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Chairman Babin Leads Texas Delegation in Push to Bring U.S. Space Academy to Texas

Tue, 29 Sep 2026 04:00:00 GMT

U.S. Congressman Brian Babin (TX-36), Chairman of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, led members of the Texas congressional delegation in a letter to the Presidential Commission on the United States Space Academy endorsing Texas’s forthcoming proposal to host the U.S. Space Academy.

“Texas has been at the center of America’s space story for more than six decades, and we are leading the way into its next chapter. From NASA’s Johnson Space Center in my district, home to Mission Control and our nation’s astronaut corps, to the cutting-edge commercial space companies developing the technologies of tomorrow, Texas brings together the experience, infrastructure, talent, and innovation that continue to move America forward. As Chairman of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, I am committed to ensuring the United States wins this new space race and remains the undisputed global leader in exploration and discovery. The United States Space Academy will help prepare the next generation to advance that mission, enhance our space defense capabilities, and protect the homeland. Texas has an unmatched foundation on which to build this landmark institution,” said Chairman Brian Babin (TX-36).

“For more than 60 years, Texas has been at the heart of America’s space program, and President Trump has made American leadership in space a priority. With Johnson Space Center and a thriving space industry already here, it’s only right that the academy carrying the President’s vision forward calls Texas home. I urge the Commission to make it official so the state that helped put Americans on the Moon can train the people who will take us back,” said Rep. Randy Weber (TX-14).

"For over 60 years, when American astronauts need to reach home base, they make the same call: ‘Houston’. Today, Texas is home to Mission Control, the astronaut corps, more than 148,000 aerospace professionals, and the companies and universities leading the next era of space innovation — as well as a robust military presence. The next generation of future space leaders should train alongside people who not only built our nation’s space legacy but are currently building its future,” said Rep. Michael Cloud (TX-27).

“Texas has led the way in space for generations. From Mission Control in Houston to the innovators and engineers building the future of exploration across our state, no place is better positioned to train the next generation of American space leaders. I urge President Trump to make Texas the home of the new Space Academy, where students can learn alongside the people and industries that are already taking America to the Moon and beyond,” said Rep. August Pfluger (TX-11).

“Texas has been a leader in space innovation for generations, and today our state is at the forefront of the next era of space exploration and national security. With a growing space economy, world-class research and industry, and a deep connection to the nation’s space legacy, Texas is a natural home for the U.S. Space Academy and the next generation of space leaders,” said Rep. John Carter (TX-31).

"There is no other state in the nation that makes more sense than Texas to be the home of the future Space Academy to educate and train our next astronauts, engineers, flight controllers, and innovators to ensure America dominates in space exploration and colonization. The confluence of existing resources we already have on hand from Johnson Space Center, commercial space enterprises, world class universities, and 60 years of human space flight experience is in the DNA of Texas which would allow a Space Academy to start quickly and excel immediately in this most important endeavor," said Rep. Beth Van Duyne (TX-24).

“Texas has spent decades investing billions in future exploration of space through both private and public partnerships. The Academy belongs where investments have been made and federal expertise are already working side by side. I'm proud to join Chairman Babin, and my Texas colleagues in advocating for our state to host the U.S. Space Academy,” said Rep. Nathaniel Moran (TX-01).

“American leadership in space will depend on more than the rockets we build. It will depend on the Americans we train to operate, innovate, and defend our interests in the final frontier. Texas helped put Americans on the Moon, and Texas should help train the generation that takes us back. With NASA, the Space Force, world-class universities, and a thriving commercial space industry, Texas already has the people, infrastructure, and expertise needed to make the United States Space Academy a success. Texas is the natural home for this mission,” said Rep. Keith Self (TX-03).

"Texas has the infrastructure, expertise, and passion to train the next generation of American space leaders. Bringing the United States Space Academy home to Texas will ensure our future astronauts, scientists, and engineers continue to lead the world in space exploration,” said Rep. Monica De La Cruz (TX-15).

The letter is signed by Sens. Ted Cruz (R-TX) and John Cornyn (R-TX) and Reps. Michael Cloud (TX-27), Pat Fallon (TX-04), Lance Gooden (TX-05), Keith Self (TX-03), Dan Crenshaw (TX-02), Randy Weber (TX-14), Michael McCaul (TX-10), Morgan Luttrell (TX-08), Beth Van Duyne (TX-24), Jodey Arrington (TX-19), Troy Nehls (TX-22), John Carter (TX-31), Nathaniel Moran (TX-01), Craig Goldman (TX-12), Roger Williams (TX-25), Pete Sessions (TX-17), Jake Ellzey (TX-06), Chip Roy (TX-21), August Pfluger (TX-11), Ronny Jackson (TX-13), Monica De La Cruz (TX-15), and Brandon Gill (TX-26).

Click HERE to read the full letter.

Babin, Cruz: U.S. Space Academy Belongs in Texas

Tue, 15 Sep 2026 04:00:00 GMT

House Science, Space, and Technology Committee Chairman Brian Babin (TX-36) and Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Cruz (R-TX) released the following joint statement expressing support for Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s decision to submit a proposal for Texas to host the U.S. Space Academy:

“For more than six decades, Texas has been where America’s human spaceflight dreams become reality. We thank President Trump for his leadership in launching the U.S. Space Academy. Texas is ready to turn that vision into reality. If America is going to build the world’s premier academy for space, Texas has all the right stuff – the talent, institutions, infrastructure, and experience to launch the next generation of American space leaders. From Gemini and Apollo to Space Shuttle and Artemis, Texas has trained astronauts, managed missions, and helped advance America’s exploration pursuits beyond Earth’s orbit. America’s space program is built across the country, but Texas is where the pieces come together. We are ready to lead the next generation of space pioneers and look forward to showing why Texas is the right home for the U.S. Space Academy.”

On August 28th, President Trump signed an executive order establishing a new academy to advance U.S. interests in space, with a focus on NASA, the U.S. Space Force, and the commercial aerospace industry. Site selection for the academy is currently underway, with Texas Governor Greg Abbott advocating for it to be located near the Johnson Space Center in Houston.

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Babin Establishes I-47 in Honor of President Trump

Thu, 03 Sep 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Congressman Brian Babin (R-TX), Chairman of the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee and senior member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, introduced the I-47 Future Interstate Act of 2026, to designate U.S. Route 287 as Interstate Route I-47.

“US-287 plays a critical role in facilitating transportation and bolstering economic opportunities across Texas and our nation,” said Congressman Babin. “Accounting for 25% of Texas’ GDP in 2021, it supports some of the state’s largest economic sectors, including, but not limited to, energy production, maritime, agriculture, cattle, and timber industries. Designating US-287 as I-47 and a High-Priority Corridor will help strengthen safety standards, improve regional connectivity, spur infrastructure investment, and support continued economic growth not only in Texas but also across the western United States. Texas is growing, and our infrastructure must grow with it. Establishing I-47 is a forward-looking investment in the communities, industries, and hardworking Americans who rely on this critical corridor every day.”

“Transportation Excellence for the 21^st Century (TEX-21) applauds Congressman Babin for his unwavering commitment to bolstering the nation’s economy and creating a safer transportation system,” said Chris Brown, Chair of TEX-21. “The organization also thanks Texas Department of Transportation for completing the US-287 Interstate Feasibility Study in 2025, which found a potential 161% return on investment should US-287 convert to an interstate, and an estimated 28% reduction in crash rates in Texas alone.”

“I-47 should be the prototype for all future interstates and for US highway conversions to interstate,” said Jeff Branick, Vice Chair of TEX-21 and County Judge of Jefferson County. “It should be the safest, smartest, most environmentally responsible, and most technologically adaptable interstate in the country.”

The I-47 Future Interstate Act of 2026:

· Redesignates US-287 as I-47 and a High-Priority Corridor.

· Increases economic growth throughout Texas and beyond.

· Establishes uniform safety standards across five states.

· Facilitates improved infrastructure development.

This legislation is supported by the Transportation Excellence for the 21^st Century (TEX-21).

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Babin Introduces ORTHO Act to Strengthen Patient Safety Standards in Teledentistry

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Congressman Brian Babin (R-TX), Chairman of the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee and a practicing dentist for more than 40 years, introduced the Oversight of Responsible Teledentistry for Healthy Outcomes (ORTHO) Act, H.R. 9829, to establish common-sense patient safety standards for orthodontic treatment provided through teledentistry.

"Teledentistry has expanded access to care for countless Americans, and when used appropriately, it can be a valuable tool. But convenience should never come at the expense of patient safety," said Congressman Babin. "As a dentist for more than four decades, I understand the importance of a thorough clinical examination before beginning significant orthodontic treatment. Patients deserve the confidence of knowing their treatment decisions are based on an in-person evaluation, appropriate diagnostic records, and sound clinical judgment, not solely on an online interaction. The ORTHO Act strikes the right balance by preserving access to teledentistry while ensuring commonsense safeguards are in place to protect patients.”

“We applaud Congressman Brian Babin for his leadership in introducing the ORTHO Act and for bringing his decades of experience as a practicing dentist to this important patient safety issue,” said Dr. Mike Durbin, President of the American Association of Orthodontists. "Teledentistry and artificial intelligence are transforming the delivery of health care and can expand access to care when deployed in ways that preserve patient safety and professional accountability. The ORTHO Act establishes commonsense patient safety standards that ensure orthodontic treatment begins with an in-person clinical examination, appropriate diagnostic records, and the professional judgment of a licensed health care professional. By providing a clear framework for the responsible use of teledentistry, the legislation promotes responsible innovation while helping protect patients nationwide. The American Association of Orthodontists is proud to support the ORTHO Act and looks forward to working with Congress to advance these important patient protections.”

The ORTHO Act establishes baseline patient safety standards while preserving access to teledentistry by:

Requiring an in-person dental examination before most dental treatment can be provided through teledentistry;
Allowing exceptions for emergencies, public health programs, and initial orthodontic screenings;
Requiring an in-person confirmation and X-ray review before orthodontic treatment begins;
Authorizing enforcement by the Federal Trade Commission and state attorneys general against violators

The legislation is supported by the American Association of Orthodontists.

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ICYMI: Fox News Publishes Rep. Brian Babin Op-Ed: "SCOTUS Has Shown Congress a Path on Birthright Citizenship. Lawmakers Must Act."

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. – Today, Fox News published an op-ed by Congressman Brian Babin (R-TX), Chairman of the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee and author of the Birthright Citizenship Act, arguing that the Supreme Court has made clear that Congress must act to restore the original intent of the Fourteenth Amendment and reform America's birthright citizenship laws.

In the piece, Rep. Babin writes that Justice Brett Kavanaugh's recent concurrence outlined a legislative path forward, reinforcing that Congress, not the Executive Branch, is the proper institution to address birthright citizenship through federal law.

"The American people deserve an immigration system that rewards legal immigration, respects the Constitution, and places the interests of our citizens first," Babin writes. "The Supreme Court has reinforced that lasting policy changes should come through the legislative process. My legislation provides exactly that vehicle."

Rep. Babin's Birthright Citizenship Act would clarify that automatic citizenship at birth applies only when at least one parent is:

· A United States citizen or national;

· A lawful permanent resident residing in the United States; or

· A lawful immigrant serving on active duty in the United States Armed Forces.

In the op-ed, Babin argues that the current interpretation of the Fourteenth Amendment has created incentives for illegal immigration and birth tourism, citing recent investigations in Texas involving hospitals advertising "birth packages" for foreign nationals and alleged birth tourism operations.

"The Birthright Citizenship Act gives Congress the opportunity to restore integrity to our citizenship laws, eliminate incentives for illegal immigration, and reaffirm that American citizenship is a precious privilege—not an automatic entitlement available to anyone who crosses our borders," Babin writes.

The congressman concludes by urging lawmakers to act now.

"The time for debate alone has passed. The time for action is now."

Read the full Fox News op-ed here:
https://www.foxnews.com/opinion/scotus-shown-congress-path-birthright-citizenship-lawmakers-must-act

Babin, Cruz Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Protect MQ-9 Capabilities and Preserve Air National Guard Readiness

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Babin, Cruz Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Protect MQ-9 Capabilities and Preserve Air National Guard Readiness

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representatives Brian Babin (R-TX) and Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) and Senators Ted Cruz (R-TX), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) introduced the Sustainment of Unmanned Systems, Total Force Aircraft Inventory, and National Guard Protection (SUSTAIN) Act. This bipartisan legislation prohibits the Air Force from reducing MQ-9 units or staffing levels in ways that would erode their current operational capabilities.

Rep. Babin said, “The 147th Attack Wing at Ellington Field in my district represents exactly why this effort is urgently needed. MQ-9 units have provided the nation with persistent ISR, strike, and other critical capabilities that strengthen our national defense. The platform that delivers this capability may evolve over time, but we cannot allow the capability, expertise, and readiness these Airmen provide to disappear without a clear and responsible path forward. I am proud to lead this effort in the House alongside Rep. Houlahan and Senators Cruz, Kelly, and Slotkin to ensure these units are not left behind. At a time when our adversaries are growing more aggressive, we should not weaken our military or hollow out proven capabilities. I will keep fighting to protect Ellington Field, strengthen our Air National Guard, and ensure the United States remains the strongest and most feared military power on Earth.”

U.S. Senator Ted Cruz introduced companion legislation in the United States Senate.

Sen. Cruz said, “The MQ-9 is a proven, cost-effective platform that provides critical intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities. In Texas, they were invaluable after the devastating July 4, 2025 floods, when the Texas Air National Guard’s 147th Attack Wing deployed the MQ-9 to support search, rescue, and recovery operations along the Guadalupe River. I am proud to introduce this legislation to protect the MQ-9’s operational capabilities and preserve this vital asset.”

Sen. Kelly said, “This aircraft is a critical platform for the Arizona National Guard to gather intelligence, conduct surveillance, and perform strike missions. We must invest in the best tools that strengthen our national security. With this bill we’re making sure servicemembers have the equipment they need at a time of growing global threats.”

Sen. Slotkin said, “Protecting Air National Guard missions has been a priority for me since my time in the House. The message is simple: don't take away missions from the National Guard until you have a plan to replace it. The same rule applies here. I’m glad to have bipartisan support to protect these missions and the servicemembers that form the backbone of our military, including at Battle Creek in Michigan. The SUSTAIN Act holds the Air Force to a basic standard: show us the plan before you start cutting people and planes. Our National Guard units deserve that, and our national security will be stronger because of it."

BACKGROUND

The Sustainment of Unmanned Systems, Total Force Aircraft Inventory, and National Guard Protection (SUSTAIN) Act prohibits the U.S. Air Force from reducing MQ-9 aircraft, units, or staffing levels from the date of enactment through September 30, 2032. The bill provides an exception for MQ-9 aircraft that are determined to be no longer mission-capable and too costly to repair due to a critical malfunction or if an MQ-9 unit undergoes a change of mission.

This bill has been referred to the House Committee on Armed Services.

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Chairman Babin Hosts Southeast Texas Business Roundtable

Fri, 29 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Congressman Brian Babin (TX-36) participated in a business roundtable on Wednesday, co-hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the Greater Beaumont Chamber of Commerce and the Port of Beaumont.

The discussion brought together business leaders, community stakeholders, and industry representatives from across Southeast Texas to discuss key issues impacting economic growth, including tax policy, infrastructure investment, permitting reform, workforce development, and international trade.

“Southeast Texas helps power the American economy,” said Congressman Babin. "From the Port of Beaumont to our small businesses, manufacturers, energy producers, and job creators, our region plays a critical role in keeping our nation competitive. I appreciated the opportunity to hear directly from local business leaders about the challenges and opportunities they face. Congress must continue advancing policies that keep taxes low, streamline burdensome regulations, improve infrastructure, strengthen our supply chains, and ensure American businesses can compete and win."

As Chairman of the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee and a senior member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, Babin emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong business climate that encourages investment, innovation, and job creation.

The Port of Beaumont remains one of the nation’s most important strategic and economic assets, serving as a critical gateway for trade, energy exports, and military readiness. Combined with the region’s manufacturing base, petrochemical industry, transportation networks, and small-business community, Southeast Texas continues to be a major driver of economic growth in Texas and across the country.

Congressman Babin thanked the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the Greater Beaumont Chamber of Commerce, and the Port of Beaumont for convening the discussion and providing a valuable forum for local employers to share their perspectives.

"I will continue working with business leaders, community partners, and stakeholders across Southeast Texas to advance policies that strengthen our economy, create opportunity, and ensure our region remains a leader in American industry and commerce," Babin said.

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Babin Statement on House Passage of DHS Funding to Secure the Homeland

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

U.S. Congressman Brian Babin (R-TX), Co-Chair of the Border Caucus, released the following statement after the House passed critical legislation to fully fund the Department of Homeland Security:

“For more than a month, Senate Democrats have held our homeland security hostage, refusing to fund the very agencies tasked with protecting the American people. Today, House Republicans acted to fully fund DHS, end the dysfunction, and put the safety of our nation first.

Once again, Democrats have chosen violent criminal illegal aliens over the American people. Since their push to defund and weaken homeland security, the consequences have been undeniable: a radical Islamic terrorist carrying out a mass shooting, an innocent young American college student killed by an illegal alien in Chicago, and travelers stuck in hours-long TSA lines as our system strains under pressure. The recent heartbreaking plane crash at LaGuardia Airport only underscores how vulnerable we have become.

This is the direct result of policies that prioritize those here illegally over the citizens government is meant to serve. It is an insult to every American that, even after these tragedies, Democrats refuse to stand with the law enforcement officers and border agents working tirelessly to keep our communities safe. You cannot weaken enforcement and claim to support public safety.

Enough is enough. The American people deserve a government that puts their safety first, and House Republicans will continue fighting to secure our borders, enforce our laws, and defend this nation with the strength it demands.”

Babin Statement on Iran

Sat, 28 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Brian Babin, D.D.S. (TX-36) released a statement on Operation Epic Fury.

“President Trump is taking decisive action against the terrorist regime in Iran, a regime that has destabilized the Middle East, threatened our allies, and targeted Americans for nearly half a century. The era of appeasement is over. The day of accountability has arrived. For too long, Iran’s leaders have spread chaos beyond their borders while denying their own people freedom. President Trump is making clear that the United States will not tolerate nuclear ambitions nor terror proxies. America First means protecting our citizens, defending our allies, and ensuring that no hostile regime ever believes it can challenge us without consequence. I am praying for the brave men and women in uniform who are putting their lives on the line to secure the blessings of liberty for our children and grandchildren. Their courage safeguards our homeland. America stands strong. America stands resolute. And America will always defend freedom.”

Babin’s Birthright Citizenship Act Included in Republican Study Committee Budget

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Brian Babin (TX-36) announced today that his Birthright Citizenship Act has been included in the Republican Study Committee’s Fiscal Year 2026 Budget, marking a major step forward in the effort to restore the rule of law and protect the integrity of American citizenship.

The Republican Study Committee (RSC), serves as the conservative caucus of House Republicans and a leading policy force on the Right. Inclusion in the RSC budget reflects strong support among House conservatives for ending the misuse of birthright citizenship.

The Birthright Citizenship Act aligns with President Donald J. Trump’s commitment to make birthright citizenship reform a national priority and restore the 14th Amendment to its original intent.

This legislation ensures that automatic U.S. citizenship applies only to children born in the United States with at least one parent who is:

A U.S. citizen or national;
A lawful permanent resident residing in the United States; or
A lawful immigrant serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces.

“America’s citizenship laws must reflect fairness, sovereignty, and respect for the rule of law,” said Congressman Babin. “This legislation closes a dangerous loophole that encourages illegal immigration and exploits one of the most valuable privileges our nation offers. Citizenship should be protected, not abused.”

With its inclusion in the RSC budget, the Birthright Citizenship Act continues to gain momentum as Republicans advance policies that secure the border, uphold the Constitution, and put American citizens first.