Womack reappointed Chairman of the Appropriations Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development Subcommittee

Washington, January 15, 2025

Washington, DC—January 15, 2025…House Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole (OK-4) today announced his appointment of Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) to again serve as Chairman of the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies (THUD) Subcommittee of the House Appropriations Committee. Congressman Womack will continue to serve on the Defense and Financial Services and General Government (FSGG) Subcommittees during the 119th Congress.

Congressman Steve Womack

Congressman Womack said, “It’s been an honor to serve on the Appropriations Committee, particularly as Chairman of the subcommittee that delivers the most for Arkansans. Drawing on my experience as a mayor, I understand how THUD’s jurisdiction impacts every American's safety, economic opportunity, and quality of life. My service on Defense and FSGG allows me to strengthen our national defense and financial systems. My continued focus remains set on fiscal responsibility and securing wins for Third District Arkansans. I thank my friend, Chairman Cole, for his confidence in me to work on these vital components of the Appropriations Committee. With the rosters now in order, we must immediately finish Fiscal Year 2025 appropriations and begin our work on Fiscal Year 2026.”

Chairman Cole said, “The subcommittees that invest in America’s defense, infrastructure, and economic opportunity require strong fiscal understanding and experience—and Congressman Womack is equipped to serve these missions with distinction. At the helm of the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Subcommittee, you can expect leadership that strengthens America’s transportation and housing future. Grounded in his hands-on experience as a mayor, he knows how to turn practice into purpose. Chairman Womack is a seasoned appropriator who works each day to safeguard taxpayer dollars and support Arkansas and America. I look forward to the continued results delivered under his guidance.”

To learn more about the jurisdiction of each subcommittee, click the below links:

• Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies (Chairman)

• Subcommittee on Defense

• Subcommittee on Financial Services and General Government

Congressman Womack has served on the House Appropriations Committee since his first term in Congress in 2011. This committee is responsible for the discretionary portion of the federal budget and conducting critical oversight of federal agencies. He previously served as Chairman of the FSGG Subcommittee, and was first appointed as Chairman of THUD in April 2024.

Womack Supports FY25 National Defense Authorization Act

Washington, D.C.—December 11, 2024…Today, Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) voted to pass H.R. 5009, the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025. The annual legislation authorizes $895.2 billion for our national security, including resources to enhance military preparedness, improve quality of life for our troops and their families, deter foreign adversaries, and focus the Department of Defense on its core mission. Congressman Womack secured Arkansas’ Third District priorities within the legislation, including authorizing funding for construction of the Ebbing Air National Guard Base Academic Training Center.

President Trump NDAA Signing 2020-Flickr Image

Congressman Womack said, “Passing the NDAA is vital to the safety and security of our homeland and strength of America’s armed forces. This year’s legislation aims to deter adversarial threats abroad and bolster defense capabilities nationwide—including in Arkansas—while improving the quality of life for servicemembers and their families. Although I’m strongly opposed to the decision to circumvent state’s rights regarding the forced federalization of National Guard formations, opposing this legislation is not the right way to address the issue. We can’t deprive our military of the resources needed to protect our nation. Today is a step in the right direction. However, the mission is not complete until we put resources toward these priorities in full-year defense appropriations.”

Provisions in the bill Womack strongly supports:

• Encourages Department of Defense (DOD) to continue investing in expanding Iron Dome system production capacity in the United States, namely at the Camden, Arkansas facility.

• Authorizes funding for Ebbing Air National Guard Base Academic Training Center in support of the F-35 FMS mission.

• Authorizes a 14.5% pay raise for junior enlisted servicemembers, along with a 4.5% pay increase for all other servicemembers.

• Expands access to childcare and employment opportunities for military families.

• Refocuses the DOD on military readiness instead of domestic social policy by gutting DEI programs and prohibiting CRT.

• Extends the Pacific Deterrence Initiative (PDI) and increases a funding authorization for new military technology to deter Chinese aggression in the Indo-Pacific region.

• Reaffirms U.S. support to Israel against Iran, Hamas, and Hezbollah.

• Reaffirms U.S. support to the defense of Taiwan against CCP threats.

• Authorizes full funding for the deployment of National Guard troops at the southwest border and increases authorized funding by $20 million for DOD counternarcotics activities.

• Blocks the Biden Administration’s plan to reduce the number of U.S. Special Forces, warfighting aircraft, and defense missiles.

Additional Provisions Congressman Womack Helped Secure:

• Hot Springs, AR Army-Navy Hospital: Provides Arkansas three years to request permanent ownership of the former Army-Navy Hospital in Hot Springs, AR, and in the event of this request, would extinguish any reversionary interest in the property by the United States.

• National Digital Reserve Corps: Creates a National Digital Reserve Corps to help federal agencies address cyber-attacks and critical workforce gaps as needed.

• Expansion of National Guard State Partnership Program: Directs the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, in consultation with the Secretary of State and the Chief of the National Guard Bureau, to assess and report on the feasibility and benefits of expanding the National Guard State Partnership Program in the Pacific Islands.

• Assessment of U.S. Coast Guard Involvement in State Partnership Program: Directs the DOD to conduct a study on how to more actively consider and support the U.S. Coast Guard’s involvement in the State Partnership Program in the Pacific.

The FY25 NDAA will now advance to the Senate for consideration. 

All four of Arkansas’ GOP U.S. House members re-elected

by Talk Business & Politics staff (staff2@talkbusiness.net)

In deep red Arkansas, outcomes of races in the state’s four Congressional districts provided no surprises, with all four of the GOP incumbents coasting to easy reelection wins. But as of late Tuesday night, it was unclear if they were returning to the majority in the U.S. House.

In the 1st Congressional District, U.S. Rep. Rick Crawford, R-Jonesboro, defeated Democrat Rodney Govens and Libertarian Steve Parsons. As of 11 p.m., and with 81% of precincts reporting, Crawford received 72.8% of the vote, Govens had 24.9%, and Parsons was at 3.04%. The win sends Crawford to Congress for his eighth two-year term.

In the 2nd Congressional District, U.S. Rep. French Hill, R-Little Rock, defeated Democrat Marcus Jones. As of 11 p.m., and with 75% of precincts reporting, Hill received 57.1% of the vote, and Jones had 42.9%. Hill returns to Congress for his sixth two-year term.

All four of Arkansas’ GOP U.S. House members re-elected

Womack hosts NIH Director Bertagnolli in Arkansas’ Third District

National Institutes of Health (NIH) Director Monica Bertagnolli, M.D., Flickr Image

Rogers, AR—October 23, 2024…Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) hosted National Institutes of Health (NIH) Director Monica Bertagnolli, M.D., in the River Valley on Monday and in Northwest Arkansas on Tuesday. Congressman Womack, Director Bertagnolli, and Senator John Boozman (R-AR) visited medical organizations, gained a comprehensive understanding of the region’s medical needs, and saw the partnership between the NIH and local healthcare in action.

Congressman Womack said, “It’s important to bring Washington to Arkansas to ensure Third District Arkansans' needs are met and their voices are heard. I want leaders in our nation, such as Director Bertagnolli, to see the exciting medical research and advancements happening in the Third District while fully understanding the area’s healthcare needs. I’m grateful Director Bertagnolli took the opportunity to see firsthand the remarkable work of our local health providers, researchers, and partners. Senator Boozman and I look forward to a continued partnership with Director Bertagnolli to improve health outcomes for Arkansans.”

Director Bertagnolli said, “The entire community – academic institutions, public health departments, health care providers, businesses, and state and federal government – all play a critical role in making health better for everyone. It is so inspiring to see how Arkansas is working to address the needs of their communities on all fronts, and partnering to eliminate the extra health challenges this region is experiencing. I am so grateful to Congressman Womack and Senator Boozman for hosting me. I have learned so much and am eager to bring more health research to Arkansas. The talent and dedication I have witnessed here makes me sure that we will make tremendous progress.”

Senator Boozman said, “The collaboration in Northwest Arkansas and the River Valley as growing hubs for local and regional medical care as well as nationally recognized innovative research is a tremendous asset. NIH plays a critical role in funding this vital work through the grants and partnerships it supports that generate advanced treatments, cures and overall better outcomes in our communities. Congressman Womack and I were pleased to show Director Bertagnolli the impact of these investments and provide our medical professionals an opportunity to share their feedback directly with the leader of America’s premier health research organization.”

CD3 debate: Israel, abortion and immigration take center stage

by Steve Brawner (BRAWNERSTEVE@MAC.COM)

U.S. Rep. Steve Womack, R-Rogers, said the United States shouldn’t tell Israel how to defend itself following the attacks on it by Hamas last Oct. 7. His Democratic challenger, Caitlin Draper, called for the United States to lead in creating a cease fire. Libertarian Bobby Wilson said the solutions would have to come from the region itself.

The three discussed that and other issues in a debate sponsored by Arkansas PBS on Tuesday (Oct. 8) that will be broadcast Oct. 9 and is available now on Arkansas PBS’ YouTube channel.

Womack said the initial attacks on Israel were imaginable and that the United States should not tell it how to respond.

CD3 debate: Israel, abortion and immigration take center stage

Democrat challenges incumbent in Northwest Arkansas' 3rd Congressional District

KUAR | By Matthew Moore

For decades, beginning in 1874, Arkansas was a one-party state. And that party was the Democratic party. Governor, state assembly, land commissioner, U.S. Senate… nearly every elected official in the state was a Democrat.

“There’s one exception in the state of Arkansas, beginning in the 1960s.”

That’s John C. Davis, the executive director of the David and Barbara Pryor Center for Arkansas Oral and Visual History and the author of From Blue to Red: the rise of the GOP in Arkansas.

Democrat challenges incumbent in Northwest Arkansas' 3rd Congressional District

U.S. Congressman Steve Womack/Challenger Caitlin Draper

House Passes Womack Cosponsored VA Supplemental Bill to Prevent Funding Cliff and Safeguard Veterans’ Benefits

Washington, D.C.—September 18, 2024…Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) is a cosponsor of H.R. 9468, the Veterans Benefits Continuity and Accountability Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2024, which passed the U.S. House of Representatives last night. This legislation fully funds the Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) request for supplemental funding, addressing its massive funding shortfall, and holds the Biden-Harris administration accountable for its mismanagement of the VA budget.

Congressman Womack said, “Our nation’s veterans deserve and rely on resources from the VA budget. The Biden-Harris administration’s $15 billion shortfall is utterly unacceptable. By passing the VA supplemental bill, Congress stepped up for millions of veterans where the administration fell woefully short. Not only does this legislation fully fund the VA’s request, but it also ensures our heroes are never neglected by these failures again.”

Background:

Image provided by Sydney Rae

The VA’s failure to properly budget and account for enrollment growth and staffing costs in its budgetary process resulted in an unprecedented funding shortfall in veteran benefits for the remainder of FY24 and into FY25.

The House Appropriations Committee was notified of the potential shortfall in July—four months after the Biden-Harris administration submitted its Budget Request and following the markup of FY25 legislation in both chambers of Congress. The VA’s updated projections indicated a need of approximately $15 billion above what was originally requested, including an additional $3 billion for the remainder of FY24 for Compensation and Pensions and Readjustment Benefits (mandatory funding) and an additional $12 billion for FY25 for VA medical care (discretionary funding).

Without Congressional action before September 20, this shortfall would result in the Veterans Benefits Administration being unable to process benefits payments scheduled for October 1st. 

Solution:

H.R. 9468 addresses the $3 billion shortfall in mandatory funding, which the Congressional Budget Office estimates would have no net budget effects.

The bill also includes language that holds the administration accountable, requiring a report to be submitted to Congress no later than 30 days after enactment as to why these budgetary errors took place and ways the VA is addressing its failure to accurately project needs and recurring reports on the status of funds of these accounts moving forward.

Womack Introduces Bill to Protect Veteran Access to Telemedicine Services

Washington, DC—August 6, 2024…Today, Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) introduced the Protecting Veteran Access to Telemedicine Services Act of 2024. This bill would permanently extend a current pandemic related exemption that allows health care professionals employed by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to deliver, distribute, and dispense medically necessary controlled substances to veterans via telemedicine under certain conditions regardless of whether that health care professional has conducted the one in-person medical examination required under the Ryan Haight Act.

Telemedicine-Wikimedia Image

Congressman Womack said, “Our veterans deserve accessible health care, regardless of where they live. Millions of veterans—particularly in rural communities—rely on the VA's successful use of telehealth services. This bill acknowledges and meets their needs by permanently authorizing the delivery of care right to their homes. America is indebted to our veterans for their service, and it’s our duty to ensure they have the resources to live a healthy life.”

Background:

• The Ryan Haight Online Pharmacy Consumer Protection Act of 2008 was enacted on April 13, 2009. This bill was designed to combat the rogue internet pharmacies that proliferated in the late 90s, selling controlled substances online.

• Under this Act, a practitioner is required to have conducted at least one in-person medical evaluation of the patient, in the physical presence of the practitioner, before issuing a prescription for a controlled substance.

• During the COVID-19 pandemic, requirements under the Ryan Haight Act for a patient to meet with a practitioner in-person for the prescription of a controlled substance were temporarily waived.

• On October 6, 2023, the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) and Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced the continuation of temporary extension of flexibilities around telemedicine prescribing of controlled substances from the COVID-19 public health emergency through December 31, 2024.

Bill Impact on Veterans in Rural Areas:

• According to the VA’s Office of Rural Health, there are more than 2.7 million veterans in rural communities who are enrolled in and rely on the VA’s health care system.

• Veterans residing in rural areas do not have the same access to VA health care as those in more suburban and urban areas, which can result in poor long-term health outcomes.

• Due to lack of immediate access to VA clinics, veterans residing in rural areas often have difficulty complying with the requirement for one in-person visit to their health care provider under the Ryan Haight Act.

• This bill would reduce disparities and improve access to VA health care for veterans in rural areas by allowing VA health care professionals to prescribe controlled substances via telemedicine.

• If the current exemption expires at the end of the year, veteran access to certain medications classified as a controlled substance will be severely restricted.

Womack responds to Netanyahu’s Address to Congress

Washington, DC—July 24, 2024…Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) released the following statement after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed a Joint Meeting of Congress in the Hall of the U.S. House of Representatives today:

Netanyahu - Wikimedia

Congressman Womack said, “Prime Minister Netanyahu’s speech reaffirmed the longstanding relationship between our nations, emphasizing America’s responsibility to support our allies in war against our common enemies. He did a great job of giving context to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and its importance to the global nature of the axis of evil we face. Our country must stand firmly with Israel in its fight to exist and defeat murderous terrorists who are still holding Americans hostage.”

Congressman Womack has made strengthening the U.S.-Israel alliance a priority during his time in Congress. He has continually backed military assistance that supports the safety of Israeli citizens and stability in the region.

Recent actions Congressman Womack has taken to support Israel:

• Voted for the House-passed Antisemitism Awareness Act of 2023, which codifies President Trump’s Executive Order that discrimination against Jewish students may violate Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and requires the Department of Education to take into account the 2016 International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s definition of antisemitism and its contemporary examples as part of its assessment of whether antisemitic discrimination transpired.

• Voted for the House-passed Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, which fully funds the U.S.-Israeli cooperative missile defense programs and holds the United Nations accountable for its blatant bias against our ally Israel by prohibiting any taxpayer dollars from going to the United Nations Commission of Inquiry against Israel and the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA).

• Voted for the House-passed H.R. 6126, the Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2024.

• Voted for the House-passed H.Res. 771, Standing with Israel as it defends itself against the barbaric war launched by Hamas and other terrorists. 

• Voted for the House-passed H. Res. 798, Condemning the support of Hamas, Hezbollah, and other terrorist organizations at institutions of higher education, which may lead to the creation of a hostile environment for Jewish students, faculty, and staff.

• Voted to support the expansion of the Abraham Accords to encourage nations to normalize relations with Israel and express continued support for bilateral cooperation across economic, security, and civilian issues.

• Voted to condemn the rise of antisemitism and call on elected officials to identify and educate others on the contributions of the Jewish American community.

• Voted to establish a Special Envoy for the Abraham Accords at the Department of State to strengthen and expand the Abraham Accords.

• Voted for the House-passed FY25 NDAA which reaffirms U.S. support to Israel against Iran, Hamas, and Hezbollah.

• Voted for the House-passed FY25 State and Foreign Operations Appropriations bill, which includes $3.3 billion in Foreign Military Financing for Israel to defend itself against terrorist attacks and prohibits funding for the International Criminal Court, International Court of Justice, UNRWA, and the United Nations Commission of Inquiry against Israel.

Womack Travels to West Point for Summer Training, Leads Board of Visitors Meeting

West Point, NY—July 26, 2024…Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3), Chairman of the West Point Board of Visitors (BOV), traveled to the United States Military Academy at West Point to observe cadet summer training, meet with cadets and academy leadership, and lead the West Point Board of Visitors meeting.

Chairman Womack said, “One of my highlights each summer is observing cadet training and meeting with our next generation of Army leaders, particularly those from Arkansas’ Third District. As Chairman of the West Point Board of Visitors, I focused today's board meeting on the cadets’ developmental experience and ensuring USMA remains the world’s preeminent leadership institute. I’m incredibly proud of these cadets, who commit themselves every day to the values of Duty, Honor, and Country.”

Today, Chairman Womack observed cadet summer training and led the Board of Visitors meeting, where board members received briefings on West Point’s academic, physical, and military priorities. Faculty and cadets also led discussions on a range of topics, including developing leaders of character, building diverse and effective teams, modernizing readiness capabilities, strengthening partnerships, and the importance of investments in military readiness.

The U.S. Military Academy at West Point Board of Visitors provides independent advice and recommendations on academy matters, including morale and discipline, curriculum, instruction, physical equipment, fiscal affairs, academic methods, and other issues deemed appropriate by board members. 

Chairman Womack was first appointed to the BOV in 2012 by Speaker John Boehner and subsequently elected BOV Chairman in 2017. He is currently the only congressional representative from Arkansas to serve on the board.

ICYMI: Womack secures numerous Third District wins in FY25 appropriations bills

Washington, DC—July 19, 2024…Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3), a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee and Chairman of the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD) Subcommittee, authored, secured, and voted to pass funding for Third District priorities within the Fiscal Year 2025 Appropriations bills, all of which have advanced out of the committee as of last week.

Congressman Womack said, “Arkansans sent me to Congress to deliver results that will have real impacts on their daily lives. Whether the project focuses on improving infrastructure in Northwest Arkansas, preparing Fort Smith for the FMS mission, or supporting our hardworking firefighters' efforts to keep us safe, I want to ensure the needs of our growing region are met. Securing wins to improve the quality of life for Third District Arkansans remains my priority on the House Appropriations Committee.”

Below are the FY25 Appropriations bills that contain direct wins for Arkansas’ Third District with details about each provision’s impacts.

Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies

• Arkansas Highway 112 – $6 million

• This project will fund the construction of safety, operational and congestion improvements on various segments of Highway 112 from Bentonville to Fayetteville. These improvements will include major widening, raised medians, pedestrian improvements, traffic signal upgrades, and roundabouts.

• Benton County Water System Improvements – $1.75 million

• This project will upgrade the current water system to a loop system and provide newer, larger pipes that can keep up with the water demand of the growing area.

• Construction of Future Interstate 49 – $3 million

• This project will fund the construction of a segment of future Interstate 49 and provide congestion relief for the cities of Fort Smith and Van Buren.

• Farmington Bridge Repairs – $6.5 million

• This project will provide funds to replace two functionally obsolete bridges that are located on Double Springs Road in Farmington, Arkansas.

• Huntsville Water System Improvements – $3 million

• This project will provide upgrades to the Huntsville water system, including building a water tower and upgrading the sewer lines and plant.

• Mulberry Food Pantry – $500,000

• This project will provide funds to the City of Mulberry to update the Community Food Pantry to increase its capacity and comply with the American Disabilities Act.

• Northeastern Benton County Fire Station Improvements – $1.25 million

• This project will provide funds for facility construction and upgrades, including structure material, heating and air, a new water line and additional equipment, including a new fire truck.

• North Central Crawford County Water Systems Improvements – $4.4 million

• This project will provide funds for a water system extension to serve approximately 350 users in North Central Crawford County who currently do not have access to a potable water supply.

• Springdale Northern Bypass – $59 million

• This funding will help complete the U.S. Highway 412 Springdale Northern Bypass by constructing a four-lane, divided highway with fully controlled access built to interstate standards.

• Towson Avenue Improvements – $12.5 million

• This project will provide funds to improve Highway 71B/Towson Ave. in Fort Smith by enhancing pedestrian accommodations and improving drainage.

Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies

• Ebbing Air National Guard Academic Training Center – $70 million

• The funding would be used to construct a F-35 Academic Training Center and Liquid Oxygen Supply Storage facility for the Foreign Military Sales F-35 program’s Pilot Training Center. The facility will provide spaces for training classrooms, flight simulator spaces, conference rooms, and administrative support spaces for the F-35 FMS Pilot Training Center mission.

Defense

• Ebbing Air National Guard Base Foreign Military Sales Mission – $36.743 million

• This funding will support continued infrastructure investments required to stand up the Foreign Military Sales mission at Ebbing Air National Guard Base.

Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration

• Berryville Hospital MRI –$1.376 million

• This funding will go toward equipment for an MRI unit for Berryville Hospital.

• Pea Ridge Fire Station – $2.75 million

• This funding will go toward the construction of a new fire station for the City of Pea Ridge’s Fire Department, which will provide increased fire and EMS capacity.

Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies

• Elkins Water System Improvements – $3.75 million

• This project will provide upgrades to the current water systems and help provide ratepayer relief.

• Springdale Water System Improvements – $3 million

• This project will provide funds to expand sewer infrastructure over very difficult and challenging terrain to the eastern border of Springdale.

Read about each of the FY25 Appropriations bills here.

U.S. Congressman Steve Womack statement on House passage of Homeland Security, Defense, State and Foreign Operations FY25 Appropriations Bills

Washington, DC—June 28, 2024…Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the FY25 Homeland Security, Defense, and State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations bills with his strong support:

Congressman Womack said, “Promoting America’s safety and security is at the heart of each of the Appropriations bills House Republicans passed this week. We advanced investments to secure the border, deter our adversaries, and support our men and women in uniform. The defense priorities within Arkansas’ Third are also taken care of, including additional funding for the Foreign Military Sales mission at Ebbing Air National Guard Base and vital defense research conducted in Arkansas. However, our work is far from complete. We must continue down the aggressive path Chairman Cole has set for Republicans to have strong negotiating power and fulfill our duty of responsibly funding the government.”

Bill breakdowns:

The Homeland Security Appropriations bill secures our southern border by providing robust funding for border patrol agents and technology, counters China, bolsters national security, and rejects the Biden Administration’s attempts to further its reckless agenda to encourage more illegal immigration. A summary of the bill can be found here.

The Defense Appropriations bill funds a 4.5% pay raise for our troops, as well as an additional 15% pay increase for junior enlisted servicemembers, ensures the delivery of combat-ready forces to deter war and ensure national security, and eliminates funding for President Biden’s social agenda. A summary of the bill can be found here.

The State and Foreign Operations bill prioritizes resources to support our allies and counter our adversaries, prohibits funding for organizations that do not support U.S. interests—including the International Criminal Court, United Nations Relief Works Agency, and World Health Organization—and promotes American values by increasing funding for religious freedom programs abroad and implementing the expanded Mexico City Policy on all health funds in the bill. A summary of the bill can be found here.

The House has now passed 4 of the 12 FY25 Appropriations bills, with passage of the FY25 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill on June 5, 2024.

Womack votes to strengthen National Security, improve servicemember quality of life

Washington, DC—June 14, 2024…Today, Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) voted to pass the H.R. 8070, the Servicemember Quality of Life Improvement and National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025. The annual legislation authorizes $895.2 billion for our national security, including resources to enhance military preparedness, improve quality of life for our troops and their families, deter foreign adversaries, and focus the Department of Defense on its core mission.

Congressman Womack said, “Providing for the common defense of our nation is a constitutional imperative, and supporting our troops is our moral and strategic obligation. This year’s NDAA secures Arkansas priorities, improves the quality of life for our servicemembers and their families, and makes it abundantly clear that America will stand by our allies and defend against adversarial aggression both at home and abroad. House passage of the NDAA is a step forward, but we must quickly pass full-year appropriations for the Department of Defense and fund the government to complete the mission.”

Provisions in the bill Womack strongly supports:

• Encourages Department of Defense (DOD) to continue investing in expanding Iron Dome system production capacity in the United States, namely at the Camden, Arkansas facility.

• Authorizes funding for Ebbing Air National Guard Base Academic Training Center in support of the F-35 FMS mission.

• Authorizes a 19.5% pay raise for junior enlisted servicemembers, along with a 4.5% pay increase for all other servicemembers.

• Expands access to childcare and employment opportunities for military families.

• Refocuses the DOD on military readiness instead of domestic social policy by gutting DEI programs, prohibiting CRT, and ending affirmative action at service academies.

• Extends the Pacific Deterrence Initiative (PDI) and increases a funding authorization for new military technology to deter Chinese aggression in the Indo-Pacific region.

• Reaffirms U.S. support to Israel against Iran, Hamas, and Hezbollah.

• Reaffirms U.S. support to the defense of Taiwan against CCP threats.

• Authorizes full funding for the deployment of National Guard troops at the southwest border and increases authorized funding by $20 million for DOD counternarcotics activities.

• Blocks the Biden Administration’s plan to reduce the number of U.S. Special Forces, warfighting aircraft, and defense missiles.

Cosponsored Amendments:

• Hot Springs, AR Army-Navy Hospital: Provides the state of Arkansas three years to request permanent ownership of the former Army-Navy Hospital in Hot Springs, AR, and in the event of this request, would extinguish any reversionary interest in the property by the United States.

• National Digital Reserve Corps: Creates a National Digital Reserve Corps to help federal agencies address cyber-attacks and critical workforce gaps as needed.

• Expansion of National Guard State Partnership Program: Directs the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, in consultation with the Secretary of State and the Chief of the National Guard Bureau, to assess and report on the feasibility and benefits of expanding the National Guard State Partnership Program in the Pacific Islands.

• Assessment of U.S. Coast Guard Involvement in State Partnership Program: Directs the DOD to conduct a study on how to more actively consider and support the U.S. Coast Guard’s involvement in the State Partnership Program in the Pacific.

The FY25 NDAA will now advance to the Senate before a conference committee is established to reconcile the differences between the House and Senate versions.

Arkansas House Delegation to McDonough: The politicization of the VA is inappropriate

Washington, D.C. — Congressmen Rick Crawford (AR-01), French Hill (AR-02), Steve Womack (AR-03), and Bruce Westerman (AR-04) sent a letter to U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary Denis McDonough voicing concern for the encouragement of VA facilities to display Pride flags at the taxpayers’ expense. The letter calls on McDonough to immediately remove any flag other than the American flag, flag of the VA, state flags, and the POW-MIA recognition flag from VA facilities.

Rawpixel Image

In part, the lawmakers wrote:

“The Pride flag is once again flying over the VA facility in Little Rock, and our constituents and veterans across Arkansas have called on us to inquire about why the VA is expressing a clear political leaning. Your continuation of this policy demonstrates the continued disregard for the opinions of veterans you showed last year. The men and women who have served our country deserve to enter a facility that is free from discrimination and political posturing, and we should strive to provide them with an apolitical VA when they seek the care, benefits, and services they have earned.”

Click here for the full letter.

House Passes First FY25 Bill, Robustly Funding Veterans’ Care and Military Construction

Washington, DC—June 5, 2024…Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) voted in support of the Fiscal Year 2025 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies bill that passed the U.S. House of Representatives today. This bill exceeds the Department of Defense’s military construction budget request, fully funds veterans’ care, and secures key defense priorities, including additional funding for Ebbing Air National Guard Base projects and robust investments in the Pacific region.

Image by Manny Becerra

Congressman Womack said, “This bill enhances our defense capabilities nationwide and in Fort Smith by securing $70 million for Ebbing Air National Guard Base Academic Training Center construction. Importantly, it displays our commitment to those who’ve dutifully served our country by investing in the quality of life for our military families and fully funding veterans’ care. I’m pleased it received the stamp of approval from the House. I look forward to working with our Senate counterparts to advance this legislation on the path to becoming law.”

Bill breakdown:

• Supports veterans by:

• Fully funding veterans’ health care programs.

• Fully funding veterans’ benefits and VA programs.

• Bolsters national security by:

• Providing robust funding for the Indo-Pacific region, fully funding projects in Guam, and increasing resources for INDOPACOM to improve the Department of Defense posture in the region.

• Maintaining the prohibitions on the closure of Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba and the use of military construction funds to build facilities for detainees on U.S. soil.

• Focuses the Executive Branch on its core responsibilities by:

• Reaffirming the political limits outlined in the Hatch Act, particularly those of lobbying Congress and using official resources for political purposes.

• Prohibiting the use of funds to promote or advance critical race theory.

• Prohibiting the implementation, administration, or enforcement of the Biden Administration’s executive orders on diversity, equity, and inclusion.

• Supports American values and principles by:

• Prohibiting taxpayer dollars from being used for abortion, using Hyde Amendment language which includes exceptions for rape, incest, and life of the mother.

• Protecting the 2nd Amendment rights of veterans by preventing VA from sending information to the FBI about veterans without a judge’s consent.

• Prohibiting VA from processing medical care claims for illegal aliens.

A summary of the bill is available here.
Bill text is available here.

Womack forces Biden to sanction ICC Officials

Washington, DC—June 4, 2024…Today, Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) voted for H.R. 8282, the Illegitimate Court Counteraction Act, which passed the U.S. House of Representatives. This legislation requires President Biden to impose sanctions against International Criminal Court (ICC) officials who investigate, arrest, detain, or prosecute a U.S. person or our allies, including Israel.

Congressman Womack said, “Hamas is a ruthless terrorist organization that murdered the most Jews since the Holocaust and is still holding dozens of innocent people hostage, including Americans. Israel has every right to rid the world of this evil force—and America should support them. The ICC's actions are baseless and outrageous. Despite President Biden’s weakness, House Republicans showed strength today by passing this legislation. There must be real consequences for the ICC’s illegitimate attempts to bypass our country’s and our ally’s judicial processes and sovereignty.”

Background:

• On May 20, 2024, the Prosecutor of the ICC, Karim Khan, announced arrest warrant applications for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant, together with warrants for Hamas terrorists.

• In 2020, President Trump issued Executive Order 13928 sanctioning ICC officials, employees and associates who engaged in any effort by the ICC to investigate, arrest, detain, or prosecute U.S. citizens or allies – including Israel – that are not part of the ICC or have not granted the ICC jurisdiction.

• On April 2, 2021, President Biden revoked EO 13928, allowing the ICC to target U.S. citizens and Israel.

• The U.S. and Israel are not parties to the Rome Statute or members of the ICC, and therefore the ICC has no legitimacy or jurisdiction over the U.S. or Israel.

Arkansas delegation supports governor’s request for major disaster declaration

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Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators John Boozman and Tom Cotton—along with Congressmen Steve Womack, Rick Crawford, French Hill and Bruce Westerman—wrote to President Joe Biden urging him to support Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders’ request for a major disaster declaration as a result of severe storms in Benton, Boone and Marion Counties on May 26.

“We encourage the president to quickly approve federal aid to help speed up recovery efforts in Arkansas,” members said. 

The letter can be found here and below:

Dear Mr. President:

On behalf of the State of Arkansas, we are writing to support Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders’ request to declare a major disaster, pursuant to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief Act, as a result of severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding that began on May 24, 2024, and are continuing.

As Governor Sanders noted in her request, the severity of this event created disastrous amounts of debris, severe infrastructure damage, and resulted in the deaths of at least nine citizens and injured countless others. Arkansans will continue to feel the destructive impact of this storm as we work to rebuild.  

Preliminary damage estimates conducted by the Federal Emergency Management Agency show major impacts to local jurisdictions in Benton, Boone, and Marion Counties exceeding an estimated $6.4 million in damages. At least 217 homes were destroyed with an additional 94 sustaining major damage. In total, over 478 homes were affected by the storms, leaving a large number of Arkansans displaced and many counties left without power for days. 

Despite facing significant hardships from the severe storm, Arkansans have demonstrated remarkable resourcefulness and resilience. Communities from across the state have come together to support one another during this challenging time. But as it stands, we believe the magnitude of this weather event warrants supplemental federal assistance. The above-mentioned counties have seen homes, businesses, and important infrastructure severely damaged, and federal government resources will be critical in restoration efforts.

The entire Arkansas delegation is eager to assist in any way possible to ensure expedited evaluation of this request. Please do not hesitate to contact our offices with any questions. We thank you for your support, and respectfully ask for your attention and assistance in providing the resources necessary to ensure the safety and full recovery of Arkansans.

Womack celebrates West Point Class of 2024, Arkansas’ Third District graduates

West Point, NY—May 25, 2024…Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3), Chairman of the West Point Board of Visitors (BOV), today joined President Joe Biden, Secretary of the Army Christine Wormuth, Chief of Staff of the Army Gen. Randy George, Superintendent of the U.S. Military Academy Lt. Gen. Steven Gilliand, and other Army leaders at the U.S. Military Academy’s (USMA) graduation ceremony. The event honored the more than a thousand young men and women, including four cadets from Arkansas’ Third District.

Chairman Womack said, “Just four years ago, these young men and women walked through the gates of West Point with a mission to serve and an eagerness to learn. During their 47-month experience, they have faced rigorous training, overcome adversity, and prepared themselves to lead America’s sons and daughters in our nation’s conflicts. Today, these same patriots will leave the world’s preeminent military institution as the next generation of Army leaders. As an Army veteran, Chairman of the West Point Board of Visitors, and Congressman with the distinct privilege to nominate students to service academies each year, it’s been an honor to watch their journey. Congratulations to Ashton, Garrett, Kayden, and Pierce, and every 2024 graduate. A grateful nation salutes you.”.

During the ceremony, the cadets who have undergone four years of rigorous academic, physical, and leadership training, swore their oath to preserve and protect the Constitution and serve as leaders of character. Each newly commissioned officer received their second lieutenant bars and will now head to their first duty assignments.

West Point is the preeminent leadership development institution that is focused on educating, preparing, and training the next generation of Army leaders. The USMA Board of Visitors is charged with providing independent advice and recommendations on academy matters, including morale and discipline, curriculum, instruction, physical equipment, fiscal affairs, academic methods, and other issues deemed appropriate by board members. Womack was first appointed to the BOV in 2012 by Speaker John Boehner and first elected Chairman in 2017. He is currently the only congressional representative from Arkansas to serve on the BOV.

Womack secures funding for Fort Smith’s Ebbing Air National Guard Base

Washington, DC—May 23, 2024…Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) voted in support of the Fiscal Year 2025 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies bill that passed out of the House Appropriations Committee today. This bill exceeds the Department of Defense’s military construction budget request, fully funds veterans’ care, and secures key defense priorities, including additional funding for Ebbing Air National Guard Base projects and robust investments in the Pacific region.

Congressman Womack said, “Taking care of the patriotic Americans who have served and currently serve our country while bolstering our defense capabilities remains the focus for the FY25 bill. It secures $70 million for Ebbing Air National Guard Base Academic Training Center construction along with additional funding for planning and design of future Ebbing projects to further support the critical Foreign Military Sales mission in Fort Smith. I’m proud to see this legislation take an important step forward in becoming law today.”

A summary of the bill is available here.
Bill text is available here.

Rep. Womack, Crawford will play role in rebuilding of collapsed bridge in Baltimore

KUAR | By Ronak Patel

Last week, U.S Rep. Steve Womack, R-Rogers, visited the site where the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed in Baltimore, Maryland.

As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, Womack will help with the rebuilding process of the bridge. In an interview with Arkies in the Beltway, a podcast by the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Womack said the federal government will be involved with helping pay for the rebuilding of the bridge, but is not sure how much the federal government will contribute.

“Eventually, there will be a bill to be paid and quite frankly I think that members that were there today recognize that this is not something that Maryland is going to be able to do on its own,” he said.

Rep. Womack, Crawford will play role in rebuilding of collapsed bridge in Baltimore

Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images

A crane is used to clear debris from the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore.