Messmer, Mark RSS Articles

Messmer Honors Evansville Veteran Ken Eppler, Displays Patriotic Artwork at U.S. Capitol

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN) welcomed Evansville Army veteran and artist Ken Eppler and his family to the U.S. Capitol, where Eppler presented his painting, The Enduring Spirit, for display in the Congressman’s office in honor of America’s 250th Anniversary.

“Indiana’s 8th District is proud to call Ken Eppler one of our own, and I am honored to display his beautiful art piece – which I think reflects the very best of Hoosier and American patriotism,” said Rep. Mark Messmer.

Eppler served with distinction in the United States Army, earning both Airborne and Air Assault qualifications before serving with the 101st Airborne Division during the Gulf War. He later continued his service in the Indiana National Guard before pursuing a passion for patriotic artwork.

The Enduring Spirit depicts three colonial children standing beneath an America 250 flag while proudly displaying an original American flag, symbolizing the passing of America's founding ideals from one generation to the next. Eppler hopes his artwork inspires young Americans to appreciate the nation's history and develop a deeper love for their country.

To view Rep. Messmer’s floor speech in honor of Ken Eppler and The Enduring Spirit, click here.

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Messmer Celebrates Passage of the FY27 National Defense Authorization Act in the House of Representatives

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN), a member of the House Armed Services Committee and co-chair of the Congressional Hypersonics Caucus, applauded passage of the Fiscal Year 2027 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) in the House of Representatives.

“My Republican colleagues and I are proud of our collaboration with President Trump to advance a national defense agenda that puts America first, and I am pleased the House has passed the Fiscal Year 2027 National Defense Authorization Act,” said Rep. Messmer. “The passage of this historic investment in our nation’s warfighters strengthens our military, bolsters our national security, and helps ensure the United States maintains the strongest, most capable, and most lethal fighting force in the world. I urge our colleagues in the U.S. Senate to act swiftly and send this legislation to the President’s desk.”

BACKGROUND:

The FY27 National Defense Authorization Act includes provisions to revitalize the defense industrial base, restore critical weapons stockpiles, raise servicemember pay, strengthen missile and nuclear deterrence, accelerate the deployment of emerging technologies like hypersonics and autonomous systems, and improve accountability within the Department of War.

The legislation also expands domestic manufacturing capacity, strengthens supply chain security, supports workforce development initiatives, and reduces barriers for small businesses and innovative defense contractors.

The NDAA also contains several wins for Indiana’s 8th Congressional District, including:

Critical funding for defense programs that will be researched, tested, and developed at Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane, such as $175 million for the Nuclear Sea-Launched Cruise Missile;
Supports increased funding up to $1 billion for the MACH-TB program at Crane;
Advanced funding for Low-Cost Hypersonic Weapons;
A dedicated fund for the Golden Dome for America program, which will provide a foundation for a layered missile defense system; and
Accelerated production for more munitions and solid rocket motors.

To learn more about how Rep. Messmer is supporting America’s warfighters in the House of Representatives, click here.

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House Education and Workforce Committee Passes Messmer Deregulation Legislation

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the House Education and Workforce Committee advanced Rep. Mark Messmer's (R-IN) Heat Workforce Standards Act of 2025 (H.R. 6213) during a committee markup. The legislation repeals the Biden-Harris Administration's proposed federal heat standards, which impose burdensome, one-size-fits-all mandates, and unneeded and excessive penalties on American businesses and institutions.

“As a small business owner, I know firsthand that ineffectual government regulation makes it harder for employers to grow their business, create job opportunities, and invest in their workforce,” said Rep. Messmer. “The House Education and Workforce Committee's approval of my Heat Workforce Standards Act is an important step toward rolling back more of the unnecessary Biden-era regulations that hamper America’s development and expansion. I look forward to advancing this bill through the full House to continue reducing trivial red tape which is depressing the success of our great nation.”

BACKGROUND:

The Biden Administration’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) attempted at the last minute to fast-track a policy known as “The Heat Injury and Illness Prevention in Outdoor and Indoor Work Settings.” In practice, the rule would have forced nearly every American business and institution to follow rigid, one-size-fits-all, federal workplace standards based on predetermined temperature thresholds, regardless of industry, climate, or existing safety protocols.

This terrible rule would create a one-size fits all regulatory approach for most of the American workforce that experience exposure to temperatures of 80 degrees Fahrenheit for more than 15 minutes in any given hour. State governments already have the authority to establish occupational safety and health standards and are required to have their plans be “at least as effective” as Federal OSHA standards.

If it had been implemented, the Biden’s Heat Rule would:

Place redundant and egregious regulation requirements with little variance considered for industry-specific outdoor and indoor heat variables and differences in outdoor climates between all 50 states
Fail to recognize employers who already have heat injury prevention measures in place
Mandate federal intervention and costly fines if small businesses don’t match the federal criteria

To learn more about how Rep. Messmer is working for small businesses in Indiana’s 8th Congressional District, click here.

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Messmer Applauds Passage of the Sunshine Protection Act in the House of Representatives

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN) voted in support of H.R. 139, the Sunshine Protection Act of 2025, in the House of Representatives, to make Daylight Saving Time permanent and end the twice-yearly practice Americans endure of changing the clocks backwards and forwards.

“Hoosiers are tired of this needless activity,” said Rep. Messmer. “Making Daylight Saving Time permanent is long overdue and a needed relief from an outdated practice that no longer serves the needs of our modern economy. I have heard from the citizens of Indiana’s 8^th District, and I am proud to support the Sunshine Protection Act.”

The Sunshine Protection Act would establish permanent Daylight Saving Time nationwide, eliminating the need to “spring forward” and “fall back” each year. By ending the biannual time change, the legislation aims to provide greater consistency for families, businesses, schools, and commuters while reducing the disruptions associated with changing the clocks. This bill has the support of the American Farm Bureau.

To learn more about Rep. Messmer's work in Congress, click here.

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Messmer Condemns Chemical Abortion Crisis at Republican Study Committee Roundtable

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN) participated in a Republican Study Committee (RSC) roundtable hosted by Rep. Sheri Biggs (R-SC) focused on the growing chemical abortion crisis, the impact of abortion-inducing drugs, and legislative efforts to strengthen protections for women and improve accountability.

“No woman should ever be subjected to a forced abortion, and those who commit these acts should face the full force of the law,” said Rep. Messmer. “As chemical abortion drugs become more widely available, Congress has a responsibility to ensure strong protections are in place to safeguard women and hold bad actors accountable. I am proud to support legislation that addresses these serious crimes and helps prevent future tragedies.”

During the discussion, Rep. Messmer highlighted his Forced Abortion Prevention and Accountability Act, legislation he introduced to establish federal penalties for the non-consensual administration of abortion-inducing drugs and hold accountable those who facilitate these acts.

To learn more about Rep. Messmer's work to protect all life in Congress, click here.

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Messmer Celebrates House Armed Services Committee Passage of the FY27 National Defense Authorization Act

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN), a member of the House Armed Services Committee and co-chair of the Congressional Hypersonics Caucus, applauded committee passage of the Fiscal Year 2027 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) during this year’s markup process.

“My Republican colleagues and I are working together with President Trump to fortify our country’s national security, and this National Defense Authorization Act delivers on our shared goals,” said Rep. Messmer. “In order to keep Americans safe from harm, our defense industrial base must receive the support it requires to meet the threats facing our nation. The FY27 NDAA will strengthen critical supply chains, expand munitions and shipbuilding capacity, and accelerate the next generation of military technology. By making these crucial investments, this bill ensures that America’s military remains the strongest and most lethal force in the world.”

“Years of underfunding our national defense has left us with a hollowed-out industrial base, and an inability to produce for our warfighters at speed and scale,” said House Armed Services Committee Chairman Mike Rogers (R-AL). “Congressman Messmer understands the need to make a generational investment in our national security, and he’s provided valuable contributions to the FY27 NDAA. As the representative for the Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane, he’s been a strong advocate for advancing our hypersonic capabilities and other strategic systems, which are needed both for our homeland defense and as a deterrent to our adversaries. With his continued leadership, we’ll rebuild the Arsenal of Freedom and strengthen American deterrence.”

BACKGROUND:

The NDAA also contains several wins for Indiana’s 8th Congressional District, including:

Critical funding for defense programs that will be researched, tested, and developed at Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane, such as $175 million for the Nuclear Sea-Launched Cruise Missile;
Supports increased funding up to $1 billion for the MACH-TB program at Crane;
Advanced funding for Low-Cost Hypersonic Weapons;
A dedicated fund for the Golden Dome for America program, which will provide a foundation for a layered missile defense system; and
Accelerated production for more munitions and solid rocket motors.

To learn more about how Rep. Messmer is supporting America’s warfighters in the House of Representatives, click here.

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House Passes Messmer-Led Child Care Reform Legislation to Improve Accountability for Taxpayer Dollars

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 7726, the Stop Child Care Scams Act of 2026, which includes provisions of Rep. Mark Messmer’s (R-IN) Child Care Payment Integrity and Fraud Accountability Act of 2026 (H.R. 7720). The bill will strengthen oversight of federal child care assistance programs and improve accountability for taxpayer dollars.

This legislation targets waste, fraud, and abuse within the Child Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG) program by requiring states to report fraudulent payments. These reports will give Congress and taxpayers a clearer picture of how states manage federal childcare funds and where the programs need improvements.

“Families who rely on child care assistance deserve a program that is accountable and focused upon helping those who need it most,” said Rep. Messmer. “The legislation requires that states accurately track and report improper and fraudulent payments to safeguard taxpayer dollars, and it makes sure child care resources remain available to hardworking families. I am pleased that my Child Care Payment Integrity and Fraud Accountability Act is included in this package and will advance these important reforms.”

To learn more about Rep. Messmer's work to promote government accountability and responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars, click here.

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Messmer and Walberg Host Field Hearing on the Future of Mining in Southwest Indiana

Tue, 12 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN) joined the chairman of the House Education and Workforce Committee, Rep. Tim Walberg (R-MI), for a field hearing in Fort Branch, Indiana, titled “Protecting Workers and Powering America: The Future of Mining.”

The hearing examined workforce development, mine safety, domestic energy production, and the future of the mining industry in Indiana and across the United States. The hearing was held at the Vincennes University Gibson County Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Logistics.

“I am very impressed with the facilities and education programs at Vincennes University, which are improving the entire mining worker-safety component,” said Rep. Messmer. “VU is training future generations of leaders so that they meet the demands of an ever-evolving industry. I am so proud that Hoosier mining is powering our state grids, and that it is an essential contributor to the energy and economic security of our entire country.”

“Collaboration between government and the private sector leads to safer workplaces, an educated workforce, and a stronger mining industry,” said Education and Workforce Committee Chairman Tim Walberg (R-MI). “I was grateful for the productive conversations with our witnesses about ways to unleash the mining industry’s potential in a way that protects miners and benefits the communities in which they live and work. America’s miners power our nation, and their wellbeing must always come first.”

“Vincennes University appreciates Congressman Messmer and Chairman Walberg for highlighting the importance of mining safety, workforce development, and the future of American energy production,” said David Tucker, Vice President of Workforce Development and Community Services at Vincennes University. “As Indiana’s designated recipient of Mine Safety and Health Administration grant funding for miner training and retraining, VU remains committed to preparing the next generation of mining professionals through hands-on, industry-driven training that supports safe and reliable mining operations across the region.”

BACKGROUND:

During the hearing, witnesses highlighted the importance of maintaining a strong domestic mining industry to support America’s energy independence, manufacturing sector, and electric grid reliability. Testimony also focused on the role Indiana coal continues to play in delivering affordable and reliable energy for families and businesses.

Witnesses discussed how modern mining operations have evolved through advanced technology, stronger safety standards, autonomous equipment, and enhanced dust monitoring systems. Industry leaders also addressed workforce shortages and the need to combat outdated misconceptions surrounding careers in mining.

Additionally, witnesses raised concerns regarding the Biden-Harris Administration’s 2024 silica rule, arguing the regulation imposes costly burdens on operators without improving worker safety and could place additional strain on mining communities and jobs. Testimony also examined how previous enforcement practices under the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) created unnecessary compliance challenges for mine operators.

Both Messmer and Walberg emphasized the importance of supporting workforce training programs, promoting safe mining practices, and creating a regulatory environment that allows the mining industry to continue growing and supporting American energy production.

To learn more about how Rep. Messmer is fighting for Hoosier mining communities in the House of Representatives, click here.

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ICYMI: Indiana Rep. Mark Messmer in the Washington Examiner: “Southern Indiana Mining is Powering American Prosperity”

Mon, 11 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Indiana Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN) was recently featured in the Washington Examiner with an op-ed highlighting the importance of southern Indiana’s mining industry, mine safety, workforce development, and American energy independence.

In the piece, Rep. Messmer discusses Indiana’s role as one of the nation’s leading coal-producing states and the vital contributions Hoosier miners make to powering the American economy and supporting the nation’s industrial base.

Rep. Messmer additionally highlighted the importance of workforce development and modern mining education programs at schools like the Vincennes University Gibson County Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Logistics, the location of the House Education and Workforce Committee’s field hearing in Fort Branch, Indiana.

Read the full text of the Washington Examiner op-ed at the link here or below.

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Southern Indiana mining is powering American prosperity

By Rep. Mark Messmer

In Indiana, we are familiar with the important impact of the mining industry. We rank among the top 10 coal-producing states, and the industry contributes over $750 million annually to the Hoosier economy. We are proud that our miners play a pivotal role in our economy, as well as in America’s national security, by helping power the United States industrial base each and every day.

The stark reality is that the mining industry is not just a crucial source of energy, but also an important job producer in this country, powered by the strength and hard work of American laborers.

The mining industry powers our country’s energy grid, contributes to critical infrastructure needs, and secures the raw materials that keep our economy thriving and competitive. But the real measure of its success is not how much product is produced, but rather the health and safety of the miners who put their lives on the line each day. This requires workplace protections and safety standards to be observed with the utmost intensity.

The Mine Safety and Health Administration, or MSHA, helps ensure the rules and regulations protecting miners are properly followed. Through regular inspections, updated safety standards, and consistent enforcement, MSHA works to ensure no corners are cut and no precautions are ignored.

However, the best ideas and solutions should not come from someone sitting behind a desk in Washington, D.C., but rather from those in the field who have firsthand experience with what can go wrong, why it happens, and how injuries can be prevented. MSHA collaborates with miners, operators, engineers, and industry leaders who all bring important perspectives to the table.

Unfortunately, that kind of balance and teamwork was missing from some recent agency decisions. The Biden-Harris administration’s 2024 silica rule was intended to address a real concern shared by everyone involved, protecting miners from harmful dust exposure. But the way this rule was written and implemented failed to achieve its intended goals.

Instead of embracing practical solutions like job rotation or flexible compliance strategies, the rule imposed rigid, one-size-fits-all requirements that have created unnecessary burdens for miners and operators alike. In fact, it resulted in costly overreach and unnecessary redundancy.

We should not have to choose between protecting workers and preserving livelihoods. We can do both, but only by creating policies grounded in reality, not radical ideology.

The House Education and Workforce Committee is holding a field hearing right here in southern Indiana at the Vincennes University Gibson County Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Logistics, a school that trains the next generation of miners.

At the hearing, we will present the facts about mining and allow experts to answer questions and explain the work being done to protect workers and strengthen the industry. Members of Congress participating in the event will also have the opportunity to step into a mine simulator on campus and tour the Peabody Mine in Francisco, Indiana.

Today’s miners are highly trained operators of advanced technological systems and intricate equipment. Virtual reality training tools, simulation-based learning, and continuous reskilling are essential to keeping workers safe and providing hands-on experience in a secure environment while they learn their trade.

America’s miners deserve nothing less than our full commitment to their safety. That means strong and effective oversight from MSHA, smart policies that balance innovation with practicality, and a continued focus on training and workforce development.

With this practical approach, we can ensure we are doing everything possible to educate the next generation of mining engineers, protect good-paying jobs, and grow an industry that remains vital to the prosperity of the United States of America.

Mark Messmer is a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, serving Indiana’s 8th Congressional District.

Messmer Celebrates Passage of the 2026 Farm Bill in the House of Representatives

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN) issued the following statement following the passage of the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 in the House of Representatives:

“I am proud that today House Republicans stood up for the American farmer by passing the 2026 Farm Bill,” said Rep. Messmer. “Hoosier farmers, ranchers, and rural communities will benefit greatly from this bipartisan legislation, which stimulates demand for American-grown products and boosts affordability at the grocery store. Our agriculture community richly deserves this much-needed support, and I urge my Senate colleagues to do their part and quickly pass this legislation to get it to the President’s desk for his signature. The American farming community has waited long enough.”

BACKGROUND:

The 2026 Farm Bill provides critical updates across the agricultural economy, including improvements to commodity programs that help producers manage risk amid volatile markets, unpredictable weather, and rising input costs. The legislation strengthens price and revenue support programs, expands disaster assistance tools, and enhances flexibility for producers as they structure their operations.

The bill also reinforces voluntary, incentive-based conservation programs that help farmers improve soil health, protect water quality, and promote precision agriculture while maintaining productivity. In addition, it expands access to credit for beginning and young farmers, strengthens rural broadband and infrastructure, promotes agricultural research and innovation, and supports specialty crop producers and livestock operations across the country.

Critically, the 2026 Farm Bill also makes strategic investments in agricultural research, rural development, trade promotion, and energy innovation to keep American agriculture competitive on the global stage.

In addition to the aforementioned priorities, Rep. Messmer also secured the following wins for Hoosier farmers during Farm Bill negotiations:

● Creation of a food supply chain defense research system through the DOD and USDA Interagency Research Act

● Flood mitigation, outdoor recreation enhancement, and land rehabilitation through the Restoring America’s Floodplains Act

● Improved food access for low-income individuals through the SNAP Online Access Act

● Market development for Indiana farm goods through the Biomanufacturing and Jobs Act

● Regulatory certainty for Hoosier livestock farmers through the Save Our Bacon Act

● SNAP incentives for shelf-stable fruits and vegetables through the SHOPP Act.

● SNAP incentives for nutrient-rich dairy products through the DNIP Act

● Involvement of the Secretary of Agriculture in national security discussions regarding foreign purchases of American farmland through the Protecting American Agriculture from Foreign Adversaries Act

To learn more about how Rep. Messmer is supporting Hoosier farmers in the House of Representatives, click here.

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