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Hello, friends!

In recognition of tax week, House Republicans celebrated many of the wins in the Working Families Tax Cut. So far, more than 53 million filers have claimed one of the signature tax cuts, while the average refund is up 11% since last year. More than 6 million filers have claimed "No Tax on Tips", 25 million have claimed "No Tax on Overtime", and 30 million seniors have benefited from the enhanced standard deduction.  

Last week, the House has also seen two major resignations for ethical and moral failings. As I’ve stated in the past, I support full transparency in ethics investigations in Congress, and I'm glad to see that those who have not upheld the integrity of the office are being held accountable.

More information has also come out on the Biden administration’s weaponization of the “Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act” or the FACE Act against religious pro-life groups. I am appalled that any administration would use federal law enforcement agencies to curb First Amendment rights of Americans.

Looking ahead to next week, the Senate is working on a skinny reconciliation bill that will include funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP), as Congressional Democrats continue to block efforts to fully fund DHS.

My Votes to Pull Back the Federal Government's Control Over Energy

We spent a lot of time on the House floor voting last week. Here are some highlights.

On Thursday, I voted in favor of the FENCES Act, a bill introduced by Rep. August Pfluger (R-TX) to address a structural gap in the Clean Air Act by ensuring states are not penalized for pollution sources they cannot control, particularly emissions originating outside U.S. borders. Without this clarification, states like Tennessee can face costly sanctions, permitting restrictions, and economic consequences despite meeting domestic regulatory obligations. By aligning compliance standards with practical control, the legislation protects local economies while preserving the integrity of national air quality goals. 

In addition, I voted in favor of Rep. John Joyce’s (R-PA) RED Tape Act, which will reduce the EPA’s redundant review process, speeding up construction projects and saving builders money in administrative costs. 

Finally, I voted against legislation that would give Haitian migrants temporary protected status. Under the Biden administration’s open border policies, millions of migrants were let into the country with little to no vetting. We must ensure those coming to the United States share our values, have the means to take care of themselves and their families, and will obey our laws.  

Tennessee's 7th is the Place to Be

Tennessee’s 7th District is one of the best places in the country to live, work, and raise a family.

Davidson, Montgomery, Williamson, and Robertson Counties are among the fastest-growing in Middle Tennessee since 2020. People are choosing our communities for strong economies, safe neighborhoods, and a quality of life tough to beat.

The momentum is real, and it’s only growing. Tennessee’s 7th District is on the rise, and we’re just getting started.

Read more from the Leaf Chronicle here.

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Find Out About My New Bills!

Guard Equal Benefits for Federal Missions Act

Senator Marsha Blackburn and I introduced the Guard Equal Benefits for Federal Missions Act. This bill will ensure that National Guard members safeguarding our cities receive active-duty benefits for their service.

Check out the Tennessee Star Exclusive here

Read more about this bill here

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The Major Non-NATO Ally 

Terror Threat Assessment Act

To ensure Congress has the information it needs to exercise effective oversight, I introduced the Major Non-NATO Ally Terror Threat Assessment Act. This legislation strengthens coordination between the Department of Homeland Security and Congress to better assess and support MNNA partners as they confront threats within their own borders.

Read more about the bill here.

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Tax Week 2026

This Tax Day, Republicans focused on delivering relief for Tennesseans through the Working Families Tax Cut. This bill provides lasting tax relief, promotes growth, and supports small businesses. 

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Catch the first part of my whiteboard video laying out how the Working Families Tax Cut legislation puts more money in the pockets of Americans! 

Click below to watch.

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The Working Families Tax Cut allows U.S. farmers to keep more of what they earn. It also empowers our growers and ranchers to invest more in their farms, making our food supply more secure! 

ImageIn the second part of my whiteboard video, I lay out all of the benefits of the Working Families Tax Cut legislation for families, seniors, rural communities, and farmers! 

Click below to watch.

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It was great to hear from some great American workers at the House Republican press conference about how the Working Family Tax Cut legislation is helping them! There is no doubt about it, these new tax provisions are allowing Americans to keep more of their hard-earned money, raising overall GDP, creating new jobs, and increasing economic investment and innovation! 

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National Guard Association's Capitol Summit

It was my privilege to speak at the National Guard Association’s Capitol Summit this week. It was amazing to see National Guard officers from around the country gather in one place. Thank you to the National Guard Association for all of the work you do serving guardsmen and for putting this great event together. 

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Purple Up For Military Children!

According to recent data, Tennessee is proud to support over 34,000 military-connected children. Roughly 15,800 of these children belong to active-duty families, while more than 18,500 are the sons and daughters of our dedicated National Guard and Reserve members. 

To honor their sacrifice, many across the country chose to wear purple on April 15.

We Purple Up because that color represents the blending of all service branches. It is a visible and powerful symbol of our unified gratitude for the resilience of our military families.

#TNMIC3 #MIC3Compact #PurpleUp4MilitaryKids

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FEMA Individual Assistance Update

The State of Tennessee received an amendment to the federal major disaster declaration for Winter Storm Fern, expanding available aid to include FEMA Individual Assistance for 29 impacted Tennessee counties.

Twenty-nine counties are eligible to apply for FEMA Individual Assistance, including Benton, Cheatham, Davidson, Decatur, Dickson, Hickman, Montgomery, Perry, Robertson, Wayne, and Williamson.

This assistance includes support for temporary housing, home repairs, replacement of essential personal property, and other disaster-related needs.

If you were impacted by Winter Storm Fern, you may now be eligible for assistance.

Apply for FEMA Individual Assistance through these channels:
DisasterAssistance.gov
800-621-3362
FEMA App

Remembering Captain Trevor Daniel

Captain Daniel served his community with distinction for more than 30 years in law enforcement, including 26 years with the Sheriff’s Office. Throughout his career, he served in a wide range of roles, including patrol deputy, detective, SWAT team member, K-9 handler, and ultimately Captain of the Criminal Investigations Division and terrorism liaison officer.

His dedication to public safety and his long service to the people of Dickson County reflect a career committed to protecting others. 

We extend our condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues, and join the community in honoring his service and legacy.

Read more from the Dickson Post by clicking below.

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Humphreys County Sheriff Chris Davis

Sheriff Chris Davis has shown extraordinary leadership in the face of unimaginable tragedy.

This state proclamation is a well-deserved recognition of steady leadership when it mattered most. 

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4:13 Strong

Spent time in Nashville with the team at 4:13 Strong, and it’s clear the impact they’re making is both real and lasting.

The results speak for themselves: job placement, stronger families, and safer communities. This is what meaningful second chances look like.

I am grateful for organizations like 4:13 Strong that are investing in people, strengthening our workforce, and making a lasting impact across Middle Tennessee.

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Vanderbilt's Wond'ry Collaboration

Where research meets real-world impact—that’s exactly what’s happening at Vanderbilt University’s Wond’ry.

Vanderbilt’s leadership of the Mid-South Innovation Corps Hub is accelerating that momentum, supporting more than 1,300 teams and turning ideas into real economic growth across the region.

Equally impressive is the collaboration with Fort Campbell through the Pathfinder-Air Assault program, which brings researchers and Soldiers together to solve real challenges and strengthen our national security through cutting-edge solutions.

Nashville and Tennessee are stepping forward as leaders in the innovation economy, and the Wond’ry is helping drive that future.

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U.S. Travel Association and Commissioner Ezell

I had a productive and informative meeting with the U.S. Travel Association. I appreciate Commissioner Mark Ezell of the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development for taking the time to join and share his insights. Looking forward to continuing the work to support growth and opportunity across our communities.

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VA Rural Transportation Grants

The Department of Veterans Affairs’ investment in rural transportation is such a meaningful step forward. By expanding support for organizations that help Veterans get to and from their appointments, this grant is making care more accessible in the places where distance can too often get in the way.

This is the kind of practical, results-driven leadership that makes a real difference, meeting Veterans where they are and ensuring they can access the care they’ve earned.

Grateful to see the VA continuing to prioritize our rural communities and the Veterans who call them home.

Franklin Fire Department 

Congratulations to the men and women of the Franklin Fire Department who were honored during their annual Awards and Badge Pinning Ceremony.

Your courage, discipline, and commitment to serve our community are on display every day. 

To those who were recognized and to those beginning new chapters in their service, your dedication sets a standard for excellence and reflects the very best of public service.

We are grateful for all you do to keep our communities safe.

Read more in the Williamson Herald here

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TVA STEM and Robotics Awards

Applications are open! Schools and non-profits can apply for grants for robotics programs.

This award provides an opportunity to bring cutting-edge technology and hands-on learning to schools and robotics programs outside of the classroom. 

Robotics fosters creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork—skills that are essential for success in the workforce of tomorrow.

Find out more here.

Apply for STEM and Robotics award through the TVA here.

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Yom HaShoah

On April 14, we observed Yom HaShoah, a solemn day of remembrance for the six million Jewish men, women, and children who were murdered during the Holocaust, as well as the survivors whose lives and families were forever changed.

We honored the memory of the victims and recognized the responsibility we all share to confront antisemitism. Their stories remind us of the importance of vigilance, education, and compassion.

May their memory be a blessing, and may we never forget. 

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U.S. Air Force Reserve Birthday

For decades, Citizen Airmen have answered the call both at home and abroad, bringing skill, readiness, and dedication to missions that protect our nation and support our allies. Their service strengthens our Air Force and ensures America remains prepared for every challenge.

We are deeply grateful for their professionalism, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to duty.

Happy Birthday to the Air Force Reserve.

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Sincerely,
Matt Van Epps
Member of Congress

 


 
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