Last week, my subcommittee on Government Operations on the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform held two hearings.
On Tuesday, we met with experts to better understand the bid protest process. In Fiscal Year 2024, the federal government spent over $755 billion on contracts. Improving this process is essential to protecting taxpayer dollars and enhancing the efficiency of government operations. We heard from key experts on where the process is falling short and how Congress can better oversee and reform it.
As we continue our oversight work, I remain committed to ensuring that federal contracts serve the public interest. You can watch my opening statement here.
On Wednesday, my subcommittee held a hearing focused on the growing crisis of mail theft and postal crime. Ensuring that our postal carriers of the United States Postal Service are able to carry out their jobs without danger is essential not just for their safety, but for the efficiency of the USPS. This hearing was held to continue engaging on the issue.
Eagles on the Hill
This Wednesday, I had the privilege of speaking at Eagles on the Hill with Scouting America. As an Eagle Scout, the son of an Eagle Scout, and the father of two Eagle Scouts, I know firsthand the life-changing impact of Scouting and the values it instills in young people.
Scouting builds leaders, fosters community, and shapes character. It was a joy to join fellow Eagle Scouts in Congress and visit Scouts to reaffirm our commitment to those timeless principles of service and civic engagement.
Congressional veteran
commendations
The deadline to nominate an exceptional veteran in our community to receive a congressional veteran commendation is Aug. 15. This is an opportunity to honor a veteran residing in TX-17 who has not only served our country but continues to make an impact in our community.
Visit my website for more information and to fill out a nomination form.
Legislative Highlights
• Transformation to Competitive Integrated Employment Act
I proudly joined a bipartisan, bicameral group of Sens. Steve Daines and Chris Van Hollen, and Congressman Bobby Scott to introduce the Transformation to Competitive Integrated Employment Act.
Under Section 14(c) of the Fair Labor Standards Act, workers with disabilities can legally be paid far below the federal minimum wage, sometimes less than $1 an hour. This bill ends that practice over five years and encourages disabled Americans to fully participate in our workforce without constraints.
Disabled Americans deserve the opportunity to compete and succeed in today’s workforce, earning the full value of their contributions and retaining necessary benefits should they receive a promotion. While this is an important step, there is still much work to be done to build a competitive and fair workforce.
I remain committed to continuing in this fight.
Pete Sessions represents District 17, which includes Trinity County, in the U.S. House of Representatives.
