About ninety percent of America’s transportation sector is reliant on oil, and pipeline disruptions pose a major threat to America’s energy security. Taking additional steps to better protect our critical infrastructure and deter attacks on America’s pipelines is necessary.

Recently, I joined with fellow Senate Commerce Committee Republicans in introducing the Safe and Secure Transportation of American Energy Act to protect American energy from attacks or the threat of attacks. Our legislation would deter domestic eco-terrorists from targeting pipelines that transport oil and gas in the U.S. by expanding the current criminal penalties to cover vandalism of, tampering with, or otherwise disrupting the operations or construction of a pipeline.

Current federal law allows for criminal charges against individuals who damage or destroy operating pipelines. However, the law does not clearly apply these penalties to those who vandalize, tamper with, or disrupt the operation or construction of a pipeline. Our legislation would correct that oversight.

Read more here and here.

As the Crossroads of America, Indiana understands how crucial truck drivers are to our daily lives.

In our state, trucking represents 1 in 12 jobs. This week is National Truck Driver Appreciation Week and the perfect time to thank our Hoosier truckers. 

Last week, I visited the campus of the University of Evansville to learn more about the opportunities and programs available to students. Thanks to President Pietruszkiewicz for the tour.

Additionally, I met with community and business leaders in southwest Indiana. We discussed a variety of topics, including workforce development and economic opportunities in the region. Thanks to the Evansville Regional Economic Partnership for hosting the conversation.

I also met with Evansville Mayor Stephanie Terry and Deputy Mayor Lindsay Locasto and appreciated the update they shared with our team.

I enjoyed meeting with the Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari team last week to discuss issues affecting their industry. Hoosier families have enjoyed visiting Holiday World in Santa Claus for decades.

I joined thousands of Hoosiers at Right to Life of Southwest Indiana’s annual banquet on September 12. Thanks to Tim Tebow for sharing inspiring words about protecting the unborn and demonstrating compassion.

Navigating federal agencies can be difficult. My staff and I are here to assist Hoosiers who are having trouble receiving benefits, have questions regarding a program or procedure, or have not heard back from these agencies in a timely manner.

Learn more about how we can help here.

WIBC: Indiana’s Todd Young Signs onto Bill Aiming to Protect American Pipelines

Fox 59: Nearly $50 million in federal funds coming to Central Indiana Tech Hub project

NWI Times: Smart energy policies needed to support Indiana’s tech sector boom

The Washington Free Beacon: With Eco-Terrorism on the Rise, Senate Republicans Propose Stiffer Penalties for Pipeline Sabotage

Thank you for the continued privilege to serve you in the U.S. Senate. My mission is to fight on behalf of Hoosiers and the interests that are unique to our state. I look forward to working with you, and sharing our progress, in the days ahead. 

In Service,