U.S. Senator John Boozman

January 21, 2025

Boozman, Cotton Praise Senate Passage of Laken Riley Act 

WASHINGTON––U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Tom Cotton (R-AR) applauded Senate passage of the Laken Riley Act by a bipartisan vote of 64-35. The legislation provides U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and state governments more tools to fight crime committed by illegal immigrants.

“This commonsense legislation will help safeguard our communities and prevent other families from becoming future victims of the unimaginable tragedy experienced by Laken Riley’s loved ones,” Boozman said. “The bipartisan support for this measure is welcome and sends a clear signal that our country will no longer tolerate the consequences of lawless, open-border policies. I encourage our colleagues in the House of Representatives to approve and send this bill to President Trump’s desk quickly.”

“For four years, Democrats opened our borders and allowed in millions of illegal aliens, including the criminal who viciously murdered Laken Riley. Americans elected Republicans to deliver safety and the Laken Riley Act will ensure these criminals are detained. This is a welcome and crucial first step for delivering on our promise to make America safe again,” Cotton said.

This legislation is named in honor of nursing student Laken Riley who was killed by an illegal immigrant on the University of Georgia campus in February of 2024.

The bill would require ICE to arrest illegal immigrants who commit theft, burglary, larceny or shoplifting offenses, or are accused of assault on a law enforcement officer or any crime that results in death or serious bodily injury to another person, and would mandate these offenders’ detention until they are removed from the United States so they cannot commit further crimes. It would also ensure states have standing to bring civil actions against federal officials who refuse to enforce or breach immigration law.

The bill, which the Senate amended, now heads back to the U.S. House of Representatives for consideration.

January 17, 2025

Setting the Agenda for 2025

The 119th Congress is officially underway and we have a big agenda to tackle to help Arkansas and the rest of our country succeed.

In the U.S. Senate, new Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) has laid out an ambitious schedule, at a swift pace, to accomplish what the American people expected when they handed Republicans the majority last November. He plans to hold the chamber in session for 173 days in 2025, nearly an entire month more than the average of the last two years, beginning with 10 straight weeks that will feature a flurry of work to confirm presidential nominees and move significant legislation through committees and the floor.

This is a meaningful step to turn the page on the Biden administration and get the nation back on the right track.

The economy, border security, energy independence and tax relief are all major issues that require the policy solutions my Senate Republican colleagues and I have repeatedly touted. We will work hard to enact them now that voters have given us the opportunity.

As we all know, inflation raged in the Biden economy and his policies only poured more gasoline on the fire. The cumulative inflation rate for his presidency was a crushing 20.6 percent. During that time, a typical American family has paid over $13,000 more per year to enjoy the same standard of living they knew in January 2021. The tax-and-spending spree championed by the other side of the aisle, and their refusal to ease burdensome regulations that stifled growth, were incredibly costly.

Fortunately, those days are over.

Now we are poised to bring relief to the country, not just through a new agenda. We also have a runway to advance the successful tax policies from the first Trump administration that are set to expire this year. By doing so, we can prevent the largest tax hike on Americans in our history: over $1,300 for the typical American family, according to a 2024 Tax Foundation report.

Securing our border is also a top priority after radical, far-left policies allowed for 10.5 million migrant encounters along the southwest border, including almost 2 million known got-aways and hundreds of encounters with individuals on the terror watchlist. The crisis and chaos of this open-border scheme were entirely predictable, and Republicans will work with the Trump administration to reverse it and protect our communities.

Delivering energy dominance is another important objective for this Congress. The last administration made it a mission to obstruct domestic energy production – canceling the Keystone XL pipeline, banning drilling in ANWR, reviving the so-called clean power plan and pausing permits for liquefied natural gas export facilities. The results were higher energy prices, including nearly 30 percent higher costs for gasoline and electricity that squeezed everyday Americans and our businesses.

These and other significant items like passing a new five-year Farm Bill to support our farmers, ranchers and rural communities, and bolstering our national defense are key pillars that Senate Republicans will pursue in the days ahead.

It is time to get to work, pursuing bipartisan solutions whenever possible or delivering relief in spite of obstruction when necessary.

I look forward to getting these tasks done on behalf of Arkansans who expect and deserve it.

January 17, 2025

Boozman Joins Chairmen Moran and Bost on Bill to Restore Accountability at VA

WASHINGTON––U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) joined the chairmen of the Senate and House Veterans’ Affairs Committees, Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS) and Congressman Mike Bost (R-IL-12) to introduce legislation to strengthen the Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) authority to hold poor-performing employees accountable.

In 2017, Congress passed the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act with overwhelming bipartisan support in response to the nationwide VA access crisis that exposed a toxic workforce culture at VA negatively impacting veterans’ care. Passage of this legislation gave VA leaders the ability to break through bureaucratic obstacles to discipline or fire poor-performing employees, providing a healthier workplace and increasing veterans’ trust in VA.

The Restore VA Accountability Act addresses questionable decisions from the Federal Circuit, the Federal Labor Relations Authority and the Merit Systems Protection Board that rendered the authority in the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act unusable for most of the VA workforce.

“When bad actors within the VA avoid accountability, veterans and their loved ones suffer,” said Boozman. “That is unacceptable and clearly contrary to Congress’ intent to ensure a culture that delivers the highest standards of care. This legislation reasserts our commitment to zero tolerance for poor performance or misconduct among those serving our former servicemembers.”

“While VA employs some of the finest men and women, it only takes a few bad employees to disrupt the culture and service at the VA,” said Moran. “Veterans are best served when VA leaders have the ability to act swiftly to remove bad employees from the VA workforce. This bill would restore the intent of Congress and help make certain that veterans receive the high-quality care and benefits they’ve earned and VA staff have the healthy workplace they deserve.”

“Over the past two years, we uncovered scandal after scandal of bad middle managers or employees at VA committing wrongdoing. But time and time again, we saw these bad VA employees who don’t have veterans’ best interests at heart, just reshuffled to another part of the agency. That has a direct impact on not only veterans, but the mission of VA and the employees who are trying to do their jobs well,” said Bost. “The intent of Chairman Moran and I’s bill, the Restore VA Accountability Act, is to hold that 1 percent of bad VA employees accountable. President Trump made this message clear during his first administration, but the Biden-Harris administration and liberal courts refused to act and swept accountability under the rug. We’re going to restore the intent of Congress – and President Trump – by bringing accountability back for good, because America’s veterans deserve to know that the employees who are providing them with the care and services they have earned, are the best and the brightest.”

The legislation is also cosponsored by Sens. Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Jim Banks (R-IN), Tim Sheehy (R-MT), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Rick Scott (R-FL), James Risch (R-ID) and Lindsey Graham (R-SC).

The Restore VA Accountability Act strengthens accountability by unlocking expedited disciplinary processes for VA employees, ensuring that decisions backed by substantial evidence are upheld on appeal, removing the need for a performance improvement plan before disciplinary action and aligning accountability processes for poor-performing managers with that of senior executives.

Companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives was cosponsored by 25 members.

Multiple veterans service organizations also shared their support for the legislation:

“The VFW supports the Restore VA Accountability Act to improve VA’s ability to hold employees to the high standards our veterans deserve,” said Legislative Director of The Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States (VFW) Pat Murray. “We appreciate the efforts by our supporters in Congress to provide the Secretary the authorities needed to ensure accountability remains paramount at VA.”

“The mission of the VA to serve veterans requires an essential bond of trust. And for veterans to trust in the VA, employees and officials need to be held accountable for their actions,” said President and CEO of America’s Warrior Partnership (AWP) Jim Lorraine. “The vast majority of VA employees are tarnished by the small number of problematic employees that hurt morale and reputation. Congress has been very forward about this issue in a bipartisan manner for many years, and we are thankful for Chairman Moran and Chairman Bost for reintroducing this essential piece of legislation to restore trust in the VA.”

“Amidst a veterans’ mental health and suicide epidemic, the outgoing Biden administration’s leadership at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs failed our nation’s heroes,” said Concerned Veterans for America (CVA) Strategic Director John Byrnes. “They refused to follow the VA Accountability and Whistleblower Protection Act which mandates firing corrupt and incompetent VA employees. Additionally, this VA has intentionally acted as a barrier to veterans trying to access timely and quality health care. Passing the Restore VA Accountability Act is a crucial step to ensure VA and its employees are held accountable to the law. On behalf of every veteran who deserves the care they’ve earned, CVA urges Congress to act swiftly and support this accountability legislation; it is a matter of saving veterans’ lives.”

“The American Legion stands behind the efforts of Chairman Bost and Chairman Moran in their multi-session effort to pass the Restore VA Accountability Act,” said The American Legion Executive Director of Government Affairs Mario Marquez. “This legislation reflects a commitment to ensure the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) upholds the highest standards of accountability and care for our nation’s heroes by providing the Secretary the necessary tools to address poor performance. Our veterans and their families have earned nothing less than exceptional service from the VA. Strengthening disciplinary authority at the VA is paramount to ensuring a VA that serves all veterans with the highest standards. The American Legion remains committed to working with Congress to ensure veterans receive the first-class care that they deserve.”

“SVA strongly supports the Restore VA Accountability Act, which is a critical step forward in ensuring veterans and their families are served with integrity by the Department of Veterans Affairs,” said Student Veterans of America (SVA) National President and CEO Jared Lyon. “By providing clear procedures for addressing poor performance or misconduct while also protecting whistleblowers and due process rights, the bill strikes a necessary balance to uphold the highest standards of service for our nation’s veterans. SVA stands firmly in support of these efforts that promote transparency and accountability, and improve the overall effectiveness of the VA.”

“The Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) is grateful to Chairman Moran and Chairman Bost for introducing the Restore VA Accountability Act to ensure that VA has the needed authority to create and sustain a workforce environment that best serves our veteran community,” said TAPS President and Founder Bonnie Carroll. “On behalf of a grateful nation, we owe our veterans, their families, caregivers and survivors nothing less.”

“We owe an incredible debt to those who have sacrificed so much for our freedom. We must absolutely ensure the VA system is accountable and effective,” said National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS) President, Major General (ret.) Frank McGinn. “We must right wrongs and dismiss bad actors when they are identified. This bill is a positive step in restoring VA accountability and improving services. We are grateful to Chairman Moran and Chairman Bost for continually stepping up to support our nation’s veterans and thank them for these efforts.”

Click here for full text of the legislation. Find a one-pager explanation of the bill here.

January 16, 2025

Boozman Questions EPA Administrator Nominee Lee Zeldin

Secures Nominee’s Commitment to Increase Agency’s Communication and Collaboration

Click here to watch Senator Boozman’s line of questioning.

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR), a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, secured a commitment from President-elect Donald Trump’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator nominee, former Congressman Lee Zeldin, to increase the agency’s communication and collaboration to balance environmental stewardship and the impact of regulations on farmers, businesses and opportunity for economic growth.

“I want to compliment you on the fact that you’ve made yourself available,” Boozman said during Zeldin’s nomination hearing. “As a former member, can you talk about how important that is to you to make sure that you’re going to continue to be available, answer the phone, and make it such that we can get the information that we need to go forward?”

Zeldin reiterated his dedication to understanding Boozman’s priorities and to make himself available to address the concerns of the senator and his colleagues.

“I want to be responsive to all the members of this committee. I want my team to be able to work closely with your offices. I want to know what all of your priorities are at any given time and make sure I’m accountable and transparent to this committee,” said Zeldin. “I want to make sure there is a very strong relationship between this committee and the EPA.”

During the hearing, Boozman cited his role as Chairman of the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee and its direct oversight over the EPA’s Office of Pesticide Programs. The senator pushed Zeldin to work cooperatively with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) on the rules and regulations that impact farmers.

“As issues affecting agriculture arise, I’ve found farmers and ranchers are best served when the EPA and the Department of Agriculture are working together,” said Boozman. “Can you tell us about how you envision EPA and USDA working together to create a predictable, science-based and efficient regulatory system that ensures the timely availability of tools farmers and ranchers depend on to produce the safest, most abundant and most affordable food supply in the world?”

“I agree with everything that you just said, senator. That must be our goal, that should be the relationship between multiple agencies, including the interaction between the EPA and USDA,” Zeldin responded.

Boozman also questioned Zeldin on how he plans to break from the EPA’s previous failure to collaborate with farmers, businesses and other stakeholders prior to issuing regulations.

“For the last several years, EPA failed to collaborate with industries and states prior to rulemaking,” Boozman said. “Given that every rulemaking has a significant impact on businesses, workers and domestic manufacturing, which cannot simply be restored overnight, how will you work with industries more collectively to ensure their concerns are addressed while maintaining a balanced approach to environmental protection?”

“It is important that the EPA is always fulfilling our obligations under the law. As far as engagement throughout that process, it is important to hear from people who have good, substantive, informed feedback that allows the EPA to do a better job, to make better decisions,” Zeldin stated. “At times, that might involve me speaking to people who I might agree with or disagree with on any given day, but the worst thing that I could possibly do, that the EPA could do, is to turn a blind eye to great, substantive feedback that will better inform our decisions so that we are being responsive and transparent, not just to Congress but also to the American people.”

To watch the senator’s full line of questioning, click here.

January 15, 2025

Boozman, Cruz Introduce Thin Blue Line Act to Support Police, First Responders

WASHINGTON––U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Ted Cruz (R-TX) introduced the Thin Blue Line Act to increase penalties for criminals who target law enforcement. Federal law already makes the targeting, killing or attempted killing of federal law enforcement officers, judges and correctional officers an aggravating factor in the decision whether to impose the federal death penalty. The Thin Blue Line Act would expand this list to include state and local police, firefighters and other first responders.

“Our law enforcement officers put their lives at risk to serve and defend their communities,” Boozman said. “I am proud to join my colleagues to stand with the men and women behind the badge when criminals choose to target them with violence simply because they are committed to enforcing our laws and maintaining order.”

“Violent crimes targeting law enforcement demand immediate action. These crimes should never be tolerated. Every day, members of law enforcement risk their lives to protect our communities and they deserve the full protection of the law,” said Cruz. “I am proud to introduce this common-sense legislation to ensure that acts of murder or attempted murder against law enforcement will be met with maximum penalties.”

The legislation is also cosponsored by Senators John Kennedy (R-LA), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), Rick Scott (R-FL), John Hoeven (R-ND), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Ted Budd (R-NC), Ron Johnson (R-WI) and James Lankford (R-OK).

The Thin Blue Line Act is endorsed by multiple law enforcement groups. Here’s what they are saying about the bill:

“Our federal, state, and local law enforcement officers risk their lives daily to protect the citizens of this great nation. While they work tirelessly to safeguard our communities, their families remain at home, burdened with concern for their loved ones’ safety. In 2024, 144 law enforcement officers tragically lost their lives in the line of duty—heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice to ensure the safety of others. The Thin Blue Line Act seeks to strengthen penalties for those who target law enforcement officers, underscoring the gravity of crimes against those who serve in these vital roles. This legislation is a powerful statement of national support, honoring their dedication to justice and reinforcing the profound respect owed to their unwavering commitment to public safety,” said Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association National President Mathew Silverman.

“The Thin Blue Line Act is a vital step in ensuring those who target our public safety professionals face the full weight of justice. Law enforcement officers and first responders risk their lives daily to protect our communities, and this legislation sends a clear message that violence against them will not be tolerated. As sheriffs, we are committed to standing up for those who stand in harm’s way to keep us safe,” said National Sheriffs’ Association President Sheriff Kieran Donahue.

“The United States Deputy Sheriff’s Association is honored to support the Thin Blue Line Act. With the current atmosphere of anti-law enforcement in America this bill is a great step forward in supporting law enforcement and other first responders. These are the men and women who not only put their lives on the line every day but are dedicated to advancing their communities.  The Thin Blue Line Act is a great way to support these heroes that go unnoticed every day,” said United States Deputy Sheriff’s Association Executive Director and National Trainer David Hinners.

“Law enforcement officers have always faced threats while on duty—it is nothing new. Although we go to work each day to protect others, within the past few years, officers have become a target for violence solely because of the uniform they wear.  It should not be ‘part of the job’ to be a target for someone who is looking to simply kill or injure a cop.  The Thin Blue Line Act aims to reduce these attacks by expanding the list of aggravating factors in death penalty determinations for those who target, kill, or attempt to kill a law enforcement or other public safety officers, which sends a clear message to those who target, kill, or attempt to kill a law enforcement or other public safety officer that they will be held accountable and punished to the fullest extent of the law,” said Fraternal Order of Police National President Patrick Yoes.

“For too long, members of the NYPD and law enforcement officers across this nation have been subjected to targeted acts of violence as they work to protect life, property, and the freedoms we all hold dear. While we know that these brave men and women will continue to face threats regardless of the uniform they wear, on duty or off, active or retired, the Thin Blue Line Act sends the long-overdue message that any action to target law enforcement officers for murder or violence will be met with the harshest of penalties,” said NYPD Sergeants Benevolent Association (SBA) President Vincent Vallelong.

Click here to read text of the legislation.

January 13, 2025

Boozman Celebrates 25th Anniversary of Veterans History Project, Shares Memories of Fort Smith Veteran

Click here to watch excerpts of Clyde Gudermuth’s interview

WASHINGTON––The Veterans History Project, an initiative of the Library of Congress’s American Folklife Center, is marking its 25th year collecting and retaining the oral histories of our nation’s veterans. U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR), whose office has actively promoted and participated in the program including training more than 1,200 Arkansans to engage with it and conducting more than 100 interviews, will help commemorate its impact and significance throughout the year.

One of Boozman’s latest submissions recognized the service and sacrifice of Fort Smith resident Clyde Gudermuth, a veteran of the U.S. Army.

Gudermuth grew up in a suburb of St. Louis, Missouri. He graduated high school in 1959 and attended the Missouri School of Mines in Rolla where he studied mechanical engineering and was a member of the school’s ROTC program.

He was inspired to join the military by a close family friend who was a retired two-star general.

As part of the Engineer Corps ROTC unit, Gudermuth participated in exercises at Fort Leonard Wood in the summer where his advisor, an Army aviator, exposed him to flying. “I liked it, and I took the physical for flying and I passed it. I think there was something like 12 or 15 guys that took the physical and I was the only one that passed,” he said.

Once commissioned in the Army, he was assigned to Fort Belvoir, Virginia, for officer training, but he was still eager to become a pilot.

He learned to fly the H-23 helicopter at Fort Wolters, Texas, and still fondly remembers his teacher. “I had an exceptional instructor pilot. He was outstanding, if he couldn’t get it across to you one way, he’d figure out another way to get it across to you,” Gudermuth said.

In 1965, he was transferred to Fort Rucker, Alabama, now known as Fort Novosel, where he learned to fly the H-19.

“On our first night over cross-country, they sat us down and said, ‘If you’re lost don’t worry about it because there’s towns all over and they have the name of the town on the water tower and you just fly until you can see the water tower and find out where you are on the map,’” he said. While Gudermuth didn’t have any navigation issues, he remembered some other new pilots who had to put that lesson to use.

Gudermuth deployed to Vietnam and was surprised by what he saw from the air upon arrival.

“When we’re landing, everybody’s nailed to the window looking out. You could look on the ground and people were driving around on their motor scooter things. And it didn’t look right. You figured everyone was down getting shot at but that wasn’t it. In Saigon there was no war at all,” he recalled.

He served in the 1st Platoon – called the “Scorpions” – 118th Assault Helicopter Company, 145th Aviation Battalion where he flew the “huey,”the nickname for the helicopters flown in Vietnam.

“You flew your butt off,” Gudermuth said. “We flew every day. Every day early in the morning until late at night. And it wore you out.”

It was an extremely dangerous job. Gudermuth said when picking up soldiers he was often under fire. Nearly half of the pilots in his helicopter class didn’t return home. While he was lucky, he experienced several risky situations including being shot down twice. He said the first time he was only on the ground for a couple of minutes, but the second incident was much more serious.

Gudermuth said it was a resupply mission and, as he was landing, the tail rotor was shot out.

“I crawled out of the aircraft and got up on the front of the aircraft. And the crew chief and gunner got up with our weapons and they were set up out front. We were on the nose of the aircraft out there,” he said. “All hell broke loose and we were shooting.”

He was helped by a close friend who offered air support before two helicopters came to extract Gudermuth and his fellow soldiers.

While he faced danger nearly every day, some days were better than others. Gudermuth had an opportunity to see many VIPs who entertained the troops with the USO including Ann-Margret who was once a passenger on his helicopter.

After returning stateside he was initially given the role of an instructor pilot but just days before he was to begin, he received a change to his orders that reassigned him to Yuma Proving Ground in Arizona. He tested aviation equipment including armaments, aircraft systems and other new technology.

The flights didn’t always go smoothly.

He recalled one incident when he learned the teflon bearings had been pulverized while in the air. He landed the helicopter and called for assistance.

“That was scary because a couple of more minutes and we would have crashed,” he said.

He was discharged in 1967 and moved to Springfield, Missouri, where he spent a career in engineering for a private company.

Gudermuth used his GI bill benefits to earn his MBA.

He has reconnected with some of the veterans he served with at reunions, and recommends military service because of the valuable lessons it offers in learning how to work with others and lead.

“Clyde Gudermuth honorably served our country and has carried its lessons with him throughout his life. I’m proud to capture his memories of his time in uniform so future generations can learn from his experience,” Boozman said.

Boozman submitted Gudermuth’s entire interview to the Veterans History Project. The senator’s office will help mark the 25th anniversary of the VHP in 2025 with events in several Arkansas communities to conduct interviews with veterans and train those interested in learning how to participate.

January 10, 2025

Making Progress for Arkansas’s Water Infrastructure

Our nation’s ports, harbors and inland waterways are critical both for transportation and economic growth. They support industries, create jobs and promote commerce.

For Arkansas, they serve as essential resources for agriculture, flood protection efforts and clean drinking water access. It is no wonder Congress has consistently recognized the value in maintaining and maximizing this vital water infrastructure.

The primary tool we use to do so is a biennial package authorizing flood control, navigation and ecosystem restoration projects for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) called the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA). In the closing weeks of the 118th Congress, we cleared the latest version and sent it to the president’s desk to be signed into law.

The legislation, formally known as the Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act of 2024, will impact every state through the over 200 feasibility studies, 22 new or modified construction projects and other programs it greenlights. They are necessary and, in many cases, overdue.

Many of the dams, levees and other infrastructure tied to our waterways are aging and beginning to deteriorate. While temporary repairs have provided short-term fixes, long-term investments to upgrade and enhance these structures are not only more cost-effective but essential to keeping our infrastructure reliable.

As a longtime member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, I have appreciated the opportunity to work intimately on these issues and am always focused on securing Arkansas priorities.

This time was no different and I’m pleased with the success we achieved.

In Northwest Arkansas, the law will help advance the reallocation study for the Beaver Water District to help serve the water needs of over 400,000 people as well as regional and national business operations in an area experiencing rapid growth and development. Inadequate water supply storage and access could jeopardize that momentum.

On the opposite side of the state, we secured language to allow the Corps to study the feasibility of expanding the Osceola Harbor to better to manage increased barge traffic and support the vibrant steel industry in Mississippi County – now the largest steel-producing county in America – and also delivered a provision establishing a comprehensive approach to managing the Lower Mississippi River.

But WRDA’s reach extends beyond just our state’s borders on the east and west. It also dedicates funding for the McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System (MKARNS) to mitigate cost overruns. MKARNS has enabled enhanced navigation, flood control, power generation, habitat conservation and economic development across The Natural State. This investment represents an important next step to ensuring its vitality and the ability of individuals and industries in communities statewide to benefit from the commerce this superhighway facilitates.

And the bill also contains measures I advocated to address levee safety guidelines that Arkansans have voiced concerns with, as well as an adapted version of legislation I helped lead to improve popular outdoor recreational facilities by encouraging the Corps to reinvest fees collected at them for on-site maintenance and upgrades.

These projects all help strengthen our water infrastructure, which stimulates economic growth and improves the quality of life for all.

It is an honor to play an integral role in crafting these momentous policies and ensuring we meet the pressing needs of our waterways and communities. I look forward to continuing those efforts and join all those celebrating the completion of WRDA 2024.

January 3, 2025

Returning the Sound of Freedom to the River Valley

There was an unmistakable sound in the skies above Fort Smith last month. The loud boom of two F-35s making the journey from a Lockheed Martin facility in Fort Worth, Texas, to their new home at Ebbing Air National Guard Base echoed around the community and marked an exciting milestone.

That event has been years in the making and signals the opening of the next chapter in Arkansas’s contributions to our country’s defense.

Since the U.S. Air Force announced its selection of Ebbing as the new home of a pilot training center for our allies in March 2023, we have been looking to the horizon with eager anticipation to witness the first aircraft soar above the River Valley. Now, with the arrival of the pair of F-35A Lightning II fifth-generation fighter aircraft belonging to Poland, we are bringing a manned flying mission back to The Natural State for the first time in a decade.

The Arkansas Congressional Delegation, along with state and local leaders, has worked seamlessly to secure this designation and champion the investments necessary to ensure the installation can successfully host U.S. instructors and allied partners receiving training, as well as many of their families.

As Ranking Member of the Senate Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies (MilCon-VA) Appropriations Subcommittee, I have been honored to shepherd legislation through the Senate allocating funds over multiple years to prepare Ebbing to successfully host this program.

In Fiscal Year 2024, we delivered $83 million to ensure the pilot training center could proceed with the projects required to adapt the airbase for this new role, including construction of a three-bay hanger and other facilities to help train pilots on the next generation aircraft. And we are also poised to bring further funding in FY2025 that will extend its capacity to host pilots from Poland, Finland, Germany, Switzerland and Singapore in the future.

One of the last acts of the 118th Congress was the approval of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025, which included a key win in that effort. The bill included authorization to fund an Academic Training Center with classrooms, flight simulator spaces, conference rooms and administrative support stations. President Biden quickly signed the bill into law in late December, ensuring progress on another important step to cement Fort Smith as the home of the pilot training center for many years to come.

While these investments and the new mission will undoubtedly bring positive benefits to the community and our state, it is important to remember that this initiative is also a tremendous asset that will improve America’s national security. Developing these capabilities side-by-side with our allies and partners is critical as the world faces increasing conflict and turmoil.

That’s why it was so important to pass the FY25 NDAA and the policies it includes to strengthen our military. The bill also bolsters recruiting and retention efforts through improvements to servicemembers’ quality of life – including a historic 14.5 percent pay raise for junior enlisted troops – as well as enhances our readiness and deterrence efforts as rivals like China, Iran, Russia and North Korea continue to test and disrupt the global order.

I am proud to support those efforts, including provisions that directly impact Arkansas and grow our national security footprint, and will continue advocating for a strong defense which our state can help deliver with unique and considerable effect.

December 27, 2024

Another Year Well Spent Gathering Feedback and Meeting Needs 

When people think about the job of a U.S. Senator, they often picture what we see on C-SPAN with hearings, votes and eye-catching debates. But that work in the Capitol is only part of the job, because Members of Congress need to know what is happening at home and how federal agencies are working for their constituents before voting on legislation and policies in Washington.

That process is best seen in the calls and emails I get every day from Arkansans who need help with a federal agency. This year alone, my office directly assisted more than 2,700 Arkansans by cutting through bureaucratic red tape and addressing everything from emergency passports to a veteran who was owed 20 years of backpay.

In addition to providing an important constituent service, assisting with these issues helps me, too. When I know what problems people have with various federal agencies, it informs budget decisions and helps identify programs in need of oversight or reform. Receiving that input from Arkansans is a critical part of the job, and I am grateful for the trust each person puts in me when they reach out to my office in their hour of need.

Looking at the requests for help I received in 2024, 68 percent related to military and veterans’ issues. Every day, my staff and I helped connect former servicemembers with health care options, discovered the status of VA loans or obtained overdue military records and medals. Among our most solemn and time-sensitive duties is assisting families and funeral homes when a veteran passes away but the proper paperwork for a burial is missing or incomplete. These cases usually come to us 24 to 48 hours before a scheduled service and my office works swiftly to meet this need as a comfort to grieving families and a final act of respect for our nation’s heroes.

As someone who grew up in a military family, I take special pride in helping these men and women – and their loved ones – access the benefits and services they have earned. Yet they are far from the only Arkansans who require my staff to reach out to federal agencies on their behalf.

It is notable what types of support were needed this year compared to recent history.

For the last four years, the casework load had been dominated by programs and issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic and the ripple effects of agency closures and backlogs. I am happy to report that the trends in my office this year indicate the end of those complications. In fact, the problems reported and the number of requests we received in 2024 were similar to 2019 with a list dominated by veterans’ issues, Social Security and IRS questions.

As Arkansas’s former Third District Congressman John Paul Hammerschmidt so helpfully explained to me years ago, “When the election is over there are no Democrats or Republicans, just the people of Arkansas – and it is your job to take care of them.”

I’m grateful that Arkansans reach out to share their views and seek assistance from my team and me each day. I look forward to continuing this work in 2025 as we search for ways to make our federal government work better for every American.

December 20, 2024

Delivering More Support for Veterans and Caregivers

Elizabeth Dole has been a staunch advocate for our veterans, helping lead a movement to support and uplift them and the caregivers who work tirelessly to meet their needs. That passion came from her own life experience as the spouse of a disabled veteran, former Senator Bob Dole.

Today, she continues this important work to elevate issues and enact solutions for our ill and injured former servicemembers as well as their loved ones. Her legendary status among this community continues to inspire while driving forward improvements to the policies that impact them.

And she is certainly not alone in her concern. From the time I entered Congress, my mother – the wife of a retired Air Force Master Sergeant – would frequently ask me, “Are you taking care of the veterans?”

That persistent question has helped remind me to work hard every day to live up to the sincere expectation of all those concerned about the welfare of the Americans who have worn our nation’s uniform.

As a member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, I continue to take that approach to the problems and opportunities that arise as we evaluate the benefits and services they have rightfully earned.

I’m pleased that we are ending this Congress by approving a comprehensive veterans policy package that delivers needed reforms and strengthens support for them and their caregivers.

The legislation, fittingly named the Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act, improves access to Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) care and benefits, enhances programs for student veterans and their families, and provides increased oversight to ensure the VA is meeting its lawful obligations.

It delivers on many of the priorities Veteran Service Organizations have long pushed to achieve and represents an important step forward to better serve the men and women who honorably served our country.

This advancement to the quality and capacity of care the VA offers is good news, and I was honored to secure several specific provisions in this landmark bill.

Measures I helped author to bolster recruitment and retention of VA clinicians, support training for current and future providers to ensure veterans receive the highest quality of care, and provide more oversight and transparency on its efforts addressing leadership vacancies were all included.

Additionally, my latest push to confront the veteran suicide crisis was also incorporated into the larger package. This initiative – the Not Just a Number Act – requires the VA to examine veterans’ benefits usage in its annual suicide prevention report in order to evaluate the relationship between VA benefits and suicide outcomes, analyze which benefits have the greatest impact on preventing suicide, and issue recommendations for expansion of those benefits to further combat it.

We were also able to extend VA burial benefits eligibility to terminally ill veterans who pass away at a non-VA facility while receiving hospice care, as well as ensure training for VA employees on reporting waste, fraud and abuse in coordination with the VA Office of the Inspector General.

These are all important and timely wins that should make us proud.

Our nation’s promise to those who have served does not apply only to Republicans or Democrats; it must be kept for each person who answered that calling. I am proud to continue that effort daily and join those enthusiastically welcoming these latest enhancements for the heroes we all deeply respect and admire.

December 19, 2024

Water Infrastructure Resources Bill Containing Boozman Provisions Passes Senate, Heads to President’s Desk

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR), a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, applauded Senate passage of legislation to strengthen water resources in Arkansas and across the country. The measure has already passed the House of Representatives and now heads to the president’s desk to be signed into law.

The Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act of 2024 (WRDA) authorizes water and wastewater projects, invests in ports and inland waterways, and improves U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) programs.

“Reliable, efficient water infrastructure underpins our entire economy. It is incredibly important for Congress to come together in a bipartisan way to preserve and enhance it so our economy can grow and our quality of life continues to improve. I’m proud to have secured crucial support for projects in Arkansas that will impact communities across our state,” Boozman said.

Several Boozman-authored provisions make key investments in Arkansas water infrastructure by:

• Advancing the reallocation study for the Beaver Water District;
• Modifying the federally authorized area of Osceola Harbor to manage the increased barge traffic, supporting the growth of the port and regional steel industry which significantly contribute to economic development in the region;
• Prioritizing funding for the McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System to mitigate cost overruns with a cost-share adjustment. This would allow the nation to realize sizable economic returns, reduce the supply chain’s environmental footprint and address uncertainty in the global agricultural and energy markets;
• Creating a comprehensive approach to managing the Lower Mississippi River and implementing restoration practices to support animal habitats in Arkansas and Tennessee;
• Addressing levee safety guidelines under development and ensuring adherence to congressional intent;
• Examining digital infrastructure and real-time data collection by authorizing a study on water distribution optimization;
• Encouraging the Corps to reinvest recreation fees to improve facilities where the funds were collected to maintain facilities and provide quality recreational opportunities on our public lands; and
• Reauthorizing the Economic Development Administration and its subsidiary, the Delta Regional Authority that strengthens economic opportunity in the eight-state Delta region, and establishing an Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience – a bipartisan initiative Boozman led to formalize the agency’s role in economic recovery efforts within communities impacted by natural disasters.

December 18, 2024

Boozman Backs National Security Package 

Senate Approves Bill to Supply Troops with Tools and Resources to Defend Nation, Sends Measure to President’s Desk

WASHINGTON––U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) supported Senate passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025 that delivers quality of life enhancements for our servicemembers and their families while strengthening America’s national security through new policies that bolster recruiting, readiness and lethal capabilities.

The measure also contains provisions Boozman led to advance the creation of an Academic Training Center at Ebbing Air National Guard Base and a framework for the state of Arkansas to request permanent ownership of the former Army-Navy Hospital in Hot Springs.

“Providing for our national defense is one of Congress’ primary responsibilities, particularly at an incredibly volatile time around the globe,” Boozman said. “That begins with supporting our military personnel and their families with better pay, housing, childcare and other opportunities as well as improving recruitment efforts, enhancing our capacity to deter threats from adversaries, investing in our defense industrial base and ensuring readiness and lethality are the Pentagon’s main focus. This bill does just that, including through vital missions and defense industrial support in Arkansas, and I’m pleased it is now headed to the president’s desk to become law.”

Boozman-led provisions in the FY25 NDAA:

• Authorize funding for an Academic Training Center at Ebbing Air National Guard Base in Fort Smith in support of the F-35 foreign pilot training mission; and
• Allow the state of Arkansas to develop or sell the former Army-Navy Hospital in Hot Springs; require development of the property to complement the national park; and provide a way for land to revert to the federal government if the state does not do so within three years.

Other provisions in the legislation would:

• Provide junior enlisted servicemembers a historic 14.5 percent pay raise and all other servicemembers with a 4.5 percent pay raise;
• Expand military families’ access to medical care;
• Support programs that help military spouses obtain or continue employment;
• Enhance housing and childcare options;
• Prioritize recruiting improvements including increased funding for JROTC programs;
• Enhance deterrence against adversaries like China, Iran, Russia, North Korea and terrorist organizations;
• Further invest in the domestic defense industrial base;
• Allow deployment of National Guard troops to the southwest border and empower the Department of Defense (DoD) to increase its illegal migrant and narcotics interdiction efforts; and
• Redirect the DoD away from social policies like DEI, Critical Race Theory and climate change and return to an emphasis on warfighting preparation.

The measure now heads to the president’s desk to be signed into law.

December 16, 2024

Veterans Legislative Package with Boozman Provisions Passes Senate, Heads to U.S. House

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR), a senior member of the Veterans’ Affairs committee and Ranking Member of the Senate Military Construction, Veterans Affairs and Related Agencies (MilCon-VA) Appropriations Subcommittee, welcomed Senate passage of the Elizabeth Dole 21^st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act. The legislation will now go the U.S. House of Representatives for consideration.

The Elizabeth Dole 21^st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act strengthens support for our nation’s veterans and caregivers by improving access to Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) care and benefits, enhancing programs for student veterans and their families, and providing increased oversight to ensure the VA is meeting its lawful obligations.

“This is an important step forward to support our men and women who have served and earned quality care and support. I’m pleased provisions I championed to attract top providers to serve veterans at the VA, ensure proper management is in place at its facilities, advance a more comprehensive approach to the veteran suicide crisis and more are one step closer to becoming law,” Boozman said. “This bipartisan legislation represents our commitment to deliver the support our veterans and their families expect and deserve.”

Several Boozman-authored or cosponsored measures were included in the legislative package, including:

Sections of the VA Clinician Appreciation, Recruitment, Education, Expansion, and Retention Support (CAREERS) Act, to:

• Modernize the VA’s antiquated pay system for physicians and other high-level clinicians, which will particularly benefit rural and other hard-to-hire markets;
• Update VA’s pay stipulations to include optometrists, expanding the coverage of certain rules and benefits to optometrists as well;
• Authorize the VA to waive pay limitations for the recruitment or retention of critical health care personnel, with a priority for certain positions, locations, and contracted care;
• Authorize the VA to have flexibility in compensating specified professionals, including the ability to pay awards, recruitment or relocation bonuses, retention allowances, incentives or bonuses, and earning from fee-basis appointments; and
• Increase and fine-tune the VA’s workforce data reporting requirements to help the VA and Congress be better informed on how to improve the hiring and onboarding process for future employees enterprise-wide.

Click here to view Senator Boozman’s remarks on the CAREERS Act.

The Veterans Affairs Medical Center Absence and Notification Timeline (VACANT) Act, to:

• Limit the detailing of medical center directors to different positions within the VA; and
• Require the VA Secretary to ensure a plan is in place to fill vacant medical center director positions within 180 days of detailing.

The Not Just a Number Act, to:

• Require the VA to examine veterans’ benefits usage in its annual suicide prevention report in order to evaluate the relationship between VA benefits and suicide outcomes;
• Require the VA to analyze which benefits have the greatest impact on preventing suicide; and
• Require the Department to issue recommendations for expansion of those benefits in the fight to combat veteran suicides.

Click here to view Senator Boozman’s remarks on the Not Just a Number Act.

Gerald’s Law Act, to:

• Expand Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) burial benefits eligibility to terminally ill veterans who pass away at a non-VA facility while receiving hospice care.

The VA OIG Training Act of 2023, to:

• Provide training to VA employees on reporting waste, fraud and abuse in coordination with the VA Office of the Inspector General (VA OIG), which serves veterans and the public by conducting meaningful independent oversight of the VA.

December 13, 2024

Honoring America’s Heroes at Christmas

The holidays provide many opportunities to enjoy the company of loved ones and celebrate special relationships and memories. In so many respects, it truly is the most wonderful time of the year.

One reason we are able to enjoy this season so much is because we live in a great and free country. But that freedom has never been guaranteed, not at our nation’s founding or even today. It comes at an incredibly high price that none of us can take for granted.

For over two centuries, Americans have fought and died to protect our nation and interests. Their service and sacrifice have allowed us to build an open society with ample opportunity and personal liberty. We can never fully repay the debt we owe these courageous men and women, but that does not mean we should stop trying.

At this time of the year, it is especially important we remember them and reflect on everything they represent.

For active duty servicemembers deployed far from home, we send a particular thank you for answering the call of duty even though it means being separated from family and friends. We are eternally grateful for their dedication and willingness to forfeit that privilege on our behalf.

Another act Americans use to show appreciation for our military community at Christmas is by visiting the cemeteries and burial grounds where fallen warriors now rest. These events take on many different names, but they all serve the same purpose – to demonstrate to their loved ones and ourselves that they are not forgotten.

In Arkansas, we take immense pride in organizing efforts to show our gratitude for them amid this season by adorning their graves with special tokens that are both beautiful and reverent.

Fort Smith’s Christmas Honors began in 2009 and draws hundreds of volunteers to help place Christmas wreaths on over 16,000 headstones at the city’s National Cemetery, including members of my staff who were on hand to share in this month’s moving salute.

In Little Rock, 40 Arkansas National Guard soldiers from Camp Robinson assisted local volunteers this year on the same mission for the graves of unknown servicemembers at the Little Rock National Cemetery.

But Arkansas is not alone in this mission. Since 1992, a national organization dedicated to executing this same tribute continues to grow in awareness and participation. Wreaths Across America exemplifies its motto to “remember, honor and teach,” as more and more people across generations engage with its effort to memorialize our veterans at Christmas. The group is hosting over 40 events in Arkansas this holiday season to mobilize community members to help lay these emblems down among the sacred, final resting place of Natural State heroes who served our country in uniform.

It also encourages us to speak the name of each veteran aloud and thank them for their life and service, keeping their memory alive all year but especially at a time when families and friends long for one last embrace or conversation.

The holidays can bring out the best in us, and one unmistakable sign of that is our commitment to honor our military and veteran communities who make it possible for us to spend time gathering and enjoying special traditions in peace and prosperity. I, along with all Arkansans, am grateful for that precious gift.

December 12, 2024

Boozman, Luján Lead Push for Expanded Access to Radiology Services

Senators Introduce Legislation to Make Hospital Radiologist Assistant-Performed Medical Imaging Eligible for Medicare Reimbursement

WASHINGTON––U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) are leading an effort to improve Medicare beneficiaries’ access to health care services and address the provider shortage that exists nationwide, which is particularly dire in rural America. The Medicare Access to Radiology Care Act (MARCA) would allow radiologists to submit claims to Medicare for non-diagnostic services performed by radiologist assistants (RAs) they directly supervise in both the hospital and office setting.

While RAs are recognized under Medicare to perform services under direct supervision, the radiology practices that employ them are unable to submit claims to Medicare for RA-performed services in hospitals, where they normally work.

“Medicare patients should not go without access to important diagnostic tools either because of a lack of available personnel or red tape. Radiologist assistants are well qualified to fulfill this need, and our bipartisan legislation would ensure they can do so. Allowing Medicare coverage for these procedures is common sense and will help deliver timely and quality care,” Boozman said.

“Health care worker shortages and unnecessary barriers should not prevent Medicare patients from accessing the care they need,” said Luján. “Allowing qualified RAs to provide services through Medicare is crucial to ensuring patients receive timely, high-quality care. This legislation will help address the impact of provider shortages, particularly in rural areas, and improve access to care for all Medicare patients.”

In 2019, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services adjusted RA supervision requirements, which allowed providers to be reimbursed by Medicare for services performed by RAs in the office setting. However, the adjustment did not include reimbursement by Medicare for RA services performed in the hospital setting, creating a disparity that negatively impacts the radiology care available in hospitals. This legislation addresses that gap to restore access for patients in either setting and removes disincentives that jeopardize the ability of radiologists to meet demand for care and treatment.

“The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) applauds Senators John Boozman and Ben Ray Luján for introducing the Medicare Access to Radiology Care Act of 2024. With demand for quality and timely radiology services continuing to rise, MARCA will remove federal barriers to enable radiologists to fully utilize the radiologist assistant as an advanced practice provider specifically trained to assist on diagnostic and therapeutic radiology procedures. This monumental legislation will ensure that all services provided by a radiologist assistant, supervised by a radiologist as part of a radiologist-led team, receive Medicare reimbursement, regardless of the setting in which the radiology service is provided,” said American Registry of Radiologic Technologists CEO Liana Watson, DM, R.T.(R)(M)(S)(BS)(ARRT).

“The American Society of Radiologic Technologists emphatically supports the Medicare Access to Radiology Care Act of 2024. The MARCA bill will ensure that all services provided by a radiologist assistant, supervised by a radiologist as part of a radiologist-led team, receive Medicare reimbursement, regardless of the setting in which the radiology service is provided,” said American Society of Radiologic Technologists CEO and Executive Director Melissa B. Pergola, Ed.D., R.T. (R)(M), FASRT, CAE.

Click here to view bill text.

December 9, 2024

Boozman Honored as Champion of America’s Global Leadership 

U.S. Global Leadership Coalition Celebrates Senator’s Support for Food Aid and International Assistance

WASHINGTON—The U.S. Global Leadership Coalition (USGLC) honored U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) as a champion of America’s global leadership in recognition of his efforts to strengthen U.S. foreign development assistance and humanitarian aid. The organization recognized Boozman’s steadfast support of programs and resources that address global food security and development efforts.

In addition to Boozman, the organization also paid tribute to U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield, Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) and Congressman Gregory Meeks (D-NY-05).

“It is an honor to be recognized alongside such strong advocates for America’s international leadership. During my time in Congress, I have been proud to support foreign assistance programs that not only aid our allies, partners, neighbors and potential new markets, but also serve to bolster U.S. security and economic opportunity. I look forward to continuing to champion our nation’s critical role in saving lives, curing disease and feeding the hungry globally, including by ensuring our farmers have the tools and resources necessary to produce a safe and abundant food supply,” Boozman said.

“At a time of rising threats abroad, leaders like Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, Senator Susan Collins, Senator John Boozman, and Representative Gregory Meeks prove that America’s strength lies in its unity of purpose,” said USGLC President & CEO Liz Schrayer. “They get it: showing up on the world stage with effective diplomacy and global development isn’t just about helping others, it’s about making a difference for America’s kitchen table issues. It’s how we outcompete China, safeguard our security, and grow our economy. I’m enormously proud to see USGLC once again bring together hundreds of bipartisan leaders from across the public and private sectors for this annual celebration of change-makers—because when these champions lead, America wins.”

As the Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, and a co-chair of the Senate Hunger Caucus, Boozman has crafted, shaped and passed policies to combat the global food security crisis. The senator is also a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee and serves on the State and Foreign Operations Subcommittee that oversees funding for U.S. foreign assistance.

In October 2023, Boozman joined USGLC for its inaugural South Summit hosted in Little Rock. The event highlighted how states like Arkansas and others across the American South are impacted by America’s leadership abroad.

The USGLC is a broad-based influential network of over 500 businesses and NGOs; national security and foreign policy experts; and business, faith-based, academic, military, and community leaders in all 50 states who support strategic investments in American foreign assistance and development. USGLC’s Arkansas Advisory Committee brings together more than 50 prominent business, nonprofit, military, faith-based, political and academic leaders – co-chaired by former Senators Tim Hutchinson and Mark Pryor – who understand how American global leadership matters for Arkansas and why investments in development and diplomacy help keep America safe and strengthen Arkansas’s economy.

December 6, 2024

Be Vigilant Against Scams This Holiday Season

It is the season of giving but, unfortunately, it is also open season for criminals who take advantage of kindness and generosity. So, as you plan your shopping and end-of-year gifts, it is important to do your homework, make sure websites are legitimate and think about why an online person or entity might be asking you for money.

Of course, scams are a problem throughout the year and my office regularly uncovers cases where Arkansans are being misled by a crook.

One example we’ve heard many times over the years involves a supposed friend – often called a fiancé – who is stuck outside the country. Their taxi got into a car accident on the way to the airport. They are in the hospital. They missed a flight and can’t afford a new ticket. Their employer cut off their paycheck and now their bank in the U.S. froze their account. They are estranged from their family and don’t know their neighbors, so this alleged “friend” convinces someone they’ve met on social media to send them money.

The problem is, it’s all a lie. This piling-on of impossible coincidences with only one solution is a deceptive tactic criminals often use, which means it is important to be vigilant and use a healthy amount of skepticism when people approach us for money, especially online.

It can be hard to tell what is real and what is fake when bad actors hack into or impersonate a real person’s social media account. This is increasingly common. In fact, fake accounts have been created in my name on several occasions. Fortunately, sharp-eyed constituents have called my office to find out if it was really me, and our team alerted authorities to remove the scam accounts. But it underscored for me and my family how easy it is for criminals to use the names of people and businesses we trust to manipulate unsuspecting victims.

Sadly, older Americans are frequently the target of these ploys. The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) tracks and investigates online crime and reports a few of the most recurring types of fraud involving the elderly include themes around romance, tech support, help for grandchildren and home repair. In 2023 alone, total losses reported to the IC3 by people over 60 topped $3.4 billion.

But it is important to recognize that senior Americans are not the only ones scammers prey on, especially during the holidays. We must all pay attention to warning signs to make sure we are buying from legitimate websites and giving to real charities. The FBI offers tips and resources for buying and donating on the IC3 website (www.ic3.gov), as does the Federal Trade Commission (www.consumer.ftc.gov/scams), to make sure our money goes to real people and not in the pocket of thieves.

If you’ve been the victim of a scam, you can report the crime to these resources and local authorities. In addition, the Arkansas Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division has helpful information about the most common scams circulating in our state and information on how to protect yourself.

Let’s all do our part to safeguard ourselves and our family and friends during the holidays and year-round.

November 27, 2024

Standing with Israel

There is no greater friend to the United States in the Middle East than Israel, our longtime ally and partner. The bond between our countries has frequently been tested, yet it is stronger than ever and must remain so.

In the aftermath of the brutal Oct. 7, 2023, attack on over 2,000 innocent victims in Israel, including some American citizens, our steadfast support for the Jewish State was vital as it vowed to deliver justice while protecting its sovereignty and security – not just from Hamas but against other enemies that might seek to exploit the chaos and vulnerability.

I recently joined dozens of my colleagues to introduce a Senate resolution marking the first anniversary of that vicious assault. We forcefully and fully condemned Hamas’ actions in addition to expressing our support for the eternal survival of Israel and calling for the safe release of American hostages.

We also recognized the importance of standing united in opposing the violent antisemitic protests that sprang up soon after on college campuses and in the streets of U.S. cities, because those fringe views do not represent most Arkansans or Americans who see Israel as a trusted, special friend.

Now, those forces are working once again to undermine and isolate Israel in troubling ways. The International Criminal Court (ICC) is the latest venue.

Anti-Israel sentiments and false equivalencies have been elevated to an alarming level there. The ICC recently issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former defense minister alongside a top Hamas military commander. This outrageous and shameful campaign irresponsibly comparing Israel’s self-defense to a U.S.-designated terrorist group’s barbaric tactics should be a devastating blow to its own credibility.

Sadly, attempts to thwart Israel’s efforts to prevent its own annihilation at the hands of Hamas and other Iran-backed proxies like Hezbollah have also occurred in the U.S. Senate.

Over a dozen Senate Democrats moved to block arms sales, including weapons, ammunition and equipment, to Israel at a time when it is facing an existential threat. Thankfully, the overwhelming majority of my colleagues joined me in voting down these unacceptable and extremist measures. And further efforts in the Senate are underway to stand with Israel, diplomatically and economically.

I was pleased to join Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR) on legislation to combat the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) Movement against it by prohibiting the Biden-Harris administration from reversing current guidelines that require Israeli goods produced in areas where Israel exercises the relevant authorities to be labeled as “Made in Israel.” The United States should have no part in any policies that embolden activists seeking to undermine Israeli enterprises and potentially fuel antisemitism.

The state of Israel is also about to welcome a very vocal proponent next year when the Trump administration installs former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee as our nation’s ambassador to the Holy Land. He deeply understands the importance of our relationship with the Jewish State and will work tirelessly to protect and strengthen it. I look forward to supporting his nomination in the Senate and seeing him move expeditiously to reinforce America’s goodwill toward Israel, including its safety and prosperity.

Our focus must remain on continually confronting and defeating proposals that delegitimize Israel or jeopardize its security. I will always work in a bipartisan way to ensure that is the case and protect our vital partnership.

November 19, 2024

Americans for Prosperity Praises Boozman’s Legislative Record

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) was named a “Pioneer for Prosperity” by Americans for Prosperity-Arkansas for his record championing policy priorities that deliver solutions to the challenges Americans face and advancing conservative principles in the 118th Congress.

Americans for Prosperity (AFP) cited its “Pioneers for Prosperity” honorees standing firm against ill-advised legislation that would have deepened the hardships felt by working families. It also applauded the lawmakers for working closely with AFP in Washington and its grassroots network in their home states.

“It is an honor to represent Arkansans in the United States Senate and take a stand for the commonsense, conservative values we hold dear. I greatly appreciate the work Americans for Prosperity does in Arkansas and across our country advocating for limited government and more empowered individuals, families and businesses. My legislative support of that agenda is a source of great pride that guides the priorities I pursue in Washington,” Boozman said.

“Senator Boozman is a policy champion for Arkansas and we’re thankful for his service to our state. As a liberty-minded, principled leader, Senator Boozman has stood for policies that drive our country forward while opposing legislation that would have hurt hardworking families across our state. Americans for Prosperity-Arkansas is thrilled to award him with one of our ‘Pioneers for Prosperity’ awards and our grassroots team looks forward to working closely with him to advance solutions that improve Americans’ lives,” said Ryan Norris, Americans for Prosperity-Arkansas State Director.

November 15, 2024

Connecting Arkansas to More Opportunity

Earlier this month the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) announced the official designation of U.S. Highway 67 between Little Rock and Walnut Ridge as Interstate 57. It has taken many years of hard work and collaboration to reach this point, and the celebration of such a great achievement reflected just that.

This development is another exciting milestone as we continue to improve and modernize our state’s transportation infrastructure. Enhancements of this caliber are especially encouraging indicators of Arkansas’s progress in increasing the quality and quantity of interstate-grade corridors. This is a high priority for local, regional, state and federal leaders because we know the presence of high-volume infrastructure directly bolsters economic development and ultimately helps raise the standard of living.

In recent years, we’ve taken major strides in the effort to better connect our state with the rest of the country.

In Congress, I am proud to have delivered funding for transportation infrastructure projects through recent annual appropriations bills. Working with our congressional delegation and other colleagues, we have secured critical funding for other important thoroughfares in Arkansas such as I-49 as well as U.S. Highways 412, 82 and 60. The allocations of $67 million for the construction of I-49, $5 million for improvements to Highway 82, $8 million for improvements on the Highway 412 corridor, and $6 million for a portion of the construction of I-57 are helping expedite construction and bringing communities along their paths more investment and opportunity.

These investments, paired with our state’s business-friendly policies and emphasis on workforce training, are key factors in creating a better quality of life for Arkansans.

Redesignating Highway 67 into Interstate 57 is the latest evidence of the vision to ensure our state has abundant regional and national connection is coming to fruition. With it, our corridor communities can tap into exciting regional partnerships and attract industries that bring new jobs or expand operations when they know our transportation network creates more accessibility to major markets. Excellent interstates and highways will continue to not only increase efficiency but also promote state-wide economic growth.

Of course, even with funding, it is no secret that kickstarting and completing infrastructure projects are no easy feats. The effort to designate I-57 stretches all the way back to 1956 – when the construction of U.S. Highway 67 broke ground. From that time onward, persistence and unwavering support have culminated in significant progress we can be very proud of. It was a pleasure to be with so many local leaders and stakeholders whose commitment, insights and advocacy were instrumental.

This truly has been a team effort across all levels of government, with key support from ARDOT and the Federal Highway Administration. The Arkansas Congressional Delegation has leaned on these relationships to advance projects like I-57 through various approvals, applications and every arduous step along the way.

I look forward to the continued modernization and upgrades to our roadways to link The Natural State to even more travel and economic opportunity. With the I-57 designation and ongoing efforts to complete it, our state is closer than ever to the day it directly connects Arkansas farms, factories and travelers to destinations such as Chicago and Dallas.

I-57 is much more than an infrastructure investment. It represents our commitment to developing our state’s transportation capacity and potential for many years to come. I will continue to champion policies and funding for these projects across our state.

November 14, 2024

Boozman Recognized for Support of Emergency Medical Services and Personnel 

Senator Presented with American Ambulance Association 2024 Legislative Award by Arkansas Operator

WASHINGTON – The American Ambulance Association has recognized U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) as a recipient of its 2024 Legislative Recognition Award for his work advocating for emergency medical services. The honor is reserved for Members of Congress who have demonstrated ongoing dedication to ambulance services across the United States.

“Protecting access to emergency services, particularly for our veterans and those living in rural communities, must always be a priority. I am proud to champion policies ensuring this critical resource that delivers lifesaving medical care is available and sustainable. It is an honor to partner with the American Ambulance Association and support Arkansas’s outstanding EMS personnel,” Boozman said.

Jamie Pafford-Gresham, CEO of Hope, Arkansas-based Pafford Medical Services, presented Boozman with the award in his Washington office. The company operates a family-owned ground ambulance service that serves communities across the state, providing 9-1-1 emergency and interfacility transports. Pafford-Gresham is also the President-elect of the American Ambulance Association.

“On behalf of the American Ambulance Association and Pafford Medical Services, I want to extend our deepest gratitude to Senator John Boozman for his support of EMS professionals in Arkansas and beyond. His dedication to ensuring that EMS providers have the resources they need to serve their communities has been invaluable. We are proud to recognize him for his steadfast commitment to our field and his leadership in advocating for the health and safety of Arkansans,” said Pafford-Gresham.

This Congress, Boozman led a bipartisan push to protect rural veterans’ access to quality, lifesaving emergency medical care and transport with the introduction of the VA Emergency Transportation Access Act. The legislation would have prevented the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) from reducing rates of pay and reimbursement for special mode transportation providers, including ground and air ambulances, unless VA meets certain requirements that ensure rate changes will not reduce access for veterans.

This effort, alongside the senator’s work on the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies, prompted the VA to delay its planned rule changes on specialty ambulance reimbursements and allow providers more time to reach an amicable agreement on reimbursement rates.

November 8, 2024

Recognizing Veterans’ Service and Sacrifice

Veterans Day is a special time to remember and honor the sacrifices of the patriotic men and women who have answered the call to serve. We can never fully repay our former servicemen and women who followed the path to protect and defend our country and freedoms, but we can ensure America fulfills the promises we made to support them.

That is not an option, but a responsibility.

My dad was a World War II veteran who served more than 20 years in the U.S. Air Force. I think of him, my uncle and those they served alongside as I work with my Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee colleagues, in a bipartisan way, to do what is best for our veterans and support the needs of their families. With this unifying goal, we strive to improve the policies and programs that can help our veterans and their families thrive.

In recent years, we have seen movement in the right direction.

Congress has successfully expanded health care benefits while eliminating barriers to care and services for women veterans at Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) medical facilities. Additionally, we have modernized the VA’s breast cancer screening policies. Increasing access to its unique capabilities and resources will help deliver lifesaving and preventative care to our women who served. I have been proud to champion these improvements that were long overdue.

Veterans suffering with toxic exposure illnesses sustained during their military services are now benefiting from a landmark proposal that became law in 2022, the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act. The bill, which extended eligibility for more toxic-exposed veterans to qualify for VA healthcare and benefits, has enabled thousands of veterans across our state and many more nationwide to access the healthcare and support they are owed.

Ensuring our veterans receive mental health support has also been a high priority. While there is no single solution to the veteran suicide crisis, I have authored several major reforms that aim to prevent and reduce veteran suicide through data-driven policy decisions. The Improve Well-being for Veterans Act is now empowering veteran-serving nonprofits to provide even more direct support to vulnerable former servicemembers, and the Not Just a Number Act would modernize how the VA can better reach and serve those struggling.

In order for it to be effective, the Department must have the workforce and bandwidth to meet this responsibility. Our veterans deserve the best care from the best medical professionals possible, which is why I’m leading a bipartisan effort to bolster the recruitment and retention of excellent clinicians who can provide the highest quality of care. The VA Clinician Appreciation, Recruitment, Education, Expansion, and Retention Support (CAREERS) Act helps level the playing field for it to compete for the best and brightest doctors to serve those who have worn our nation’s uniform.

As kids, my friends and I were surrounded by men who had served in the armed forces. Whenever they were asked to stand and be recognized, it seemed like the whole room would rise. Today, we know the burden of defending our country is increasingly borne by a limited number of Americans – but these brave men and women, past and present, always deserve our thanks and admiration.

While Veterans Day is celebrated on November 11, as a nation, let us all demonstrate our appreciation for their service and sacrifice each and every day of the year.

November 6, 2024

Boozman Statement on 2024 Election Results

WASHINGTON –– U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) released the following statement on the results of the 2024 election:

“It is clear voters have demanded new leadership in the Senate and a return to the agenda President Trump has fiercely championed. I look forward to helping the president-elect and this incoming Republican Senate majority restore prosperity, border security and public safety. The Senate Agriculture Committee will refocus on strengthening our rural communities and we will provide farmers and ranchers the policies and support they desperately need to remain viable.”

November 1, 2024

Celebrating 30 Years of the Arkansas Children’s Nutrition Center

This year the Arkansas Children’s Nutrition Center (ACNC) is celebrating thirty years of its efforts to expand access to innovative pediatric research and promote healthy development for children here in our state and beyond. We are extremely fortunate to have this world-class research institution in Arkansas and benefit from the exceptional support it has offered over the last three decades.

Before entering public office, I was part of the medical community and personally understood the value of research programs to elevate the quality of treatment available to those seeking care. That is especially important in promoting the healthy development of our youngest patients who come from different backgrounds.

There is a strong partnership between the ACNC and the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Agricultural Research Service, which has allowed it to focus on studying the biology of the childhood brain and how diet can impact its development. However, we know that many Arkansans lack access to partake in innovative research studies because of the rural nature of our state.

By collaborating to offer kids and families from both urban and rural communities the opportunity to participate in these studies, the Center, USDA and Arkansas Children’s have provided a wonderful example of working together to better serve the well-being of all patients.

Investing in research on the healthy development of our nation’s children is critical to the future success of our country. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee and the Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, I remain committed to championing federal support and critical funding for these initiatives.

As a former public school board member and now as the co-chair of the Senate Hunger caucus, I have long made it a priority to support children’s access to nutritious food. In Congress, I have worked in a bipartisan way to modernize the USDA summer meals programs and permanently allow states flexibilities to reach more food-insecure children in need.

ACNC has also made significant progress fighting food insecurity. It is encouraging to hear about the success of expanded summer meal options as well as the ACNC’s efforts to confirm our federal nutrition guidance is rooted in science through Associate Director Dr. Aline Andres’ participation on the 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee.

Better pediatric and maternal nutrition can also help us achieve improved outcomes for families in Arkansas. ACNC’s team of skilled and knowledgeable clinicians are conducting ongoing studies that continue to provide data on the importance of a healthy maternal diet for infants to meet key developmental milestones and achieve future success. As Arkansas works to improve the health and wellness of mothers and infants, research like this ensures we are on the right path.

We are privileged to have this tremendous resource right here in The Natural State. This elite institution is transferring research findings from the lab to make a real difference in communities, helping win the battle against some chronic diseases and exploring new approaches to overcome others.

We must continue to support ACNC’s efforts to champion human nutrition research and accessibility in delivering sound guidance and care. Its efforts and consistent successes are a blessing that we cannot and do not take for granted.

October 31, 2024

Boozman Convenes 2024-2025 Arkansas Congressional Youth Cabinet

Annual Initiative Aims to Foster Civic Engagement

 Senator Boozman and Congressional Youth Cabinet participants in Little Rock.

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. –– U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) launched the eighth year of his Congressional Youth Cabinet on Tuesday at the Old Statehouse Museum in Little Rock. The meeting brought together 114 high school juniors who were selected from public, private, charter and homeschool students across the state for their involvement and leadership in their communities.

“The Congressional Youth Cabinet benefits Arkansas students and families as well as their communities by promoting a healthy public policy dialogue and developing the next generation of leaders in our state. I am pleased to welcome this group of bright young people to contribute their ideas and experiences as we explore legislative solutions to the issues that interest them most,” Boozman said. “Their enthusiasm for enhancing their own understanding of civic engagement and helping shape the future of our state and country is inspiring.”

The Congressional Youth Cabinet is a non-partisan program that gives students insight and experience with the legislative process. The students will attend meetings throughout the year and work in teams to select and research national issues. In the spring, the students will present their policy recommendations to the senator.

Click here for more photos from the CYC kick-off.

The following students were selected to participate in the Congressional Youth Cabinet for the 2024-2025 school year:

1st Congressional District

Jack Coleman – Mountain Home Mark Gregory Green – Harrison Lindsay Dunsing – Alpena Luke Wilkins – Batesville Penelope Jackson – Melbourne Natalie Rodriguez – Cabot Ella Curry – Alpena Suraya Tennison – Alpena Sara Hinson – Bergman Kayla Thorndike – Cabot Adam Stanisor – Cabot Bryce Veasman – Cabot Kaitlyn Carmical – Cabot Jeremy Jason – Lake City Andrew Boots – Jonesboro Spencer May – Jonesboro Sam Vaught – Wynne

Christian Boykin – Earle Ajiah Parker – Earle Aryanna Perry – Earle Jada Maples – Earle Lucas White – Manila Kera Fesperman – Marion Penelope Marie Salas – Marion Gabrielle Weathers – Lepanto Harlynn Robertson – Jonesboro Deven Isbell – Jonesboro William Crader – Jonesboro Bentley McCoy – Clarendon Sam Sabbatini – Hazen Hailey Nichols – Wynne Derek Lately Jr. – Earle Zavion Maples – Earle Kialynn Mitchell – Earle

2nd Congressional District

Claira Tittle – Searcy Landon Hillman – Jacksonville Eva Harrell – Maumelle Yusuf Taha Guven – Little Rock Jayden Branch – Jacksonville Garrett Fisher – Greenbrier Fatimah Jabbar – North Little Rock Zachary Tancinco – Searcy Canadee Mosley – Conway Jil Patel – Jacksonville

Luis Denilso Calderon – Little Rock Katharine Wekly – Conway Savannah Shelley – Little Rock Gregory Lin – Searcy Grabiela Valadez-Rizo – Little Rock Lisandro Isai Salas – Little Rock Ashlynn Pecanty – Maumelle Damian Morales – Little Rock David Salinas – Bryant Ethan Bolton – Jacksonville Sophie Swiney – Bradford

3rd Congressional District

Schuyler Henehan – Fort Smith Robinson Skaggs – Bentonville Cole Kessman – Fayetteville Kyndall Richey – Bentonville Manvitha Narasimhan – Bentonville Evalyn Clark – Bentonville Lily Cate Caldwell – Bentonville Matthew Velasquez-Amaya – Fort Smith Preston Thai – Bentonville Khant Sin – Fayetteville Evangelina Hernandez – Fort Smith Grayson Proctor – Lavaca Adrian Gonzalez – Lavaca Sydney Turner – Fayetteville Lydia Parsley – Springdale Terri Michelle Turner – Fort Smith Alee Thongprachanh – Fort Smith Colt Hood – Greenland

Caroline Sanders – Bentonville Sullivan Shepard – Rogers Oakley Allen – Fort Smith Weston Arnett – Greenwood Jadyn Patterson – Bentonville Saqib Memon – Fayetteville Sarah Amor – Fort Smith Clara Hibbard – Mountainburg Drake Norris – Fort Smith Madelyn Maxey – Fort Smith Aubree Stewart – Springdale Aneeka Srivastava – Bentonville Nidhi Nair – Bentonville Grace Dickinson – Tontitown Tatum Grace Loe – Fort Smith Nathan Barney – Bentonville Jude Alfaouri – Fayetteville Claire Hassler – Fort Smith Hannah Elliott – Greenwood

4th Congressional District

Dana Liu – Russellville Ian Warnick – Russellville Peyton Gustave Blasé – Ozark David Culver – Ozark Sydnie Herriage – Ozark Elizabeth Harrison – Russellville Mallory Cloud – Russellville Audrey Rogers – Russellville Tristan Marrufo – DeQueen Kyle Williamson – DeQueen Miley Byler – DeQueen

Isabel Rivas – Russellville Hannah Grace Skinner – Texarkana Christian Hunter – Arkadelphia Yasmine Sakr – Hot Springs Mary Lopez-Furlong – Hot Springs Tucker Arnold – Hot Springs Heather Atchley – Sheridan Madilynn Stuffle – Hot Springs Alexandria Evans – White Hall Blake Levi Jimerson – Sheridan Carson Brody Lyons – Sheridan

October 28, 2024

Mister Rogers once encouraged his young viewers, during difficult times, to look for the “helpers” – because seeing others step forward to offer aid as well as hope was certain to lift their own spirits.

That’s advice we can all take to heart. It is a useful exercise to help us see past the daily barrage of negative stories and drown out the loudest voices that amplify them.

The good news is that “good news” isn’t extinct. In fact, it’s far more commonplace than we have grown to expect in modern times.

Here in The Natural State, which has maintained its small town feel even as the world gets increasingly disconnected, we don’t have to look far to find examples of neighbors – or even strangers – helping one another in times of need. Acts of kindness and humanity unfold daily.

Many times we even export them to support others around our country or across the globe.

Recent natural disasters have given rise to examples of Arkansans volunteering their time and expertise on behalf of those experiencing hardships. Hurricanes Milton and Helene, which unleashed extreme damage on states across the South, prompted dozens of our families, friends and neighbors to leap into action and find ways to assist the recovery efforts.

Our linemen descended on Florida to help restore power, with two Arkansans even saving a man nearly swept away in floodwaters. Arkansas Southern Baptists mobilized to provide disaster relief aid in Georgia. Mercy Hospital nurses from Northwest Arkansas volunteered to help provide medical care in North Carolina. Firefighters from around the state joined Arkansas National Guardsmen to help perform search and rescue missions while other Natural State Guardsmen prepared a large shipment of “Meals, Ready to Eat” (MREs) for victims.

The Red Cross of Arkansas also sent dozens of members to help displaced survivors find shelter in addition to working around the clock to serve hot meals, deliver clean-up supplies and offer emotional support.

We’ve also lived through severe weather at home bringing out the best in Arkansans.

When heavy rains recently made roads impassable and stranded a couple at their home in Flippin, a local first responder took to horseback to deliver their vital medication. In the wake of devastating tornadoes earlier this year, countless individuals and organizations took action to help their neighbors clear debris and start to rebuild their lives, homes and businesses.

All year long, there is never a shortage of selflessness and heroism among members of law enforcement and the communities they serve. In the last few months, police officers in Hoxie, Conway and Lawrence County, as well as an Arkansas State Trooper, have all been recognized for life-saving actions they took while on duty.

Another consistent source of exciting and welcome stories comes from our students. This summer, two Bryant High School juniors took home the top national honors at the 2024 SkillsUSA competition in the audio and radio production category, while Russellville High School’s Quiz Bowl team brought home a national championship.

Generosity and empathy are staples in Arkansas. Perhaps the best recent example was seen when a 40-year veteran of Baptist Health’s team retired. She’d struggled to secure reliable transportation, so her coworkers raised money to purchase her a car, which she received on her last day.

There really is no place like this state and, in large part, that is thanks to our people. We are the helpers and should always watch for that to play out every day, through big and small gestures, and take the opportunity to appreciate it.

October 21, 2024

Cybersecurity Must Be a Constant Priority

The digital age has benefits and disadvantages that we are perpetually balancing, but one clear downside is the opportunity for bad actors to access, steal and even hold hostage individual and collective data. This a lesson we continue to learn and why our practices should always adapt to better protect sensitive information or critical networks and systems.

October is designated as Cybersecurity Awareness Month to promote the importance of taking action to safeguard against these threats.

Right here in Arkansas, we have seen the impact cyberattacks can have in the public and private sectors. Unfortunately, hackers and scammers have exploited certain vulnerabilities with great effect.

A recent presentation to the Arkansas Joint Legislative Auditing Committee revealed that, over the last two years, there have been more than 250 cases of cyberattacks against state and local governments across our state. That includes a data breach of a major third-party software provider that exposed files on students and retirees as well as ransomware strikes against higher learning institutions, state and local agencies as well as a local school district.

These incidents can pose serious challenges not just for individuals whose sensitive, identifying information is compromised. They also have the potential to jeopardize the delivery of essential services unless the criminals behind this digital sabotage have their demands met.

Not only does that fallout sow uncertainty – it can also be costly and demoralizing.

The good news is that in addition to taking simple steps like using strong passwords, regularly backing up data and constantly being vigilant against impersonators seeking to steal information or infiltrate networks, the level of alertness to defend against cyber threats in The Natural State is rising.

That was evident most recently in the Cybersecurity Summit convened by Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin this month. The event brought experts, stakeholders and policymakers together to discuss the current landscape and highlight efforts to enhance preparedness against risks posed by foreign adversaries and domestic criminals.

One key takeaway was to take cyber defense seriously, because failing to do so could have major implications personally, disrupt broader economic activity and even threaten national security. As Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency Director Jen Easterly warned, anything connected to the internet is capable of being compromised.

Attacks targeting pipelines, food suppliers and water treatment facilities have demonstrated the crucial need to invest in capabilities and resources to improve our ability to prevent them.

I have been proud to support the growing push to develop the tools and workforce aimed at countering cyber crime. Higher education curriculums at UA Little Rock, the University of Central Arkansas, UA Pine Bluff and through the University of Arkansas System Criminal Justice Institute (CJI) are all expanding cyber instruction and helping train more professionals to fortify critical infrastructure, protect networks and systems, and better prepare individuals to avoid falling prey to this evolving phenomenon.

Last fiscal year, I secured federal funding for the Forge Institute – an initiative based in Arkansas – to seed a pre-accelerator program that will foster innovation and entrepreneurship to develop business models and products geared toward cyber resilience. I also continue supporting investment in the National Cybersecurity Preparedness Consortium, which partners with CJI to deliver research-based cybersecurity training to local jurisdictions, counties and the private sector across Arkansas and the nation.

These efforts and others all indicate how serious this issue is, as well as the commitment in Arkansas to defend against it. I will continue working with partners in government, education and private industry to ensure we are protected now and into the future.

October 11, 2024

Improved Travel Preparation Tools a Welcome Development

With the holiday season approaching, it is nice to have some good news to report for international travelers. Whether you’re planning to see family overseas or take a holiday cruise, Arkansans should find many of the processes easier to navigate than in recent years.

Most notable will be the length of time waiting to receive a passport, thanks to the tremendous work by the U.S. State Department to bring processing times back to pre-pandemic levels. The Bureau of Consular Affairs says applicants should now expect four to six weeks for routine service and two to three weeks for expedited processing.

You may have heard about or even personally experienced the extensive backlog in passport applications that wreaked havoc with travel plans for many Americans in 2023. My office alone helped more than 600 Arkansans with passports that year. However, thanks to the diligent efforts of officials across the country, this critical system is back to normal. If you need to apply for the first time or are beyond your renewal date, visit Travel.State.Gov/passport for the latest forms and fees.

Another recent improvement will be evident for Americans who need to renew a passport. The new Online Passport Renewal (OPR) system is a secure, online process that saves time and effort. This innovation helps applicants avoid having to send a paper application, photos or a check by mail. Instead, all this information and payment can be submitted online at Travel.State.Gov/renewonline. In today’s world where convenience and accessibility are key elements that inform our decision-making, this option should satisfy many of those planning a visit abroad in the years ahead.

As we get closer to Thanksgiving and Christmas, my office fields increased calls from Arkansans who forgot to check the expiration date of their passport or who can’t find it at the last minute. So, the most important advice from the State Department is to find and check your passport well before your trip to avoid extra fees and extra stress.

Despite the best planning, there are still situations where an in-person passport appointment is necessary for urgent travel. We do have a processing center in Arkansas that can help. However, it only handles emergency applications and does not take walk-in visitors.

Fortunately, if you need to travel within 14 days, it is now much easier to request an appointment online. Your appointment must be scheduled within 14 calendar days of your international travel date. If you have already applied and are concerned your passport will not arrive in time, call 1-877-487-2778 for help.

And if you find yourself in a difficult situation with an emergency passport request or any other problem with the federal government, please don’t hesitate to reach out to my office. We are always pleased to help.

With these tools available, I hope Arkansans headed abroad will be better prepared to reach their destinations with less stress, which is worth appreciating alongside the journey itself.

October 11, 2024

Boozman Shares Memories of Northwest Arkansas Veteran for Hispanic Heritage Month 

Click here to watch excerpts of the interview with Maddie Willyard

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) recognized the service and sacrifice of Maddie Willyard in ‘Salute to Veterans,’ a series highlighting the military service of Arkansans.

Willyard was born in Puerto Rico and moved to Chicago when she was 7 years old. In high school, her family moved to a northern suburb because of safety concerns.

While Willyard’s family has a history of military service, her path to wearing our nation’s uniform started as a result of trying to avoid an angry teacher who was upset she did not complete her homework.

“This voice came over the intercom – juniors and seniors are excused from classes to take the ASVAB. I didn’t know what the ASVAB was. I just knew it was like manna from heaven and off I went,” she said.

She quickly learned the exam was the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery, an indicator of future success in the miliary.

“I did very well. Got lots of calls and visited with recruiters. At that point I had thought of my future. We talked about community college. I wanted to be a journalist. I also wanted to be a teacher and I ended up joining the Air Force,” Willyard said. “I was 16 and shallow still and didn’t think green looked very good on me,” she laughed.

Willyard said her mom was supportive, but her stepdad was horrified because he didn’t think military service was something young women should pursue.

After graduating high school in May, Willyard started service in the Air Force in November and attended basic training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio.

Her uncles who served in uniform advised her to stay under the radar. This included getting a bunk furthest away from the training instructor’s office. She followed the advice, but wasn’t there for long after she confronted another airman who was making the unit late to morning formation because she was curling her hair.

“We were so involved in our conversation that we didn’t even notice our training instructor was there until he yelled,” Willyard said. “He looked at me and he goes ‘You want to be in charge? You want my job?’ And I said ‘Sir, no sir.’”

The instructor made her squad leader and she was moved to the bed closest to his office.

Following basic training, Willyard was assigned to medical administration and continued her education at Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas. She found the classes interesting and appreciated the freedom and community feel of the base.

“It was the best time of my life.”

She calls the people she was training with family, so much so that when she received her first-choice duty station at a base in California, she was devastated to see a friend’s disappointment about her assignment to England Air Force Base, Louisiana.

“That girl cried for two days and it broke my heart,” Willyard said. Her empathy and compassion led her to trade assignment locations with her friend.

In Louisiana, Willyard worked in medical records where she helped organize and sort patient files.

“I also learned valuable lessons about customer service. You picked up the phone and you picked it up on the first ring. And you didn’t know if you were going to be talking to another airman like yourself or if you were going to be talking to a full bird colonel,” she said.

She surrounded herself with mentors who aimed to see her do well and taught her skills that she still uses today.

Her time in uniform is something that has been valuable to her life and work. She says it opened doors for her and she encourages those interested in military service to be ready for hard and rewarding work.

“I tell them be prepared to sacrifice because it’s not about you. It’s about the mission and you’re choosing an occupation with so much honor and history. This country wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for soldiers, so you need to respect that. It’s not just a job, it’s a lifestyle. It’s not something you should go into lightly,” she said. “And enjoy it.”

Today, Willyard lives in Northwest Arkansas and has found a calling to give back to her fellow veterans. She served in the Washington County Veteran Service Office before joining Boozman’s staff where she supports the needs of active-duty military, veterans and their families.

“I’m grateful for Maddie Willyard’s service to our country in uniform and her continued support of her fellow veterans. We can be proud of her advocacy of the military and the important role it has had in her life. I’m pleased to preserve her memories of service,” Boozman said.

Boozman submitted Willyard’s entire interview to the Veterans History Project, an initiative of the Library of Congress’s American Folklife Center to collect and retain the oral histories of our nation’s veterans.

October 4, 2024

Inspiring Future Generations of Outdoor Enthusiasts

As a kid, I always wanted to be outside. I especially enjoyed fishing and riding my bike around Fort Smith with my friends. These experiences of my youth have always been a fond memory. They ingrained in me an appreciation of the outdoors, something I hope to inspire young Americans to develop a lifelong interest in supporting.

In 2015, the U.S. Department of Interior launched a program connecting kids with national parks and other public lands by offering fourth graders and their families free entrance to these locations. The success of the program led Congress to ensure upcoming fourth graders have the same opportunities by making it law. It has encouraged young people to explore our landscapes and created future outdoor enthusiasts.

I’ve partnered with my colleague Senator Martin Henrich (D-NM) to continue this initiative with the introduction of the Every Kid Outdoors Extension Act.

Introducing young Americans to our national parks encourages an appreciation for the lands and resources that help define our country. I’m proud to support this legislation that allows the next generation to discover our national treasures and explore the outdoors.

The Every Kid Outdoors program has successfully encouraged tens of thousands of children and their families to explore America’s public lands, waters, historic sites and national parks – more than 2,000 sites in all.

More than 18,000 vouchers have been provided to Arkansas fourth graders, caregivers, educators and agency staff since 2021. Enthusiasm for this park pass is growing. This is great news because nurturing this connection leads to continued engagement and exploration of public lands, inspires environmental stewardship and increases participation in outdoor activities.

In our state, outdoor recreation impacts 43,000 jobs and generates more than $4 billion in consumer spending. Elevating this industry enhances opportunities and preserves our environment.

I recently met with Arkansans representing a number of outdoor recreation activities in The Natural State including hiking, rock climbing and mountain biking. These members of the Outdoor Alliance, a national coalition of organizations representing the outdoor recreation community, advocated for policies to strengthen access to public lands across the country.

We’ve been blessed to see the results of public and private investment in growing an interest in biking. Across the state, trails have gained popularity among locals as well as in the eyes of national biking enthusiasts.

The Adventure Cycling Association designated its first U.S. Bicycle Route System trail in Arkansas earlier this year. USBR 51 starts at the Missouri state line and travels 88 miles to Alma, Arkansas. More than one-third of the trail follows the Razorback Greenway. This follows Arkansas Monument Trails being recognized as the best mountain biking trails in the country.

Rugged rock formations in our state also attract rock climbers of all skill levels. Arkansas has more than 400 rock climbing sites. I’m proud to support this sport at home and nationwide by championing policies that provide the climbing community access to public lands. That’s why I recently joined a bipartisan letter urging the U.S. Forest Service and the National Park Service to reconsider policy changes that limit the use of fixed anchors for climbing in federally-designated wilderness areas.

The Natural State provides numerous opportunities for locals and visitors to enjoy the great outdoors. Arkansans appreciate the beauty of our environment and want to explore these treasures in our backyard. I will continue working with many of my colleagues to make that even easier.

September 27, 2024

Bringing the Man in Black to Washington

Arkansas has made a monumental impact on the nation’s capital this year outside of the usual policy debates among the legislative and executive branches or landmark Supreme Court cases. Instead, the addition of two new submissions to the National Statuary Hall Collection both placed our little corner of the world into national and international headlines.

Back in the spring, we celebrated our state’s first new statue in the collection in over a hundred years when a rendering of Daisy Bates replaced one of Arkansas’s previous contributions. This month we had the distinct honor to welcome another great Arkansan to the ranks with the unveiling of Johnny Cash, cast in bronze and gazing down to engage with the thousands and thousands of observers who will encounter his likeness in the U.S. Capitol annually.

We’re so proud and excited that now visitors to the halls of Congress will learn of Cash’s origins and identify his life and music – which helped define a generation – as a product of Arkansas.

He was known as “J.R.” by his family, “Airman John R. Cash” to the U.S. military and “Johnny” or “The Man in Black” for legions of devoted fans around the world. He gained further notoriety as a member of Sun Records’ so-called Million Dollar Quartet and as part of the famed Highwaymen, appealing to a massive audience beyond just country music.

Throughout his legendary career that took him from town to town and literally around the globe, Johnny Cash always carried Arkansas with him. In fact, he once planted cotton in the front yard of his California home to remind him of life on the farm back in Mississippi County.

Cash was also especially fond of another Arkansan, Sister Rosetta Tharpe, whose musical style of gospel-infused blues and rock captivated him more than most other artists he would ever encounter.

A devout believer himself, Johnny Cash spent a lifetime yearning to live up to the faith that had been instilled in him by his family from such a young age. He grew up singing the old Baptist hymns at his mother’s feet, describing them as “his favorite form of prayer – his church of choice.” That spiritual journey led him to visit Israel on multiple occasions, write a book about the apostle Paul, and even strike up an unlikely friendship with Billy Graham – whose statue is also part of the collection that Cash now joins.

It’s been said that Johnny Cash – though he came from a little town in Arkansas – knew how to talk to all of America and that his catalogue, in essence, tells the story of our country. So in many ways, hosting his sculpture within one of our nation’s most iconic symbols was long overdue.

It befits someone of Cash’s stature and influence as a deeply sincere and compassionate storyteller whose impact extended far beyond a musical genre or as a cultural touchstone.

Armed with his guitar and the Scriptures, the statue – sculpted by a fellow Arkansan and fixed on a pedestal of Arkansas stone – is true to Cash’s spirit and roots. And we are so gratified it is now on full display.

As his daughter Rosanne so eloquently reflected, there is something beautifully symmetrical about two true humanitarians, Johnny Cash and Daisy Bates, representing our state in this prestigious collection. It will serve as a wonderful testament to the spirit of the Great State of Arkansas for years to come.

September 23, 2024

Boozman, Heinrich Introduce Every Kid Outdoors Extension Act
Provides Fourth Graders and Their Families Free National Park Access

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Martin Heinrich (D-NM) introduced the Every Kid Outdoors Extension Act to provide free access to national parks and other public lands to all American fourth graders and their families through 2031.

“Introducing young Americans to our national parks inspires an appreciation for the lands and resources that help define our country. I’m proud to support this legislation that allows the next generation to discover our national treasures and explore the outdoors,” said Boozman.

“As a father and a former outdoor educator, I know firsthand how much of a difference getting outside can make for our kids,” said Heinrich, a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. “I’m so proud of the doors we have opened to our public lands for fourth graders and their families since we passed my Every Kid Outdoors Act into law five years ago. Now, we can double down on this successful program, turning our national parks and other public lands into outdoor classrooms with endless opportunities for children to learn and families to make new memories.”

Starting in 2015, the U.S. Department of the Interior has offered fourth graders and their families free entrance to all federally managed public lands. The authorization is scheduled to expire in 2026.

Full text of the Every Kid Outdoors Extension Act can be found here.

The Every Kid Outdoors program has successfully encouraged tens of thousands of children and their families to explore America’s public lands, waters, historic sites and national parks – more than 2,000 sites in all.

The Every Kid Outdoors Extension Act has widespread support with endorsements from The Wilderness Society, Sierra Club and Outdoor Alliance for Kids.

“Over the past nine years, hundreds of thousands of children have been able to enjoy our public lands with the support of the Every Kid Outdoors program. This program has helped to introduce and facilitate outdoors adventures and experiences to these children and their families during a critical formative period in their lives. The Outdoors Alliance for Kids is eager to see this program continue to benefit families and communities for generations to come,” said Julia Hurwit, Campaign Manager for Outdoors Alliance for Kids.

September 20, 2024

Congress Must Help Farmers

Arkansas agriculture producers recently traveled to Washington, D.C. to urge Congress to pass a strong farmer-focused farm bill before the end of this year. I was grateful to meet with the men and women who feed and clothe the world, especially during such a busy time as harvesting season. Their visits clearly articulated the anxiety gripping farmers across country at this crucial moment.

For the past few months, voices from across the industry—farmers, their advocacy organizations and the agricultural banking sector—have all warned of an impending crisis in rural America as a result of consecutive years of losses. The financial stress borne, particularly, by our row crop farmers is now evident.

In order to support these operations Congress must respond, or there will be fewer farmers next year.

Producers are struggling to make ends meet in an environment where costs for farm inputs have ballooned from inflation, interest rates have doubled and market prices are far below the cost of production. The outdated farm safety net they are operating under is doing nothing to address these realities.

Congress must provide emergency assistance to address the economic losses that farmers are facing associated with the 2024 crop.

While many farmers are realizing record yields, they are still not breaking even. This is not a crisis they can produce, insure or conserve their way out of.

We’ve seen previous ad-hoc assistance programs established in a period of weeks, as demonstrated by then Secretary Perdue when the COVID-19 pandemic created disruptions for producers. That level of timely and urgent response by Congress and the administration is once again warranted.

In southern states like Arkansas, Mississippi and Texas, many producers have harvested their 2024 crop and are losing hundreds of dollars per acre of ground they farm. Losses of this magnitude mean producers are not able to pay their bills, secure an operating loan for next year’s crop and have income to survive on.

This has devastating ripple effects on rural businesses and communities.

Let me be clear, emergency assistance does not reduce the need to make meaningful investments to the commodity and crop insurance titles of the next farm bill.

Congress must redouble its efforts to pass a farm bill, before the end of 2024, that meets this moment and delivers the support our farmers desperately need to stay in business.

I know my colleagues want to make sure our farmers can continue to produce the safest, most affordable and most abundant supply of food, fuel and fiber in the world.

Republican members of the Senate Agriculture Committee have been sounding the alarm on this brewing crisis for months. It is the very reason we have been adamant about the need for more farm in the farm bill.

I’m proud to be a voice for Arkansas farmers and ranchers. Their calls for help have been heard and I’m committed to working with my colleagues to pass an emergency relief package that helps them survive this immediate crisis and a farm bill that provides a real safety net for years to come.

September 13, 2024

Collaborating to Improve Health Outcomes for Expecting Moms and Newborns 

The March of Dimes released a report in early September detailing maternity care access nationwide and found 35 percent of counties are maternity care deserts. This means there is limited or no access to services such as birthing hospitals and obstetric providers. According to the data, Arkansas is one of the states with the highest percentage of maternity care deserts with more than half of our counties lacking access to these critical resources. Maternal health care is truly a crisis in our state and across the country.

The good news is we can change this troubling statistic. Among medical providers, non-profit organizations and elected leaders, there is a shared urgency to elevate maternal care in Arkansas.

In recent days, the Strategic Committee for Maternal Health, established by Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders to craft a statewide plan aimed at improving outcomes for mothers and babies, released its report recommending policies and program enhancements. These include improving access to care through telehealth and mobile units, establishing a school of midwifery and expanding prenatal services in local health units.

I am grateful for the governor’s leadership to improve outcomes for vulnerable moms and babies.

We have built momentum this year to make positive changes, starting with bringing experts together to discuss opportunities to better serve the prenatal and postpartum needs in our state.

In February, I hosted the first in a series of maternal health roundtables. It featured meaningful discussions about the state of maternal health from a clinical perspective with medical professionals. In order to address outstanding health care disparities and work toward tangible solutions in the state, we must continue having these productive conversations.

That’s why we followed that up with a roundtable in Bentonville in August with a panel of experts discussing ongoing initiatives and potential solutions for improving maternal health outcomes by bolstering the workforce caring for these patients.

This dialogue is essential to moving us in the right direction. In Northwest Arkansas we discussed creating a pathway for doula and community health worker reimbursement in Medicaid. The Strategic Committee for Maternal Health recommended that very course of action, which is a welcome development.

The committee also proposed applying for the Transforming Maternal Health federal grant. I’m pleased to lead the Arkansas Congressional Delegation in supporting this request in writing to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Administrator so expecting moms can benefit from better care and newborns have a healthy start in life.

I’m also championing federal investments to address maternal and infant health workforce shortages and enhance access to prenatal services in underserved areas of our state.

A comprehensive approach consisting of public-private partnerships that collaborate and contribute different areas of experience and expertise in pursuit of improving maternal health is underway.

There is a broad spectrum of medical providers in the maternal health space. Emphasizing the strengths of each and fostering coordination throughout the different stages of pregnancy and postpartum care is essential to improving the health and wellness of Natural State mothers and infants.

We have a long way to go, but we are on the right path. I look forward to continue working with my colleagues at the state and federal levels to support policies that can help save lives in Arkansas.

September 11, 2024

Boozman Shares Memories of Arkansas Veteran on Alert on 9/11

WASHINGTON– U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) recognized the service and sacrifice of Kenneth Griffin in ‘Salute to Veterans,’ a series highlighting the military service of Arkansans.

Griffin’s father served in the Air Force and the family moved around the world to support the mission.

“He would take me out to the airplanes when we were in California and Gaum, sit me in the cockpit and he’d say, ‘son you want to be an Air Force pilot’ so that was ingrained in my head from being a little kid,” Griffin said.

When his dad retired, the family moved to Batesville.

After graduating from Batesville High School he enlisted in the Air Force.

“It was exactly what I expected it to be,” he said about basic training. “They break you down to be the person that they want you to be.”

While on temporary duty assignment in Germany he was tasked with supporting a two-star general recovering in the hospital who introduced him to the mission of aeromedical evacuation and how, using his skills as a medical technician on a “flying ambulance,” he could meet the pilots. After the assignment ended, he received orders to aeromedical evacuation training at Scott Air Force Base.

The general is one of several ‘angels’ who put Griffin on the path to becoming a pilot and gave him the confidence to be successful in the cockpit.

When Griffin’s original service commitment was nearly complete, he didn’t know what he wanted to do next. Through another ‘angel’ he met; Griffin accepted an ROTC scholarship to Southern Illinois University. Once he graduated he began pilot training.

“Back then they called enlisted guys who wanted to be pilots, ‘wannabe’s’. At some point I got to tell the guys that I was a ‘gonnabe’ and I ended up being able to do it through their help steering me the right way.”

One hurdle he experienced in achieving that goal was his vision. Griffin didn’t qualify medically because he didn’t have 20/20 vision. He needed a waiver, but those were rarely given.

Griffin went to an independent eye doctor who signaled that his vision was correctable to 20/20 allowing him to ultimately be granted the waiver. He credits that doctor as another ‘angel’ who helped him along the path to becoming a pilot.

He was not initially interested in flying fighter jets, but was selected to attend the Euro-NATO Joint Jet Pilot Training Program at Sheppard Air Force Base. He trained with pilots and instructors from among European allies. At the end of this year-long training, he was assigned to fly an F-15c, the air-to-air version of the F-15 and flew under the call sign “Heater.”

In the early years of his pilot career, he was stationed with fighter groups in several different locations, but always wanted to get back to Arkansas.

When a position opened up at the 188^th in Fort Smith, he gladly accepted. It required him to transition to the F-16. Griffin said it was an easy switch but also an opportunity to learn new skills. “You have fighter experience, you just have to learn the specifics of that aircraft and any mission you didn’t do like dropping bombs, I had never dropped a bomb before,” he said.

Although he had already been deployed multiple times and faced stressful situations as a pilot, Griffin remembered 9/11 as the day everything changed. He was on duty at the 188^th that morning where he and Wing Commander JR Dallas were planning to practice fighter maneuvers. They were watching television as they prepared for the flight and saw the planes hit the World Trade Center towers.

“I immediately turned to him and said ‘Sir, we’re under attack.’”

Once it became clear what was happening, Griffin said Col. Dallas and everyone on duty set to work figuring out what to do. “Before the sun went down, we had missiles and bullets loaded on our aircraft,” he said. “By that evening we were set and alert in the cockpit.”

As one of four pilots on alert that night, he had to prepare for all situations including the possibility that he would be ordered to shoot down an airliner full of Americans. They all had to sign paperwork agreeing to comply with that order if necessary. “That was tough,” he said. “Did I answer it honestly? I don’t know.”

Later that night he and another pilot were launched on a scramble order after a report of an unidentified aircraft in Oklahoma potentially poisoning the water supply.

“We got launched to get to Tulsa as fast as you can,” Griffin said. “We take off and we’re going above the mach. We’re breaking the sound barrier and the air traffic controller comes on and says you guys can go as fast as you want as high as you want wherever you want because you’re the only aircraft airborne in the United States.”

Fortunately, he didn’t have to take action on a plane that he later learned was a crop duster whose pilot hadn’t heard about the attacks.

For the next several days Griffin remained on alert and had to stay on the base. “We got launched a few times for different stuff,” he recalled. “You just had to be ready for anything.”

In the conflict that followed, the 188^th deployed to Iraq in 2002 and again in 2005 to Balad Air Base.

During his 30 years in uniform, Griffin completed eight combat tours and was an expert in flying the F-15c, F-15, F-16 and the A-10.

After retiring, Griffin became active in politics and served in Governor Asa Hutchinson’s administration as military advisor.

“Pick something that you’re proud about doing and you hope somebody asks you so you can tell them what you do. I got to do that. Everyday. I was very proud. I’m a very patriotic person. Devoted love for my country. I got to do that and there is no bigger honor,” he said. “Very, very rewarding. And I loved it every single day I did it.”

Griffin was inducted into the Arkansas Military Veterans’ Hall of Fame in 2023.

“Kenneth Griffin is a pillar of the Arkansas military and veterans community who has lived out his love for our country and state. I’m pleased his memories of service will now be preserved for future generations of to learn and gain inspiration from,” Boozman said.

Boozman submitted Griffin’s entire interview to the Veterans History Project, an initiative of the Library of Congress’s American Folklife Center to collect and retain the oral histories of our nation’s veterans.

Do you know a veteran interested in sharing their memories for the ‘Salute to Veterans’ series? Nominate an Arkansas veteran to share their story by calling Boozman’s Fort Smith office at 479-573-0189.

September 6, 2024

Growing Natural State Exports

Global trade is the lifeblood of economic health and expansion, helping ensure commodities and products do not sit idle or worse, perish, due to a lack of demand in our own backyards.

Our country is once again being reminded of the importance of this truth, and in no place is it more apparent than with agriculture. In fact, the first U.S. Department of Agriculture U.S. ag trade forecast for fiscal year (FY) 2025 expects another record deficit, increasing from negative $30.5 billion in FY 2024 to a new record of negative $42.5 billion.

Failing to maintain our competitive advantage in the global marketplace is detrimental for farmers, ranchers, foresters, manufacturers and other industries that depend on access to new markets. At the federal level, there has been too little focus on this critical mission for the past several years.

Fortunately, the same is not true in Arkansas as work continues on the ground to grow our state’s footprint in this vital area.

We know international trade is highly competitive, which is why it’s so important to prioritize building and expanding our access to customers around the world through innovative strategies and constant attentiveness.

We’re blessed to have so many talented and experienced partners across the state that dedicate tremendous resources to exactly that, including the team at World Trade Center Arkansas. For nearly twenty years, its intensive efforts to help Natural State companies identify opportunities and leverage strengths and advantages have demonstrated what a positive return on investment its work is to foster economic growth for Arkansas, extending our businesses’ reach to literally the rest of the world.

It is particularly adept at helping our industries pursue bilateral trade opportunities, including with our neighbors to the north and south – Canada and Mexico – that also happen to be our state’s top trading partners, accounting for around a third of our total exports yearly and supporting tens of thousands of jobs.

There’s no disputing the impact trade between our state and other nations has on the strength of our economy. Seventy-five percent of the world’s purchasing power is beyond America’s borders.

Whether it’s aircraft parts, apparel, agricultural commodities, purchased steel products or any number of other goods – our state benefits when businesses of all scope and size can market and sell them across borders.

That’s good for enterprise, it’s good for workers whose wages rise with expanded access to the global marketplace, and it helps elevate the quality of life in our state overall.

I believe the path to a more prosperous and successful Arkansas is through tapping additional markets for our agriculture operations, manufacturers, and small and medium-size businesses. I’m proud to support initiatives that are championing that vision and making significant progress toward opening more opportunities for companies across our state to not just explore, but fully seize on and thrive in.

We applaud the World Trade Center Arkansas and so many others who have stepped up to accomplish this crucial goal and share the view of how essential it is in helping create an even better Arkansas for tomorrow. I will continue pressing federal officials to follow our lead and fiercely advocate for our producers and businesses on the world stage.

Developing an Arkansas Workforce for the Future

Arkansas is diverse. Different communities have unique needs that require individual attention, but, as I visited all corners of the state in August, there was a consistent message – we need more skilled workers.

I saw the need for a better trained workforce in Northeast Arkansas which is now home to the top steel-producing congressional district in the nation thanks to incredible growth in this increasingly technical industry. Other regions of our state are seeing expansion in areas like defense manufacturing, construction, healthcare, education and more. However, we need to improve local residents’ awareness and access to programs that teach these in-demand skills so current job gains translate into long-term success.

One of the factors is generational. You may have heard about the Silver Tsunami as the last 3.4 million members of the Baby Boom turn 65 over the next few years. Employers see the wave coming and know they need the next generation to fill the gap. Right now, the average doctor is 54 years old and the average farmer is 59.

At the same time, young people entering the workforce today have already faced historic challenges. The Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis reports that 18 to 24-year-olds have experienced two distinct economies early in their lives. One was disrupted by the pandemic and a recession, and the other characterized by high inflation and the tightest labor markets since World War II. These outside factors upended many opportunities in education, job training and other normal building blocks of a successful future.

The good news is, Arkansas is rising to meet these challenges by creating and championing programs to help young people connect with job skills and high-wage careers in their communities.

A great example is the Be Pro Be Proud initiative, first launched in Arkansas, that establishes great partnerships between education and industry across the state. It is a great first stop for young people seeking technical and vocational learning that matches aptitudes and interests with real-world jobs. We’re also seeing success in programs like the Peak Innovation Center in Fort Smith where high school students can train in critical occupations and graduate high school with certificates and marketable skills.

It is also exciting to see unique efforts like the Meat Market at Arkansas State University that Senator Tom Cotton, Congressman Rick Crawford and I recently visited. This USDA-licensed facility gives hands-on experience to students in agriculture programs, provides meat snacks for local school kids and makes products sold at a farmers’ market.

The Arkansas Army National Guard and Black River Technical College recently announced a partnership they hope will retain young workers in the state and encourage more veterans to call The Natural State home.

In Northwest Arkansas, the HIRED Program is helping young people connect with training and jobs in the region, especially for students in rural districts who may not be familiar with their options.

We must continue to look ahead to the next 10, 20, 30 years and beyond to make sure the next generation of workers are ready to take their place in creating Arkansas’s future. That is a goal I will continue pursuing together with partners across the public and private sector.

August 29, 2024

Boozman Celebrates Poland F-35 Rollout

Marks Critical Step Before Aircraft Arrival in Fort Smith

WASHINGTON –– U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) celebrated the rollout of Poland’s F-35s that will soon arrive at Ebbing Air National Guard Base in Fort Smith, the new home of the Foreign Military Sales mission for the aircraft.

Boozman joined officials from the United States and Poland as well as Lockheed Martin leadership to applaud the unveiling of the first Polish F-35 at the company’s plant in Fort Worth, Texas Wednesday. This marks a critical step in advancing Arkansas’s role in protecting the interests of our country and allies.

“Developing these capabilities side by side is critical to ensuring global security. Now more than ever we can see the advantages of interoperability between partner nations, and this event only furthers the already strong relationship between Poland and the U.S.,” Boozman said. “The Fort Smith community is truly excited to see Polish pilots and jets soon fly in The Natural State.”

In March 2023 the Air Force announced Ebbing Air National Guard Base as home of the foreign military pilot training center. Boozman, along with Arkansas Congressional Delegation members Senator Tom Cotton and Congressman Steve Womack, worked to secure the mission and are continuing to champion federal investments that serve to enhance the installation and community.

As ranking member of the Senate Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies (MilCon-VA) Appropriations Subcommittee, Boozman has shepherded legislation through the Senate allocating funds over multiple years to prepare Ebbing to successfully host the program and allied partners.

In Fiscal Year 2024 Boozman, Cotton and Womack delivered $83 million to the base and are committed to supporting continued investment in Fiscal Year 2025 and beyond.

August 23, 2024

Making Food Safety and Animal Health a National Priority

Poultry is the largest agricultural industry in Arkansas, representing almost 40 percent of production and accounting for one in four agriculture jobs in the state.

Over half of the nearly 38,000 farms in Arkansas raise cattle.

Arkansas hog producers raise more than 1.8 million pigs annually.

Whether its broilers, turkeys, cattle, dairy, or hogs, Arkansas producers have long prioritized animal health and have a strong track record of preventing and responding to emerging animal disease threats, such as avian influenza.

As the head Republican on the Senate Agriculture Committee, I am committed to ensuring America continues to lead the way in responding to current and future animal diseases.

It is critical that we in Congress put the right tools in place to bolster animal health programs. We have a golden opportunity to do that with the next farm bill.

We must meet this moment and modernize the risk management tools our farmers and ranchers rely upon and key programs that support producers facing weather and animal disease challenges.

For livestock producers, animal disease outbreaks are among the biggest risks they face.

That is why robust investments in animal health programs are included in the farm bill framework my Senate Republican colleagues and I have put forward.

Our framework doubles funding for the “three-legged stool” programs the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) administers to combat animal disease outbreaks. We will help ensure USDA’s disease response can be successful by supporting our animal health labs, establishing cooperative agreements with states and other partners and investing in our vaccine bank.

We also aim to improve assistance for poultry growers impacted by avian influenza and ensure producers’ ability to export their products when there is not an animal health concern.

I remain confident that both the House and Senate can come together to pass a strong farm bill that prioritizes these investments in animal health programs.

While we work toward accomplishing that goal, we cannot ignore the ongoing avian influenza outbreak we are seeing in both dairy cattle and poultry.

While I am encouraged by the careful response, we need to ensure the administration continues to rely on the animal health expertise of USDA to lead the efforts and that the agency leans heavily on our state agriculture commissioners and veterinarians, who have boots-on-the-ground experience working with producers.

It is of upmost importance that we do not penalize producers who are dealing with an outbreak on their operation. Rather, we must seek to incentivize them to implement strong biosecurity measures on the front end and, when impacted, work with experts and veterinarians to address the outbreak.

Finally, we must ensure the administration proactively engages with our trading partners to minimize the impact on exports. Too often our trading partners use animal diseases as a scapegoat for blocking U.S. goods at their shores. We must ensure unfair trade barriers are not put in place against American meat, poultry and dairy products and hold our trading partners accountable for science-based trade policies.

My colleagues and I agree that a long-term plan for responding to avian influenza in both poultry and dairy cattle must be established and communicated by the administration.

Congress stands ready to help support that effort and continue to ensure our nation leads the way in animal health innovation, surveillance and response, and science-based policy to deal with emerging animal disease threats.

August 16, 2024

Celebrating Two Years of the PACT Act

Our nation made a promise to the men and women who served in uniform that we would take care of them. This month marks the two-year anniversary of a major step forward in that mission with the signing of the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act, landmark legislation that delivers all toxic-exposed veterans their earned Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care and benefits.

Expanding eligibility for veterans living with toxic exposure illnesses due to their military service was long overdue. As a member of the House and Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committees, I’ve heard a lot about the health challenges these veterans face. The VA has a responsibility to ensure veterans have access to its resources. Fortunately, we are seeing evidence that the PACT Act is making a difference.

Nationwide, more than one million PACT Act-related claims have been approved. In Arkansas, more than 13,000 veterans are receiving service-connected benefits as a result of the law.

Marine Corps veteran Bill Rhodes of Mena is one of them.

Rhodes served in Thailand during the Vietnam War. After developing illnesses linked to herbicide exposure, the former U.S. Marine turned to the VA for medical help. His claim was initially denied because the department’s policy at the time limited benefits for toxic-exposed Vietnam War-era Thailand veterans. After researching the issue, he understood a legislative fix was needed, and I was proud to help.

We crafted a provision to eliminate the unreasonable burden placed on veterans like Mr. Rhodes to prove toxic exposure. The measure was ultimately included in the PACT Act, expanding benefits to Vietnam War-era veterans exposed to Agent Orange during their service in Thailand.

Arkansans can be proud of Rhodes’ leadership to find a solution that improves the wellbeing of his fellow veterans and represents an important contribution to an already sweeping reform. Thanks to his commitment, those he served with in Thailand can receive the benefits they rightfully earned.

I was pleased to champion passage of the PACT Act on behalf of toxic-exposed veterans and supporters to secure their access to VA healthcare and benefits. This was a bipartisan success story and it’s given hope to veterans and their families who have been struggling with their health care. In addition to expanding benefits eligibility, the law has helped spur more than 5,000 Natural State veterans to sign up for VA health care since its enactment.

When we wrote the legislation, Congress anticipated an increase in the workload at the VA so we also included measures to bolster VA’s workforce, especially in rural areas.

I am continuing to work with my colleagues on the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee to ensure the VA is implementing the law, as intended, with the requisite resources. Enhancing the recruitment and retention of key VA personnel to ensure we can attract the best professionals to care for veterans will also continue to be a priority of mine and my colleagues.

As a result of the PACT Act, the VA is serving more veterans than ever before and continues to provide more care and benefits to veterans exposed to toxins during their military service. Now we must ensure it is equipped to support these increased claims and carry out its mission. I’m proud to work in a bipartisan manner to make certain veterans and their families are provided the care and benefits our country owes them.

August 15, 2024

Boozman Shares Memories of Rogers Veteran

Click here to watch excerpts of Chris Traxson’s interview

WASHINGTON– U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) recognized the service and sacrifice of Chris Traxson in ‘Salute to Veterans,’ a series highlighting the military service of Arkansans.

Traxson was born in Rogers and graduated from Rogers High School in 1999. He attended Northwest Arkansas Community College before enrolling at the University of Arkansas where he earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.

He served as a police officer for his hometown and, after a year in that role, enlisted in the Marine Corps Reserve.

Traxson is from a family with a history of military service, including his dad who was drafted during the Vietnam War, and was inspired to help in the War on Terror.

“It was a time when I felt like I wanted to do more. There was a lot going on in the Middle East,” he said. “I just felt like I was in a place in my life from the physical fitness standpoint and maturity level where I thought I could go in and help with the effort.”

Traxson was encouraged to join the Marines by some of his law enforcement colleagues who were veterans of the branch. He wanted to serve on the frontlines and was convinced the Marine infantry division was the quickest path to combat. He also appreciated its proud tradition.

He was 24 years old when he attended bootcamp, “I was definitely the old man, they kinda came to me for that fatherly guidance even though I wasn’t a father. And it was the same in infantry  school as well.”

In 2006 he learned his unit was attaching to another from Detroit as part of a large battalion build up that would eventually be deployed to Fallujah, Iraq.

Traxson arrived in Fallujah two years after the battles of 2004 and said the locals were just beginning to return to the city. However, there was severe property damage and a lot of hostility.

“In the first two weeks we were there it was extremely quiet and then after that two-week period things started popping off. We were getting enemy contact almost every day. And I had to ask, ‘Why was it so quiet those first two weeks?’ and they informed me that they were watching us,” Traxson recalled. “They knew we were a new unit.”

Traxson said he had to be ready to go at a moment’s notice, so after long days out on a mission, the marines had to have their gear and vehicles prepared for the next time they would be called upon. His assignment was to ride in the turret of the Humvee operating the machine gun and watching the roadway for improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

He’d only been in Iraq four weeks when he was injured by an IED.

“I wasn’t even supposed to go out that day,” he said. He was given the option to sit out for 48 hours because his team had rolled over an explosive device on its last mission. However, he was cleared to participate and decided to join.

He doesn’t remember a lot about the explosion but recalled the doors of the vehicle blew off. “I had taken off running because I was on fire,” he said.

The marines in his Humvee were loaded onto a truck and taken to the hospital. Three weeks later he woke up at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio.

He had third-degree burns on 56 percent of his body. In the two years of recovery, he had more than 70 surgeries.

His mother, a nurse, quit her job in Arkansas to help take care of him and advocate on his behalf while he was in recovery. “She wanted to make sure I had somebody to speak for me,” he said.

During his recovery, he received letters from his fellow marines updating him on friends in his unit. “Obviously, [we’d] suffered casualties and they would let me know about who those were,” he said. “Some of them I was close to so it was hard not being able to go to their funerals.”

Traxson received a Purple Heart for his sacrifice. “No one wants to get a Purple Heart, but I’m happy to accept it.”

He was discharged in 2009 and worked part-time at a local store as he continued his healing while also serving as a security guard at Northwest Arkansas Community College for eight years. He graduated from business school in 2013 and today works at the Benton County Veterans Service Office where he helps veterans in getting the benefits and services they’ve earned. “My experience makes it a lot easier for them to talk to me.”

He has been honored to talk to students about his journey and encourages them to be optimistic in addition to aspiring to a lifetime of public service whether in the military or other civic engagement.

“Some of the best people I ever met were people in uniform,” he said. “They came from all over the country. They were all different colors, religions and that’s the thing I like about the military is that when you go in there, we all wear the same uniform. We’re not anything else but the uniform we wear. I learned a lot from the people I served with. They made me better.”

“Chris Traxson honorably served his country and has made a great sacrifice. His perseverance and determination are an inspiration to us all. I’m proud to capture and preserve his memories of his service for the benefit of future generations,” Boozman said.

Boozman submitted Traxson’s entire interview to the Veterans History Project, an initiative of the Library of Congress’s American Folklife Center to collect and retain the oral histories of our nation’s veterans.

Do you know a veteran interested in sharing their memories for the ‘Salute to Veterans’ series? Nominate an Arkansas veteran to share their story by calling Boozman’s Fort Smith office at 479-573-0189.

August 9, 2024

Protecting Access to Care for Seniors

Long-term care and senior living in our country are taking on a dramatic shift as more Americans enter advanced age. This will place a larger strain on nursing homes and the existing network that serves this population, which is why it is critical to help rather than hamper the industry’s preparations for this incoming surge.

Like me, most Arkansans know loved ones in their circle of family and friends who have required the extensive care these facilities provide. It is a reality that comes with some anxiety but also hope that happy and fulfilling days can still be possible with access to the right services and support.

In April, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) released a final rule that created new, onerous requirements for nurse staffing levels in these care settings. Currently, only six percent of facilities in Arkansas meet these standards and they exceed existing benchmarks in nearly all states.

This unfunded federal mandate could jeopardize access to quality care and services for many seniors today and into the future. This problem is particularly dangerous for facilities in rural areas across the country, such as in Arkansas, because the increased staffing levels this rule requires will lead to higher costs. This will likely result in many nursing homes further limiting the number of residents served, or possibly closing due to shortages of available labor.

Both the American Health Care Association and its chapter in Arkansas have voiced concerns with this proposal and warned about the detrimental impact it could have.

My colleagues and I are committed to pushing back against this misguided regulation and protecting families and caregivers’ ability to find or remain in settings they trust and take comfort in.

I was proud to join a bipartisan group of over two dozen senators challenging the CMS mandate, first in a letter to the agency’s administrator last year and then signing onto a Congressional Review Act measure that would overturn the rule. This legislative vehicle offers an expedited procedure and only requires a majority vote to pass.

Natural State long-term care and senior living facilities are already facing challenges, but still finding ways to overcome them.

For example, Methodist Village Senior Living in Fort Smith is addressing the nurse staffing shortage in a practical way, with the only Life Plan Community in Arkansas that houses an onsite education center for certified nursing assistants and medication technicians. It has become a successful model of creating an environment that delivers education and training for the next generation of health care professionals. Not only does this help meet the needs of residents, but it also inspires fellow employees to strive toward obtaining more skills and certifications.

We know the nursing shortage began long before 2020 and was exacerbated by the pandemic, with approximately 100,000 registered nurses (RNs) leaving the profession in a two-year period. Another 610,000 RNs reported an “intent to leave” the workforce by 2027 due to stress, burnout and retirement, according to the National Council of State Boards of Nursing.

This is clearly an urgent problem we need to continue working to address. My colleagues and I share the administration’s goal of ensuring adequate staffing levels to improve the quality of care for seniors. However, a one-size-fits-all approach will do more harm than good, especially in communities that are already underserved.

I will continue working across party lines to address these concerns because our seniors deserve our utmost respect, which starts with valuing and upholding their dignity. We must empower each state to achieve that goal in partnership with caregivers and the families in need of these services.

August 8, 2024

WTAS: Support Builds for Boozman-Welch Legislation to Protect Seniors’ Access to Healthcare

WASHINGTON –– U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Peter Welch (D-VT) announced support from national health organizations for the Physician Fee Stabilization Act, legislation that ensures greater flexibility in determining pricing adjustments for medical services without triggering harmful annual payment cuts to Medicare-serving physicians.

The legislation is also cosponsored by Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), Angus King (I-ME), Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-KS) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH).

What They Are Saying

“Physicians cannot continue to be faced with large reductions in Medicare payment at the beginning of each year, threatening our practice operations and access to care for our nation’s seniors. The American College of Physicians supports the Physician Fee Stabilization Act that would help to ensure this doesn’t continue to happen by raising the threshold for the implementation of budget neutral payment cuts,” said Isaac O. Opole, MBChB, PHD, MACP, President, American College of Physicians.

“The Physician Fee Stabilization Act would provide a much-needed increase to the budget neutrality threshold, raising the trigger amount from $20 million, where it has been since 1992, to $53 million. It would then provide for inflationary increases every five years based on the Medicare Economic Index. As proposed, the $33 million increase is proportional to the growth of Part B spending since the implementation of the PFS,” said American College of Surgeons Executive Director and CEO Patricia L. Turner, MD, MBA, FACS. “This would be an important step forward to ensure greater flexibility in determining pricing adjustments for services without triggering re-occurring across-the-board cuts at the end of every year.”

“The Physician Fee Stabilization Act is a vital step toward ensuring stability and fairness in physician payment reform, especially for cardiologists who provide life-saving care. By raising the budget neutrality threshold, this legislation will help prevent annual cuts that threaten patients’ access to cardiovascular care. The American College of Cardiology commends Senators Boozman, Welch, Tillis, King, Marshall and Shaheen for their leadership and commitment to supporting our nation’s cardiologists and their patients,” said American College of Cardiology President Cathleen Biga, MSN, FACC.

“The Physician Fee Stabilization Act marks the Senate’s first legislative solution this year to help ensure fair and consistent Medicare payments for physician services, and Congress should pass this bill to help ensure our nation’s seniors continue to have timely access to the physician of their choice. We applaud the bipartisan group of Senators leading this initiative and look forward to working with policymakers to advance additional long-lasting Medicare policy solutions,” said Russell R. Lonser, MD, FAANS, American Association of Neurological Surgeons and Congress of Neurological Surgeons.

“The American Academy of Dermatology Association sincerely thanks Senators Boozman and Welch for introducing the Physician Fee Stabilization Act, which would update the budget neutrality thresholds in the Medicare physician fee schedule,” said American Academy of Dermatology Association President Seemal R. Desai, MD, FAAD. “This bill is a crucial step in the fight to reform Medicare physician payment as it would revise budget neutrality policies that contribute to eroding reimbursement, which is not only a critical top priority for dermatologists, but for all physicians and most importantly the patients we serve.”

“The AAMC applauds Sens. Boozman and Welch for introducing the Physician Fee Stabilization Act. Physicians employed by teaching health systems and hospitals across the country are dedicated to both providing care to the most complex and vulnerable patients and training the next generation of physicians. These large, multispecialty practices are vital resources to their local communities, providing significant primary care and other critical services, including a large percentage of tertiary, quaternary, and specialty referral care in the community. However, their ability to continue to provide care in their communities is in jeopardy due to the threat of yearly cuts to their patient care payments,” said Danielle Turnipseed, JD, MHSA, MPP, Chief Public Policy Officer of the Association of American Medical Colleges. “The Physician Fee Stabilization Act would update the current budget neutrality threshold in the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (PFS), and continue to update it every five years. While more is needed to ensure the stability and longevity of the PFS, this is a critical step, and we appreciate the bipartisan commitment of Sens. Boozman and Welch to addressing issues with the PFS and look forward to working to get this legislation passed.”

“The American Urological Association (AUA) applauds Senators John Boozman and Peter Welch, along with Senators Thom Tillis, Angus King, Roger Marshall, MD and Jeanne Shaheen, for their leadership in introducing S. 4935, the Physician Fee Stabilization Act,” said AUA Public Policy Council Chair Mark Edney, MD, MBA. “This bipartisan legislation takes the critical step of increasing the budget neutrality threshold from $20 to $53 million with adjustments every five years to keep pace with the MEI. The budget neutrality threshold has not been updated in more than 30 years and physicians are the only Medicare provider without inflationary payment updates. S. 4935 would fix this and bring much-needed stability to physician payment year after year, helping to ease the provision of urological care and countless other services to millions of Americans under Medicare.”

“The American Optometric Association (AOA) applauds Sens. Boozman and Welch, for the visionary direction S. 4935 sets for future growth of health care access,” said Steven Reed, O.D., AOA president. “For so many years, physicians of all types, including doctors of optometry, have long been impacted by stagnant Medicare reimbursement. The costs to deliver care continue to increase especially in regard to staffing and overhead costs, yet Medicare reimbursement has remained and proposed cuts only threaten to hamper physicians’ ability to provide valued care. S. 4935 takes a long-term forward-looking approach to a real solution – not a patch – to address this problem.”

August 2, 2024

Boosting Access to Dental Services in Arkansas 

One of the keys to living healthier, longer lives is access to quality care and treatment. Without a strong supply of medical professionals in our communities to provide that help, we will struggle to fully achieve this goal.

We’re actively working to strengthen the healthcare workforce in Arkansas and retain the professionals trained in our state. In recent years, an expansion of medical training is preparing the next generation of doctors. The latest example will serve to enhance the availability of oral health care as The Natural State’s first school of dental medicine is launched. Last month, we celebrated the groundbreaking for this facility that Lyon College is proudly forging in partnership with other health entities.

A study by the Arkansas Center for Health Improvement found access to dentists, particularly in rural areas, is limited. In 2019, 11 counties had a dental provider shortage and two counties had no active dentist.

Establishing the Lyon College School of Dental Medicine to address this shortfall is a solution our state needs and is embracing with excitement.

This year Congress passed, and the president signed into law, legislation that funds Arkansas health projects including a critical investment to make this project a reality. I was proud to advocate for federal funds to support dental education in our state because it’s an important component of overall health.

It’s taken a lot of hard work and dedication to get to this point. From the leadership of Batesville’s Lyon College to the committed professionals in the community and across the state who have supported this initiative, the vision to enhance the resources and services available to Arkansans to promote both health and wellness has been evident and convincing.

I am particularly proud of Lyon College’s enthusiasm and persistence. The impact this decision will have on the future of Arkansas is significant – expanding access to dental care by generating a pipeline of dental professionals who will practice here at home and further enriching the quality of life in communities across all 75 of our counties.

The broad support for this endeavor demonstrates our collective desire to advance this vital form of healthcare in a truly meaningful way. Ensuring more Arkansans have access to dental services they need will help prevent long-term dental challenges in our communities. This is especially critical for our children, as good oral health practices established early can lead to a lifetime of better health outcomes.

I applaud Lyon College for its unwavering commitment to taking on this mission and moving us one step closer to our goal. The school anticipates admitting its first class of dental graduate students next year at its new Little Rock campus. I’ve been pleased to support this great example of an educational institution leading the way to solve a pressing need in our communities.

The groundbreaking signals a healthier, brighter future we are building together for Arkansas. I am grateful to all those whose contributions have helped pave the way, as well as the many supporters of this major project and all Arkansans for their shared passion for improving access to oral healthcare.

Together, we are making history and setting the foundation for a healthier, happier Arkansas. I look forward to following the progress and welcoming future dental professionals to our state to deliver excellent oral and dental care to their families, friends and neighbors.

August 1, 2024

Senators Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Protect Seniors’ Access to Healthcare

 

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Peter Welch (D-VT) along with Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), Angus King (I-ME), Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-KS) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) are leading efforts to protect access to Medicare services by reforming the program’s physician fee schedule with the introduction of the Physician Fee Stabilization Act.

The legislation would increase the budget neutrality threshold to $53 million with an increase every five years to keep pace with the Medicare Economic Index. This is a critical step forward to ensure greater flexibility in determining pricing adjustments for services without triggering harmful annual payment cuts to Medicare-serving physicians. The budget neutrality threshold was last updated in 1992.

“Medicare patients must have access to quality health services. Ensuring physicians are fairly compensated for their work will help deliver stability to providers so they continue to meet the needs of their communities. I’m proud to lead this bipartisan solution that enhances Medicare’s sustainability,” Boozman said.

“So many Vermonters rely on Medicare for their health care coverage – it’s critical that their health care providers are fairly compensated,” said Welch. “This commonsense, bipartisan bill updates an outdated, decades-old policy that triggers harmful cuts to provider payments. We’re working across the aisle to ensure providers in Vermont, and in rural communities around the country, can keep treating Medicare patients and get reimbursed fairly for the care they provide.”

“The nearly two million Medicare beneficiaries in North Carolina expect timely access to quality care,” said Tillis. “Year after year, we’ve seen consistent Medicare reimbursement cuts to physicians that adversely impact access to care and patient outcomes – and just last month, Medicare proposed yet another three percent cut to physician reimbursement. This bipartisan legislation makes long-overdue changes to outdated policies to ensure physicians are adequately reimbursed, and seniors have uninterrupted access to care.”

“Accessible and reliable healthcare is essential for seniors across Maine, especially for those in our most rural communities,” said King. “The Physician Fee Stabilization Act would ensure that Medicare providers are adequately paid so that they can continue to offer their full range of services to Maine’s Medicare beneficiaries. I want to thank my colleagues for prioritizing the healthcare and well-being of our older Americans.”

“This legislation is a great step forward to provide stability for physicians serving our most vulnerable populations,” Marshall said. “Medicare payment changes have been severely impacting doctors in rural Kansas and nationwide since I was practicing. It’s time to implement meaningful reforms. I am proud to support this bill and look forward to working with Senator Boozman to help physicians everywhere.”

“It’s critical we do all we can to ensure that Granite Staters who rely on Medicare for health insurance have access to the quality, affordable care they need,” said Shaheen. “This bipartisan bill would make sure physicians are fairly compensated and guarantee adequate reimbursement for providers, which would help strengthen Medicare’s dependability for patients now and into the future.”

The Physician Fee Stabilization Act has support from nationwide health organizations including the American Medical Association (AMA), American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), American Optometric Association (AOA), Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS), American College of Surgeons (ACS), American Osteopathic Association (AOA), National Rural Health Association (NRHA), American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine (AACOM), American College of Radiology (ACR), American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS), American Gastroenterological Association (AGA), Alliance of Specialty Medicine (ASM), American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), American Urological Association (AUA), American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS), Congress of Neurological Surgeons (CNS), American Academy of Ophthalmology (AOA), American Psychiatric Association (APA), American College of Physicians (ACF), American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), American College of Rheumatology (ACR) and American College of Cardiology (ACC).

The senators are advocates of protecting access to Medicare services. In February, Boozman and Welch led an effort to ensure providers who treat Medicare patients are adequately compensated that resulted in the mitigation of a drastic cut in the reimbursement rate.

August 1, 2024

Senate Committee Approves Boozman Language to Support Volunteer Fire Departments

Senator Advocates Enhanced Engagement with Stakeholders

Watch Boozman’s remarks to the committee

WASHINGTON –– U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) succeeded in pushing for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to further examine potential unintended consequences of its Emergency Response Standard proposal to ensure communities in Arkansas and across the country continue to have access to volunteer firefighter services. The senator’s language was added to the Fiscal Year 2025 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act and encourages OSHA to conduct listening sessions and outreach with stakeholders to fully understand the impact of new requirements on volunteer fire departments.

“We must ensure firefighters have the tools and training to safeguard themselves and the community, which means any adjustments to the standards applied to them must be carefully considered. OSHA’s current one-size-fits-all proposal could jeopardize volunteer fire departments’ ability to continue operating or drastically limit their resources and personnel capacity. I’m hopeful the plan can be revised with feedback from stakeholders,” Boozman said.

Arkansas has 1,003 fire departments and 974 are at least partially staffed by volunteers.

In February, OSHA announced its proposal to modernize safety requirements for emergency responders, but volunteer fire departments in Arkansas and across the country have shared their apprehensions with Congress that parts of the plan could cause unintended consequences and lead to increased costs resulting in potential cuts to services.

Boozman recently responded to the proposed rule and assured Arkansans of his commitment to protect volunteer fire departments from unfunded mandates. In July, members of the Arkansas Congressional Delegation voiced their concerns about the rules to the Acting Secretary of the U.S. Department of Labor.

July 30, 2024

Boozman Helps Preserve Memories of Arkansas Veterans in Library of Congress Collection

Senator’s office surpasses more than 100 interviews submitted

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR), a champion of the Library of Congress Veterans History Project (VHP), presented interviews with Arkansans for preservation in the national collection. The new submissions mark more than 100 interviews conducted by Boozman’s office.

“The Veterans History Project is a unique collection of personal reflections that teaches our nation’s history from the perspective of those who have stood in defense of our freedoms. It also represents an opportunity for families to learn more about the selflessness of their loved ones, which is something I personally understand as the son of veteran of WWII who served in the Air Force for 23 years yet didn’t share much about his experiences in the military. This initiative preserves these patriotic Americans’ legacies so they live on for future generations. I’m honored to be part of this rewarding endeavor, ” Boozman said.

The senator submitted seven interviews conducted by his staff with veterans of the Cold War, Vietnam War, Desert Storm and War on Terror.

In 2000, Congress established the VHP to collect and retain the oral histories of our nation’s veterans.

Boozman’s staff has conducted dozens of interviews and trained more than 1,200 Arkansans to participate and raise a

July 19, 2024

Marking a Milestone in Veterans Benefits

This year we celebrate the 80^th anniversary of the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944, more commonly known as the GI Bill. This landmark legislation created a pathway for returning troops to further their education, buy homes and launch businesses. The innovative policy remains a significant investment in our servicemembers and serves as an important aspect of the effort to honor the commitment we made to the men and women who wear our nation’s uniform.

It was a groundbreaking idea championed by The American Legion based on feedback from veterans aimed at ensuring those returning from service in WWII had the support they needed as they transitioned back to civilian life by providing funds for college, housing and unemployment insurance. President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the measure into law June 22, 1944.

The law helped usher in prosperity during the post war era. Within the first seven years of implementation, eight million veterans received education benefits, more than doubling the number of college degrees awarded between 1940 to 1950.

The GI Bill has become fundamental to helping those who have been called to serve this country.

Arkansas veterans have shared how valuable their GI Bill benefits were to prepare them for a successful future. In interviews for the Veterans History Project, a collection of oral histories housed in the Library of Congress, WWII veteran Lieutenant Colonel William Ledbetter said he used his benefits for college at the University of Central Arkansas where he earned a degree in social studies and minored in physical education. Edith Mitchell served in the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps in WWII and, following her military service, earned a master’s degree in voice and public music from Columbia University. Vietnam veteran Master Sergeant Parnell Fisher completed his bachelor’s degree in education from Arkansas Baptist College with his GI bill benefits.

As a member of Veterans’ Affairs Committees in both the Senate and House of Representatives, I’ve supported legislation to modernize and update the GI Bill in order to better meet the needs of this generation’s former servicemembers.

In 2008, Congress passed the post-9/11 GI Bill and nine years later followed that up with the Harry W. Colmery Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2017, named after an Army Air Service veteran and former national commander of the American Legion. Known as the Forever GI Bill, it reflects the changing landscape of learning and expands authority for veterans to pursue science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) programs.

The bill enhanced educational benefits and eliminated the 15-year limitation on post-9/11 GI Bill benefits for eligible veterans and their dependents. It also included a reform I advocated to ensure wounded members of the National Guard and Reserve are eligible for the same GI Bill benefits as active-duty military members.

We closely followed its implementation and when the Department of Veterans Affairs failed to reimburse veterans for missed or underpaid Forever GI Bill housing benefits, I worked to correct this error.

These are all earned benefits, not hand-outs. Since they were enacted, they have changed lives and helped incentivize voluntary service in our Armed Forces.

This milestone is a good time to reflect on the tremendous sacrifice of the brave individuals willing to stand in defense of our country. We are forever grateful to the men and women who wear our nation’s uniform and the GI Bill continues to demonstrate our appreciation for their service.

July 16, 2024

Boozman Recognizes Military Service of Late Bella Vista Veteran

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) recognized the service and sacrifice of the late Marvin Trigg in ‘Salute to Veterans,’ a series recognizing the military service of Arkansans.

Trigg grew up on his family’s farm in rural Missouri. He was put to work at an early age milking cows and using a two man crosscut saw to harvest wood.

“I helped my dad because we heated with wood, I many times went out with him,” Trigg recalled. “I’d be on one end and he’d be on the other.”

Trigg said he walked to school until high school when he was bussed to school. He had to make sure he was finished milking the cow before the bus came.

Trigg enlisted in the Army in 1955 when he was 21 years old.

“They sent me to Fort Eustice, Virginia,” Trigg said. “Flew me out there and then decided they didn’t have anything for me so they put me on a pullman car to send me back.”

His family was supportive of his decision to enlist. “They thought it was a good idea.”

He was first stationed at Fort Chaffee.

Trigg served as an aircraft maintenance crewman. In addition, he said one of his responsibilities included mowing the grass at Fort Knox.

Once he finished his military commitment he used his GI Bill benefits to attend aviation school and earned his pilot’s license.

He worked for a local company in his hometown flying across Missouri transporting canned goods.

Trigg said his favorite part of military service was seeing different parts of the country.

“I am grateful for Marvin Trigg’s dedication and service to our nation. His memories of his military service are an important part of our history, and I am pleased to be able to collect and preserve his stories for future generations,” Boozman said.

Sadly, Trigg passed away December 20, 2023, but his interview will be submitted to the Veterans History Project, an initiative of the Library of Congress’s American Folklife Center to collect and retain the oral histories of our nation’s veterans.

Do you know a veteran interested in sharing their memories for the ‘Salute to Veterans’ series? Nominate an Arkansas veteran to share their story by calling Boozman’s Fort Smith office at 479-573-0189.

July 12, 2024

Inspiring an Interest in Civic Engagement

Growing up, I always looked forward to the end of the schoolyear. I spent many summers playing church league baseball and as I got older, I found opportunities to use this time to make a difference in the lives of others by teaching kids to swim. It was a rewarding experience. I’ve met with many young Arkansans who use summer break to explore new interests and gain public service experience to help put them on a path to a meaningful and purpose-driven future.

We are blessed in Arkansas to have a variety of programs that invest in our youth and help foster a passion for lifelong civic participation. Many of these initiatives also include a trip to our nation’s capital where I’ve been honored to welcome students and share more about my role representing them and their families.

For more than 30 years, Arkansas’s electric cooperatives have sponsored a trip to Washington to help shape future leaders. This prestigious program brings together some of the best and brightest students with the aim of expanding their understanding of how policies and legislation support the needs of electric cooperative members at the state and federal levels.

I was pleased to visit with these students who were great representatives of our state. They used this opportunity to learn more about the role of members of Congress and how elected officials support Natural State families, communities and businesses.

One parent commented on social media that the experience would impact her daughter for “the rest of her life.”

In recent weeks I hosted students from Gosnell High School who traveled to Washington, D.C. to see the landmarks and monuments dedicated to individuals who shaped our country. The high schoolers were enthusiastic about history coming alive as they visited the sites and interacted with the additional context surrounding the figures they have learned about in school.

Exposing youth to opportunities that demonstrate the importance of civic engagement is an investment in our future. These programs serve to motivate student leaders and encourage an interest in public service.

A new or deeper passion for public service is something I’m confident Senate interns take away from their experience in my office. We are blessed to have dedicated individuals who use their summer to give back to Arkansans and serve their needs. Students from all across the state get a front row seat to the debates on Capitol Hill and learn how these policies impact the lives of Natural State residents.

My office also helps young Arkansans explore civics and public policy through the Congressional Youth Cabinet and Senate Page programs that each offer a unique, hands-on experience.

Bentonville High School senior and Miss Arkansas’ Teen Peyton Bolling served as a Senate Page on Capitol Hill for a semester last school year. She launched an Instagram show to inform her peers about the importance of giving back to the community. I was honored to be a recent guest on ‘Glimpses in Government’ to talk about civic engagement and finding purpose in helping others.

This is a lesson my college football coach Frank Broyles instilled in me that I continue to follow as I serve Arkansans. He shared how “there are two types of people in the world, givers and takers – live your life as a giver.” I’m proud to help continue to pass along this message to the next generation of leaders.

July 11, 2024

Senate Appropriations Committee Advances Boozman-Led Bill Funding Military Infrastructure and Veterans Care 

Measure Also Provides $128.5 Million for Pilot Training Center at Ebbing Airbase

WASHINGTON – The Senate Appropriations Committee advanced legislation crafted by U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR), ranking member of the Senate Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies (MilCon-VA) Appropriations Subcommittee, that delivers $128.5 million to Arkansas for the future pilot training center at Ebbing Air National Guard Base in addition to making significant investments to improve servicemembers and their families’ quality of life and robustly fund veterans’ health care and benefits.

The bill now moves to the full Senate for consideration.

“Providing the resources our servicemembers and their families deserve and supporting our veterans by funding the medical treatment and benefits they have earned must always be a top priority for Congress. I’m pleased our bipartisan bill accomplishes both and includes another vital investment to ensure Ebbing Air National Guard Base in Fort Smith, Arkansas stays on track to successfully train allies on the F-35 aircraft. Passage of this measure represents our strong, shared commitment to those defending our nation today and in previous generations,” Boozman said.

Funding Boozman secured for Arkansas includes $128.5 million to support the foreign pilot training mission at Ebbing through construction of an Academic Training Center as well as other projects.

This legislation also includes key investments in military housing; veteran suicide prevention, telehealth, mental health and homelessness programs; women veterans care as well as innovative medical research.

The bill additionally allocates full funding for the American Battle Monuments Commission, the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims, Arlington National Cemetery and the Armed Forces Retirement Home.

July 5, 2024

Investing in our Aviation System 

The Transportation Security Administration screened nearly three million air travelers on Sunday, June 23, breaking the single day record. Seven of the top 10 busiest travel days ever at our nation’s airports have been since late May. The agency predicts it will continue to hit new highs as we’re in the middle of the busy summer travel season.

As more people fly and air travel continues to grow, there is a need for modernization to boost confidence in the industry and the aviation workforce. In May, Congress passed crucial reforms to accomplish these goals in the bipartisan Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization Act of 2024 the president signed into law.

This win for Arkansans and all Americans improves passenger safety, invests in aviation infrastructure and personnel in addition to advancing technology and innovation to get travelers to their destinations safely.

The FAA invests in facility upgrades and expansion of airports through its Airport Improvement Program (AIP). In our state, 76 airports are eligible for AIP awards and many have received funding to improve safety, rehabilitate runways and widen taxiways through this initiative. The FAA reauthorization increases money available for the program so our airports can continue making upgrades.

The law also helps surge the hiring of air traffic controllers so we can ensure an ample pipeline of personnel are in place to meet the demands of the industry.

An expansion of this workforce is critical because last year the Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General found the FAA didn’t have adequate staffing at 77 percent of critical facilities.

I’m pleased the measure included a provision I championed to improve FAA hiring practices so we can ease this shortfall and get more individuals trained and on the job to enhance safety and efficiency.

This law also promotes the integration of new and emerging technology. Arkansas is already successfully leading in this area, implementing the use of drones to augment human inspectors and spot flaws and structural issues on bridges, railways and other infrastructure projects.

After the shutdown of the I-40 bridge over the Mississippi River, ARDOT increased its drone capabilities and now boasts one of the most expansive programs in the country. This newly passed federal policy will allow state and local governments to follow Arkansas’s example.

Drone deployment improves safety and saves taxpayer dollars. That’s why I backed legislation to empower communities to use these tools as well as invest in American-made drones and the next generation workforce in drone aviation.

This language was included in the FAA reauthorization. It authorizes $200 million in grants for two years to purchase drones and foster development of programs to prepare future employees in the field.

I am hopeful this will benefit communities across the country and spurs further investments in drone capabilities that provide cost-effective solutions to improve our infrastructure.

Reauthorization of the FAA is a great example of what we can accomplish when we work together. This was the result of bipartisan input in committee hearings and debates in the Senate and House of Representatives, with ultimate goal of making meaningful updates to strengthen our aviation system and improve air travel. Arkansans and our neighbors throughout the country will reap the benefits of this achievement.

June 28, 2024

Sharing Stories of Service

The service and sacrifice of Arkansans called to wear our nation’s uniform are woven into the fabric of our communities. Long after men and women leave active duty, their commitment to others continues. I’m proud to share the stories of these individuals and their desire to serve for the Library of Congress Veterans History Project (VHP).

In 1974, Debra Holmes enlisted in the U.S. Army to serve as an air traffic controller during the tumultuous years following the Vietnam War. A decade later, Ken Griffin was training to become a fighter pilot in U.S. Air Force and 30 years after Holmes’ first day, Chris Traxson joined the U.S. Marine Corps to become a heavy weapons specialist and serve in Iraq.

Their experiences will be soon be part of the VHP, a collection of oral histories of the men and women who served our nation in every branch of the military.

While their jobs, locations and personal experiences were completely different, each veteran made many of the same observations and shared similar feelings about their commitment to serving others, their love for our country and the satisfaction of knowing they made a difference.

They also spoke about the skills they learned through military service that helped shape their lives. These included the value of discipline, the ability to work as a team for a common goal and how to be a leader in whatever role you are given.

As we approach Independence Day, these stories are on my mind. They speak to the desire to make a difference and the best of the human spirit that citizen-soldiers have demonstrated long before the founding of our country. I am grateful for the service of these Arkansans and the important work of the Library of Congress to preserve their experiences for future generations. The VHP is the largest repository of oral histories by American veterans and, as many Arkansans know from my monthly Salute to Veterans feature, the project is important to me and my staff. In addition to regularly traveling across the state to interview veterans from every branch of the military and every era of service, we’ve trained others to join this initiative.

In recent months, we have interviewed veterans who served in the Vietnam War-era to the War on Terror. Each one of them told a unique story about where they came from, how they ended up in the military, how they served and what happened next.

Threads of patriotism and sacrifice are united through each of their stories as they described their lives both before and after their military service. In most cases, they took what they learned and found new ways to make a difference in their communities. Whether working in a government agency, as a chaplain or in roles directly helping other veterans, they continue their mission of service.

If you are a veteran or have a veteran in your life who would like to participate, please reach out to my office. We are happy to provide more information. The Library of Congress has more details about this important national project at www.loc.gov. Learn more about the Arkansans we’ve highlighted in our Salute to Veterans feature on my website to see examples of interviews we’ve been honored to conduct and share.

June 21, 2024

June 17, 2024

Little Rock Teen Serves as Senate Page

Senate Page Juliana Davis and Senator John Boozman

WASHINGTON –– Pulaski Academy’s Juliana Davis traded in the scenes of the Little Rock campus for the opportunity to navigate the corridors of the U.S. Capitol as a Senate Page this spring.

Davis served as one of 28 Senate Pages who prepared the U.S. Senate chamber for the day’s business by distributing documents to senators’ desks, assisting in the cloakrooms, supporting chamber staff, and – when Congress was in session – sitting near the dais waiting to help members delivering remarks or casting votes.

“It has been an absolute privilege to serve as a Senate Page. My time in the Senate gave me an experience that has truly grown my knowledge of the U.S. government and Congress especially. I’m honored to have contributed to the workings of our government in its day-to-day operation, and I will always look back fondly on this program and how much it taught me,” Davis said.

The 17-year-old rising senior from Arkansas’s capital city earned her appointment to the position from U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR).

“I’m proud of the work Juliana did to support the Senate. She had a front-row seat to a unique lesson on American government that I am hopeful will encourage a lifetime of civic engagement. Arkansans can be proud to have been represented by her in this prestigious program,” Boozman said.

Davis is an accomplished student and leader who aspires to study foreign relations or business upon graduating from Pulaski Academy. She is active in several extracurricular activities including the cross country team as well as the Chinese and Spanish clubs. She also served as junior yearbook editor.

Juliana is the daughter of Cory and Dinah Davis.

The Senate Page program started in 1829 when Senator Daniel Webster appointed the first Senate Page. Today, the program is a unique, highly selective opportunity for high school juniors with a strong academic standing to learn firsthand about the institution often referred to as “the world’s greatest deliberative body.”

June 14, 2024

Farm Bill Framework Delivers for Agriculture Producers

I’ve talked with farmers, ranchers and agriculture industry stakeholders in our state and across the country to gather their input and priorities for the next farm bill. Now we’ve put those ideas on paper and are making progress toward passage of this crucial legislation.

The House Agriculture Committee approved a bipartisan farm bill last month that meets the needs of farmers, ranchers, foresters, rural communities and consumers across America. Republicans on the Senate Agriculture Committee are building on that momentum with the release of our own farm bill framework in recent days.

Our plan supplies additional resources for the tools farmers rely upon, and are calling for us to invest in, while ensuring we promote new markets and research in addition to protecting nutrition programs and conservation practices.

Arkansas farmers have been able to point to their positive trade balance in agriculture as a source of pride for the better part of the last 50 years as they worked to feed, clothe and fuel the world. Unfortunately, this administration’s refusal to engage on the issue has created an agricultural trade imbalance that is projected to reach record heights and is showing no signs of slowing.

We increase funding for the farm bill’s premiere trade programs to help increase our competitiveness overseas.

University of Arkansas System Vice President for Agriculture Dr. Deacue Fields testified before the committee in 2022 about the importance of agriculture research.

Agricultural research programs spur innovation and productivity allowing farmers to produce more while using less and in an environmentally friendly manner, even as threats from pests, diseases and unpredictable weather become more common.

Our framework represents a strong commitment to supporting that work.

I’ve been blessed to see how Natural State research is shaping the industry. Under the GOP proposal, agricultural research funding would double, which would be welcome news for our land-grant institutions and colleges of agriculture that conduct groundbreaking research. I’m particularly pleased to advocate for continuation of the 1890 National Scholars Program, which would directly impact the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff.

We also make a historic investment in the conservation title while ensuring programs remain locally-led and flexible. Our plan increases funding in the conservation title with a focus on empowering producers to make the best decisions to meet the resource concerns of their operations.

More than half of Arkansas counties lost population according to the last census. These communities must have the modern infrastructure necessary to attract and retain talent. Our framework offers help to rural areas by making significant investments in small business development, broadband expansion, water and energy infrastructure programs, as well as funds to increase access to rural healthcare, childcare and public safety.

Most importantly, we are putting more farm in the farm bill by guaranteeing a modernized farm safety net so we can deliver access to risk management tools that reflect the nature of the challenges our producers are operating under.

Our farmers, ranchers, foresters, consumers, lenders and other stakeholders helped us fashion a farm bill that meets their varying needs.

The agriculture committee has demonstrated we can come together to tackle important legislation. I have been proud to partner with Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) to shepherd significant reforms into law on priority issues, particularly in the climate and nutrition spaces. There is no reason we can’t harness the same spirit of bipartisanship and advance a bill that supports our farmers and rural communities.

I look forward to taking our two frameworks, forging a bipartisan farm bill and passing it into law.

June 14, 2024

Boozman Awarded for Hunger Action and Modernizing Summer Meals Programs

WASHINGTON – The Congressional Hunger Center honored U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) for leading passage of legislation to ensure kids have access to healthy, nutritious meals during the summer with the organization’s prestigious Bill Emerson and Mickey Leland Hunger Leadership Award.

As ranking member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, Boozman worked with Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) to modernize U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) summer meal programs and permanently allow states flexibilities to reach more food-insecure children in need in addition to authorizing a national summer electronic benefit (EBT) program to eligible families. The pair’s measure was included in a funding package signed into law in December 2022.

“The struggle many families have putting food on the table continues beyond the school year. Senator Stabenow and I recognized USDA’s summer meal program was in desperate need of modernization and worked together to make meaningful updates so children have more opportunities to access healthy food during the summer,” Boozman said. “I’m pleased to accept this award and am committed to ensuring that our nutrition programs remain strong and accessible to Americans in their time of need.”

As a member of the Senate Hunger Caucus, Boozman is working to combat the global food security crisis. The senator is championing bipartisan legislation that creates an innovative approach to tackle the growing international challenge by leveraging private sector dollars to improve food systems.

The Congressional Hunger Center is a bipartisan, nonprofit organization that works to make domestic and international hunger issues a priority to government officials and educates future leaders on ways to fight against hunger.

The Bill Emerson and Mickey Leland Hunger Leadership Award is named after Congressional leaders who spent their careers fighting hunger and poverty. Honorees are chosen for their significant contributions to combating hunger in the United States and overseas. They exemplify the determination necessary to make hunger and poverty a focal point in the United States and within Congress.

June 10, 2024

Boozman Shares Memories of River Valley Army Veteran

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) recognized the service of Keith Greene in ‘Salute to Veterans,’ a series highlighting the military service of Arkansans.

Keith Greene was born in Jackson County, Missouri where he and his siblings grew up working in their dad’s grocery business. He remembered working hard from an early age with the rest of his family.

Greene enrolled in junior college after graduating high school in 1960, but quickly realized he didn’t enjoy the class schedule or continuing to work for his dad.

“I thought, you know, it’s time to make a change,” he recalled before enlisting in the Army in September 1961.

He was sent to Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, for basic training. Although it was in the same state, Greene remembered it being very different from his life at home.

“It was an adventure because you never knew what the next day was going to bring,” he said. “It really opened my eyes.”

He learned a lot from the experienced soldiers around him who served in WWII and the Korean War and was reminded in simple ways of what they had endured. One day he noticed the holes in the used field training jacket he had been given and asked if it was eaten by a moth. He learned they were bullet holes. “That stuck with me,” he said.

Greene also found that the skills he learned in his family’s business could help him in the Army, especially his ability to drive a truck. He had a chauffeur’s license and was frequently assigned to haul people all over the base. He remembered being thankful the job allowed him to get out of kitchen patrol duty.

After basic training, he remained at Fort Leonard Wood for wheeled vehicle mechanic school.

“That’s the Army’s thinking, you know, they’re going to let you fix something,” he said.

His first assignment after school was with the First Aviation Company at Fort Benning, Georgia, today known as Fort Moore.

The base became a hub for planning America’s response to the Cuban Missile Crisis and he put his truck driving skills to use again while stationed there. “We were just constantly picking up people coming in from all over the country. High-ranking brass and everybody that was involved with planning this invasion,” he said.

During his time in Georgia he struck up a friendship with a commander who flew a helicopter and encouraged him to apply for flight school. Greene was accepted, but wasn’t successful in becoming an Army aviator. “I got over that,” he said given the high number of casualties of helicopter pilots in Vietnam.

Greene’s next duty station was Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. “That was a neat place,” he recollected.

Once on base, his driving skills were noted when a commander looked at his records and Greene was assigned to serve as his driver.

In Hawaii he found himself closer to the war and able to follow news about what was happening in Vietnam. “We all kind of stayed in tune to things, the day room had TVs, we saw the news all the time.” It was also where he learned of the death of President Kennedy.

In February of 1964 Greene said an alert came down to board up everything and he was airlifted to Okinawa, Japan. He then unloaded ships of refurbished equipment and drove up into the mountains where he stayed for several weeks.

He said the trip was dangerous despite the reporting he read in an issue of Army Times that detailed the successful mission.

“I mean we had all kinds of troubles with this stuff from the way they stored it on the ships,” Green also recalled tanks and trucks sliding off the road because they went through a snowstorm in the mountains.

After completing his military service, Greene started a career in poultry distribution. He used the skills he learned from his dad to excel as a poultry salesman and eventually became a successful business owner.

Although he did not fly for the Army, his earlier interest in aviation led him to pursue a private pilot’s license, which he used throughout his career. He owned many airplanes over the years and turned his passion into community service by introducing young people to aviation at the local Boys and Girls Club.

Greene’s lifelong commitment to service included serving as the Mayor of Alma, Arkansas for several years and working with many veteran-related organizations. He continues to engage his fellow veterans as an active member of the American Legion, Military Officers Association of America and through his involvement in the Arkansas Military Veterans’ Hall of Fame.

One of his top priorities has been to recognize the service of his fellow veterans.

“That has really been something that I have found really interesting and looking at their individual stories of what they did. People don’t realize what they’ve experienced, what they’ve done. It’s got ahold of me. I was glad I got on there and I’m still on,” Greene said about his work on the hall of fame.

Today he is continuing his efforts in support of veterans by helping create a statewide Arkansas Veterans Coalition to be a voice in the Arkansas Legislature for men and women called to military service.

“I enjoyed the Army, I really did and I think part of it was the fact that I was able to move around quite a bit during the time I was in,” he said about his service.

“I’m grateful for Keith Greene’s service to our country in uniform and his continued commitment to public service and recognizing the unique experiences of veterans. I’m pleased to preserve his memories of a lifetime devoted to helping others,” Boozman said.

Boozman will submit Greene’s entire interview to the Veterans History Project, an initiative of the Library of Congress’s American Folklife Center to collect and retain the oral histories of our nation’s veterans.

Do you know a veteran interested in sharing their memories for the Salute to Veterans series? Nominate an Arkansas veteran to share their story by calling Boozman’s Fort Smith office at 479-573-0189.

June 7, 2024

Commemorating D-Day 80 Years Later

World War II was a generation-defining event. Perhaps no aspect was more significant than the invasion of Normandy, also known as D-Day, on June 6, 1944.

Eighty years since the massive undertaking codenamed Operation Overlord – which saw five naval assault divisions descend on the beaches of France including 7,000 ships and landing craft manned by over 195,000 naval personnel to transport 133,000 Allied troops – we still marvel at the scope and scale of this surprise attack that marked a turning point for the war’s European theater.

As time marches forward and more of the heroes who served in this assault pass on, there are fewer and fewer opportunities to hear firsthand what it was like to be part of such a tragic yet triumphant and strategically key moment. That’s why I firmly believe in highlighting this occasion and helping teach new generations of Americans about the sacrifices it required.

I was proud to author and lead passage of a resolution commemorating the historic operation and expressing the Senate’s gratitude and appreciation to the members of the U.S. Armed Forces and Allied troops responsible for carrying out this unprecedented maneuver that proved decisive in securing victory against Nazi Germany.

Every year brings an opportunity to reflect on and honor this hallowed anniversary, recommit to educate our children and grandchildren about its importance and acknowledge the individuals who played their part in the epic battle for the future of freedom.

As Arkansans, we can be incredibly proud of the connections our state has to the courage and heroism that characterized so many stories from that day. Private First Class Harold Eugene Sellers of Jonesboro, a star athlete who passed up a football scholarship to the University of Arkansas to serve in the 101st Army Airborne, is one such example.

He was among the first casualties on D-Day when, while serving as a pathfinder marking the drop zone for his fellow paratroopers, he landed in a tree and was targeted by German machine guns. Sellers was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart and a Bronze Star.

William Toombs of North Little Rock was a flight engineer and gunner aboard a B-24 aircraft who also took part in the operation. In fact, it was his first mission, and he still remembers the sight of the massive invading force below on the sea and alongside him in the skies.

They and thousands of other American and Allied soldiers played a significant role in liberating France and the wider European continent, which these citizens and their descendants still acknowledge today. I have been fortunate to witness the eternal gratitude on display for our World War II veterans when they return to the shores and villages they reclaimed from German occupation. Those special and moving scenes will never fade.

It has been a true privilege to participate in ceremonies at Normandy for the 75th and 80th anniversaries of D-Day, meeting these members of the Greatest Generation who defended freedom and changed the course of history, with many then returning home to lead normal, quiet lives and rebuild our own country.

This group of ordinary people who did extraordinary things must never be forgotten. Who they were, what they did and the sacrifices they made are all worth our deepest reverence. It is our duty to remember and honor their legacies, but also to live and serve in a manner worthy of their example.

On behalf of all Arkansans, I will always be proud to help carry on their memories and share their stories.

June 5, 2024

Senate Approves Boozman-Coons Resolution Commemorating 80^th Anniversary of D-Day 

 
WASHINGTON – In advance of the 80^th anniversary of D-Day, the U.S. Senate passed a resolution introduced by U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Chris Coons (D-DE), co-chairs of the Senate French Caucus, commemorating this historic operation and expressing gratitude and appreciation to the members of the U.S. Armed Forces and Allied troops responsible for carrying out this unprecedented maneuver that proved decisive in securing victory in Europe.

“It is our duty to recognize the service and sacrifice of the Allied forces members who helped turn the tide of World War II and free Western Europe from Nazi occupation. We will never forget the courage and heroism of those who took part in D-Day, including the thousands of individuals who gave their lives in support of this mission,” Boozman said. “I’m grateful the Senate approved the resolution commemorating the 80^th anniversary of the D-Day invasion so we can pay tribute to the brave members of the Greatest Generation who changed the course of history.”

“The Normandy landings were more than a battle in World War II–they were a turning point in history when thousands of Allied soldiers gave their lives to help freedom and democracy triumph over fascism and darkness. 80 years later, the Senate is proud to remember and honor the heroism and incredible bravery of those men who stormed the beaches of Normandy and began the liberation of Western Europe from Nazi oppression,” Coons said.

In the early morning hours of June 6, 1944, 31,000 members of the United States Armed Forces, and 153,000 of their counterparts in the Allied Expeditionary Force, launched Operation Overlord by storming ashore five landing areas on the beaches of Normandy, France. The first day of the operation, which became known as D-Day, saw approximately 10,000 Allied soldiers wounded or killed, including 6,000 Americans. Operation Overlord led to Allied liberation of Western Europe from the control of Nazi Germany and an end to World War II.

Click here to read the resolution.

May 31, 2024

Recovering and Rebuilding

The sound of chainsaws has temporarily replaced the roar of traffic and other noises of daily life in locations across northern Arkansas. Communities are working to clear debris, recover and rebuild after severe storms and tornadoes recently tore through the state.

Seeing the tragic results of Mother Nature’s power never gets easier. Unfortunately, Arkansans have experienced the daunting challenge of recovery in the aftermath of natural disasters. Natural State residents are known to have an unbreakable spirit. As in the past, they are standing together in the face of this hardship to build back stronger.

In the last several days I’ve witnessed families, neighbors and business owners come together to move downed trees, provide meals and find ways to help comfort friends and strangers in need.

The heart of our state is its people. There is nothing more Arkansas than dropping everything to support those facing a tragedy. The acts of kindness are abundant.

We are blessed to have local restaurants, entrepreneurs and businesses giving back. A downtown Rogers restauranteur whose home and businesses were mostly undamaged gave out hot dogs, burgers, drinks and snacks. More than 400 meals were handed out at the Benton County district court building and additional downtown shops are sharing what they can with volunteers and families without power or who’ve lost their homes.

That spirit can be found in other areas of the state. In Baxter County, after distributing food and water in the community, members of the Salesville Volunteer Fire Department were treated to local Mexican food from a small business owner. The Food Bank of North Central Arkansas packed boxes of food to distribute to families impacted by the storms.

I am grateful for first responders for their quick action to save lives and rescue folks trapped in their homes and administer first aid. I appreciate the leadership of local and state emergency management officials who helped mobilize immediate response efforts as they continue to manage the recovery process and delivery of assistance.

The coordination and collaboration with all levels of government is crucial at a time like this. As we work closely on various aspects of the response, I appreciated the opportunity to join Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Congressman Steve Womack and emergency management officials including Federal Emergency Management Agency Administrator Deanne Criswell to assess damage. Having an open line of communication as issues arise is important to the long-term success of these efforts.

We’re using every resource in our toolbox to support the immediate needs of our state. That includes the governor authorizing the Arkansas National Guard to help with recovery efforts in Benton County and distribute potable water, as well as urging the president’s approval for the governor’s request for a federal disaster declaration to deliver critical relief.

As crews clean up from this disaster, we can be proud of the willingness of Natural State residents to lend a helping hand to our neighbors and communities facing a long road to recovery. Arkansans have been in this position before and it’s demonstrated who we are as compassionate, caring folks eager to serve one another. More than anything else, that is what will carry us to a successful recovery and rebuilding of homes, businesses and lives. Please continue to keep all those impacted in your prayers.

May 29 2024

Arkansas Delegation Supports Governor’s Request for Major Disaster Declaration 

WASHINGTON— U.S. Senators John Boozman and Tom Cotton—along with Congressmen Steve Womack, Rick Crawford, French Hill and Bruce Westerman—wrote to President Joe Biden urging him to support Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders’ request for a major disaster declaration as a result of severe storms in Benton, Boone and Marion Counties on May 26.

“We encourage the president to quickly approve federal aid to help speed up recovery efforts in Arkansas,” members said.

The letter can be found here and below:

Dear Mr. President:

On behalf of the State of Arkansas, we are writing to support Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders’ request to declare a major disaster, pursuant to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief Act, as a result of severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding that began on May 24, 2024, and are continuing.

As Governor Sanders noted in her request, the severity of this event created disastrous amounts of debris, severe infrastructure damage, and resulted in the deaths of at least nine citizens and injured countless others. Arkansans will continue to feel the destructive impact of this storm as we work to rebuild.

Preliminary damage estimates conducted by the Federal Emergency Management Agency show major impacts to local jurisdictions in Benton, Boone, and Marion Counties exceeding an estimated $6.4 million in damages. At least 217 homes were destroyed with an additional 94 sustaining major damage. In total, over 478 homes were affected by the storms, leaving a large number of Arkansans displaced and many counties left without power for days.

Despite facing significant hardships from the severe storm, Arkansans have demonstrated remarkable resourcefulness and resilience. Communities from across the state have come together to support one another during this challenging time. But as it stands, we believe the magnitude of this weather event warrants supplemental federal assistance. The above-mentioned counties have seen homes, businesses, and important infrastructure severely damaged, and federal government resources will be critical in restoration efforts.

The entire Arkansas delegation is eager to assist in any way possible to ensure expedited evaluation of this request. Please do not hesitate to contact our offices with any questions. We thank you for your support, and respectfully ask for your attention and assistance in providing the resources necessary to ensure the safety and full recovery of Arkansans.

May 24, 2024

Fulfilling a Basic Duty to Arkansans

I am honored to serve Arkansas in the United States Senate. A critical part of that responsibility is casting votes on the Senate floor, but another key component that often falls below the radar is helping bridge gaps between Natural State residents and the federal government. Interacting with federal officials can be overwhelming and time consuming, but my staff and I are here to help make that process easier for constituents in need of answers regarding critical benefits and services.

From the IRS to Social Security, Medicare, Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), international adoption, visas and many other issues, our office has successfully helped navigate the roadblocks with government agencies and we continue working on behalf of Arkansans all across our state with our time and resources.

In the first quarter of 2024, we received more than 700 requests for assistance with federal matters. Annually, the top issues Arkansans seek our support on are veteran-related, with frequent inquiries about Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) disability, benefits claims and health care.

One veteran’s spouse reached out when her husband needed urgent medical care. My staff alerted the proper Little Rock VA officials about this emergency and medical center employees worked with the family to deliver the care and treatment he needed.

Already, 342 requests have been made this year for help with military records and service medals.

The daughter of a Korean War veteran ran into dead ends trying to get her father’s military records and learn if he was eligible for the Purple Heart. My office was honored to help obtain his records and get the Purple Heart verified in time to honor his service and sacrifice as part of his 95th birthday celebration.

I’m pleased we were able to cut through that red tape for this Arkansan and thousands of others who have served in our nation’s uniform, and I look forward to helping many more.

But our assistance extends beyond the VA. We recently aided a constituent experiencing a social security problem when, even after filing the correct paperwork, the result was an unreasonably long processing time. My team contacted the agency and asked employees to look into the delay, which generated quick action to resolve the problem. This is hardly an isolated incident, as this year we’ve received 90 requests for assistance with Social Security issues.

These and numerous other examples of constituent service don’t make headlines, but they do make a real difference in the lives of individual Arkansans. In the coming days I’ll be sharing on social media testimonials of how our outreach has helped facilitate, expedite or correct veteran’s benefits, emergency passports, Social Security Disability Insurance, military service medals and many others.

My highest priority is making sure the federal government is working for Arkansans. That means providing the best possible constituent service and helping get answers for Natural State residents. I’m proud of the work of my staff as they use their years of experience in these matters to advocate for the people of our state. Can we help you? Consider reaching out to us if there is a matter you’re trying to resolve involving the federal government.

May 17, 2024

Exploring National Parks this Summer

Summer is quickly approaching and Arkansans are looking for places to explore away from home. Our national parks have always been popular destinations and some folks are crowdsourcing for ideas about locations to visit and things to do at these outdoor gems.

America’s National Parks continue to see a record number of visitors. The National Park Service (NPS) reported a four percent increase last year with more than 325 million visits. Arkansans planning a summer road trip to any of our national treasures are encouraged to plan ahead to make sure they have the opportunity to see everything on their wish list.

As a result of the increasing demand, more locations require reservations for timed entry. At some parks, this is only for the most popular sites and peak times. However, many of our busiest parks require reservations for all park-goers as officials try to better manage resources and make sure visitors get to experience the full beauty and history of these important places.

Be sure to check out the reservation system used by many of our parks, campgrounds and historic sites across the country at www.recreation.gov. This site handles everything from a day pass at Rocky Mountain National Park to tour reservations at Blanchard Springs Caverns in Arkansas. Available dates are rolled out at different times, so check back frequently. In addition, some parks and campgrounds still handle their own booking, so be sure to check this website and the specific webpage for the destination.

For outdoor enthusiasts planning to spend a lot of time in the national parks, it’s worth considering getting an annual or lifetime pass to sites managed by NPS. These range in price, but are less expensive for individuals 62 and older. Congress also recently passed a law making them free for veterans, Gold Star Families, active-duty military and their dependents, Americans with permanent disabilities and fourth graders nationwide.

Additionally, NPS offers several free entrance days during the year for all national park visitors. The remaining days in 2024 are June 19, August 4, September 28 and November 11.

Arkansans opting for a staycation or a long weekend close to home are blessed with easy access to beautiful state and federal parks, forests and historic sites – many of which are free to visit. The National Historic Site in Fort Smith recently announced it is now fee-free so families can enjoy the museum and walk around the grounds on the banks of the Arkansas River at no cost.

I have been proud to help deliver significant investments for the upkeep of public lands alongside most of my colleagues as we approved initiatives such as the bipartisan Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA). The measure became law in 2020 and is now supporting the repair backlog in our national parks and public lands infrastructure nationwide including locations in Arkansas.

Hot Springs National Park received GAOA funds to make two more historic bathhouse buildings more accessible, safe and energy efficient, which will allow the park to lease the buildings to private business.

In Fort Smith, funding from GAOA was used for preservation and restoration on the historic Commissary Building at the National Historic Site.

Documentarian Ken Burns calls the national parks “America’s best idea.” These jewels of our country’s landscape are settings perfect for exploring and learning. We’re working to protect and enhance them so Arkansans can plan to visit these popular destinations on summer vacations and experience the unique offerings they hold for years to come.

May 17, 2024

Boozman Honored by Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America

WASHINGTON – Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) honored U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) with its 2024 Leadership in Government Award in recognition of his advocacy for policies to improve the services and benefits veterans and their families have earned.

“I’m proud to work with IAVA to ensure we fulfill the promises made to the men and women who served in uniform. We’ve been able to accomplish landmark improvements for women veterans and toxic-exposed veterans thanks to the dedicated support of IAVA members. I appreciate this honor and look forward to continuing our collaboration to make meaningful improvements in the lives of these unsung heroes,” Boozman said.

“Senator John Boozman has been a leader on behalf of the post-9/11 generation of veterans as he has answered our calls for action over and over again,” said IAVA CEO Allison Jaslow. “When IAVA put rocket fuel into the conversation about the need to address issues facing women veterans when we launched our She Who Borne the Battle campaign in 2017, Senator Boozman stepped up. He helped deliver a big win for women veterans after working hand in hand with us to craft the Deborah Sampson Act, which is now law, and a huge win for all veterans who’ve experienced toxic exposure thanks to his leadership that contributed to passage of the PACT Act. It’s an honor to recognize Senator Boozman’s efforts on behalf of my generation of veterans, and IAVA’s more than 425,000 members, with our 2024 Leadership in Government award.”

As a senior member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee and Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee responsible for Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) funding, Boozman has been a leader in delivering additional resources to support the needs of veterans and their families.

The senator has championed a number of significant improvements that were signed into law in recent years to enhance or expand veterans benefits including transformational legislation expanding VA health care to toxic-exposed veterans of all eras and strengthening VA care and services for women veterans.

May 3, 2024

Investments in Arkansas Treatment Courts Save Lives 

Arkansans advocating for issues important to them regularly come to Washington to participate in Hill Day, a time to meet with their senators and representatives and encourage them to support their policy goals. The message I share with the groups meeting with Members of Congress is to personalize their visits with stories about how rules and regulations impact their operations and customers as well as how what they do enhances the community and improves their state. It’s especially moving to hear from individuals who share their personal experiences to demonstrate the need for action and why their proposed solutions are warranted.

Arkansas Circuit Court Judge Thomas Smith administers the Benton County treatment courts, an initiative that offers drug-addicted, non-violent offenders an alternative to jail while rehabilitating them through a strenuous treatment program. The judge recently introduced me to Kyra, a graduate of the drug court.

Kyra said she tested the program, and when she saw the drug court staff believed in her, it gave her the confidence to believe in herself. This changed her outlook and ultimately helped her overcome her struggles with addiction and turn her life around. Now she’s inspiring others in Benton County on their own path to recovery. We can be proud of Kyra’s accomplishment and her continued leadership in the fight against drug addiction.

Judge Smith and Kyra’s stories highlighted the success of Benton County treatment courts and provided justification for enhanced investment. Arkansas is fortunate to be experiencing the benefits of this program. In Benton County the treatment courts have an 85 percent graduation rate. One graduate called it a “blessing” that can change your life.

For more than two decades, drug courts have proven effective in helping break the cycle of addiction. Nationwide, more than 4,000 treatment courts help 150,000 individuals annually. This approach has become a critical tool for the judicial system that is cost-effective and cuts crime, with data showing treatment courts have reduced crime by 58 percent.

I’ve had the opportunity to attend a drug court graduation. The optimism and pride on display from graduates and families is inspiring. It represents a turning point in a long journey, where the search for a solution once seemed hopeless – but treatment courts deliver a path for a brighter future. They help keep families together and break the generational cycle of addiction.

Throughout Arkansas more than 100 specialty court programs target drug and substance abuse for people of all ages and populations. This idea has expanded to veterans and mental health. Last year, the Arkansas Legislature approved allowing judges to establish family treatment. These courts provide treatment and accountability to parents with substance use disorders while prioritizing the well-being of their children.

May is recognized as National Treatment Court Month. This is a time to highlight the positive impact this alternative approach to drug and substance abuse has on our communities by leading people out of the justice system and into long-term recovery.

Changing the habits of Arkansans and guiding people like Kyra to a second chance at life through this commonsense method are great outcomes. Treatment court graduates are living proof there is still hope for those struggling to overcome addiction. I’m proud to advocate for resources that sustain and expand this critical program as it improves public safety, helps conserve taxpayer dollars and, most importantly, saves lives.

May 2, 2024

VIDEO: Boozman, Cotton Pay Tribute to Former Senator David Pryor

Click here to watch the Senate tribute to David Pryor

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Tom Cotton (R-AR) spoke on the Senate floor honoring the life of former Arkansas Governor and U.S. Senator David Pryor.

“Every interaction with David Pryor conveyed that he cared and that he wanted to help. That posture certainly worked to his advantage over decades in public life,” Boozman said. “Senator Pryor leaves behind a legacy of public service rich with accomplishments that made a difference in the lives of Arkansans and people all across our country. He modeled statesmanship and stewardship so incredibly well, and we celebrate everything he represented.” 

“David Pryor led Arkansas through recession and recovery and left an enduring legacy on state government. He fought for what he believed would make Arkansas better. I join with Senator Boozman in honoring former-Senator Pryor—a great Arkansan, statesman and dedicated public servant,” said Cotton.

On Thursday, the Senate passed a resolution honoring the life and legacy of the late senator.

May 2, 2024

Boozman, Cotton Applaud Senate Confirmation of Gary Grimes to Serve as U.S. Marshal

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Tom Cotton (R-AR) applauded Senate confirmation of Gary Grimes to serve as U.S. Marshal for the Western District of Arkansas.

“Gary Grimes has dedicated his career to public safety. I am confident he will continue to serve Arkansas with the same honor and distinction he has demonstrated as a law enforcement officer. I congratulate Gary on his new role as U.S. Marshal,” Boozman said.

“As U.S. Marshal, Gary Grimes will continue to diligently serve the state of Arkansas, just as he has done for decades. I congratulate him on his confirmation and wish him the best in his new role,” Cotton said.

Since 2011, Grimes has served as the principal owner of Grimes & Associates, LLC, a law enforcement, security and government affairs consultancy. Grimes has a worked in a number of law enforcement capacities including as Liaison to Law Enforcement and Emergency Management for Arkansas Governor Mike Beebe from 2007 to 2011. Prior to that role Grimes served as a law enforcement officer in Missouri, Oklahoma and Arkansas including as the Sheriff of Sebastian County from 1989 to 1999.

April 26, 2024

Celebrating Arkansas Small Businesses

Small businesses play an integral role in the growth and development of our communities. They are the backbone of our economy and represent core values that are at the heart of America – hard work, risk-taking and success. Each year we recognize their important contributions to our state and nation during National Small Business Week.

Small businesses saturate our communities, but launching, operating and growing them is no small feat. The lifeblood is capital, but it also takes mentorship, expertise and a lot of thankless work.

As part of events commemorating National Small Business Week from April 28-May 4, the U.S. Small Business Administration highlights entrepreneurs from across the country for their determination and contributions to our economy in an awards ceremony in the nation’s capital.

Arkansas entrepreneur Lynette West is our state’s Small Business Person of the Year for 2024. The Jonesboro business owner operates HealthWear Corporation, a boutique business that offers medical uniforms and accessories.

Her hands-on approach has helped create a welcoming and friendly atmosphere in the store, attracting a loyal customer base. As a result of her leadership, HealthWear has received recognition not only for its stellar reputation among clientele, but also for the quality of its products, including an award for best uniform from Premiere Magazine in northeast Arkansas. These accolades and West’s pursuit of support and mentorship have helped her guide the business through challenges and opportunities alike.

It’s important for West and other entrepreneurs to have access to capital so they can invest in their operations and workforce. We must advance policies that encourage borrowers and lenders, not make it harder to access the resources necessary to sustain or expand a venture.

In our economic system we know there are risks, and some protection from them is necessary, but the Biden administration is proposing and implementing regulations that are actually hurting small businesses and the banks and credit unions that support them.

At a time when capital has quickly become more expensive, regulators are adding to the problem and discouraging banks from lending. This ultimately deters investment and growth in our small businesses.

I’m proud to lead legislation to turn back overreach and preserve access to capital. The Small Lender Act addresses concerns about a Consumer Financial Protection Bureau rule which would require lenders to solicit social factors from small business borrowers and divulge it to federal bureaucrats in Washington. While discrimination of any form is wrong, this rule would prioritize social factors over creditworthiness in small business lending, place additional red tape on lenders and making it harder for businesses to obtain critical financing.

The Small Lender Act would remove this red tape for certain lenders and small business borrowers, making it easier for capital to get to the enterprises that depend on it the most.

Companion legislation is sponsored by Arkansas Congressman French Hill. Natural State small businesses owners, and our family, friends and neighbors who establish or are employed by them, can be proud knowing we are working to improve policies to support their success.

Our state is home to more than 258,000 small businesses that employ more than 500,000 people. By supporting Arkansas and American small businesses, we can help revitalize our economy and strengthen the operations that underpin it. I’m proud to advance and promote pro-growth and pro-job policies that create an environment of certainty for job creators to plan for the future and enhance their operations.

April 24, 2024

Boozman Votes to Approve National Security Assistance Package

Legislation Supports U.S. Allies, Invests in Arkansas’s Defense Industry

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) released the following statement after voting to approve legislation that supports America’s allies, serves our national security interests and bolsters the domestic defense industrial base:

“American leadership is the most effective tool to deter conflict and promote the values that advance global stability and prosperity, particularly when the world is more dangerous now than in decades. We cannot ignore or minimize rising threats and must support our allies directly confronting them – as this national security package does. By countering Russian, Chinese and Iranian aggression, we are emboldening the allies of freedom and making strategic investments in our own defense capabilities, including through vital arms manufacturing operations in Camden, Arkansas.”

April 15, 2024

More Farm in the Farm Bill

I’ve been on the road visiting with farmers, ranchers, foresters, rural community leaders and nutrition specialists since we began undertaking the daunting task of writing a new farm bill.

At the invitation of my colleagues, I’ve traveled across the country to hear directly from stakeholders as to what we need to include in this contract between Congress and our nation’s agriculture community. In fact, I just joined Senator John Thune in his home state of South Dakota for my 19th farm bill listening session this month.

While we’ve received plenty of valuable input at every stop, there has been a reoccurring theme from the outset when I joined Senator John Hoeven in North Dakota for my very first listening session.

The takeaway from that event has been echoed across the countryside and in meetings throughout Washington – “we need more farm in the farm bill.”

As the Republican leader of the Senate Agriculture Committee, I am committed to making that happen. This next farm bill must update the risk management tools farmers and ranchers need to succeed in order to reflect the nature of the challenges under which they operate today. That means we must invest in modernizing the outdated reference prices that are used within commodity programs and making crop insurance more affordable and accessible.

Because here’s the reality – producers are experiencing unprecedented challenges, regulatory uncertainty and historic volatility in the farm economy, all of which are projected to get worse.

Historic inflation, rising interest rates, a record trade deficit, devastating natural disasters and global disruptions will make it more difficult for our farmers to succeed in the years to come.

My Republican colleagues on the committee and I intend to release our vision for how we can meet the call to put “more farm in the farm bill.”

One key provision of our framework has already been introduced.

I recently joined Sen. Hoeven and others to introduce the Federal Agriculture Risk Management Enhancement and Resilience (FARMER) Act which seeks to improve crop insurance affordability and accessibility by increasing premium support for the highest levels of coverage and enhancing the Supplemental Coverage Option.

I commend my colleague’s leadership in introducing the FARMER Act and proactively addressing the needs of farmers and ranchers who have asked for improvements to the federal crop insurance program.

This bill includes critical components to modernizing the farm safety net for producers across all regions and all commodities. The strength of this approach is underscored by the endorsement of over 20 grassroots organizations representing the voices of farm families across the country.

We can pass a farm bill that strengthens commodity programs and crop insurance while also making improvements across every other title to meet our shared goals.

This isn’t an either-or decision.

The next farm bill provides an incredible opportunity to make things right for farmers, ranchers, rural communities and those in need.

Working together, we can protect and enhance voluntary conservation programs, provide investments needed to open new export markets and expand existing markets, build on research that allows our farmers to do more with less while reducing environmental impacts, protect the health of our nation’s herds and flocks, and help rural communities flourish and prosper.

Passing such a bill is never an easy task, but it’s one Congress has come together to accomplish time and again.

I believe we can, and will, do so here as well. I am proud to serve as a voice for farmers, ranchers, producers and rural communities, and will continue leading efforts to deliver the tools and resources they rely on and deserve.

April 5, 2024

Modernizing Federal Investment for Economic Development in Arkansas Communities

Investments by the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) in Arkansas are helping promote growth and progress that improve quality of life across our state. Already this year, grants to educate healthcare professionals in Newport, water infrastructure improvements in Trumann and tornado recovery efforts in Jonesboro have been awarded. I’m proud to advocate for these projects and enhancements to EDA so it can continue to boost economic success in Natural State communities.

The EDA has helped support a wide range of economic development projects since it was created in 1965, yet it’s been nearly 20 years since Congress reauthorized EDA. We must use this opportunity to update the agency’s programs and ensure it has the tools and resources to achieve its mission. I’m championing a legislative initiative to modernize and strengthen the vital services it provides.

My colleagues on the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee and I recently advanced the Economic Development Reauthorization Act of 2024. This legislation would reform some of the agency’s programs and authorize activities such as workforce development and disaster assistance.

I’m pleased this legislation includes a measure I advocated to specify EDA’s role in economic recovery for communities impacted by natural disasters.

Arkansans are too familiar with the devastation caused by Mother Nature. Each time our state has been impacted by weather events, the EDA’s leadership has been crucial to repairing, restoring and rebuilding in the aftermath. That’s why we need to formally designate an Office of Disaster Recovering and Resilience within the EDA, which would enable us to harness the institutional knowledge that can help expedite resources on the ground where the need is urgent.

Clearly defining its role in disasters will improve the federal response and long-term economic outcome for communities, families and businesses picking up the pieces.

The bipartisan legislation was created with stakeholder input from across the country. In his testimony to members of the EPW Committee last year, Little Rock Port Authority Executive Director Bryan Day shared how infrastructure investments made with EDA funds over the past two decades have attracted businesses to the port and directly resulted in more than $2.5 billion in capital investment in addition to the creation of more than 5,000 jobs.

We want more communities to compete for these funds and experience the same positive results. In order to accomplish this, we need to make the application process less tedious. Small, rural towns often struggle with the lack of expertise and manpower to dedicate the significant time needed to complete the paperwork. Keeping the process simple will help remedy that issue and increase participation.

That feedback is why this bill includes updates to the application process as well as affords technical assistance to applicants. These commonsense measures will open the door to more communities seeking funding for workforce training and infrastructure enhancements.

It’s time we reauthorize this program and modernize how the agency operates so we can strengthen its ability to respond to evolving challenges, meet changing economic conditions and continue to deliver critical resources to improve local economies. I look forward to applauding future grant announcements and congratulating Arkansas communities for their success in attracting these economic investments.

April 5, 2024

Boozman, Manchin, Budd Lead Bipartisan Resolution Honoring Gold Star Spouses

Commemoration Measure Passed Senate Unanimously in March

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Senate unanimously passed U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR), Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Ted Budd’s (R-NC) bipartisan resolution to designate today, April 5, 2024, as Gold Star Wives Day. The resolution honors the sacrifices made by the spouses and families of fallen members of the United States Armed Forces.

“The loved ones of our fallen servicemembers experience a sense of loss and grief that few will ever know. We must always commemorate their sacrifice while also honoring the incredible courage and resilience it demands of the spouses, children and parents left behind. This resolution helps extend to these Gold Star families the eternal gratitude they are owed by those of us who enjoy the freedoms so many American heroes have given their lives to protect,” said Boozman.

“We will never be able to repay our brave servicemen and women and their families who have paid the ultimate price to protect our beloved country. West Virginians and Americans are forever grateful to these heroic patriots, and I’m proud to lead this bipartisan resolution to designate April 5, 2024 as Gold Star Wives Day to honor their dedication and sacrifice. Gayle and I extend our deepest condolences and profound gratitude to every Gold Star family and spouse,” said Manchin.

“We are forever indebted to all those who lay down their lives to protect and defend us. We often forget the sacrifice that military families also bear. That’s why I’m proud to help pass a bipartisan resolution honoring Gold Star spouses. I would like to extend the gratitude and condolences of all North Carolinians to the spouses of those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country,” Budd said.

On April 5, 1945, First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt convened the first meeting of the Gold Star Wives of America, a congressionally-chartered nonprofit to acknowledge the incredible sacrifices of the families of those who died in service during World War II.

Boozman has also introduced bipartisan legislation that would adjust monthly benefits for family members and survivors of veterans who lost their lives in service to our country. The Caring for Survivors Act of 2023 will bring parity to payments for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) recipients, which currently lag behind other federal program payments by nearly 12 percent. The bill is supported by Gold Star Wives of America.

The full text of the resolution can be found here.

March 28, 2024

Opportunity Knocks During Eclipse

An exciting event in the sky is poised to make waves on the ground in Arkansas in just a few short days.

You may have already heard about the upcoming total solar eclipse that will cross North America on April 8. What you may not be following as closely is the economic and cultural effects this phenomenon is expected to generate for our state, and the preparation underway to maximize its impact.

A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and earth, completely blocking the face of the sun and causing the sky to darken as if at dawn or dusk. If the weather cooperates, the so-called path of totality set to blanket communities located in the center of the moon’s shadow will create a memorable spectacle that leaves little daylight visible for several minutes in the early afternoon.

Given that our state’s former nickname was “The Land of Opportunity,” it should be no surprise we are viewing this moment through a bigger lens.

This impending uncommon celestial experience has kickstarted a host of efforts to once again seize opportunity. Communities and leaders across the public and private sectors are preparing to host visitors to Arkansas eager to witness this natural sensation.

The excitement and enthusiasm are hard to escape. Even in the nation’s capital, I’ve had many conversations about the eclipse and the work underway to help ensure Arkansas is ready and able to handle the potential influx and any ramifications. The proactive approach being taken to make it as enjoyable, safe and beneficial as possible is something we can all take pride and assurance in.

With nearly two-thirds of Arkansas expected to be in the path of totality, Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has mobilized state agencies and officials to plan for the opportunities and complications ahead. The state Department of Transportation, Division of Emergency Management, tourism, education, health care and law enforcement organizations have all made preparations to account for potential disruptions or emergencies and execute best practices for an event such as this.

To be sure, there will be a variety of formats for Arkansans and our captive audience to choose from to behold the eclipse and the fanfare surrounding it.

Almost all of the Buffalo National River is inside the path of totality, and Hot Springs National Park is one of only two national parks located within this zone while several of our state parks are situated in areas with total or partial visibility. There will also be events in urban areas for onlookers to gather together and take in the scene. Newfound guests and residents alike will have their choice of how to enjoy not only the few minutes of mid-day darkness, but many other outstanding amenities, attractions and experiences available in Arkansas all year.

Our real goal in promoting and celebrating the total solar eclipse is actually for The Natural State to shine through as a premiere destination for all sorts of indoor and outdoor fun.

Like many Arkansans, I’m anxious to be on the ground in a community along the path of totality and soak up this rare, awe-filled moment. I’m equally excited for the all the hard work by countless individuals helping showcase our state to pay dividends on the big day and for months and years to come.

So, have your special glasses handy and make your plan to get the most out of The Great American Eclipse that, for a few minutes, will give any Arkansas sunrise or sunset a run for its money.

March 27, 2024

What They Are Saying: Boozman Secures Funding for Arkansas Priorities

WASHINGTON – Arkansans applauded the leadership of U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR), a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee and Ranking Member of the Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies (MilCon-VA) Subcommittee, for delivering funds to advance Natural State priorities in the six appropriations bills the president signed into law Saturday.

Here are how investments secured by Boozman will help Arkansas:

Lyon College School of Oral Health and Dental Medicine: The school will receive $15 million to boost dental education in Arkansas.

“The appropriation supporting the creation of Arkansas’ first dental school is a game-changer for Lyon College and for the state. Championed by Senator Boozman, this funding will support the continuing development of the Lyon College School of Oral Health and Dental Medicine. As we continue to meet benchmarks in our accreditation process with the American Dental Association’s Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) we anticipate admitting our first class of dental graduate students in fall 2025, enabling us to educate healthcare professionals from Arkansas for Arkansas and beyond. We are grateful for the partnership with Senator Boozman and his staff as we all continue to work to strengthen dental healthcare access and improve the quality of life for Arkansans.” – Lyon College President Melissa Taverner

University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff: The school will receive $15 million for a new nursing school building.

“On behalf of UAPB, I would like to express our gratitude to Senator Boozman for his commitment to this institution and to this region of the state. The significant funds he has brought to UAPB for this project will enable us to build a technologically advanced nursing school building that will strengthen the university’s role in addressing the nursing shortage and in developing and growing the health care workforce across our state.

The impact of the funding for this new innovative nursing school facility will be felt by the state for many years to come. Such a facility will attract quality students, faculty and staff, and it will enhance the overall quality of the student experience in the new learning environment. We appreciate the outstanding support Senator Boozman has given to our university.” – University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Chancellor Dr. Laurence Alexander

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS): The university will receive $20 million to support a rural Women and Infants Center to coordinate programs across the state for better health outcomes of mothers and babies, improve the Arkansas Milk Bank, enhance cancer screening technology and access in underserved areas, and advance digestive disease care.

“The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences is grateful to Senator John Boozman for his unwavering support of our efforts to improve the health and well-being of Arkansans. The funding included in this legislation will increase cancer education and screening in rural areas, allow us to make needed repairs to the building that houses Arkansas’s only milk bank, implement a program to reduce our state’s distressingly high infant mortality rates and open a new GI clinic in the Freeway Medical Center that is dedicated to improving digestive disease care. These projects will make a difference in the health of many Arkansans, and we would not be able to bring them to fruition without Sen. Boozman’s stewardship.” – UAMS Chancellor and Health CEO Cam Patterson, M.D., MBA

University of Arkansas Rich Mountain: The school will receive $12 million for an Allied Health Building for instructional purposes, lab simulations and community health.

“UA Rich Mountain will use these funds to construct an allied health science building that will allow us to update and increase our programming in health-related degree programs such as nursing and paramedic. Further, we plan to provide new programming in occupational and physical therapy, and medical lab technology. These certificates and degrees will allow us to graduate more students to meet the healthcare needs of western Arkansas. We are forever grateful to Senator Boozman for recognizing this need and shepherding it through the Congress.” – Dr. Phillip Wilson, Chancellor at UA Rich Mountain

Northwest Technical Institute: The school will receive $10 million for a medical education building to accommodate allied health and nursing programs.

“Northwest Technical Institute extends its gratitude to Senator Boozman for his invaluable support of the construction of a new medical education facility on the NWTI campus. This new facility will allow NWTI to expand its capacity to train aspiring professionals in crucial medical disciplines such as nursing, surgical technology, sterile processing and other vital entry-level healthcare careers. This increase in graduates will go a long way in closing the workforce gap in the region’s medical industry. Senator Boozman’s dedication to funding the development of this essential facility is deeply appreciated by all of us at NWTI.” – Dr. Jim Rollins, President of NWTI

Arkansas State University-Mountain Home: The university will receive $6 million to expand its healthcare education facility to enhance the health care workforce.

“Mountain Home is a regional destination for world-class healthcare services. Securing these funds will allow for expanded and enhanced nursing and allied health education to serve the growing health services needs in north central Arkansas. We appreciate Senator Boozman’s vision and leadership as he continues to focus on improving the lives of Arkansans.” – ASU-Mountain Home Chancellor Bentley Wallace

University of Arkansas at Little Rock MidSOUTH: The program will receive $5 million to support the Arkansas Youth Drug Use Reduction program.

“Senator Boozman has engaged UA Little Rock’s MidSOUTH Center to tackle the opioid crisis in Arkansas with critical funding. This initiative will deploy targeted interventions to lower youth drug use, leveraging local data and fostering cooperation among law enforcement, educators and prevention specialists. The goal is to build community resilience and stem substance misuse at its roots. We appreciate Senator Boozman’s efforts to fund this vital program, underscoring a significant commitment to safeguarding Arkansas youth and reducing statewide substance misuse.” – UA Little Rock Chancellor Christina Drale

City of North Little Rock: The city will receive $8 million for drainage improvements.

“North Little Rock’s economic development is expanding and will continue to grow as a result of funding for these projects. This will improve walkability for residents in the east part of the community including local neighborhood schools and improve drainage on East Bethany Road and Magnolia and Olive Streets in our downtown area. North Little Rock will now be able to continue enhancing infrastructure and attract new businesses throughout the city thanks to Senator Boozman’s leadership.” – Mayor Terry Hartwick

City of Heber Springs: The city will receive $4.7 million for stormwater improvements.

“These funds will allow the city to upgrade our wastewater treatment plant that was installed in 1983 without raising rates for our customers. We appreciate Senator Boozman’s leadership in supporting the needs of our community.” – Mayor Kasey Griffin

March 25, 2024

Boozman Delivers Key Funds for Arkansas Defense, Health, Education Projects

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Senate approved a legislative package of six appropriations bills that includes funding for Arkansas defense, health and education priorities championed by U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) including significant investment in the future pilot training mission in Fort Smith. The legislation was signed into law Saturday.

“I’m proud to deliver investments to Arkansas that support growth and development as well as improve the quality of life for Natural State residents. These bills will enhance health services access and workforce capabilities to deliver quality care in addition to expanding our state’s national defense contributions. Passing appropriations bills is a basic responsibility of Congress. I’m pleased we are finally getting them across the finish line so we can deliver the certainty federal agencies and the Americans who rely on them need, and begin considering our budget priorities for the next fiscal year,” Boozman said.

Boozman, a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee and Ranking Member of the Senate Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies (MilCon-VA), secured inclusion of the following Arkansas priorities in the final six Fiscal Year 2024 appropriations bills:

Health Care Resources and Education

• Invests $5 million for a Women and Infants Center at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) to coordinate programs across the state to reduce infant mortality.
• Boosts dental health education in Arkansas with $15 million to support the Lyon College School of Oral Health and Dental Medicine in Little Rock.
• Invests in future generations of nurses with $15 million to construct a new nursing school building at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff.
• Provides $12 million for an Allied Health Building at the University of Arkansas Rich Mountain for instructional purposes, lab simulations and community health.
• Allocates $10 million for a medical education building to accommodate allied health and nursing programs at Northwest Technical Institute.
• Promotes student career development at Shorter College with a $2 million investment in a Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM) Center.
• Funds $8 million for facilities and equipment at UAMS to improve digestive disease care in the state, with a focus on cancer detection.
• Enhances cancer screening capabilities in underserved areas by providing $4 million to purchase three mobile vans fitted with cancer screening equipment to access geographically difficult and underserved regions.
• Strengthens the UAMS milk bank with $3 million.

• Supplies $6 million to support the expansion of the Arkansas State University-Mountain Home healthcare education facility to develop the medical workforce.
• Allots $5 million for the University of Arkansas – Little Rock MidSOUTH Arkansas Youth Drug Use Reduction Program.
• Delivers robust funding for the National Institutes of Health with increased funding for the National Cancer Institute.
• Funds the Maternal and Child Health Block Grant and the Healthy Start Initiative to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates.
• Maintains vigorous funding for Community Health Centers to increase access to health care across Arkansas.
• Increases funding for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to support families in need.
• Expands funding for the Children’s Hospital Graduate Medical Education Program to support training pediatric providers and bolster the pediatric care workforce.
• Maintains funding for TRIO programs to assist first-generation, low-income students in attending college.
• Increased funding for Career and Technical Education state grants to bolster the Arkansas workforce.

• Invests in the Fulbright Program, the United States’ flagship educational exchange program created by former Arkansas Senator J. William Fulbright that facilitates global connections.
• Funds global health and nutrition programs to respond to and eradicate malaria, polio and other diseases and invests in efforts to prevent worldwide hunger.
• Educates future generations about the men and women who serve in our nation’s uniform by supporting the Veterans History Project.

National Security

• Fully funds a 5.2 percent pay raise for servicemembers, the largest increase in decades.
• $207.9 million for Ebbing Air National Guard Base in Fort Smith to continue building on last year’s investments in modernizing the base to be a premier pilot training center in the U.S. This is in addition to the $83 million allocated for construction in the MilCon-VA bill signed into law March 9.
• $53.3 million to bolster production and capacity for the manufacturing of vital munitions for the Department of Defense (DoD) in Camden.
• $9.5 million to support production and manufacturing of special chemical warfare protection outfits and special munitions at Pine Bluff Arsenal.
• $36 million for the University of Arkansas to partner with DoD on research efforts.
• $10 million to develop the Army’s next-generation squad weapon system.
• $47 million to support the workforce at Red River Army Depot.
• $8 million to support training at Razorback Range.
• $51 million to fund multiple defense initiatives critical to enhance our national security within the state.
• Invests $1 billion for the National Guard and Reserve Equipment modernization fund.
• Supports Department of State efforts to strengthen its cybersecurity protocols and procedures to defend it from potential cyberattacks from foreign adversaries and other bad actors.
• Provides $2.75 million in DoD grant opportunities to support security and fire protection at the former Army and Navy Hospital in Hot Springs.

Government Oversight and Community Investments

• Encourages the U.S. Securities Exchange Commission (SEC) to provide more time for public input on rulemakings.
• Ensures SEC rules incorporate robust economic analysis.
• Requests the SEC Inspector General to audit the rulemaking process.
• Requires the General Services Administration to save taxpayer money by adopting criteria to better manage extreme weather risks for public buildings.
• Supports regulation and oversight of the contact lens marketplace.
• Provides $8 million for North Little Rock to improve stormwater drainage capabilities and prevent flooding.
• Delivers $4.7 million to Heber Springs for stormwater improvements to prevent damage from flash flooding.

• Delivers adequate funding for economic growth and rural community development.

March 22, 2024

Enhancing Arkansas’s Capabilities in Support of our Defense Industrial Base

Arkansas has a long and proud history of service to our country, including generations who have worn our nation’s uniform, steadfast community support for our Armed Forces and significant contributions to U.S. national security. I’m proud to continue that commitment at the federal level and champion investment to expand our state’s role in protecting America, our allies and interests well into the future.

The Arkansas congressional delegation, along with state and local leaders, helped secure a mission that will make Ebbing Air National Guard Base in Fort Smith the premier pilot training center in the United States. Congress recently approved funds to enhance the base infrastructure to support the new mission and deliver on-time training for our partners.

Just as important, we’re investing in our defense industrial base to increase production of all munitions so we can meet today’s demands while developing a stockpile to deter or win conflicts in the years to come. Camden, located in south Arkansas, is stepping up to help achieve this goal.

Bunkers created nearly 80 years ago for military testing and munitions storage serve as an ideal location for modern defense manufacturing that is replenishing our country’s arsenal. The area has established itself as a top defense production site and garnered the attention of state leaders as well as officials at the Pentagon.

Its importance to our defense industrial base brought General C.Q. Brown, Jr., Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, to Camden in March to advocate for congressional support of efforts to supply our allies with critical munitions, ensure adequate capacity and refill our own stockpiles.

I was proud to welcome him to Arkansas and showcase the unique capabilities available in the community that make it worth even further investment. Gen. Brown benefited from a firsthand look at operations at Lockheed Martin, which is producing the Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System and the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System. These critical munitions are needed by our partners including the Ukrainians who are using these weapons systems to defend their country.

The area’s strategic importance continues to rise. In February, I joined Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, Congressman Bruce Westerman and other local leaders to celebrate the groundbreaking of the R2S facility that will produce missile systems to be used by the Marine Corps and American allies. This operation is investing $63 million to the community and creating as many as 60 jobs.

This growth is why it is vital to enrich the quality of life so recruiting and retaining the workforce needed to support the industry is not an obstacle but a feature that makes it a more desirable place to live and work.

I’m proud to serve on key committees that can help strengthen Camden’s position. The latest example of that focus is the work we did to secure investments for wastewater system improvements in government funding legislation.

We’ve long known the opportunities in the area make it ripe for job growth and development. That’s why my staff and I have been engaged with local and state leaders and defense company officials about how to ensure Arkansans are trained in the skills these employers need, enhance transportation, expand access to child care and improve infrastructure.

Last month we hosted our latest roundtable discussion to bring stakeholders together and identify what other progress is underway or on the horizon. This concerted approach will continue as we further build out the community’s role and cement Camden as the heartbeat for the arsenal of democracy.

March 19, 2024

Boozman-Led Recycling and Composting Bills Pass Senate 

WASHINGTON – Legislation backed by Senate Recycling Caucus co-chair Senator John Boozman (R-AR) that would improve our nation’s recycling and composting systems unanimously passed the Senate last week.

Boozman, along with Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee Chairman Tom Carper (D-DE) and Ranking Member Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), have been leading proponents of the pair of legislative initiatives to enhance recycling capabilities and expand opportunities for recycling and composting in rural and underserved areas.

“These bills will lead to sustainable practices that preserve our resources while enhancing our nation’s recycling and composting infrastructure. I appreciate Chairman Carper and Ranking Member Capito’s leadership championing solutions to expand opportunities to be better stewards of our environment. I urge my colleagues in the House of Representatives to pass these commonsense measures that will also benefit the economy and create jobs,” said Boozman.

“Most Americans want to do their part to reduce waste and harmful pollution,” said Carper. “Yet, roughly two-thirds of recyclable materials still aren’t being recycled, resulting in more and more waste polluting our land, air and oceans. These two bipartisan bills will help address several of the challenges plaguing our nation’s recycling and composting systems — including reliable data collection and improving access to recycling programs. I am pleased to see these two bills pass the Senate, and I thank Senators Capito and Boozman for once again working with me on a critical issue for our nation and our planet, because there is no Planet B.”

“By passing these bills, the Senate took a positive step forward in making it easier for more people to recycle, especially in rural states like West Virginia, which is good for the environment and our economy,” said Capito. “This bipartisan legislation would implement commonsense policies and programs to improve access to recycling across the country, and create good-paying jobs in our communities. I appreciate Chairman Carper and Senator Boozman for once again working together to increase recycling and composting opportunities in the future.”

RECYCLING AND COMPOSTING ACCOUNTABILITY ACT:

The Recycling and Composting Accountability Act would improve data collection on our nation’s recycling systems and explore the potential of a national composting strategy. The legislation would require the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to collect and publish data on recycling and composting rates across the country to provide an accurate reflection of performance both nationwide and at the state level. This information is critical to improving existing recycling and composting programs and evaluating future recycling policies.

Full text of the bill is available here.

RECYCLING INFRASTRUCTURE AND ACCESSIBILITY ACT:

The Recycling Infrastructure and Accessibility Act would establish a pilot recycling program at the EPA. This program would award grants, on a competitive basis, to eligible entities for improving recycling accessibility in a community or communities within the same geographic area. The goal of the program is to fund eligible projects that would significantly improve access to recycling systems in underserved communities through the use of a hub-and-spoke model for recycling infrastructure development.

Full text of the bill is available here.

As a founder and co-chair of the Senate Recycling Caucus, Boozman has championed initiatives to improve commercial and curbside recycling and hosted events bringing together industry leaders to promote sustainability and preservation of our natural resources.

There is broad support for the recycling and composting legislation. Here are what stakeholders are saying about these bills:

American Beverage Association
“The Recycling and Composting Accountability Act and the Recycling Infrastructure and Accessibility Act will help move our country closer to a circular economy for recyclables that reduces plastic waste and decreases the use of new plastic. We will continue to work with federal lawmakers on well-designed policy that recovers more of our bottles and cans so they can be remade into new ones, as intended, keeping them out of nature.”  

American Forest and Paper Association (AF&PA)
“AF&PA applauds the leadership of Senators Carper, Capito and Boozman on Senate passage of the Recycling and Composting Accountability Act and the Recycling Infrastructure and Accessibility Act. We look forward to working with Congress to address any concerns and move this legislation to improve recycling data and accessibility forward.”

Consumer Brands Association
“Consumer Brands appreciates the strong, bipartisan effort in Congress to tackle the glaring issues within America’s fragmented recycling system that are keeping us from reaching our potential. These bills make crucial investments and add the tools and resources needed to improve our current recycling systems and evaluate future recycling policies, while improving access to recycling systems in underserved communities.”

Institute of Scrap Recycling Industries
“Recycling is one of the most important activities that all of us can do every day to help protect our environment, conserve natural materials, reduce energy use, and help combat climate change because recycled materials are important building blocks in the global manufacturing chain. For example, using recycled aluminum saves 95 percent of the energy needed to make virgin aluminum. Accordingly, the RCAA would establish baseline data on recycling and composting in the United States and collect data on the amounts of materials that are being diverted to landfills or incineration. This data is essential to fill the existing data gaps and provide policymakers with a better understanding of our nation’s recycling programs as we discuss policy prescriptions.”

March 15, 2024

The President’s Policies Continue to Fuel Inflation

Natural State families continue to feel the pain of rising prices for transportation, food and everyday items. It’s no surprise that hardworking individuals are struggling to make ends meet. According to the latest economic data inflation cost Arkansans $770 in February. Consumer prices continue to tick up and we’re all making difficult decisions with our shrinking budgets.

These hardships are the result of President Biden’s reckless policies that have increased federal spending and made economic recovery more difficult.

Food price inflation, which includes food purchased at the grocery store and in restaurants, has increased by 21 percent since January 2021. These historic highs have diminished our purchasing power.

Instead of accepting responsibility for his agenda exacerbating this crisis, the president is quick to pass the buck.

His administration has taken to routinely faulting businesses. First, it attempted to downplay the impact of food and grocery price inflation on the financial well-being of American families and then claimed any hardship was instead a product of concentration in the meat and poultry processing industry. That inadequate excuse failed to account for labor shortages on meat and poultry companies.

The president continued the blame game in this year’s State of the Union address when he attributed the problem to food companies adopting a practice called shrinkflation. While it’s true the downsizing of a product’s size or quantity while keeping the nominal price unchanged has occurred, faulting it as the main driver of the increased prices we’re paying to feed our families is a gross exaggeration.

The administration’s own economists at the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) have determined shrinkflation is not a significant culprit behind stubbornly high grocery prices. “While consumers may notice shrinkflation at the grocery store, it has a very small impact [on] the overall inflation picture they face,” according to the agency.

As part of the process of collecting accurate data needed to estimate the rate of inflation, BLS not only monitors product prices, but it tracks product sizes. This allows the bureau’s economists to ensure changes to weight and volume associated with shrinkflation are correctly reflected in the monthly inflation numbers.

We know farmers are not to blame. The inflationary pressure consumers are experiencing for food does not directly translate one-to-one into higher farm-level prices or farm income. In the face of record-high food prices, farmers received on average only 7.9 cents of each dollar spent on food in 2022.

Many links in the supply chain get food from American farmers to the kitchen table, but neither farmers nor food processors through higher commodity prices, concentration or shrinkflation are to blame for sky-high food costs. Instead, too much federal spending by the administration overheated an economy still recovering from pandemic supply chain disruptions. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine further disturbed global energy and food supplies. Higher labor costs, higher energy and higher transportation expenses have all sent the costs of food service, food processing and food distribution steeply upward. Those are the real economics of food price inflation.

In the week following the State of the Union address, the newest inflation numbers were released showing prices continue to rise. It’s time the president admits Bidenomics has been the primary roadblock to affordable living and works across the aisle to pursue policies that actually lower prices.

March 15, 2024

Boozman, Cotton, Hyde-Smith Hail Victory for U.S. Catfish Producers as Commerce Dept. Reverses Decision Favoring Imports from Vietnam

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Tom Cotton (R-AR) joined Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS) in claiming victory for U.S. farm-raised catfish producers and processors following the U.S. Department of Commerce’s announcement reversing a preliminary decision that would have greatly reduced anti-dumping duties on imported catfish from companies controlled by the Communist Party of Vietnam.

The Commerce Department backpedaled after Boozman, Cotton, Hyde-Smith and their colleagues as well as stakeholders raised concerns that the U.S. farm-raised catfish industry would be devastated if it didn’t reverse the preliminary decision pertaining to the administrative review of the anti-dumping duty order on U.S imports of Certain Frozen Fish Fillets from the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

“Catfish producers in Arkansas and their neighbors are committed to providing the fresh, nutritious and quality supply that ends up on tables around our country, but their ability to continue doing so would have been devastated if this decision had been finalized. They deserve a level playing field, and I’m pleased we have helped keep them from being undercut by an inferior and heavily subsidized product,” Boozman, who serves as ranking member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, said.

“This reversal is a welcome decision, and I’m proud to have worked with Senator Hyde-Smith, Senator Boozman, and our Republican colleagues to protect Arkansas’s catfish farmers and consumers across the country,” Cotton said.

“The Commerce Department actually heeded our warnings and the rescission of this review is a clear victory for the U.S. catfish industry, which is so important to Mississippi and other rural states. It’s also a victory for American consumers, who will not be put at risk from tainted imported catfish,” Hyde-Smith said.

A Federal Register notice published on Thursday indicated the Biden administration is abandoning its preliminary decision, which would have reduced the non-market economy anti-dumping duty from $2.39/kg to $0.14/kg for all producers controlled by the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

In January, Boozman, Cotton and Hyde-Smith led a letter to Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo that requested her agency abandon plans to significantly reduce the duties on Vietnamese catfish imports, arguing it would also set a precedent for the approximately 250 non-market economy proceedings involving communist governments. The letter was also signed by Sens. Roger Wicker (R-MS), Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), John Kennedy (R-LA), Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) and Katie Britt (R-AL).

Arkansas ranks as the third-largest catfish producing state. Boozman and Cotton have championed the industry’s interests on multiple occasions, including previously leading a bicameral coalition that secured approval of a Section 32 purchase of up to $42 million of catfish products by the U.S. Department of Agriculture for distribution to various food nutrition assistance programs, including charitable institutions.