Dear fellow South Carolinians,

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HEROES Act
Last Thursday, I introduced the Heroes Entering Roles Of Education Service Act (HEROES Act), which aims to curb the decline of teachers in America’s public school system. The HEROES Act also addresses the Administration’s recommendation in the final report of the President’s Commission on School Safety by increasing the presence of veterans in our schools thus adding an extra layer of safety and protection for children and communities. 

Our nation’s veterans possess a unique set of skills that make them ideal candidates for a wide array of careers after their service. It is critical that we work to make their transition back to civilian life as smooth as possible. With that in mind, I am proud to introduce the HEROES Act to encourage veterans to use their skills in the classroom teaching the next generation. You can read more here.

9/11 Victims Compensation Fund
On Tuesday, I voted for legislation that supports 9/11 survivors and first responders by authorizing them to receive full benefits by reauthorizing and permanently funding the 9/11 Victims Compensation Fund. The measure passed the United States Senate with a vote of 97 to 2, and President Trump signed it into law this morning.

We are forever grateful for the first responders who willingly rushed to save lives that had been shaken by the heinous attacks on American soil. More than 75,000 men and women are receiving medical treatment as a result of their heroic acts 18 years ago, and we will never forget their sacrifices. I’m proud to have helped pass this legislation into law.

Willie O’Ree Congressional Gold Medal
Last Thursday I joined Sen. Stabenow (D-MI) to announce our bipartisan legislation to award the Congressional Gold Medal to Willie O’Ree, the first black player to compete in the National Hockey League. Known as the “Jackie Robinson of Hockey,” O’Ree played 21 years of professional hockey including for an Original Six franchise, the Boston Bruins. I’m proud to be leading efforts to award the Congressional Gold Medal to O’Ree to recognize his lifetime of contributions to the sport of hockey and to our nation.

It was also a true honor to meet Mr. O’Ree and welcome him to our nation’s capital! Because of men like him, subsequent generations have the opportunities we do. I admire his service to those growing up in distressed communities and look forward to him receiving the Congressional Gold Medal.

Sincerely,

Tim