Congressional Update from U.S. Congressman Andy Barr

One of the best parts of my job is the extended August recess period. I am away from the hustle and bustle of Washington and have the opportunity to travel extensively throughout my district and hear from the folks that matter most- you, my constituents. I also enjoy spending time at home with my family and getting back into the carpool routine. Below you’ll find a recap of my August and September work period. I enjoyed my time at home and have returned to DC refreshed and ready to fight on your behalf.

Driving Economic Growth

Central and Eastern Kentuckians know the vital role Chambers of Commerce play in our communities. Thank you to the Estill, Jessamine, Woodford and Richmond Chambers of Commerce for the opportunity to address your members directly. I continue to hear concerns about the immigration crisis and the state our of economy. Rest assured, I take those concerns seriously and continue to share the real life impact of this administration’s policies with my colleagues in DC as we work to find solutions. I also enjoyed highlighting the local projects my office has collaborated on to directly improve our communities and return your tax dollars to the Sixth Congressional District.

Keeping Our Communities Strong and Healthy

Kentucky’s healthcare providers play a critical role in keeping our communities healthy by delivering affordable, high-quality care. During the work period, I visited Bluegrass PACE Center, Estill Medical Clinic, Foothills Community Health Center, Mercy Health Marcum and Wallace Hospital, and Sterling Health Solutions. Many of our rural providers are asked to do more with less, but I was consistently impressed with the high quality care available to our friends and neighbors in more rural areas of the Sixth District.  A special thank you to our dedicated healthcare providers serving Central and Eastern Kentucky.

Protecting our National Defense Starts at Home

Did you know that students wishing to serve our country through one of the Military Service Academies must a receive a Congressional Nomination? I was happy to host my annual Academy Day in September, where hopeful students heard from representatives from the U.S. Military Academy, the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Airforce Academy, the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. While a good deal of banter goes on regarding the most prestigious academy, I am consistently encouraged to see the drive and desire to serve amongst our young men and women. If you know of a high school student interested in serving our country through attending a military academy, please encourage them to contact my district office as quickly as possible. More information about the appointment process can be found here: Service Academy Nominations | Congressman Andy Barr (house.gov)

Recently Col. Samuel Morgan III took over command at the Bluegrass Army Depot. The Depot has been a staple of the Central Kentucky Community for years and I was encouraged to meet with Col. Morgan and discuss exciting future opportunities for the continued success of the Depot.
 

Supporting Healthcare Advocates

I met with representatives from the American Academy of Family Physicians, the Commonwealth Council on Developmental Disabilities, and several independent pharmacists to discuss their legislative priorities aimed at promoting healthier, stronger communities across Kentucky. I am committed to supporting each groups' dedication to ensuring Kentucky has the resources needed to provide the best care. 

Industrial Growth

Semiconductor chips serve as the brains for many of our everyday devices. I was fascinated to learn the only semiconductor company in Kentucky is located in Lexington, and even more excited to tour Infineon’s headquarters and see the massive advances in semiconductor technology over the years. In addition, I toured Coca-Cola Consolidated, Florida Tile, Hitachi Astemo, and the Prysmian Group. I also sat down with board members from the Kentucky Association of Manufacturers to discuss their policy priorities to support growth, innovation, and job creation within our manufacturing sector across the Commonwealth. 

Creating a Better Tomorrow for our Youth 

Prevent Child Abuse Kentucky hosted their 28th annual “Kids are Worth It!” conference. Child abuse statistics in Kentucky paint a bleak picture, but everyday meaningful intervention takes place thanks to PCAK and their dedicated partners in prevention. Prior to my election in Congress, I was honored to serve as a board chair for this important organization, and I continue to advocate on their behalf in my current role.

Childcare and family support are crucial to ensuring a dedicated workforce. I joined the Prichard Committee for Academic Excellence and Bluegrass Community and Technical College for a roundtable discussion on the importance of childcare and specifically childcare support for student-parents.

While work remains, I want to commend all of these groups for continuing to make a difference in the lives of children and students across Kentucky.

Advancing Recovery Communities 

Most Kentuckians are aware of the substance abuse epidemic facing our country. However, our community continues to have dedicated organizations committed to ensuring folks impacted by substance use disorder have access to the treatment and support they need to facilitate long-term recovery. Stable Recovery, located at Taylor Made Farm, provides a supportive living environment for men in early recovery as well as training and employment opportunities in the equine industry.

I also visited Revive Life House and saw firsthand the remarkable treatment program they offer to individuals with substance use disorder. Recovery does not happen alone, and I am thankful both of these organizations are committed to walking alongside folks actively facing addiction.

Upholding Our Commitment to Veterans 

The Sixth District Veterans Coalition has been a mainstay of my work in Congress since 2013 when I was sworn in. The coalition provides an opportunity for direct feedback from the veteran community as well as a venue to honor military service. Recently in Mount Sterling I had the privilege of honoring Gunnery Sergeant Joseph Bates, who received the Purple Heart for his courageous service in the U.S. Marine Corps.

Valerie and Doug Day, joined by numerous volunteers, regularly host ceremonies to honor veterans in Central Kentucky. I recently attended one of these ceremonies and was able to personally thank each of the veterans in attendance. I encourage you to remember the freedoms afforded to us by the sacrifice of our men and women in uniform, and take the time to thank a service member or veteran when you see them.

Lastly, I spoke at the Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs annual conference and provided a legislative update on Congress' ongoing efforts to ensure veterans and their families receive the benefits and support they have rightfully earned.