This week in Washington, I led 18 members of Congress in a letter expressing our concerns to White House General Counsel Mr. Stuart Delery about the Biden administration's considered policy of a White House briefing space for social media influencers particularly on the CCP-affiliated TikTok platform. We believe this poses potential risks to national security and the integrity of the administration's messaging.

In the House Committee on Armed Services, we held subcommittee hearings on Air Force Projection Forces Aviation Programs and Capabilities, as well as the U.S. Military Posture and National Security Challenges in the Indo-Pacific, addressing China's growing threat to Taiwan and America's interests. We also discussed updates on the new B-21 stealth bomber, as well as the current lethal force of the B-2 at Whiteman Air Force Base.

I also participated in a Small Business hearing discussing the impact of tax hikes on small businesses, emphasizing that farmers are small business owners. We insisted that the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act should not be allowed to expire.

Lastly, the House Committee on Agriculture held a hearing with EPA Administrator Regan. We had the opportunity to ask Mr. Regan about EPA's overregulation and how it is affecting our farmers.

This week I voiced my support for the The Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act of 2023. This bill includes specific provisions to maintain fairness and competitiveness in women's sports. According to Section (d), it is considered a violation for a recipient of Federal financial assistance, who operates, sponsors, or facilitates athletic programs or activities, to allow a person whose sex is male to participate in an athletic program or activity designated for women or girls.

This legislation defines sex based solely on a person's reproductive biology and genetics at birth, ensuring a clear distinction between male and female participants in sports. However, it is important to note that this provision does not prohibit male athletes from training or practicing with an athletic program or activity designated for women or girls, as long as no female athlete is deprived of a roster spot, the opportunity to participate in practice or competition, scholarships, admission to an educational institution, or any other benefit associated with participating in the athletic program or activity.

By including these provisions, the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act aims to maintain fairness and equal opportunities for female athletes while still allowing for collaboration and shared training experiences with male athletes. This legislation demonstrates a commitment to upholding the integrity of women's sports and supporting the continued progress of female athletes in a non-partisan manner.

TikTok is a growing national security threat and the last place I believe it should be used is in the White House. Read more here. 

Last week, Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey implemented restrictions to protect children from life altering decisions that they may not fully understand the consequences of. Hear more of my thoughts here.

I had the opportunity to take a tour of Fort Leonard Wood, meeting with base leadership and heads of various specialties and departments, including the Chemical Defense Training Facility, the Military Police training school, and the Homeland Defense/Civil Support Office. 

 I am truly grateful for our exceptional military leadership.

Watch highlights from my tour here.

It was an honor to attend the historic merging of Canadian Pacific and Kansas City Southern, forming Canadian Pacific Kansas City, the first single-line railway connecting the United States, Mexico, and Canada! I was fortunate to have the opportunity to speak to constituents about the economic impact this merger will have on Missouri's 4th district. I can confidently say that this deal will positively affect the lives of people of all Missourians.

Last week, we hosted our first 'Mondays with Mark' in our Raymore office. My top priority in Washington is helping you all every single day. One of the easiest ways to do that is make sure I'm as accessible as possible and listening to you!

Watch highlights from our first "Mondays with Mark" here

If anyone you know needs assistance with any agency of the federal government, please contact my team in Raymore, Columbia, or Lebanon. Whether it's the IRS, Social Security, passports, veterans’ affairs, or anything else related to the federal government, please give us a call at one of the following numbers:

• Raymore: 816-441-6318
• Columbia: 573-540-6600

Meanwhile, if you have questions about legislation going through Congress, my office in Washington, D.C. can take care of you. My team in D.C. can be reached at 202-225-2876.

My number one job in Congress is to help folks here in Missouri. Please do not ever hesitate to call my offices at the numbers listed above.

I truly care about and will always be working for you.