The Bost Bulletin

Dear Friend:

Last week, I asked you about athletes protesting our national anthem prior to professional sporting events. A clear majority of respondents view these actions as disrespectful. I agree. 

I believe Americans owe a debt of gratitude to our nation’s bravest individuals – those who have served and risked their lives in defense of freedom and liberty. As a Marine and the father of a Marine, I believe we must remember the sacrifices of our veterans who have bravely served our nation, as well as show respect to servicemembers currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.Thank you to all who participated in my survey.

Putting More Money in Your Paycheck

We are working on a a tax reform framework that lowers taxes at every income level so all Americans can keep more of their hard-earned money to save, spend, and invest the way they see fit.

Learn more about the plan HERE.

Fighting for the Unborn

As a father and grandfather, I am fully aware of the preciousness of human life. It is my sincere belief that America is only as strong as our willingness to protect the weakest and most vulnerable among us. That’s why I voted this week with a bipartisan majority to pass the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act (H.R. 36) to protect unborn children at the 20-week mark, when it is believed they feel and react to pain. 

Urging ATF to Re-Evaluate Bump-Stocks

As we mourn the victims and pray for the families of the Las Vegas attacks, we must resist the urge to retreat to our ideological corners as a response. Now is the time for common sense solutions, not political finger-pointing. Reports indicate the shooter may have utilized a bump-stock device to modify a semi-automatic firearm into what is effectively a fully-automatic weapon. As the investigation into the tragedy continues, it’s critical that the the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) closely re-evaluates the impact of these devices and whether they violate federal law. I signed a letter with other Members of Congress this past week urging the ATF to do just that. 

Diverting Taxpayer Money from Felons to Families in Need

Strengthening our families means strengthening Southern Illinois’ future .The House passed with my support legislation that diverts federal funding from Social Security payments for felons on the run from the law and reallocates it to programs that provide home visiting services for at risk families. That’s simple common sense if I’ve ever heard it. And at a time when the American people are demanding their taxpayer dollars be used more efficiently, these services have proven effective at getting positive results. Read more about the legislation HERE.

Honoring a Local Hero and a Friend

Southern Illinois lost a local hero who spent decades on the front line of law enforcement combatting the drug trade. Tom McNamara began his career in an entry level job in the Carbondale Police Department while he was in college and over the years, he became an author, instructor, investigator, expert witness and undercover agent. Even after retirement, he continued serving the public as an adviser to local police departments fighting the drug trade. There is no doubt that Tom’s dedication and public service saved countless lives in the communities I am privileged to represent.

Southern Illinoisans in Washington

I was happy to welcome Jerry and Sabra Riggio of DuQuoin to my Washington office. If you will be visiting Washington in the coming months, visit my website for information about various tours in the area: HERE

Mark Your Calendar!

I need to hear from you! To give you the opportunity to share your concerns regarding issues before the United States Congress and the federal government, I will be hosting a tele-town hall meeting on Tuesday, October 10 at 6:30PM CST. I will be joined by House Veterans’ Affairs Committee Chairman Phil Roe (R-TN) to provide an update on activities in the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee and any other federal issues you would like to discuss during the Q&A portion of the call. I look forward to taking as many questions as our hour together allows. Sign up at bost.house.gov/participate.

That’s a quick update on what I’ve been up to.  I hope you have a great week ahead.  

Mike