Today, we remember a great Texan - Colonel Sam Johnson. After arriving in Congress, I delivered my first floor speech in 2003 honoring Sam for his service to our nation. I will always be grateful for his mentorship. Sam was a true American hero, a man who risked his life and sacrificed his health for the betterment of all of us and for our country. He knew the true meaning of freedom because he fought for it, and he spent seven long years as a POW in Vietnam. Joined by his wife, Shirley, Sam dedicated his life to God, his country, and his family. Even after death, they will live on in America... Read More »
On June 6, 1944, American and Allied forces stormed the beaches of Normandy. This invasion known as D-Day has been called the beginning to the end of World War II. By August of 1944 all of northern France would be liberated and the spring of 1945 lead to the defeat of the Germans. This year marks the 76th anniversary of D-Day. Let us reflect on the sacrifices made by the greatest generation during World War II. Their efforts to defeat of fascism in Europe and imperialism in the Pacific liberated millions of people across the globe from oppression. Please join me today in thanking the brave me... Read More »
Washington, D.C. – Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX), Republican Leader of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health, released the following statement after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced the release of $140 million from the CARES Act to help state health departments prepare for influenza season, given the increased risk of COVID-19. Burgess is pleased that Texas is set to receive over $10 million in funding. “I appreciate the CDC for providing states with this funding,” said Burgess. “This money will allow states to adequately prepare for t... Read More »
Washington, D.C. – Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX), a member of the House Rules Committee and Republican Leader of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health, sent a letter with the Ukraine Caucus to Secretary Pompeo requesting he apply sanctions on two Russian entities working to complete the Russian gas pipeline Nord Stream 2 between Russia and Germany. “The Nord Stream 2 pipeline is just another attempt by Russia to disrupt traditional western alliances and increase the world’s reliance on a desperate Russia,” said Burgess. “Sanctions levied due to their malign behavio... Read More »
Washington, D.C. – Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX), a member of the House Rules Committee and Republican Leader of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health, joined Congressman Kevin Brady (R-TX) in sponsoring legislation that will ensure local governments receive COVID-19 relief funding COVID-19 relief authorized by Congress. “It is disappointing to hear that 32 states are withholding funding intended to help local governments,” said Burgess. “I appreciate Congressman Brady putting this legislation forward. In order for us to safely reopen the country these communities ... Read More »
Washington, D.C. – Congressman Michael C. Burgess, M.D. (R-TX), a member of the House Rules Committee and Republican Leader of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health, announced the students from the 26th District of Texas who have accepted appointments to the United States Service Academies. "It is an honor to nominate these outstanding young men and women who are the next generation of leaders for our Armed Forces and America,” said Burgess. “The academies offer a world class education for those who have accepted the challenge to serve our country.” During a “virtual” reception,... Read More »
June 5, 2020 Dear Friends, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention updated contact tracing resources and released a toolkit for health departments. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released a short video that explains the difference between COVID-19 diagnostic and antibody tests. The FDA launched a webpage especially for health care professionals with information on emergency use authorizations, personal protective equipment, and medical products. Texas Updates Texas hospitals will receive $8 million from the Assistant Secretary of Preparedness and Response to distribute for COVI... Read More »
June 4, 2020 Dear Friends, Governor Abbott announced Phase 3 of reopening Texas yesterday, eliminating occupancy limits on things such as religious services, and raising occupancy limits for businesses such as restaurants. National Updates National Institutes of Health Director Dr. Francis Collins and Dr. Ned Sharpless discussed the need for reliable COVID-19 antibody testing. Health and Human Services issued laboratory data reporting guidance and an FAQ document to standardize reporting among labs so that data is more comprehensive and up-to-date. The Internal Revenue Service announced that ... Read More »
June 3, 2020 Dear Friends, The Federal Communications Commission’s Wireline Competition Bureau approved an additional 53 funding applications for the COVID-19 Telehealth Program – including two in Texas. National Updates Eli Lilly and Company has begun a phase 1 study of its COVID-19 antibody treatment candidate. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services announced new flexibilities and adjustments to current and future Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation models to improve value-based care during this pandemic. The Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority has announc... Read More »
