H.R. 3935 – Federal Aviation Authority Reauthorization Act of 2024 - Yesterday, President Biden signed the bipartisan FAA reauthorization bill into law! This critical legislation will strengthen safety standards, invest in resilient airport infrastructure, require refunds for certain flight cancellations, and strengthen the aviation workforce. The law brings us closer to finally replacing the deteriorating air traffic control tower at Tampa International Airport! Read more about the replacement request here.
I voted no on H.R. 354 – LEOSA Reform Act of 2024 that extends active and retired law enforcement officers’ ability to carry concealed weapons inside school zones, playgrounds, and government buildings. The bill goes so far as to force concealed carry on private property owners and hamper the ability of states to create gun-free zones. The bill also undermines restrictions on magazine limits. The bill was way too extreme.
I voted no on H.R. 7343, which requires any undocumented individual who is arrested or charged - but not convicted or plead - for assault on a police officer, firefighter, or first responder to deportation. The vague definitions in the bill would allow immigrants to be deported for merely being arrested, even if the individual isn’t ultimately charged or convicted. Current law already requires deportation when an undocumented immigrant is convicted of or admits to assault, which I strongly support.
I voted no on H.R. 8146, a partisan messaging bill related to immigration. Republicans continue to avoid calling up the tough bipartisan Senate immigration reform bill that would provide more resources to border control and change the asylum standards.
I voted yes on H.R. 7581 – Improving Law Enforcement Office Safety and Wellness Through Data Act of 2024 which requires the DOJ to report to Congress on aggression and attacks against officers. Each of these reports is based on data that has already been collected and is widely available to the public.
I voted no on H.R. 7530 – DC CRIMES Act of 2024 which would prevent the District of Columbia from determining their own criminal penalties, including toughening up criminal laws in D.C. The bill would be the most significant rollback of D.C. home rule in nearly 30 years and prevent the District government from addressing trends in crime.
I voted no on H.R. 8369, which would force the Administration to immediately send 2,000- and 500-pound “dumb bombs” to Israel. It would set a dangerous precedent for unconditional military aid and remove checks, oversight, and accountability. President Biden announced a package to replenish the Iron Dome and more, plus the opening of a platform for food aid this week.
