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114th Congress in Review
As the year comes to a close and we look ahead to the next Congress and a new Republican President, I wanted to take a look back at some legislation I was able to get signed into law to open up government, get additional resources to law enforcement and crime victims, and help boost the Texas economy.
Major provisions of a bill I introduced called the Mental Health and Safe Communities Act were signed into law as a part of another bill called the 21st Century Cures Act. State and local law enforcement will now be able to use existing funding to identify mentally ill offenders, help get them treatment, and develop supervision plans for when they are released. These reforms will also empower families to help loved ones through assisted outpatient treatment programs – an alternative to the unbearable scenario when families are faced with the decision to commit a loved one.
The Senate also addressed the backlog of untested rape kits and the need to stop these violent criminals before they strike. Another law I introduced called the Justice for All Reauthorization Act will strengthen crime victims’ rights and reauthorize important law enforcement investigative programs. It also provides resources for victims of sexual assault like access to legal assistance and housing, and improves access to post-conviction DNA testing.
Trade is important for our country’s economy, and it is especially vital in Texas. The Cross Border Trade Enhancement Act, a law I introduced and passed in both Chambers of Congress, would allow for private investment in infrastructure improvements at U.S. ports of entry, without adding to our national debt. The legislation was modeled after successful pilot programs in El Paso and elsewhere, and will help free up resources to better secure our bridges and ports along the border.
Government transparency gained a major win this Congress with passage of the FOIA Improvement Act of 2016. This law I introduced requires agencies to operate under a “presumption of openness” when responding to FOIA requests. It also reduces the bureaucracy involved in the Freedom of Information Act request process and requires agencies to be proactive in disclosing documents that are likely to be of public interest.
Supporting our law enforcement officials was also at the forefront of my efforts this Congress. The POLICE Act, which is now law, expands access to existing federal funding for law enforcement and first responders to receive active shooter response training. It has been endorsed by police, district attorney, and sheriff associations across Texas and the country.
Working alongside our new Republican President, I look forward to accomplishing even more for Texans next year.
