Austin News

U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) had a successful year in 2023, with five bills signed into law and nearly 12,000 Texans assisted with federal agencies. In a statement, Sen. Cornyn expressed his dedication to serving the needs of his constituents, stating, "Whether we are helping veterans receive timely care or ensuring seniors receive their well-earned Social Security benefits, our office stands ready to help in any way we can."

One of Sen. Cornyn's significant achievements was in constituent services. His office interacted with hundreds of thousands of Texans through various channels, including mail, website, in-person meetings, and phone calls. In 2023, his office sent nearly 375,000 response letters to Texans and answered over 30,200 constituent phone calls. They also assisted more than 5,000 Texans with passports during the backlog at the U.S. Department of State.

Furthermore, Sen. Cornyn's office resolved nearly 12,000 cases with federal agencies on behalf of Texans. One notable example involved a U.S. Army veteran injured during the Invasion of Normandy in World War II. Due to an oversight, the veteran had never received his Purple Heart. Sen. Cornyn's constituent services team reached out to the Army, and with the help of the Secretary of the Army, the award was approved. On his 99th birthday, the veteran was finally presented with his long-overdue Purple Heart, 79 years after D-Day.

In addition to his work in constituent services, Sen. Cornyn had legislative successes in 2023. He authored five bills that were signed into law, and another nine bills passed the Senate and await action in the U.S. House of Representatives. Among the bills enacted into law were the Securing American Acquisitions, Readiness, and Military Stockpiles (ARMS) Act, which enhances the procurement authorities of the U.S. Department of Defense to quickly refill defense stockpiles after aiding an ally or partner attacked by a foreign adversary. The Sensible Classification Act increases accountability and oversight of the classification system and directs federal agencies to justify security clearance requirements. The Cranes of Concern at our Ports (CCP) Act requires the evaluation of threats to U.S. ports posed by cranes manufactured in countries of concern, particularly those made by China's Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industries Company (ZPMC). The Airport Infrastructure Resources (AIR) Security Act extends Sen. Cornyn's legislation prohibiting the use of federal airport improvement funds to purchase passenger boarding bridges from companies that violate intellectual property rights and threaten national security. Lastly, the Protecting Hunting Heritage and Education Act ensures students have access to educational enrichment programs and activities such as archery and hunting safety education.

Sen. Cornyn's dedication to serving his constituents and his legislative achievements have earned him recognition as the most effective Republican Senator for the 117th Congress by the Center for Effective Lawmaking.

In conclusion, Sen. Cornyn's accomplishments in 2023 highlight his commitment to the people of Texas and his effectiveness as a legislator. With his focus on constituent services and successful bills, he has made a positive impact on the lives of many Texans.