News from Rep. Bost

The Bost Bulletin

Dear Friend,

As we kicked off National Small Business Week, I visited several Southern Illinois small business owners. It was great to hear about their experiences, but you could tell it’s a challenging time for our job creators. Inflation, rising prices on eggs and food staples, utilities, gas, and more are hurting our small businesses across Southern Illinois. That’s why I’m doing all I can to empower these hardworking families and stop the Big Government bureaucrats from making it harder for them to get ahead.

Pushing Back Against Pritzker's Anti-Second Amendment Agenda

J.B. Pritzker tried to crush our Second Amendment rights by banning law-abiding gun owners' access to firearms. Well, not so fast. In a big court decision last week, Southern Illinois' U.S. District Court judge Steve McGlynn put a temporary halt to Pritzker's ban, saying we must be "mindful of the rights guaranteed by the Constitution." To learn more about this injunction, click here.

Touring Tornado Damage in Crawford County

I joined Crawford County Chairman Bill Burke for a ride along in Robinson. During my time there I received an update on their ongoing efforts to recover from last month's devastating storms and met with local officials to see how else my staff and I can be of service during this process. After seeing their hard work to fix the destruction left behind by a tornado, I had a call with FEMA, urging the agency to accelerate a federal disaster declaration for the community.

Mike with Crawford County Chairman Bill Burke getting an update on recovery after devastating storms

Shopping Small Makes a Big Difference

As we wrap up Small Business Week, I wanted to thank all the local job creators who welcomed me into their shops, sheds, and stores to hear more about the work they’re doing to strengthen Main Streets across Southern Illinois. Small business is the backbone of the American economy!

Mike meeting with local small business owners across Southern Illinois

Honoring Sergeant Sarah Parke

I made a special visit to West City this week, where I surprised Sgt. Sarah Parke with a Congressional Record certificate in recognition of her being named Officer of the Year by the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police. Not only has Sgt. Parke's quick thinking helped save several lives, she's also led charitable efforts for families in need in her community. I am happy to be able to make sure her bravery and commitment to service is recorded forever in our nation's history through this Congressional Record. Thank you for your service, Sgt. Parke, and thanks for helping with the surprise, Chief Jon Graskewicz! To learn more about Sgt. Parke's accomplishments, click here.

Mike presenting Sgt. Sarah Parke with a Congressional Record certificate in recognition of her being named 2023 Officer of the Year by the Illinois Association of Chiefs of Police

Serving Our Veterans

I'm proud to serve as House Veterans' Affairs Committee chairman because it gives me a critical platform to fight for our vets. This week I participated in a forum with VFW, DAV, and American Legion leaders in Mt. Vernon; met with Connie Jones of the Coles County Veteran Support Coalition; and visited the Rush University Medical Center's veterans' program in Effingham. It was great meeting with everyone!

Mike meeting with local veterans, veteran support groups, and community leaders

Visiting Effingham High School

It was great meeting with staff and students from Effingham High School this week. I enjoyed answering their thoughtful questions and providing an update on the work we're doing in the nation's capital. Thanks for having me!

Mike visiting Effingham High School to answer questions and support staff

Celebrating International Firefighters Day

Thursday marked International Firefighters Day. Being a Murphysboro firefighter was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. This week I am proud to celebrate and recognize all my first responder brothers and sisters who run towards danger to keep our families safe. Thank you for your service to our community!

Mike during his days as a firefighter with the Murphysboro Fire Department

Observing the National Day of Prayer

This week together we observe the National Day of Prayer, a day for Americans to strengthen our relationship with God and seek his continued providence over our great country. Only through His wisdom and healing power can we navigate the challenging and increasingly divisive times in which we live. Tracy and I pray you and your loved ones have many blessings to be thankful for.

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- Mike