Bruce Westerman

WESTERMAN AND COLLEAGUES LAUNCH BIPARTISAN GULF SOUTH BUSINESS CAUCUS TO DRIVE INVESTMENT, JOBS, ENERGY, AND MANUFACTURING LEADERSHIP ACROSS THE REGION

New Congressional caucus unites bipartisan Members from Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas to advance shared priorities on energy, manufacturing, infrastructure, and industrial growth Today, Congressman Bruce Westerman (R-AR), joined by Reps. Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA), Lizzie Fletcher (D-TX), Michael Guest (R-MS), Gary Palmer (R-AL), Mike Rogers (R-AL), Terri Sewell (D-AL), Bennie Thompson (D-MS), and Randy Weber (R-TX), launched the Gulf South Business Caucus, a new bipartisan Congressional caucus dedicated to advancing the economic competitiveness, energy leadership, and industrial growth of the Gulf South region. Westerman will serve as Chair of the caucus, which brings together Members of Congress from Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas to coordinate on federal policy priorities that support the region’s workers, communities, and employers. Additional members are expected to be announced in the coming weeks. In 2024, the five Gulf South states contributed more than $3.7 trillion to the U.S. GDP, accounting for approximately 13% of the total U.S. economy. The region is home to many of the nation’s most important hubs for energy production, advanced manufacturing, transportation and logistics, chemicals, and rapidly expanding technology and digital infrastructure investment. The caucus will focus on strengthening grid reliability, expanding infrastructure investment, supporting workforce development, and ensuring the region’s priorities are reflected in national policy, opening the door to new investment, business development, and long-term job creation across the five states. Founding members and co-chairs of the caucus issued the following statements on today’s launch: “Playing a pivotal role in our nation’s economic success, the Gulf South region is integral to America’s energy production, manufacturing, and workforce demand. The Gulf South Business Caucus is committed to empowering this region’s local workers, communities, and employers through bipartisan, multi-state collaboration around shared economic interests of the region. We know that when the Gulf South succeeds, America succeeds. It is an honor to serve as chairman of this caucus, and I look forward to working alongside my colleagues to champion pro-growth policies and regional development within the halls of Congress that achieve this goal.” — Rep. Bruce Westerman (R-AR), Chair, Gulf South Business Caucus “I’m proud to help lead this effort that reflects both the strength and the urgency of the Gulf South’s economic future. Our region has long powered this nation—through energy production, advanced manufacturing, and the movement of goods that keep our economy running. But we know our best days are still ahead. From the ports of Louisiana to the manufacturing hubs across our neighboring states, we are aligned in our mission to create good-paying jobs, drive innovation, and build a more resilient and competitive regional economy.” — Rep. Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) "The Gulf South powers American energy and manufacturing, and the businesses and workers driving that growth deserve a strong, unified voice in Washington. The Gulf South Business Caucus is an opportunity to bring stakeholders directly into federal conversations about permitting, infrastructure, workforce, and the policy conditions that will keep our region competitive for decades to come. I am glad to partner with Congressman Bruce Westerman, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr., Congressman Michael Guest, Congressman Gary Palmer, Congressman Mike Rogers, Congresswoman Terri Sewell, Congressman Bennie Thompson, and Congressman Randy Weber to help build a forum where we can do that work together." — Rep. Lizzie Fletcher (D-TX) “I am honored to join the new bipartisan Congressional caucus dedicated to advancing the economic competitiveness, energy leadership, and industrial growth of the Gulf South region. The Gulf South region plays a pivotal role in our nation’s economic success. As a Member of Congress from Mississippi, I look forward to the work this caucus will do to prioritize and strengthen our economic opportunities.” — Rep. Michael Guest (R-MS) “The Gulf South plays a critical role in powering our nation’s economy. Alabama is a leader in energy production, advanced manufacturing, and innovation, and our workers help drive economic growth not just in our state, but across the entire Gulf South. As Co-Chair of the Gulf South Business Caucus, I’m committed to working with my colleagues to advance policies that strengthen grid reliability, cut unnecessary red tape, and support job creation across our region so we can ensure the Gulf South continues to lead in innovation, investment, and economic growth. I’m thankful for Chairman Bruce Westerman’s leadership in starting this caucus, and I look forward to seeing what we accomplish.” — Rep. Gary Palmer (R-AL) “I am proud to join my colleagues in the founding of the Gulf South Business Caucus. The Gulf South Region’s economy has been growing at an extraordinary rate. As Members of Congress from this region, it is our job to work together to ensure our communities have the resources to continue this tremendous growth. We are always stronger when we work together, and the creation of this caucus further cements the spirit of collaboration between our neighboring districts.” — Rep. Mike Rogers (R-AL) “I am proud to come together with my colleagues from the Gulf South region to launch this bipartisan caucus. I look forward to expanding our joint effort to promote infrastructure investment, affordable energy, and workforce development programs in the region.” — Rep. Terri Sewell (D-AL) “The launch of the Gulf South Business Caucus represents a significant step toward better coordinating the economic strengths of our region. By aligning our federal priorities, we can help ensure that the growth and innovation taking place across the Gulf South translate into stronger infrastructure and good paying jobs for working families. I am committed to this bipartisan effort to expand opportunity, support long term economic development, and make certain that communities in Mississippi and across the region share in the benefits of this progress.” — Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-MS) “I’m proud to be an inaugural member of the Gulf South Business Caucus. In Texas’ 14th District alone, our seven ports support over 200,000 jobs, move tens of billions in economic activity, and anchor a region that drives more than $1 trillion in trade each year while producing a massive share of America’s fuel supply. The Gulf Coast is the backbone that keeps America moving. This caucus is ready to set the bar and keep this country charging toward its next era of greatness.” — Rep. Randy Weber (R-TX) The Gulf South Business Caucus will serve as a platform for Members to engage with business leaders and work together to identify opportunities to transform the region. Issues:Jobs and Economic Growth

BIPARTISAN RESOLUTION INTRODUCED DECLARING APRIL AS SECOND CHANCE MONTH

Today, U.S. Representatives Bruce Westerman (R-AR) and Danny K. Davis (D-IL) alongside U.S Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) reintroduced the bipartisan, bicameral Second Chance Month Resolution that recognizes April as Second Chance Month. The members released the following statements: “This is a nation of second chances. Offering incarcerated Americans the opportunity to succeed by reducing barriers preventing them from establishing good-paying jobs and earning sought-after respect is a critical key to reducing recidivism rates. By investing in these individuals who have proven to be committed to rectifying their mistakes, we are investing in the future success and safety of our communities,” said Congressman Westerman. “I am proud to introduce this resolution to recognize April as Second Chance Month. This piece of legislation champions second chances while highlighting the importance of restoring hope to individuals looking to reintegrate back into their communities with dignity.” “There are millions of individuals in our country who have civil and criminal records that serve as barriers to obtaining education, technical skills, training, jobs, and government benefits,” said Congressman Davis. “Second chances - and especially the Second Chance Act – help to reduce and remove these barriers. Therefore, I am proud to join my colleagues in recognizing Second Chance Month. Second Chance Month honors the work of non-profit organizations, faith-based entities, communities, governments, employers, and individuals that help those with records gain the skills, education, and employment needed to thrive, thereby strengthening individuals, rebuilding families, and growing our economy.” “Way too often, the conversation around criminal justice ends at punishment,” said Senator Cramer. “I think, instead of dwelling on incarceration, we really ought to focus on what comes next. Our resolution simply recognizes the importance of another chance and ensuring individuals have another shot at rebuilding their lives, supporting their families, and most importantly, contributing to their communities. Those who have reconciled with society deserve an opportunity to succeed, and Second Chance Month really reinforces that commitment.” “As a former prosecutor, I have seen firsthand the challenges facing those who have been formerly incarcerated,” said Senator Klobuchar. “People are capable of change and many deserve a second chance. This bipartisan resolution to recognize ‘Second Chance Month’ will bring awareness to these barriers and promote opportunities for those who have served their time to access stable jobs, continue their education, and become productive members of society again.” “As Prison Fellowship marks its 50th anniversary, the Second Chance Month resolution reflects our longstanding commitment to justice that restores. We know that when unnecessary barriers to reentry are removed, people are better equipped to succeed, making our neighborhoods safer and stronger for everyone.” Scott Peyton, Director of Government Affairs for Prison Fellowship Background This resolution recognizes April as Second Chance Month, raising awareness for unlocking opportunities for successful reentry into society following incarceration that ultimately reduces recidivism rates. Millions of American adults with a criminal record face enormous obstacles to successfully re-enter society upon release. When legal and social barriers prohibit a formerly incarcerated person from finding well-paying jobs, this not only negatively impacts them, but also has lasting negative effects for their families. Beyond that, securing gainful employment and being accepted in society has been proven to reduce the likelihood of these individuals returning to prison in the future, ultimately decreasing crime and improving public safety. This resolution is supported by Prison Fellowship, American Correctional Association, Brennan Center for Justice, CPAC, Due Process Institute, FAMM, Major County Sheriffs of America, Modern Fortis, National District Attorneys Association, Niskanen Center, Right on Crime, and Unify.US. Read the full resolution text here. Issues:Education and Opportunity

WESTERMAN STATEMENT ON 2026 STATE OF THE UNION ADDRESS

Tonight, President Donald Trump delivered his State of the Union Address to Congress. Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04) provided the following statement in response: “Over the past year, the Republican trifecta has delivered commonsense solutions to ease the burdens everyday Arkansans are facing, and we are just getting started. Good governance means focusing on dinner table issues that matter most: cutting burdensome federal regulations, lowering the cost of living, creating stronger borders, and building a thriving economy. Tonight, while President Trump reaffirmed that vision, it is clear that there is still more work to do. I look forward to continuing to work with the Administration and my colleagues in the House and Senate to champion commonsense legislation that prioritizes American families, workers, and values.“

WESTERMAN FUNDING PRIORITIES FOR FOURTH DISTRICT HEAD TO PRESIDENT'S DESK

Today, the House of Representatives passed several funding packages to fund the government for Fiscal Year 2026 for the Departments of Defense, Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD), Labor, Health and Human Services (Labor -HHS), and Education as well as other related agencies. Within the THUD provisions were several Westerman-backed wins for the Fourth District of Arkansas. Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04) released the following statement: “Our state’s infrastructure plays an important role in the safety of our communities – especially for our more rural areas. Runways, roadways and bridges connect rural folks with the vital services they need while increasing access to global markets for our local farmers and manufacturers. Together, they work hand-in-hand to foster the security of its residents and the growth of our local economies. It is a privilege to work on behalf of communities across the Fourth District to secure wins that ultimately invest in the future of our great state.” Westerman secured federal investments for the following projects: $7 million to the Highway 82 Railroad Overpass This project realigns portions of Highway 82 and constructs a five-lane grade separation with Union Pacific Railroad. As this section of highway is currently a narrow underpass of the Union Pacific Railroad, this project will increase safety as well as provide a five-lane structure in preparation for future widening of the Highway 82 corridor. The benefits of widening this corridor include increased safety, mobility, enhanced economic opportunities, and improved intermodal connectivity and reliability of the regional transportation system. $11 million to the Texarkana Regional Airport (TXK) Taxiway-Taxilane Construction This project is for the construction of a new taxilane and the widening of the full-length taxiway to accommodate all aircraft in the Taxiway Design group (TDG) 5. This project would improve the primary taxiway at Texarkana Regional Airport (TXK) to allow for larger/heavier aircraft to operate at the airport and support economic development of the local community and the region. $9.2 million to the Demolition, Stabilization, and Remediation of the former Army Navy General Hospital This project funds the demolition, stabilization, and remediation of the former Army Navy General Hospital in Hot Springs, Arkansas. The property is located in the heart of downtown Hot Springs, a major tourist attraction for the state of Arkansas. It is an iconic building that has fallen into serious disrepair and poses a major risk to Hot Springs National Park and the thermal springs for which Hot Springs is known. Demolition, remediation, and stabilization of the property are necessary to mitigate fire risk, secure the site, and remove hazards to public safety. Issues:Transportation and Infrastructure

WESTERMAN APPLAUDS HOUSE PASSAGE OF APPROPRIATIONS BILLS THROUGH REGULAR ORDER

Today, the House of Representatives voted to pass the final four appropriations bills: Department of Defense (DoD) Appropriations Act, 2026; Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2026; Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, (THUD) And Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2026; and the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2026. The passage of these bills ultimately completes the annual appropriations process through a committee-led approach and restores regular order to the federal budget process. Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04) released the following statement: “For years, Congress has relied on bloated and reckless stopgap spending bills, ultimately leaving future lawmakers to deal with a compounding fiscal issue. Today, the House has restored regular order and fiscal sanity to the federal budget process by successfully passing all twelve appropriations bills. House Republicans are continuing to deliver on their promises to the American people by lowering the level of discretionary spending to steward their tax dollars well and work in the way Congress was intended. I’m proud of the job my Republican colleagues have done to put the American people first and apply commonsense, conservative principles to such an integral part of the role we play as lawmakers.”

WESTERMAN, COLLEAGUES INTRODUCE JUVENILE SENTENCING REFORM LEGISLATION

Position: The release advocates for legislation that reduces mandatory minimum sentences for juveniles who committed crimes against their abusers, allowing judges greater discretion in sentencing based on age, trauma history, and rehabilitation prospects.

Today, Congressman Bruce Westerman (R-AR-04) and Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-CA-37) introduced the Sara's Law and the Preventing Unfair Sentencing Act of 2026. This bill gives federal judges more discretion when sentencing juveniles and will allow for children, who have been the victims of abuse, to have a second chance to succeed. The lawmakers issued the following statements: “It is unjust to sentence juvenile victims of sexual violence to life in prison for acts of self defense, and as a country, we have a moral obligation not to turn our backs on children at the moment they need protection most,” said Congressman Westerman. “The United States is a nation of second chances, and that is what we owe these children who have been on the receiving end of some of the most heinously criminal acts imagined. I am proud to introduce the Sara's Law and Preventing Unfair Sentencing Act of 2026, which ensures that our justice system does not mandate minimum sentencing for youthful offenders who have committed violent crimes against their abusers after being trafficked, abused, or sexually assaulted. This bill will allow these children to recover from unimaginable trauma, rebuild their lives, and ultimately grow into upstanding members of our communities.” “Sentencing should be based on the full context of a crime, especially if the defendants are youth victims of abuse,” said Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove. “Historically, mandatory minimum sentences have increased incarceration and resulted in disproportionately harsher sentences for Black people and people of color without reducing crime. I’m proud to co-lead Sara's Law, which would exempt minors who have experienced abuse from mandatory minimums and enable judges to consider the full picture when sentencing.” "The most vulnerable and overlooked victims of child trafficking and sexual abuse are those who end up in our criminal justice system," said James Dold, CEO and Founder of Human Rights for Kids. "Recent research has shown that almost one in ten children prosecuted as adults commit their offense alongside a co-defendant or against a victim who previously raped, abused, or trafficked them. Congressman Westerman is fighting for these forgotten child victims who deserve our compassion, understanding, and mercy. We are proud to stand alongside him in this fight." Background: This bill provides that juveniles found guilty of crimes against those who sexually trafficked, abused, or assaulted them shall not be required to serve the mandatory minimum sentence otherwise associated with the crime. This bill also allows judges to consider "the diminished culpability of juveniles compared to that of adults" when sentencing those who committed crimes as juveniles and allows federal judges to depart from mandatory minimum sentences by up to 35 percent if deemed appropriate based on the juvenile's age and prospects for rehabilitation. The presiding judge may also suspend any portion of an otherwise applicable sentence if the circumstances so warrant. Additionally, it prohibits federal judges from sentencing juveniles to life in prison without parole and brings federal law into compliance with the 2012 Supreme Court decision Miller v. Alabama. Juveniles sentenced to life in prison would be guaranteed a parole hearing after serving 20 years.

WESTERMAN VOTES TO PASS FY2026 NDAA

Position: Congressman Westerman supports passage of the FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act, which authorizes $900.6 billion for military funding, servicemember support, and defense industrial capabilities, including programs benefiting Arkansas's Fourth District.

Today, the House of Representatives passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2026. Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04) released the following statement: “Today’s bill exemplifies bicameral, bipartisan work to bolster our national defense capabilities, support our servicemembers, and increase our military readiness. By passing the NDAA for Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26), House Republicans are ensuring our military receives the necessary funding and equipment crucial to supporting our servicemembers as they defend our freedom. While Russia, China, and other bad actors continue to threaten democracy around the world, the United States must remain the global leader in defense,” said Congressman Westerman. “The NDAA is a cornerstone of our national security and, as it does every year, the FY26 NDAA continues to strongly invest in the defense programs housed right here in the Fourth District in East Camden. This support is vital for our local economy and provides employment opportunities for countless Arkansans. I am always proud to support any legislation that is good for Arkansas and defends America. This bill certainly achieves both goals.” The 2026 NDAA supports Arkansas and American defense by: • Authorizing $900.6 billion to improve service member quality of life, secure our borders, and bolster our nation’s defense systems and equipment. • Supporting organic industrial base sites in the Fourth District like Pine Bluff Arsenal through adding additional production lines and modernization initiatives. • Supporting the Camden community through the evaluation of U.S. stockpiles of critical munitions that are widely produced by major defense contractors located in Camden. • Expanding vital telehealth and mail order pharmacy benefits for veterans and active duty servicemembers. • Including a 3.8% pay raise for servicemembers. • Supporting military housing and education initiatives for military families. • Supporting the rapid expansion of our nation’s defense industrial base, including munitions and readiness restoration efforts. • Authorizing key portions of the Golden Dome defense system that majorly impacts our homeland security. • Supporting the facilitation of counternarcotics operations training for our Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and Mexican military personnel. • Improving military recruitment by increasing required JROTC units, increasing recruiter access to public schools, and establishing a National Week of Military Recruitment.