Last week, your Chamber kicked off its highly anticipated 2018 Congressional Series with a discussion with Congressman Will Hurd (R-TX), moderated by the Chamber’s 2018 Chairman of the Board Shaun Kennedy, San Antonio Regional Chairman of Texas Capital Bank. The luncheon marked the first of five congressional luncheons the Chamber will be hosting this year. These luncheons provide a great opportunity for business and community leaders to hear directly from the members of the Bexar County delegation about the most pressing issues facing Congress and how they impact the San Antonio business climate.
The conversation began with Hurd’s take on the $1.3 trillion Omnibus spending bill, passed March 23, 2018. Hurd highlighted provisions in the bill that would benefit San Antonio, such as federal funding to combat the opioid crisis and provide broadband internet for rural areas.
Hurd was pleased to share how the tax bill is helping businesses in his district hire more workers and invest in themselves as well as allowing families to see more money in their paychecks.
Hurd also discussed the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), an important issue for both parties. In addition, he talked about the USA Act, a bill he coauthored with U.S. Rep. Pete Aguilar (D-CA) to reform DACA. He also touched on efforts to strengthen national security along the U.S. Mexico border, specifically by ramping up the use of technology.
The conversation also covered ongoing collaborative efforts with Congressman Cuellar to secure a non-stop flight to Washington D.C. Ronald Reagan International Airport (DCA).
Congressman Hurd represents Texas District 23, an area that spans 29 counties, two times zones and 820 miles of the border – a district larger than 26 states. In less than three years on the job, Hurd has carved out a role in Congress as a leading voice on issues such as national security, modernizing NAFTA, and bolstering the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. Hurd currently serves on the Committee of Oversight and Government Reform, House Permanent Select Intelligence Committee, and chairs the Information Technology Subcommittee. He also sits on the House Committee on Homeland Security and is the Vice Chair of the Border and Maritime Security Subcommittee.
Part two of the Chamber’s 2018 Congressional series will take place Friday, May 11, 2018 at the Westin Riverwalk with Congressman Joaquin Castro (D-TX).
