disabilities (waived if you have a Purple Heart). Interested veterans are required to apply through www.USAjobs.gov and search “Wounded Warrior Fellowship Program." |
| Snap-Shots From the Week |
| It was great to meet with Southeast Texas business leaders and their families in Washington, D.C. this week to talk about federal issues facing their local communities. Thanks to Kevin and Joshua Kennedy, and Jeremy and Jack Want for stopping by my office.
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ACU Award for Conservative Excellence |
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| Last week, I was honored to receive the Award for Conservative Excellence in recognition of my 97% rating from the American Conservative Union. This award is given to Members of Congress who vote to uphold conservative principles and policies that benefit the American people. |
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