Friends,
Last week, at the of invitation of President Trump, I attended the signing ceremony for the USMCA trade agreement at the White House. This agreement will bring long-term stability for Kansas agriculture and millions of dollars in new trade opportunities that will result in thousands of new jobs for hard working Kansans.
Canada and Mexico are already the United States’ two largest trading partners and this new deal with continue to build on that success, making this the most consequential trade agreement in U.S. history.
As the Trump Administration continues to keep its promise to end the unfair trade practices that have been harming American producers and manufacturers, ratification of USMCA will strengthen the position of the United States in all future trade negotiations with other countries around the world.
Keeping an eye on coronavirus
As the outbreak of the coronavirus strain originating in Wuhan, China continues around the world, U.S. health officials remain on high alert and are fully prepared to deal with the situation unfolding here at home. Efforts by President Trump and this administration have ensured our health agencies have the funding and resources necessary to combat outbreaks and protect Kansans. I spoke with officials at the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) multiple times last week and was reassured by the the level of engagement, outreach, and coordination with states and international partners.I am confident in the measures being taken by our national and state health care officials and agencies.
However, as a physician, I understand the uncertainty and fear infectious disease outbreaks can have. I encourage all Kansans to follow recommendations from your doctor and continue to do everything you can to stay healthy. This includes regular hand-washing, disinfecting of surfaces, and carrying an alcohol based hand sanitizer, among other general best practices.
Holocaust Remembrance Day
Jan. 27 was International Holocaust Remembrance Day, which this year also marked the 75th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz. An estimated 11 million Jews, non-Jewish Poles, Soviets, and other Europeans were murdered during the Holocaust, with at least 1.1 million being killed at Auschwitz alone.
We all have an obligation to never forget the unimaginable evil of the Holocaust and those who died at Auschwitz and other concentration camps. Last week we paused to give solemn reflection to the victims who had their lives stolen from them during this tragic period.
Kansas Day
Wednesday was Kansas Day. As a 5th generation Kansan, I'm proud of my home state and the many unique qualities that make this state a great place to call home. Our state song denotes Kansas as the place where the buffalo roam.
But today, instead of herds of buffalo dotting our plains, we have millions of cattle grazing in the beautiful Flint Hills and pastures across this state.
Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance roundtable
I had the opportunity to join Chairman Peterson and members of the House Agriculture Biotechnology, Horticulture, and Research Subcommittee for a roundtable discussion and implementation update on the Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network (FRSAN).
FRSAN connects farmers, ranchers, and those in agriculture-related fields to stress-assistance programs. The network can help those in need by offering resources like helplines, community outreach and education, support groups, and other services that can help improve mental health and save lives.
The 2018 Farm Bill reauthorized the program and I have been working with officials at USDA to ensure the network is properly funded and available when folks need it most. If you or someone you know is struggling with increased stress, depression, or mental illness you can call 1-800-273-8255 for help.
KSU Mandela Washington Fellowship
A group from the KSU Mandela Washington Fellowship came to the office to talk about their ongoing efforts to encourage public diplomacy, strengthen democratic governance, and enhance peace across Sub-Saharan Africa through international exchange programs.
The Mandela Washington Fellowship program brings accomplished innovators and leaders from African countries and communities to participate in a six-week leadership program at American universities.
In Kansas, fellows will be hosted at Kansas State University through the Staley School of Leadership Studies. During this time they’ll connect with Kansans across the state, creating lasting relationships and gaining valuable experience that they’ll take back to their country.
The program also partners with the U.S. Department of State to allow American organizations to travel to Africa for further collaboration with the fellowship participants, forming lasting partnerships and promoting economic growth.
To read more about the program Click Here.
Kansas district and county attorneys
I met with some of Kansas’ elected district and county attorneys to discuss the problems that methamphetamines are causing in Kansas and throughout the entire Midwest.
A significant amount of this highly addictive drug comes into the United States though the Mexican border, yet another reason it is so crucial that we build the wall and secure the homeland.
We also took the time to discuss mental health issues that are often connected with substance use disorder and the need to provide adequate treatment before problems arise. I want to thank them for taking the time to meet and look forward to working with them to find solutions to these important issues.
Closing the Digital Divide
The U.S. Department of Agriculture began taking applications for the next round of ReConnect funding January 31.
Created in 2018, this program provides up to $550 million in grants and loans toward continued deployment of modern broadband infrastructure in rural areas.
Telecommunications providers, rural electric cooperatives, internet service providers and municipalities are able to apply. To see more information about the program, including application requirements, technical assistance workshops and webinars, and where to apply Click Here.
Get your Real ID
Beginning October 1, 2020, travelers will need a REAL ID compliant driver’s license or other form of ID to pass through security at the airports and federal facilities. Secure and accurate forms of identification are a vital component of a strong national security strategy, and REAL ID is a coordinated effort between states and the Federal government to ensure that state-issued identification documents, such as driver’s licenses or ID cards, are reliable and accurate.
Enforcement of the REAL ID begins on October 1, 2020, and individuals must have a compliant identification card or driver’s license, or acceptable alternative such as a U.S. passport, if they wish to fly on commercial aircraft or access federal buildings. More information regarding REAL ID can be found Here.
Data Privacy Day
As we move deeper into the digital age, continuing to safeguard our data and privacy is increasingly important. That’s why Data Privacy Day is celebrated around the world every year on January 28.
This effort is aimed at raising awareness of data privacy issues and encouraging privacy and data protection best practices. Simple actions like keeping your software up to date, choosing strong and unique passwords, and locking your devices when you’re not using them can help keep your sensitive information safe.
For more tips and information on how to keep your devices secure, check out the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency’s tip page Here.
Kansas Chiropractic Association
On Wednesday I had the opportunity to meet with medical professionals and students during the Kansas Chiropractic Association (KCA) fly-in. KCA is the leading state association representing Doctors of Chiropractic.
Most of the students here were from Cleveland University in Kansas City, but their roots were established in Great Bend, Topeka, and Dodge City.
They advocated on access to care for veterans suffering from lower back pain, and Medicare beneficiaries paying out-of-pocket for their services.
Dr. Roger Marshall, R-Kan., of Great Bend, is the First District representative.