This May, I had the pleasure of leading some of my fellow Science, Space, and Technology Committee members on a Congressional Delegation to Argonne and Fermi National Labs in Illinois. These labs are doing innovative work in basic science and early-stage research performed daily by some of the best scientists and researchers in the world. From materials science research to quantum computing to creating a better, smarter way to absorb oil, and more, the work occurring in our national labs is life changing. The Science Committee works closely with the Department of Energy to observe research and manage funding of, among other institutions, our national labs.

It is a day I will never forget. Sitting in a meeting in DC, I received a phone call no one ever wants to receive – there had been a school shooting. Our world turned upside down in an instant, but what remained the same was the love displayed by the Santa Fe community. These are salt of the earth folk, and they went above and beyond to provide love and support to those who lost loved ones and were there as the unspeakable event occurred. The way Santa Fe rallied together and hosted event after event to raise money, feed their neighbor, and pray for Cynthia Tisdale, Ann Perkins, Sabika Sheikh, Angelique Ramirez, Chris Stone, Shana Fisher, Kimberly Vaughan, Jared Black, Christian Riley Garcia, and Kyle McLeod is truly remarkable.

Hosting telephone townhalls is a great way to meet y’all where you are. In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it’s a great gift to be able to communicate with you through these town halls. We reached thousands of y’all and took about a dozen questions. Thank YOU for being actively involved in our discussions and engaged in your communities.

Photo by: Robert Mihovil 2018 was a BIG year for transportation and infrastructure in our district. Along with rebuilding after Harvey, our local ports and businesses received much needed help, as well. The Port of Port Arthur and the Sabine Neches Waterway both received grant money to rebuild a dock and deepen the channel, respectively. And Port Freeport received continued operation and maintenance funding.  Gulf Copper received a grant to build a new dry dock. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers announced funding to further study coastal barrier protection. And this year’s America’s Water Infrastructure Act (commonly referred to as WRDA, Water Resources and Development Act) included some terrific wins for Texas 14. Along the Texas Gulf Coast, WRDA works by authorizing the construction of levees in our counties, and it recognizes the need for channel improvements to Galveston Harbor, important to both the Galveston and Texas City Ports. An appropriate navigable depth is essential to the transportation of goods domestically and internationally. Our district will see the direct, positive effects of WRDA 2018 authorizations and projects. We know water infrastructure well with our five ports, miles of navigable inland waterways, and awareness of flood protection and prevention.

The Nuclear Energy Innovation Capabilities Act of 2017, introduced by Senator Mike Crapo (R-ID) and myself, was signed into law this September! Access to fast neutrons affords us an opportunity to explore the crucial development of next generation reactor designs, materials, and nuclear fuels. The Versatile Neutron Source authorized in our bill gives our scientists and national labs the tools do just that. We can’t afford to lose the ability to discover innovative nuclear technology here at home. America should lead the global marketplace.

Over 145 Texas 14 families visited DC this past year! We are more than happy to greet y’all, give you a tour of the Capitol building, and help coordinate other tour visits during your stay in our nation’s Capitol. If you’re planning on coming to DC in the New Year, please make sure to come by the office and say “Howdy.” For years now, I’ve had a plaque in front of the door stating that the office belongs to YOU, the people of Texas 14. Come by and see your place. I would love to meet you, and we would love to give you a tour of your nation’s Capitol. For more information about how to coordinate tours for your visit to DC, please visit our web page: weber.house.gov/forms/tourrequest/

I would be remiss not to mention coastal barrier protection. Please be assured: This is one of my top priorities. The initial proposal has been released, and there is work to be done. Y’all brought some GREAT questions and concerns to the table at the fourth public comment meeting. The Tentatively Selected Plan was intended to be a conversation starter, and boy was it ever. Thank YOU for being engaged with local news and for voicing your opinions. It is vitally important that all who are impacted weigh in on this important issue and that the Army Corps be made well aware of all of our concerns. We’ve sent a letter requesting for the public comment period to be extended 45 days to allow ample time for commentary after the holiday season is over. Only through thoughtful, robust, productive conversations will we get the best system to protect our children, our families, our lives, and our homes. I cannot stress how important your opinion is as we aim toward a workable plan to protect our way of life. Stay tuned, you can bet we’ll be following this issue closely and getting y’all the information you need.