Roger Williams

Congressman Williams Op-Ed: If we want to lower costs for American families, it starts on the farm

Position: The release argues that Congress should pass the Farm Bill (H.R. 7567, the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026) promptly to give farmers predictable policy certainty and lower production costs, and describes the bill's provisions on credit, risk management, precision agriculture, rural energy costs, rural water, and conservation.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, the following Op-Ed by Congressman Roger Williams (TX-25), Chairman of the House Committee on Small Business, appeared in Agri-Pulse. “The hardworking farmers and ranchers who feed our communities are facing rising production costs that ultimately reach the dinner tables of American families. When families across Texas’ 25th Congressional District reach out with affordability concerns, it’s clear Congress must act. That is why it is more important than ever to get the Farm Bill across the finish line. “Since the 2018 Farm Bill was enacted, our farmers, economy, and communities have faced new challenges. Producers are facing rising input costs, changing markets, disease outbreaks, unpredictable weather, and the increasing cost of equipment and financing. “A farmer doesn’t have the flexibility to decide on a piece of equipment, a new crop, or a future investment based on what Congress might do six months from now. Farming requires planning years in advance, and producers need a predictable and reliable framework before making investments that can determine the future and success of their operation. “We must give our farmers the certainty they need to keep producing the safe, affordable food our families depend on. “The House passed H.R.7567, the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026, which addresses the needs of various crop producers across different regions. Under the leadership of Chairman Glenn Thompson and the House Agriculture Committee, this Farm Bill was shaped by more than 150 listening sessions with farmers. It expands access to credit, strengthens risk‑management tools, supports precision agriculture, and lowers energy costs in rural America. The legislation also invests in rural communities and reinforces conservation programs for working lands, which ensures American agriculture remains competitive in a challenging global landscape. “More than 500 agricultural stakeholder organizations support H.R. 7567. This legislation’s broad support reflects exactly what I hear from producers throughout Texas. “While these policies may sound like they are happening far away in Washington, they have very real impacts on rural America. “One example is rural water. Section 6407 of the Farm Bill strengthens the Rural Decentralized Water Systems Program by supporting the construction, refurbishment, and servicing of well and wastewater systems, and authorizes funding for water-quality testing. For rural communities, access to safe and reliable water is a basic necessity. “Agriculture is an important part of our small-business economy. As Chairman of the House Committee on Small Business, I have continued these conversations both back home in Texas and during hearings in Congress. I regularly hear from farmers and ranchers about the challenges they face and the policies that can help them grow their operations. “I understand these challenges personally. I run a calf-cow operation and a ranch in Weatherford, Texas, and I have seen firsthand the work involved in raising livestock and caring for the land. Agriculture is part of the community I represent and the way of life I know. “Agriculture is a major part of the future workforce we are building in Texas. In my district, Tarleton State University is preparing the next generation of agricultural leaders through programs in agribusiness, animal science, range and ranch management, sustainable agriculture, and other related fields. “Last July, my House Republican colleagues and I passed H.R. 1, delivering significant tax relief for farmers, ranchers, and small businesses. Among its agricultural provisions, the law permanently increased the estate tax exemption to $15 million for individuals and $30 million for married couples, helping protect family farms and ranches from being forced to sell assets to pay estate taxes. It made 100 percent immediate expensing permanent, allowing producers to deduct the full cost of qualifying machinery and equipment purchases. For family farms all over Texas, these policies can save generations' worth of investment. “We continued this work when passing the Working Families Tax Cuts, which strengthened the financial foundation for America's farmers and ranchers. The 2026 Farm Bill is the next step, giving producers the policy tools and certainty they need to build on those gains. “If we want to lower costs for American families, it starts on the farm. Congress must finish the job and pass H.R. 7567, the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026.”

Congressman Williams Introduces the Combating Foreign Threats to Main Street Act of 2026

Position: Introduces bipartisan legislation requiring the Small Business Administration to develop and disseminate educational materials helping small businesses identify and protect against foreign threats such as intellectual property theft, cyber intrusions, counterfeit goods, and predatory investment from adversaries including China, Russia, and North Korea.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Roger Williams (TX-25), Chairman of the House Committee on Small Business, introduced H.R. 10329, the Combating Foreign Threats to Main Street Act of 2026, bipartisan legislation with Congressman Derek Tran (D-CA) to help American small businesses identify and address threats from foreign adversaries, including China, Russia, and North Korea. “Small businesses are increasingly finding themselves on the front lines of economic competition with foreign adversaries,” said Congressman Williams.“The Chinese Communist Party has made it a priority to challenge the United States economically and strategically, exploiting every opportunity to target American innovation. Our entrepreneurs deserve to know how to protect what they have worked so hard to create.” --- Background: The legislation requires the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), in consultation with appropriate federal agencies, to develop and disseminate educational materials to help small businesses recognize and protect themselves against foreign threats. These threats may include intellectual property theft, cyber intrusions, counterfeit goods and illicit trade practices, predatory investment, and other malicious activities. Many small businesses face foreign threats directly but often lack the resources or expertise to recognize and respond to increasingly sophisticated tactics. By strengthening awareness at the local level, the legislation will help entrepreneurs better protect their businesses and support the broader economic ecosystem that contributes to America's national security and economic prosperity. H.R. 10329 bill text here. Cosponsors: Congressman Derek Tran (D-CA)

Congressman Williams Introduces the Veterans Medicare Premium Transparency Act

Position: Introduces legislation requiring the Medicare handbook and Medicare.gov to explain how VA health care enrollment affects Medicare Part B and Part D coverage and premiums, and directing HHS and VA to report on veterans paying late-enrollment penalties.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, Congressman Roger Williams (TX-25) introduced the Veterans Medicare Premium Transparency Act, legislation that helps protect veterans from unexpected lifetime Medicare penalties by ensuring they receive clear information about how VA health care affects Medicare enrollment and premiums. “Our veterans should never be saddled with higher Medicare premiums simply because they didn't receive clear information,”said Congressman Williams. “The Veterans Medicare Premium Transparency Act is a commonsense, no-cost solution that ensures those who served our country have the guidance they need to make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary lifetime penalties." --- Background: Millions of veterans rely on the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for their health care after leaving military service. When they become eligible for Medicare at age 65, many mistakenly believe that enrolling in VA health care is the same as enrolling in Medicare Part B. However, VA health care is not considered creditable coverage for Medicare Part B, meaning veterans who delay enrollment may face a permanent late-enrollment premium penalty when they eventually sign up. The Veterans Medicare Premium Transparency Act addresses this problem by providing transparency. The bill requires the annual “Medicare & You” handbook and Medicare.gov to clearly explain how VA enrollment affects Medicare Part B and Part D coverage and premiums. It also directs the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to report to Congress on how many veterans are currently paying these penalties and how many were enrolled in VA health care. By ensuring veterans receive clear, accurate information before making Medicare enrollment decisions, this no-cost legislation helps prevent avoidable lifetime premium penalties while improving accountability and outreach. Click here to read the full text. Congressman Roger Williams’ legislation was joined by Congressman Aaron Bean (R-Florida) as an original cosponsor. Supporting Organizations: Defense Credit Union Council ### Congressman Roger Williams is the Chairman of the House Small Business Committee and a member of the House Financial Services Committee. He proudly represents the 25th Congressional District of Texas. Issues:Veterans

Congressman Williams Introduces Resolution in Support of Glioblastoma Awareness Day

Position: The release supports a bipartisan resolution designating July 15, 2026, as Glioblastoma Awareness Day, with the goal of raising awareness, advancing research and treatment, and working toward a cure.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Roger Williams (TX-25) introduced a bipartisan resolution expressing support for designating July 15, 2026, as "Glioblastoma Awareness Day." Congressman Williams was joined by Representatives Brian Mast, Jake Auchincloss, and Jan Schakowsky in leading this resolution to raise awareness of Glioblastoma and honor those impacted by the disease. The late Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) introduced the companion resolution in the Senate, continuing efforts to recognize Glioblastoma Awareness Day, a cause he championed in honor of the late Senator John McCain. "Glioblastoma is one of the most aggressive and devastating forms of brain cancer, affecting thousands of Americans and families like mine every year," said Congressman Williams. "By recognizing Glioblastoma Awareness Day, we honor the strength of those affected and renew our commitment to advancing research, improving treatment options, and one day finding a cure." “On the eighth annual Glioblastoma Awareness Day, July 15, 2026, we will gather as a community to amplify the voices, experiences, and urgent needs of everyone living with Glioblastoma, one of the most complex, treatment-resistant, and deadliest types of cancer,” said David Arons, President and Chief Executive Officer of the National Brain Tumor Society. “We give our thanks to the leaders in the House and Senate who made the bipartisan resolutions possible, officially designating July 15, 2026, as Glioblastoma Awareness Day.” --- Background: Glioblastoma is the most common malignant brain tumor and one of the deadliest forms of cancer. More than 14,000 Americans are expected to be diagnosed with Glioblastoma in 2026. The 5-year survival rate for Glioblastoma patients is only 7.1 percent, and the median length of survival for Glioblastoma patients is approximately nine months. H.Res. 1270 bill text here. Supporting Organizations: The National Brain Tumor Society ### Congressman Roger Williams is the Chairman of the House Small Business Committee and a member of the House Financial Services Committee. He proudly represents the 25th Congressional District of Texas. Issues:Healthcare

Congressman Williams Introduces the Bulletproof Law Enforcement Vehicles Act

Position: Congressman Williams supports federal funding for law enforcement vehicle security upgrades, including bulletproof windows, to protect officers from increasing threats.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Roger Williams (TX-25) introduced the Bulletproof Law Enforcement Vehicles Act, legislation that amends the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to allow federal funds to be used for vehicle security enhancement upgrades, including bulletproof windows for law enforcement vehicles. The legislation comes during National Police Week and supports federal, state, and local law enforcement officers by ensuring agencies have greater flexibility to improve vehicle protection as threats against officers continue to rise. “During National Police Week, I am proud to introduce the Bulletproof Law Enforcement Vehicles Act,” said Congressman Williams. “We honor the sacrifices of our fallen officers and recognize the unwavering commitment of those who continue to serve and protect our communities. As attacks on law enforcement and their vehicles increase, Congress must ensure police forces have the tools they need to adequately protect their officers.” --- Background: The Bulletproof Law Enforcement Vehicles Act authorizes certain federal financial assistance to be used for vehicle security enhancement upgrades, including bulletproof windows. As attacks against law enforcement officers and their vehicles increase, many departments face barriers when using federal grant funding for critical safety upgrades. This legislation ensures law enforcement agencies, including ICE, can access federal resources to improve vehicle security and better protect officers in the line of duty. Click here to read the full text. Congressman Roger Williams’ legislation was joined by Congressman Wesley Hunt (R-Texas), Congressman Mike Haridopolos (R-FL), and Congressman Pat Fallon (R-TX) as original cosponsors. Supporting Organizations: The Texas Municipal Police Association (TMPA), Police Officers' Defense Coalition, Fraternal Order of Police. ### Congressman Roger Williams is the Chairman of the House Small Business Committee and a member of the House Financial Services Committee. He proudly represents the 25th Congressional District of Texas.

Congressman Williams Introduces the Put America on Commission Act to Recover Pandemic Loan Fraud

Position: Congressman Williams introduced legislation establishing a whistleblower award program within the SBA to incentivize reporting of pandemic loan fraud and recover taxpayer funds lost to PPP and EIDL program exploitation.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, Congressman Roger Williams (TX-25) introduced the Put America on Commission Act of 2026, which establishes an Office of Whistleblower Awards within the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to incentivize the public to come forward with credible tips related to pandemic-era loan fraud. This bipartisan bill strengthens oversight and accountability by rewarding whistleblowers who provide information that leads to a final conviction, helping to recover taxpayer dollars lost to fraud in pandemic relief programs such as the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and the COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. “The Pandemic relief programs were created to help small businesses survive during an unprecedented crisis, not to be exploited by fraudsters,” said Congressman Williams. “The Put America on Commission Act helps restore confidence in the American people that federal funds are managed responsibly and that any misuse is addressed quickly and transparently.” “Protecting taxpayers and restoring trust in government starts with accountability,” said Congressman Johnny Olszewski (MD-02). “I’m proud to help lead the bipartisan Put America on Commission Act to empower Americans to report fraud and stolen pandemic relief funds. Exploiting programs meant to support small businesses and families in crisis is stealing from our communities—and this bill makes clear that we will hold anyone accountable while safeguarding taxpayer funds for those who truly need it.” Click here to view the bill. --- Background: Whistleblowers may receive a monetary award based on the significance of the information they provide if it leads to a final conviction. Individuals who participated in the fraud are prohibited from receiving awards. The SBA is authorized to impose additional civil penalties on convicted fraudsters, with proceeds deposited into the Whistleblower Award Fund, and any unused funds will be returned to the U.S. Treasury. Congressman Johnny Olszewski (D- Maryland) is joining as the original Democratic co-lead. ### Congressman Roger Williams is the Chairman of the House Small Business Committee and a member of the House Financial Services Committee. He proudly represents the 25th Congressional District of Texas. Issues:Small Business

Congressman Williams Celebrates House Passage of the Main Street Parity Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Main Street Parity Act (H.R. 5763), advancing bipartisan legislation to expand access to capital for America’s small businesses. This bill, introduced by Congressman Roger Williams (TX-25), ensures fair and equal treatment for all industries participating in the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) 504 loan program. Congressman Roger Williams issued the following statement on the passage: “Main Street businesses are the backbone of our economy,” said Congressman Williams. “The Main Street Parity Act levels the playing field by eliminating outdated financing requirements and expanding opportunity for small business owners across the country. I’m proud to see this bipartisan bill pass the House and move one step closer to becoming law.” The legislation was previously reported favorably by the House Small Business Committee with unanimous bipartisan support. --- Background: H.R. 5763 modernizes the SBA 504 loan program by removing an outdated provision that requires small businesses operating on limited or single-purpose properties to contribute an additional five percent in equity compared to other borrowers. By standardizing equity requirements across industries, the bill lowers barriers to entry for entrepreneurs, encourages investment in local infrastructure, and strengthens Main Street businesses nationwide. Cosponsors include Reps. Lateefah Simon (D-California), Eugene Vindman (D-Virginia), Gilbert Ray Cisneros (D-California), and Maggie Goodlander (D-New Hampshire). Click here to view the bill. ### Congressman Roger Williams is the Chairman of the House Small Business Committee and a member of the House Financial Services Committee. He proudly represents the 25th Congressional District of Texas.

Congressman Williams Introduces the Safer Schools Act to Strengthen School Security

Position: Congressman Williams supports federal grant programs to help public schools conduct security risk assessments and fund physical security improvements such as perimeter hardening, controlled access, and surveillance systems.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Roger Williams (TX-25) introduced the Safer Schools Act of 2025, bipartisan legislation that establishes two pilot grant programs within the Department of Justice to help schools assess and strengthen campus physical security. This bipartisan bill provides federal resources to help public schools conduct independent facility risk assessments and fund hard security improvements based on identified vulnerabilities. These protections include perimeter security, controlled access points, security alarms, camera systems, and other life-saving infrastructure upgrades. “Every child deserves a safe learning environment, and schools should never face the impossible choice between investing in education or protecting students’ lives,” said Congressman Williams. “The Safer Schools Act gives school districts the tools they need to identify threats and make improvements that prevent tragedies before they happen. We owe it to parents, teachers, and students to take security seriously, and this bill is a commonsense step toward that goal.” Click here to view the bill. Background: The Facility Risk Assessment Grant Program allows qualifying public schools to apply for grants to conduct independent facility security risk assessments. It also prioritizes schools that have experienced violent attacks or attempted mass harm. The Hard Security Improvement Grant Program provides funding for physical improvements to address vulnerabilities identified in assessments. Eligible improvements include door and perimeter hardening, surveillance systems, emergency alert systems, notification technology, and other protective infrastructure. Congressman Jared Moskowitz (D-Florida) is joining as the original Democratic co-lead. Supporting Organizations: Safe Schools For Alex, National Systems Contractors Association (NSCA), National Fraternal Order of Police, Texas Municipal Police Association. ### Congressman Roger Williams is the Chairman of the House Small Business Committee and a member of the House Financial Services Committee. He proudly represents the 25th Congressional District of Texas.