As a member of the House Education and Workforce Committee, I am committed to supporting students pursuing a college degree while defending the American taxpayers. This Congress, I will continue my work to bring more transparency and accountability to higher education on behalf of students across the country, which will increase the value of college for a greater number of Americans.

That is why I proudly reintroduced the Protecting Taxpayers from Student Loan Bailouts Act. My bill, which was included in last year’s College Cost Reduction Act, will prevent future Administrations from replicating President Biden’s student loan bailout scheme that could have cost taxpayers—many of whom didn’t attend college or already paid off their loans—up to $1.4 trillion.

My bill will shield your pocketbook from debt forgiveness schemes that unfairly benefit those who chose to take out loans for college at the expense of those who didn’t. The issue of alleviating the burden of student loan debt is complex, and it requires a more thoughtful and responsible approach that both avoids treating people unfairly and the economic consequences of adding upwards of $1 trillion to our national debt.

To read more about the Protecting Taxpayers from Student Loan Bailouts Act, click here.

In his first few weeks in office, President Trump has enacted numerous positive changes, but one decision that deserves more attention is his move to halt a harmful Biden-era proposal that would have eliminated Section 14(c) certificates. This decision safeguards employment opportunities for thousands of individuals with disabilities. Section 14(c) of the Fair Labor Standards Act allows employers to pay workers with disabilities a commensurate wage based on their productivity, ensuring they can remain employed in supportive work environments that promote purpose and independence.

For years, some have pushed to eliminate 14(c) certificates under the false premise that they are exploitative. The reality is that these programs provide individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities an opportunity to work, build friendships, and contribute to their communities in meaningful ways. Many participants in 14(c) programs face unique challenges that make traditional employment difficult. Without these certificates, individuals with disabilities could be forced out of work they enjoy and remain isolated at home.  

I strongly support the Trump Administration’s decision to preserve these programs and protect one of the most vulnerable populations in our country. Rather than eliminating these opportunities in the name of political activism, we should be working to expand employment options for individuals with disabilities. As an advocate for 14(c) for years, I have introduced legislation such as the Continuing Opportunities for People with Disabilities to Excel Act and the Workplace Choice and Flexibility for Individuals with Disabilities Act. I remain committed to advocating for policies that empower all Americans, regardless of ability, and will continue fighting against any future attempts to dismantle this vital program.

I had a highly productive meeting with the Wisconsin Fraternal Order of Police, where we discussed strategies to combat crime and advance legislation to ensure a more secure future for our nation.

I met with Wisconsin members of the Pulp and Paperworkers Resource Council to discuss the challenges facing the industry and ways to help strengthen numbers in the workforce.

It was a privilege to meet with the National Federation of the Blind to discuss crucial legislation aimed at improving accessibility and expanding resources for individuals with vision impairments.