Mark B. Messmer

House Education and Workforce Committee Passes Messmer Deregulation Legislation

Position: Rep. Messmer opposes federal heat safety standards for workplaces, arguing they impose unnecessary regulatory burdens on businesses. The release advocates for repealing OSHA's proposed heat injury and illness prevention rule.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the House Education and Workforce Committee advanced Rep. Mark Messmer's (R-IN) Heat Workforce Standards Act of 2025 (H.R. 6213) during a committee markup. The legislation repeals the Biden-Harris Administration's proposed federal heat standards, which impose burdensome, one-size-fits-all mandates, and unneeded and excessive penalties on American businesses and institutions. “As a small business owner, I know firsthand that ineffectual government regulation makes it harder for employers to grow their business, create job opportunities, and invest in their workforce,” said Rep. Messmer. “The House Education and Workforce Committee's approval of my Heat Workforce Standards Act is an important step toward rolling back more of the unnecessary Biden-era regulations that hamper America’s development and expansion. I look forward to advancing this bill through the full House to continue reducing trivial red tape which is depressing the success of our great nation.” The Biden Administration’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) attempted at the last minute to fast-track a policy known as “The Heat Injury and Illness Prevention in Outdoor and Indoor Work Settings.” In practice, the rule would have forced nearly every American business and institution to follow rigid, one-size-fits-all, federal workplace standards based on predetermined temperature thresholds, regardless of industry, climate, or existing safety protocols. This terrible rule would create a one-size fits all regulatory approach for most of the American workforce that experience exposure to temperatures of 80 degrees Fahrenheit for more than 15 minutes in any given hour. State governments already have the authority to establish occupational safety and health standards and are required to have their plans be “at least as effective” as Federal OSHA standards. If it had been implemented, the Biden’s Heat Rule would: To learn more about how Rep. Messmer is working for small businesses in Indiana’s 8th Congressional District, click here.

Messmer Condemns Chemical Abortion Crisis at Republican Study Committee Roundtable

Position: Rep. Messmer supports federal legislation to establish penalties for non-consensual administration of abortion-inducing drugs and to strengthen protections against forced abortion.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN) participated in a Republican Study Committee (RSC) roundtable hosted by Rep. Sheri Biggs (R-SC) focused on the growing chemical abortion crisis, the impact of abortion-inducing drugs, and legislative efforts to strengthen protections for women and improve accountability. “No woman should ever be subjected to a forced abortion, and those who commit these acts should face the full force of the law,” said Rep. Messmer. “As chemical abortion drugs become more widely available, Congress has a responsibility to ensure strong protections are in place to safeguard women and hold bad actors accountable. I am proud to support legislation that addresses these serious crimes and helps prevent future tragedies.” During the discussion, Rep. Messmer highlighted his Forced Abortion Prevention and Accountability Act, legislation he introduced to establish federal penalties for the non-consensual administration of abortion-inducing drugs and hold accountable those who facilitate these acts. To learn more about Rep. Messmer's work to protect all life in Congress, click here.

Messmer and Walberg Host Field Hearing on the Future of Mining in Southwest Indiana

Position: Representatives Messmer and Walberg hosted a field hearing to examine workforce development, mine safety, and domestic energy production in the mining industry, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a strong domestic mining sector for energy independence and economic security while highlighting concerns about federal regulations.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN) joined the chairman of the House Education and Workforce Committee, Rep. Tim Walberg (R-MI), for a field hearing in Fort Branch, Indiana, titled “Protecting Workers and Powering America: The Future of Mining.” The hearing examined workforce development, mine safety, domestic energy production, and the future of the mining industry in Indiana and across the United States. The hearing was held at the Vincennes University Gibson County Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Logistics. “I am very impressed with the facilities and education programs at Vincennes University, which are improving the entire mining worker-safety component,” said Rep. Messmer. “VU is training future generations of leaders so that they meet the demands of an ever-evolving industry. I am so proud that Hoosier mining is powering our state grids, and that it is an essential contributor to the energy and economic security of our entire country.” “Collaboration between government and the private sector leads to safer workplaces, an educated workforce, and a stronger mining industry,” said Education and Workforce Committee Chairman Tim Walberg (R-MI). “I was grateful for the productive conversations with our witnesses about ways to unleash the mining industry’s potential in a way that protects miners and benefits the communities in which they live and work. America’s miners power our nation, and their wellbeing must always come first.” “Vincennes University appreciates Congressman Messmer and Chairman Walberg for highlighting the importance of mining safety, workforce development, and the future of American energy production,” said David Tucker, Vice President of Workforce Development and Community Services at Vincennes University. “As Indiana’s designated recipient of Mine Safety and Health Administration grant funding for miner training and retraining, VU remains committed to preparing the next generation of mining professionals through hands-on, industry-driven training that supports safe and reliable mining operations across the region.” During the hearing, witnesses highlighted the importance of maintaining a strong domestic mining industry to support America’s energy independence, manufacturing sector, and electric grid reliability. Testimony also focused on the role Indiana coal continues to play in delivering affordable and reliable energy for families and businesses. Witnesses discussed how modern mining operations have evolved through advanced technology, stronger safety standards, autonomous equipment, and enhanced dust monitoring systems. Industry leaders also addressed workforce shortages and the need to combat outdated misconceptions surrounding careers in mining. Additionally, witnesses raised concerns regarding the Biden-Harris Administration’s 2024 silica rule, arguing the regulation imposes costly burdens on operators without improving worker safety and could place additional strain on mining communities and jobs. Testimony also examined how previous enforcement practices under the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) created unnecessary compliance challenges for mine operators. Both Messmer and Walberg emphasized the importance of supporting workforce training programs, promoting safe mining practices, and creating a regulatory environment that allows the mining industry to continue growing and supporting American energy production. To learn more about how Rep. Messmer is fighting for Hoosier mining communities in the House of Representatives, click here.

ICYMI: Indiana Rep. Mark Messmer in the Washington Examiner: “Southern Indiana Mining is Powering American Prosperity”

Position: Rep. Messmer advocates for continued coal mining in southern Indiana as essential to American energy independence and economic prosperity, and criticizes the Biden-Harris administration's 2024 silica dust rule as poorly implemented despite acknowledging the legitimate safety concern it was meant to address.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Indiana Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN) was recently featured in the Washington Examiner with an op-ed highlighting the importance of southern Indiana’s mining industry, mine safety, workforce development, and American energy independence. In the piece, Rep. Messmer discusses Indiana’s role as one of the nation’s leading coal-producing states and the vital contributions Hoosier miners make to powering the American economy and supporting the nation’s industrial base. Rep. Messmer additionally highlighted the importance of workforce development and modern mining education programs at schools like the Vincennes University Gibson County Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Logistics, the location of the House Education and Workforce Committee’s field hearing in Fort Branch, Indiana. Read the full text of the Washington Examiner op-ed at the link here or below. Southern Indiana mining is powering American prosperity In Indiana, we are familiar with the important impact of the mining industry. We rank among the top 10 coal-producing states, and the industry contributes over $750 million annually to the Hoosier economy. We are proud that our miners play a pivotal role in our economy, as well as in America’s national security, by helping power the United States industrial base each and every day. The stark reality is that the mining industry is not just a crucial source of energy, but also an important job producer in this country, powered by the strength and hard work of American laborers. The mining industry powers our country’s energy grid, contributes to critical infrastructure needs, and secures the raw materials that keep our economy thriving and competitive. But the real measure of its success is not how much product is produced, but rather the health and safety of the miners who put their lives on the line each day. This requires workplace protections and safety standards to be observed with the utmost intensity. The Mine Safety and Health Administration, or MSHA, helps ensure the rules and regulations protecting miners are properly followed. Through regular inspections, updated safety standards, and consistent enforcement, MSHA works to ensure no corners are cut and no precautions are ignored. However, the best ideas and solutions should not come from someone sitting behind a desk in Washington, D.C., but rather from those in the field who have firsthand experience with what can go wrong, why it happens, and how injuries can be prevented. MSHA collaborates with miners, operators, engineers, and industry leaders who all bring important perspectives to the table. Unfortunately, that kind of balance and teamwork was missing from some recent agency decisions. The Biden-Harris administration’s 2024 silica rule was intended to address a real concern shared by everyone involved, protecting miners from harmful dust exposure. But the way this rule was written and implemented failed to achieve its intended goals. Instead of embracing practical solutions like job rotation or flexible compliance strategies, the rule imposed rigid, one-size-fits-all requirements that have created unnecessary burdens for miners and operators alike. In fact, it resulted in costly overreach and unnecessary redundancy. We should not have to choose between protecting workers and preserving livelihoods. We can do both, but only by creating policies grounded in reality, not radical ideology. The House Education and Workforce Committee is holding a field hearing right here in southern Indiana at the Vincennes University Gibson County Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Logistics, a school that trains the next generation of miners. At the hearing, we will present the facts about mining and allow experts to answer questions and explain the work being done to protect workers and strengthen the industry. Members of Congress participating in the event will also have the opportunity to step into a mine simulator on campus and tour the Peabody Mine in Francisco, Indiana. Today’s miners are highly trained operators of advanced technological systems and intricate equipment. Virtual reality training tools, simulation-based learning, and continuous reskilling are essential to keeping workers safe and providing hands-on experience in a secure environment while they learn their trade. America’s miners deserve nothing less than our full commitment to their safety. That means strong and effective oversight from MSHA, smart policies that balance innovation with practicality, and a continued focus on training and workforce development. With this practical approach, we can ensure we are doing everything possible to educate the next generation of mining engineers, protect good-paying jobs, and grow an industry that remains vital to the prosperity of the United States of America. Mark Messmer is a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, serving Indiana’s 8th Congressional District.

Messmer Celebrates Passage of the 2026 Farm Bill in the House of Representatives

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN) issued the following statement following the passage of the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 in the House of Representatives: “I am proud that today House Republicans stood up for the American farmer by passing the 2026 Farm Bill,” said Rep. Messmer. “Hoosier farmers, ranchers, and rural communities will benefit greatly from this bipartisan legislation, which stimulates demand for American-grown products and boosts affordability at the grocery store. Our agriculture community richly deserves this much-needed support, and I urge my Senate colleagues to do their part and quickly pass this legislation to get it to the President’s desk for his signature. The American farming community has waited long enough.” BACKGROUND: The 2026 Farm Bill provides critical updates across the agricultural economy, including improvements to commodity programs that help producers manage risk amid volatile markets, unpredictable weather, and rising input costs. The legislation strengthens price and revenue support programs, expands disaster assistance tools, and enhances flexibility for producers as they structure their operations. The bill also reinforces voluntary, incentive-based conservation programs that help farmers improve soil health, protect water quality, and promote precision agriculture while maintaining productivity. In addition, it expands access to credit for beginning and young farmers, strengthens rural broadband and infrastructure, promotes agricultural research and innovation, and supports specialty crop producers and livestock operations across the country. Critically, the 2026 Farm Bill also makes strategic investments in agricultural research, rural development, trade promotion, and energy innovation to keep American agriculture competitive on the global stage. In addition to the aforementioned priorities, Rep. Messmer also secured the following wins for Hoosier farmers during Farm Bill negotiations: ● Creation of a food supply chain defense research system through the DOD and USDA Interagency Research Act ● Flood mitigation, outdoor recreation enhancement, and land rehabilitation through the Restoring America’s Floodplains Act ● Improved food access for low-income individuals through the SNAP Online Access Act ● Market development for Indiana farm goods through the Biomanufacturing and Jobs Act ● Regulatory certainty for Hoosier livestock farmers through the Save Our Bacon Act ● SNAP incentives for shelf-stable fruits and vegetables through the SHOPP Act. ● SNAP incentives for nutrient-rich dairy products through the DNIP Act ● Involvement of the Secretary of Agriculture in national security discussions regarding foreign purchases of American farmland through the Protecting American Agriculture from Foreign Adversaries Act To learn more about how Rep. Messmer is supporting Hoosier farmers in the House of Representatives, click here.

Messmer Celebrates the 2026 Farm Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN) issued the following statement after passage in the House Agriculture Committee of the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026, praising the legislation that will strengthen America’s agricultural economy, support rural communities, and ensure long-term food security: “The 2026 Farm Bill delivers the certainty and economic support that Hoosier farmers, ranchers, and rural communities need and deserve to feed America and serve the world,” said Rep. Messmer. “This legislation strengthens the farm safety net, invests in conservation and innovation, expands market access for American producers, and ensures nutrition programs work efficiently for taxpayers and families alike.” The 2026 Farm Bill provides critical updates across the agricultural economy, including improvements to commodity programs that help producers manage risk amid volatile markets, unpredictable weather, and rising input costs. The legislation strengthens price and revenue support programs, expands disaster assistance tools, and enhances flexibility for producers as they structure their operations. The ill also reinforces voluntary, incentive-based conservation programs that help farmers improve soil health, protect water quality, and promote precision agriculture while maintaining productivity. In addition, it expands access to credit for beginning and young farmers, strengthens rural broadband and infrastructure, promotes agricultural research and innovation, and supports specialty crop producers and livestock operations across the country. Critically, the 2026 Farm Bill also makes strategic investments in agricultural research, rural development, trade promotion, and energy innovation to keep American agriculture competitive on the global stage. In addition to the aforementioned priorities, Rep. Messmer also secured the following wins for Hoosier farmers during Farm Bill negotiations: To learn more about how Rep. Messmer is supporting Hoosier farmers in the House of Representatives, click here.

Messmer Joins EPA Deputy Administrator David Fotouhi in Lowering Energy Costs for Hoosiers

Position: Rep. Messmer supports the EPA's revision of the Mercury and Air Toxins Standards rule, arguing that repealing Biden-era emissions regulations will lower energy costs, improve reliability, and support coal industry jobs.

LOUISVILLE, KY – Today, Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN) joined Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Deputy Administrator David Fotouhi to announce the repeal of burdensome regulations imposed upon America under the Biden Administration. “For all the Hoosiers that call the Eighth District home, energy costs are of course a top concern. I am encouraged by our President’s great work protecting the health of Americans, while also promoting the needs of our business community,” said Rep. Messmer. “I applaud EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin and Deputy Administrator David Fotouhi for making this announcement and cutting unnecessary red tape which will create better energy reliability for Hoosiers and all Americans.” Under President Biden, EPA established unworkable emissions standards that cost the coal industry billions of dollars, forced plant closures, and eradicated hundreds of jobs. Since assuming office, President Trump has worked to dismantle the Biden administration’s anti-coal agenda. Today, EPA Deputy Administrator Fotouhi announced another step forward in American energy independence and affordability. By revising the Biden administration’s unnecessary and malicious Mercury and Air Toxins Standards (MATS) rule, EPA is removing red tape for American coal plants and securing access to reliable power. With energy demand on the rise, affordability remains a priority for Hoosiers in the Eighth District. Today’s announcement works to expand energy production and lower the cost of power for consumers while incentivizing investments in rural America. To learn more about how Rep. Messmer is making life more affordable for Hoosiers Indiana’s 8th Congressional District, click here.

Messmer Celebrates WestGate Technology Park Munitions Campus Groundbreaking

ODON, INDIANA – Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN) joined other Indiana federal and state elected officials, Department of War executives, and leadership from Prometheus Energetics to celebrate the groundbreaking of a new solid rocket motor (SRM) munitions campus at the WestGate Technology Park near the Crane Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC Crane). The opening of the new SRM munitions campus shows how national defense priorities translate into real production, real jobs, and real capability, all within Indiana’s 8th Congressional District. “Today's groundbreaking is a great step in resolving the nation’s munitions crisis. Low inventory of weapons, a weak supply chain, and surging demand from global conflicts require a bigger industry and Department of War response. The munitions campus, anchored by Prometheus Energetics, is the right approach to meet those needs,” said Rep. Messmer. “It is yet another example of how NSWC Crane is quickly becoming a strategic epicenter for innovation, research, and production in the national security and defense space. This investment will create high-quality jobs, strengthen workforce pipelines, and reinforce Southern Indiana’s role in supporting national security.” Since coming into office, Rep. Messmer has focused on ensuring America’s warfighters have access to the best technologies to keep themselves and our country safe. This has meant reforming our defense acquisition system, empowering program offices, granting focused industrial authorities, and supporting commercial innovation. Making good on President Trump’s promise to deliver “Peace Through Strength” by restoring America’s military after years of wasteful and endless conflicts, this campus helps ensure the United States can produce and sustain munitions and energetics at the scale and speed required to support our warfighters. A resilient defense industrial base depends on modern facilities, secure supply chains, and redundant capacity—all of which this project delivers. Rep. Messmer has previously supported legislation to help deliver on these critical capabilities. This includes supporting $150 billion in new defense spending under the Working Families Tax Cuts Act and $25 billion under Defense Reconciliation for purchases of critical munitions, increased capacity in the industrial base to support higher levels of munitions production, increased production of missile defense interceptors, and increased counter drone capabilities. To learn more about how Rep. Messmer is supporting our warfighters in the House of Representatives, click here.

Messmer Introduces Legislation to Strengthen American Agricultural and National Security Collaboration

Position: Rep. Messmer introduced legislation to establish a Memorandum of Understanding between the Department of Defense and Department of Agriculture to coordinate research on agricultural supply chain resilience, food security, and national security threats.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN) introduced the Department of Defense (DOD) and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Interagency Research Act.This legislation strengthens America’s agricultural supply chains and overall national security by fostering collaboration between DOD and USDA on high-risk, high-reward research initiatives. “Southwestern Indiana is known in America for having the unique distinction of being both an important source of our country’s agricultural products, and a major influencer in the national security sphere as the home of the Crane Naval Surface Warfare Center,” said Rep. Messmer. “By encouraging collaboration between our nation’s agriculture experts and defense agencies, my DOD and USDA Interagency Research Act underscores the importance of simultaneously addressing critical threats to our food supply and supporting innovation for American farmers while strengthening our nation’s economy.” The legislation directs the Secretaries of Defense and Agriculture to establish a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to coordinate advanced research efforts by modernizing overall procedures and focusing upon protecting the United States agrifood system from emerging domestic and national security threats. The DOD USDA Interagency Research Act leverages expertise at each agency to focus joint research and development efforts on: The legislation also promotes collaboration of efforts between federal agencies, national laboratories, nonprofit organizations, and private industry partners to accelerate innovation and bring new technologies to market through public-private partnerships. “Food security is national security, and safeguarding against future conflicts requires investing in agricultural resilience. Collaboration between the DOD and USDA is essential to building a resilient food system that protects our troops, strengthens rural communities, and secures America’s future,” said Rep. Don Davis. “A secure food and agriculture system is essential to America’s economic competitiveness and national security. As global threats grow, the United States must continue to lead the world in agricultural innovation and resilience. Congressman Messmer’s DOD and USDA Interagency Research Act strengthens supply chains and advances research that helps farmers and ranchers improve productivity while keeping food affordable for American families,” said Cecilia Fassett, Policy Associate, C3 Solutions. “American innovation is essential for strengthening national security, promoting agricultural resilience and accelerating technology competitiveness. Reps. Messmer (R-IN) and Davis’ (D-NC) DOD and USDA Interagency Research Act strengthens federal research partnerships for American researchers, farmers and ranchers to get the resources they need to compete globally, while maximizing the return on investment of taxpayer dollars,” said ClearPath Action CEO Jeremy Harrell. “ACC Action and our thousands of members across the country are proud to support Rep. Mark Messmer’s DOD and USDA Interagency Research Act, which will harness new research cooperation to accelerate American innovation across defense and agriculture, strengthening both national security and farm production. By recognizing that farm security is national security, the bill fosters USDA and Department of Defense collaboration to develop technologies that protect against internal threats to agricultural production, supply chains, and readiness,” said Chris Barnard, President, ACC Action. “By directing interagency collaboration, this legislation will optimize federal resources spent researching, developing, and deploying agricultural innovations. Strategically prioritizing high-reward research areas—including advanced plant and animal genetics and cutting-edge precision agriculture technologies—will enable joint agency activities to deliver cross-cutting benefits for both military readiness and long-term agricultural productivity. This legislation lays the groundwork necessary to tackle urgent challenges where national security meets food security,” said Emily Bass, Director of Federal Policy for Food & Agriculture at the Breakthrough Institute. “This bill represents a vital investment in America’s agricultural future. By strengthening collaborative research and providing new opportunities for public and private innovators, it directs resources toward the breakthroughs our producers urgently need to address consumers' dynamic needs. Support for a safer, more resilient, and more competitive agricultural sector benefits American families and bolsters the nation’s food security,” said Andy LaVigne, President & CEO of the American Seed Trade Association. “The stability of our agriculture sector and its associated supply chains is critical to our national security. We applaud Reps. Mark Messmer (R-IN) and Don Davis (D-NC) for leading this bipartisan effort to ensure proper coordination and resource sharing across U.S. federal agencies,” said Michele Stockwell, president of Bipartisan Policy Center Action (BPC Action). The bill is also supported by the Indiana Farm Bureau. To learn more about how Rep. Messmer is advancing agricultural and national security in the House of Representatives, click here.

Messmer Applauds Passage of the SAVE America Act in the House of Representatives

Position: Rep. Messmer supports the SAVE America Act, which requires voter identification and strengthens citizenship verification standards for federal elections, arguing these measures protect election integrity without suppressing voter participation.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN) issued the following statement in celebration of the passage of the SAVE America Act in the House of Representatives: “Hoosiers are blessed to live in a State that runs secure and transparent elections. It is high time the federal government finally earns the trust of the American electorate by fixing our system of voting in federal elections,” said Rep. Messmer. “Requiring voters to show identification is not a way of suppressing voter participation, but rather ensures that every American citizen casting their vote will have that vote properly counted. Strengthening voter ID and citizenship verification standards through the SAVE America Act will protect the integrity of future federal elections.” America’s elections must be secure, and all voters should be American citizens. Despite a ban on non-citizens voting in federal elections, State officials continue to find non-citizens on their voter rolls due to inadequate safeguards and poor guidance from the federal government. Thirty-six States require voters to show some form of ID in order to cast a ballot. However, that leaves fourteen States with little or no safeguards for verifying who is casting a ballot in federal elections. Despite finding noncitizens and similarly ineligible registrants on voter rolls, fourteen States still refuse to require photo ID for voting. The federal government must step in to safeguard the integrity of federal elections for the American public. The SAVE America Act would strengthen current law and protect election integrity. To learn more about how Rep. Messmer is working for Indiana’s 8th Congressional District, click here.