Moran Minute: Supporting Our Veterans and Protecting Texas Consumers

Friends,

Veterans are heroes who have answered the call of duty to serve our great nation. They have defended our nation’s values, safeguarded our freedoms, and protected the American way of life. For that, we owe them an immeasurable debt of gratitude each day. Last week, I had the opportunity to extend support to our veterans by voting on several veteran initiatives aimed at improving access to healthcare, expanding educational opportunities, and removing bureaucratic red tape for those who have served. Some of these bills include:

• H.R. 3738 – Veterans Economic Opportunity and Transition Administration Act, which establishes a Veterans Economic Opportunity and Transition Administration dedicated to assisting veterans’ transition back into civilian life by administering education, employment, and housing opportunity programs already operated by the Department of Veterans Affairs.
• H.R. 1767 – Student Veteran Benefit Restoration Act, which restores VA education benefits for student veterans in cases where the VA determined the student veteran was unable to complete the course or program because of school closure or the program was determined ineligible for VA education benefits.
• H.R. 4016 – Veteran Fraud Reimbursement Act, which requires the VA to reissue benefits in the event of fraud by a fiduciary before making a determination of negligence on the part of the VA.

Let us remember the sacrifices veterans and their families have made—not just while on the battlefield, but back at home and for the remainder of their lives. It is our duty to ensure that they receive the care and support they need. If you are a veteran living in the First Congressional District who needs help navigating the VA to receive the benefits you’ve earned, please contact my office HERE for assistance. We are here to help.

To all our veterans: thank you for your unwavering sacrifice, and may God bless you and your families.

The Biden Administration’s proposed radical restrictions on consumer choices provide almost no real benefit and increase costs for American consumers. The left should not be able to dictate what kind of stoves we use to cook our food or what kind of home appliances we buy, especially when it means increasing costs for everyday Americans. In his first two years, Biden unleashed over 100 regulatory actions on appliances without scientific necessity, significantly increasing the cost of living and removing consumer liberties and economic competition. This is an example of the Administration’s determination to push their Green New Deal-style agenda by replacing all gas-fired stoves with electric alternatives, despite what the vast majority of consumers prefer. Nearly every corner of the American home has been impacted by these regulatory overreaches, and there is no end in sight without Congressional action.[1] On Tuesday, I voted to support the Hands Off Our Home Appliances Act, which will protect American families from government overreach by implementing new restrictions on Secretary of Energy and the process for issuing new energy efficiency standards for covered products and equipment as part of the Appliance and Equipment Standards Program.

In April, I joined my colleagues, Representatives Ann Wagner (R-MO) and Stephanie Bice (R-OK) to introduce the Crime Victims Fund Stabilization Act. The Crime Victims Fund, which is entirely funded by fines from criminal convictions, ensures that states can provide support, funding, and restitution to victims of serious crimes. However, the fund is quickly depleting. Our bill guarantees that innocent victims continue to receive the support that they rely on most by using a new source of revenue at no cost to taxpayers. This legislation proposes redirecting fines from False Claims Act convictions to replenish the Crime Victims Fund, providing immediate relief to its strain and expediting aid to victims of violent crime.

Click HERE to read more about the Crime Victims Fund Stabilization Act.

I had the pleasure of meeting by Zoom with Mr. Oden’s Political Science class at Elysian Fields High School on Tuesday. Engaging with the next generation of leaders is always a rewarding experience, and it was inspiring to see the students’ enthusiasm for discussing important and controversial topics. We discussed how to navigate these discussions respectfully and constructively among peers. It’s encouraging to see young minds actively shaping the future of our democracy. Thank you to Mr. Oden for letting me stop by – virtually!

Congressman Moran in the studio meeting with Elysian Fields High School

Delivering the Commencement at LeTourneau University

Over the weekend, I was honored to deliver the keynote address at LeTourneau University’s 2024 Commencement. It was truly inspiring to witness the enthusiasm from the graduating class as they embark on their next chapter. Thank you, Dr. Steven D. Mason, for having me on campus! As these graduates step into the world, I am confident they will carry with them the values of excellence, integrity, and service instilled by LeTourneau University. Congratulations to the Class of 2024!

Congressman Moran delivering the commencement address at LeTourneau University

East Texans Tour the U.S. Capitol

This week, I had the opportunity to host the National Corn Growers Association and the Texas Realtors Association in my DC office and give them a tour of the U.S. Capitol. Thanks to all who stopped by to say hello in my DC office this week! Having neighbors from the First District visit our nation’s capital is always an honor.

If you are visiting Washington, DC, please reach out to my office by phone at (202) 225-3035 or request a tour on our website by clicking HERE. My staff would be happy to help you with your tour requests around DC!

Congressman Moran with the Texas REALTORS and the National Association of REALTORS

On May 9^th, 1914, President Woodrow Wilson officially established our first national Mother’s Day to celebrate moms across the country.

Happy Mother’s Day to all the wonderful moms across The First District. Each of you play a special role in shaping the lives around you. Your dedication and sacrifice do not go unnoticed, and this weekend, we celebrate you. Thank you for all that you do!

Dealing with federal agencies can be complicated, and my office is here to help.

If you need help with Social Security, the IRS, passport renewals, the VA, or other federal agencies – please do not hesitate to reach out to my office by calling (903) 561-6349 or visiting my website by clicking HERE.

It is an honor to be your voice in Congress.

With gratitude,

P.S.

Which major river forms the border between Texas and Mexico?

The Rio Grande

What is the Texas state fruit?

Check next week’s newsletter for the answer to this week’s Texas Trivia question.