Immigration Reform

While there are no current bills expected to be voted on regarding immigration reform, it does not mean it is an issue that should be ignored. This is a pressing issue that deals with national security, as well as the allocation of the taxpayers’ hard earned dollars going to those who have violated our law by coming here illegally.

First and foremost, we need to secure our borders. It is imperative that this first step is taken to curb the constant flow of illegal aliens across our borders. One of the greatest responsibilities I have under my Constitutional oath is to defend this nation. There is great concern that the porous borders are allowing those who want to harm us to enter this country undetected.

I recently cosponsored H. Con. Res 218 which expresses the sense of Congress to the Administration that the current laws should be strictly enforced to solidify border security. We must follow the laws on the books and increase the number of Border Patrol agents, build fences where needed, and use state of the art technology, such as motion sensors and drones, to ensure operational control of our northern and southern borders.

Additionally, I am closely watching the new trucking pilot program between the United States and Mexico. This has tremendous potential for the free flow of goods, resulting in a direct benefit to the consumer. That being said, there must be strict accountability measures to ensure the security of the American people and equal treatment of American truckers in Mexico. We must make certain and that cargo is thoroughly inspected to prevent human or drug smuggling, as well as any other criminal actions, and that all U.S. truck safety standards are being met.

Internet Tax

I am an original cosponsor of H.R 743, legislation that would amend the Internet Tax Freedom Act to make permanent the ban on state taxation of internet access and on multiple or discriminatory taxes on electronic commerce. I have joined 209 of my colleagues from both sides of the aisle to pass this common sense legislation to keep the internet tax free.

The internet has been a major driving force in the growth of our economy, and it has unlimited potential for the future. This is a tax cut that both parties should be able to agree on. The internet has always been tax free; it should continue to be; and I staunchly oppose any additional tax increases.

I am hopeful that Speaker Pelosi will act swiftly to bring this bipartisan bill to the floor for a vote so Congress can ensure the internet continues to be tax free. 

Attacks Against the Word “God” in Washington, DC

I was shocked when I learned last week that the Architect of the Capitol (AOC), the caretaker of our nation’s Capitol, had arbitrarily decided to censor what could or could not be on the certificate that accompanies a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol.  What truly upset me was that the word “God” was censored.

I find it disturbing that the custodian of the United States Capitol would make such a decision. The word ‘God’ is inscribed on the walls in both Chambers of Congress in this historic building.  We begin each day in the House of Representatives with a prayer.  There is no reason that certificates accompanying flags flown over the Capitol should not also be permitted to acknowledge God.

Many of you have contacted my office to request that a flag be flow over the Capitol with a special message put on the certificate.  I will do all in my power to preserve the right of citizens to exercise free speech.  Last week, I joined several of my colleagues by signing a letter to both the Architect of the Capitol as well as the Speaker of the House, Ms. Pelosi, calling for a repeal of this policy.


--Randy