This week was National Police Week, I had the privilege of taking the stand on the House floor to honor our law enforcement officers. In my speech, I expressed deep gratitude for our nation's law enforcement officers. I emphasized their crucial role as the human shield between peace and chaos, underscoring their bravery and unwavering commitment to public service.

I also took the floor to speak about the importance of preserving AM radio in our vehicles. In an era of rapid technological advancement where streaming platforms and satellite radio have become the norm, it might be tempting to overlook the humble AM radio. AM radio is a key platform of our nation's communications infrastructure. It provides access to news, weather updates, emergency alerts, and community events, especially in rural and remote areas where other forms of communication may not be as reliable or accessible. It connects listeners to their communities, offering a space for local news, discussions, and music that might not find a place in the national mainstream media.

In the Small Business Committee. I voiced serious concerns over the Biden-Harris administration's SBA policies, particularly the 7(a) loan program changes that I believe put our taxpayers and small businesses in jeopardy.  I stressed the need for robust congressional oversight and transparency, especially after the recent departure of the SBA official chiefly responsible for these changes, and I've called for an immediate pause on these new rules.

I was proud to lead the Missouri Congressional Delegation in a crucial matter concerning Fort Leonard Wood, a cornerstone of our Missouri communities and U.S. military infrastructure.  The Fort generates an estimated $2 billion in economic impact for Missouri and it's our duty to ensure our service members and their families are provided with appropriate housing and facilities.  In an effort to uphold this commitment, we've urged the Appropriations Committee to allocate $50 million towards Fort Leonard Wood's Military Housing Privatization Initiative. This funding is integral in ensuring the continued well-being and readiness of our troops and their families.

I voted and voiced my strong support for H.R. 2 - The Secure the Border Act of 2023.  

Firstly, the need for stronger border control has never been more apparent. The bill requires the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to resume activities to construct a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border. This is not about dividing nations or people, but rather about protecting our homeland and ensuring the integrity of our immigration system.

The legislation further provides statutory authorization for Operation Stonegarden. This program offers grants to law enforcement agencies for border security operations, thereby strengthening our security apparatus and giving our officers the tools and resources they need to effectively protect our borders.

The Secure the Border Act of 2023 is a comprehensive approach to address the challenges we face on our southern border. By supporting this bill, I believe we are making a strong statement about the importance of the rule of law, national security, and the preservation of jobs for American workers. One of the most significant changes that this bill brings about is limiting asylum eligibility to non-U.S. nationals who arrive in the United States at a port of entry. This measure is meant to streamline the asylum process, ensuring that it is not abused and that those who truly need protection can receive it in a timely manner.

Pete Mundo Show

I had the opportunity to speak on the Pete Mundo Show on AM radio. We discussed the importance of keeping AM radio in our car systems and also delved into the topic of debt ceiling negotiations.

Listen here.

Mondays With Mark

I had the pleasure of beginning my week once again at our weekly 'Mondays with Mark.' This week, we took this show on the road and met with constituents at Ground Roots Coffee.

There's a reason we often say small businesses are the backbone of our communities. Ground Roots Coffee and businesses like it are instrumental to the vitality of our district. Getting to spend time with you all and drink a great cup of coffee was a wonderful way to start the week.

See everyone next week!

National Fentanyl Awareness Vigil

Members from our district office proudly represented our community at the National Fentanyl Awareness Day vigil, standing in solidarity with those who have lost loved ones to this devastating epidemic.

By participating, we aimed to honor the memory of those taken too soon, but also to raise awareness about the pervasive risk of fentanyl.

We believe in the power of shared experiences and stories to effect change and foster hope for a future free of the fentanyl crisis.

State Of The City 

We were delighted to attend the State of the City Speech hosted by Mayor Zaring of Harrisonville. It was a great event, shining light on the current status and future prospects of our county. 

Check out the collection of photos from the event!

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.