issues

As a Marine veteran of the Persian Gulf War and a member of the Mississippi National Guard, one of my top priorities is ensuring South Mississippi veterans receive the best service possible.

I have been dedicated to improving services and care for our nation’s veterans through my role in Congress, both as a veteran and a member of the House Appropriations Committee.

I was proud to introduce the Coast Guard Retirement Parity Act and see it signed into law, protecting the retirement benefits of Coast Guard veterans. Unlike other U.S. Armed Forces branches, under previous law, Coast Guard retirement benefits required annual funding from Congress through the House Appropriations Committee. Because of the reliance on this funding mechanism, if the federal government shut down due to. budget disagreements,  Coast Guard servicemembers and retirees would go without pay. My legislation rightfully protects these retirement benefits. I firmly believe that any veteran who has honorably served this nation should never wonder if they'll receive the benefits they earned. 

As we continue the 117^th Congress, I will continue to do all I can for my fellow veterans.  The United States owe a debt of gratitude to our men and women in uniform and their families.  Anything but the best for them is unacceptable, and I remain committed to keeping our promises.

Pro Veterans Legislation:
H.R. 2954: National Guard and Reserves Retirement Pay Parity Act
H.R. 5957: K2 Veterans Toxic Exposure Accountability Act of 2020
H.R. 4305: PAWS for Veterans Therapy Act 
H.R. 3495: Improve Well-Being for Veterans Act
H.R.  299: Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act of 2019
H.R. 95: Homeless Veteran Families Act