Messmer, Mark RSS Articles

Messmer Presents Purple Heart and Air Medal to Vietnam Veteran Gary Long

Sat, 24 Oct 2026 04:00:00 GMT

BRAZIL, IN – Today, Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, presented the Purple Heart and Air Medal to Vietnam veteran Gary Long at VFW Post 1127 in Brazil, Indiana. Mr. Long was joined by his family and fellow members of the VFW for the ceremony.

“Gary, you served your country with distinction during a difficult war, and you bore the physical consequences. Nothing we do here today can repay that sacrifice,” said Rep. Messmer. “But we can make sure it is remembered and recognized, and that you know your country is grateful for your honorable service.”

More than five decades after his awards for his service in Vietnam were stolen, today’s presentation restores a worthy recognition of a beloved veteran that the Brazil community and all Hoosiers are proud to call one of their own. Mr. Long received the Purple Heart for wounds sustained during a firefight in Vietnam and the Air Medal for his service as a helicopter door gunner.

To learn more about how Congressman Messmer is supporting America’s veterans in the House of Representatives, visit Messmer.House.Gov.

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Messmer Introduces Bill to Advance Ready Reserve Force Modernization

Thu, 24 Sep 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN), a member of the House Armed Services Committee, today introduced the Ready Reserve Force Modernization Accountability Act. The bill directs the Navy and Maritime Administration to prioritize finalizing design requirements for new sealift vessels and brief Congress on plans to build and fund them.

The Ready Reserve Force (RRF) is a fleet of approximately around 50 vessels that can carry troops, equipment, fuel, and supplies across oceans during a crisis. It provides nearly half of the federal government’s surge sealift capacity. Its ships are more than 45 years old on average.

“Our adversaries should think twice before challenging the United States because they know we can bring a logistical force to a fight that is unmatched anywhere in the world,” said Rep. Mark Messmer. “The Ready Reserve Force is a major part of that advantage. We need to replace its aging ships so our military can continue to move troops, equipment, and supplies wherever they are needed. This bill is a step toward maintaining that edge.”

“The Ready Reserve Force (RRF) is only as ready as its ships, and too many of them were built decades ago,” said Senator Dave McCormick. “We need to treat this moment with the urgency it deserves by finalizing the design for new RRF vessels and laying out how they will be built and paid for. Shipyards can't hire, train, and invest based on intentions alone. I applaud Representatives Messmer and Courtney for recognizing the stakes and introducing this bipartisan companion to S. 4630.”

“There’s no question that maintaining our nation’s Ready Reserve Force is national security priority, and the Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee remains committed to enabling the Navy, TRANSCOM, and MARAD to recapitalize the fleet. That’s why, in the FY23 NDAA, we mandated the use of the successful vessel construction manager model for this program. I look forward to the continued work between Congress and the Navy to ensure successful deliveries of new RFF vessels,” said Rep. Joe Courtney.

BACKGROUND:

The Ready Reserve Force Modernization Accountability Act directs the Secretary of the Navy and the Maritime Administrator to prioritize finalizing design requirements for new RRF vessels.

The bill also requires the Navy, in coordination with the Maritime Administration, to brief Congress within 180 days. The briefing must cover the status of the new vessel design, plans for a vessel construction manager program, funding for the authorized 10-ship construction program, and how purchases of new and used vessels will work together during the transition.

The legislation aims to support military readiness and give domestic shipbuilders greater clarity about the path to replacing the fleet.

To learn more about how Rep. Messmer is supporting America’s warfighters and strengthening our national security, click here.

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Messmer Hosts Tax Event Highlighting the Benefits of the One Big Beautiful Bill

Fri, 21 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT

TERRE HAUTE, IN – Today, Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN) hosted a Tax Event alongside Rep. Rudy Yakym (R-IN) to discuss how the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) is delivering lasting tax relief for Hoosier families, workers, seniors, and small businesses. The event brought together local financial professionals, CPAs, bankers, and business leaders to examine the law's impact on Indiana's economy.

“The One Big Beautiful Bill prevented the largest tax increase in history from crushing hard-working Americans, while making many pro-growth tax policies permanent for all families and businesses,” said Rep. Messmer. “Today’s discussion provided an opportunity to speak directly with Hoosiers in our community and discuss new ways we can deliver relief with future tax cuts and job creating policies.”

During the forum, participants highlighted the positive impacts of the law’s permanent extension of provisions in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act and celebrated the bevy of expanded deductions which are creating new financial opportunities for American families and small businesses. Stakeholders also discussed the benefits of new deductions for overtime pay, and enhanced deductions for many senior citizens, which effectively eliminate federal taxes on Social Security checks, ensuring Hoosiers, many on a fixed income, keep more of their money. Altogether, the impact of the OBBB is promoting economic stability and growth across Indiana.

To learn more about how Congressman Messmer is helping lower taxes for Hoosier families and businesses, visit Messmer.House.Gov.

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Messmer Highlights Indiana’s Workforce Development Leadership at Apprenticeship Roundtable

Thu, 13 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT

EVANSVILLE, IN – Today, Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN) hosted an Apprenticeship Roundtable at Ivy Tech Community College in Evansville to discuss how Indiana’s nationally recognized apprenticeship model can help strengthen workforce development nationwide. The event convened federal, state, education, and industry leaders to examine policies that expand career pathways and address America's workforce needs.

“Indiana has demonstrated that strong partnerships between employers, educators, and government can prepare workers for rewarding careers while meeting the needs of our economy,” said Rep. Messmer. “As Congress explores ways to strengthen workforce development, our state provides a proven model for expanding apprenticeships, closing the skills gap, and creating opportunities for hardworking Hoosiers.”

Participants discussed Indiana’s leadership in registered apprenticeships, the role of community colleges in preparing the next generation of skilled workers, and opportunities to build on successful state programs through federal workforce policy. The conversation also highlighted the importance of collaboration between employers, educators, and government to meet growing workforce demands in key industries.

To learn more about how Congressman Messmer is helping strengthen Indiana’s workforce to meet the challenges of the 21st century, visit Messmer.House.Gov.

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Messmer Convenes Roundtable to Discuss Services for America’s Veterans

Thu, 06 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT

VINCENNES, IN – Today, Rep. Mark Messmer (R-IN) convened a Hoosier Veterans Roundtable at Vincennes University, bringing together local, state, and federal veterans organizations to discuss services and care for Hoosier veterans. The discussion focused upon benefit expansion, strengthening coordination among organizations, and identifying legislative priorities to best serve those who make our nation so proud.

“Our veterans fulfilled their commitment to America, and we will always fulfill ours to them,” said Rep. Messmer. “I appreciate everyone who joined today’s discussion, and I will continue working to strengthen the VA, improve access to care, and fight for the veterans of Indiana's Eighth District.”

Representatives from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the House Committee on Veterans Affairs, the Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs, and local Veteran Service Organizations shared updates on ongoing initiatives and discussed the needs of veterans across Southern Indiana, including access to care in rural communities.

To learn more about how Congressman Messmer is supporting America's veterans in the House of Representatives, visit Messmer.House.Gov.

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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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