Recently, I had the privilege of welcoming U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy to the William J. Hughes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Technical Center here in South Jersey. Secretary Duffy's visit celebrated the recent reauthorization of the FAA, including the permanent codification of the FAA Technical Center and its expanded role as the nation's hub for Advanced Aerospace. I personally led the effort to secure this permanent codification, ensuring that the FAA Technical Center is officially recognized in law to remain right here in South Jersey. It was an honor to celebrate the impact this will have on our local community and the nation as a whole.

The work being done here is vital, whether it is advancing drone technology or developing the next generation of air traffic control systems. However, recent outages of Newark Airport's radio and telecommunications systems have exposed clear weaknesses in our current infrastructure. These disruptions, which have happened multiple times in a short period, highlight just how outdated and vulnerable our air traffic control system has become, making modernization a must.

That is why I have been calling for a comprehensive overhaul of our air traffic control system, which is long overdue. While Secretary Duffy was visiting, he announced a plan for a new air traffic control system right here at the Technical Center to make our systems more efficient and safe. In addition, House Republicans, including myself, have been working hard to secure millions of dollars to update these critical systems and to create incentives for recruiting and retaining air traffic controllers. With new resources and its expanded role, the FAA Technical Center is now positioned at the forefront of leading America into the future of aviation.

With summer just around the corner, it is important to be aware of seasonal health risks, especially Alpha-gal Syndrome (AGS), a serious and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction caused primarily by bites from the lone star tick. These ticks are most active in late spring through early fall, so now is the time to take precautions.

Alpha-gal Syndrome can cause severe allergic reactions to red meat and other products derived from mammals. Right here in New Jersey, it is estimated that between 18,000 and 36,000 people are living with this condition. Across the country, the number is growing rapidly.

To help protect those affected and bring national attention to this urgent issue, I introduced H.R. 1178, the Alpha-gal Allergen Inclusion Act. This bill would officially designate alpha-gal as a major food allergen, requiring clear labeling on food and medical products.

For those spending time outdoors this summer, I encourage you to take steps to protect yourself from tick bites. For prevention tips and educational materials, you can visit this helpful brochure  provided by the Alpha-gal Alliance.

Click here to read the text of the bill.

Recently, I have introduced key legislation that ensures our veterans receive the honor, respect, and support they have earned. I am proud to be leading and supporting bills that directly address the challenges these heroes face, whether it is access to healthcare, financial relief, or greater community support.

Here is a look at some of the bills I have introduced and am working on right now:

Bills I Have Introduced:

• H.R. 467- Foreign Medical Program Modernization Act
  • Expands eligibility for the VA's Foreign Medical Program by removing outdated requirements, so more veterans overseas can access care
• H.R. 823- Heroes' Tax Exemption Act
  • Exempts active-duty service members from federal income tax
• H.R. 2699-Veterans' Telecommunications Protection Act
  • Ensures veterans' organizations get access to affordable cable and voice service rates, helping them stay connected and operational
• H.R. 3027- Green Star Families Act
  • Provides counseling to the families and caregivers of veterans who tragically died by suicide
• H.R. 2752- Ensuring Safer Schools Act
  • Allows federal funds to be used to hire veterans and retired law enforcement officers as school resource officers

Bills to be Introduced:

• Veterans Appreciation Month Resolution
  • Would designate July as "Veterans Appreciation Month" to ensure a national spotlight on honoring our veterans' service and sacrifice
• Andrew Thomas McCaffrey Green Star Veterans Service Act
  • Directs the VA to create the Green Star Service Flag, honoring families of veterans lost to suicide
• Agent Orange Service Medal Act
  • Requires the Department of Defense to create a medal specifically for veterans exposed to Agent Orange
• Veterans Community Connection Pilot Project
  • Would create an online portal to link veterans with private and community-based support services for mental health, housing, employment, and more
• Veterans Bill of Rights
  • Establishes a clear, enforceable set of rights every veteran is entitled to as they transition to civilian life

It has been a busy and productive couple of few weeks in Washington, D.C.! I have had the pleasure of meeting with so many incredible constituents from across our district, from young students and school groups to local pageant winners and community organizations. 

Every visit reminds me why I do this work. Hearing your stories, your concerns, and your ideas is one of the most rewarding parts of being your Representative. I am honored every day by the trust you place in me to serve South Jersey in Congress!