Ezell, Mike RSS Articles

PASSED COMMITTEE: Ezell, Frost, King-Hinds Bill to Give Disaster Survivors More Time to Appeal FEMA Denials

Wed, 16 Sep 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, the bipartisan Post-Disaster Protection Act, led by Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04), Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost (FL-10), and Congresswoman Kimberlyn King-Hinds (MP-AL), passed the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure’s markup, bringing the legislation one step closer to a vote on the House floor.

The legislation would extend the deadline for applicants to appeal denials of FEMA disaster assistance from 60 to 90 days, matching the amount of time FEMA has to review an appeal. The extension would apply to individual disaster survivors as well as government applicants, including states, cities, counties, and utilities.

“Communities across South Mississippi know firsthand that recovering from a natural disaster is difficult enough without unnecessary hurdles from the federal government," Ezell said. "The Post-Disaster Protection Act is a commonsense fix that gives families and local communities more time to navigate FEMA’s appeals process and make their case. If FEMA gets 90 days to review an appeal, disaster survivors deserve the same amount of time to submit one. I’m glad to see this bipartisan bill advance out of committee, and I look forward to working to get it across the finish line.”

“When disaster strikes, people should not have to race against the clock to prove that they need help,” Frost said. “If FEMA has 90 days to review an appeal, survivors should have 90 days to make their case. This is a simple fix that gives families and communities the time they need to gather documents, correct mistakes, and access the assistance they are entitled to.”

“Disaster survivors and communities are often navigating an overwhelming recovery process while trying to access the federal assistance they need,” King-Hinds said. “Having experienced firsthand the challenges of disaster recovery in the Northern Mariana Islands, I understand how difficult it can be to gather documentation, navigate federal requirements, and appeal a decision while rebuilding lives and critical infrastructure. The Post-Disaster Protection Act is a practical step that gives disaster survivors and local governments a fair opportunity to make their case. I am proud to join Representatives Frost and Ezell in advancing this bipartisan legislation and ensuring that communities across our nation have the time and support they need to recover.”

"Disaster survivors are often at their most vulnerable when they're forced to navigate FEMA's complex appeals process," National Association of Counties Executive Director Matthew Chase said. "The Post-Disaster Protection Act provides much-needed fairness by giving survivors 90 days to appeal a denial, giving them the time they need to gather documentation and correct errors after a disaster upends their lives. This commonsense change will help more residents successfully access the relief they're entitled to and ease the burden on local governments working to help our communities recover. As this legislation heads to markup, counties urge the T&I Committee to advance this bipartisan legislation."

“One of the biggest challenges of responding to and recovering from a disaster is managing the complexities of federal programs," A.J. Gary, NEMA President said. "The Post-Disaster Protection Act will bring applicant deadlines into alignment with federal review periods and help ease the burden on disaster survivors. NEMA thanks the Members willing to co-sponsor and make this bill truly bipartisan.”

“The National League of Cities supports the Post-Disaster Protection Act, which would give communities additional time to appeal FEMA assistance decisions," Yucel Ors, Legislative Director, Public Safety and Crime Prevention, National League of Cities said. "We thank Representatives Maxwell Frost, Mike Ezell, and Kimberlyn King-Hinds for championing this important bipartisan legislation.”

The National Association of Counties, Community Associations Institute, United States Conference of Mayors, National League of Cities, and National Emergency Management Association endorse the bill.

The Post-Disaster Protection Act is cosponsored by Reps. Maxwell Frost (D-FL), Kimberlyn King-Hinds (R-VI), Kathy Castor (D-FL), Byron Donalds (R-FL), Lois Frankel (D-FL), Scott Franklin (R-FL), Mike Haridopolos (R-FL), Laurel Lee (R-FL), Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL), Brian Mast (R-FL), Cory Mills (R-FL), Jared Moskowitz (D-FL), Darren Soto (D-FL), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), Daniel Webster (R-FL), and Frederica Wilson (D-FL).

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APPROVED BY COMMITTEE: Ezell’s Marine Fisheries Habitat Protection Act Passes House Natural Resources Committee

Tue, 15 Sep 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) announced that his Marine Fisheries Habitat Protection Act (H.R. 5745) passed the House Committee on Natural Resources, advancing the bipartisan legislation toward consideration by the full House.

The Marine Fisheries Habitat Protection Act builds upon the existing Rigs to Reefs initiative by establishing a clearer process for converting certain decommissioned offshore oil and gas infrastructure into artificial reefs. The legislation creates procedures and timelines for the reefing process while maintaining safeguards for navigation, human safety, and the marine environment.

"Along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, we know the tremendous value healthy fisheries provide to our economy, our communities, and our way of life,” Ezell said. “When offshore infrastructure reaches the end of its useful life, we should have a clear and responsible pathway to preserve the marine habitat that has developed around these structures when it makes sense to do so. This bill strengthens that process while maintaining important safeguards for safety, navigation, and our marine environment. I’m proud to see it advance out of committee and look forward to working with my colleagues to move it through the House.”

“Retired offshore energy infrastructure can continue delivering value long after production ends," Chairman Westerman said. "H.R. 5745 formalizes the successful Rigs to Reefs initiative and creates clearer procedures for converting qualifying structures into artificial reefs. These structures provide valuable fish habitat, support marine ecosystems and create new opportunities for anglers and coastal communities. I commend Rep. Ezell for advancing a commonsense solution that strengthens an already successful program, supports American fisheries and puts existing inactive offshore infrastructure to productive use.”

“I’m proud to see this bipartisan legislation advance to improve our Gulf ecosystem,”Carter said. “By streamlining the processes that allow retired offshore platforms to be transformed into artificial reefs, the Marine Fisheries Habitat Protection Act preserves critical habitat for Gulf marine life, supports our recreational and commercial fishing, and shows that energy policy and environmental stewardship don’t have to be at odds.”

Offshore oil and gas structures can develop into established reef ecosystems that provide habitat for fish and other marine life. The existing Rigs to Reefs initiative allows certain decommissioned energy infrastructure to be converted into artificial reefs rather than completely removed. Ezell’s legislation would formalize and build upon that process in federal law, establish clearer timelines and procedures, recognize the role of state artificial reef programs, and provide greater accountability throughout the process.

The bill preserves existing decommissioning options while creating an additional pathway for qualifying structures to be reefed in place. It also directs the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement to provide information on idle structures supporting established reef ecosystems and report on reefing applications and outcomes.

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ICYMI: Ezell Pens Op-Ed, 236 Years of Standing Watch: Honoring the Coast Guard's Past and Investing in Their Future

Tue, 04 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04), Chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, recently published an opinion piece recognizing the 236th Anniversary of the United States Coast Guard and highlighting the service's enduring role in protecting America's maritime borders, supporting national security, and safeguarding Mississippi's Gulf Coast.

In the op-ed, Ezell reflects on the Coast Guard's deep roots in Mississippi—from Coast Guard Air Station Biloxi's anti-submarine operations during World War II to lifesaving search and rescue missions following Hurricane Katrina. He also outlines the Coast Guard's modern missions, including securing the nation's maritime borders, combating illegal drug trafficking, protecting America's fisheries, and defending critical infrastructure.

Ezell also discusses recent investments to modernize the Coast Guard, including new cutters, aircraft, facilities, and infrastructure that will strengthen the service for generations to come while supporting Mississippi's shipbuilding industry and workforce.

"The Coast Guard has faithfully protected our nation for 236 years, and Mississippi has proudly been part of that legacy. As Chairman of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, I remain committed to ensuring these brave men and women have the resources they need to defend our nation, protect our waterways, and save lives. Their mission has never been more important, and neither has our commitment to supporting them."

Ezell's full opinion piece, "236 Years of Standing Watch: Honoring the Coast Guard's Past and Investing in Their Future," is available here: Read the full op-ed.

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Ezell Hosts Water Resources Roundtable on the Future of the Mississippi Sound

Tue, 28 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) hosted a Water Resources listening session in Biloxi, bringing together federal, state, local, and industry leaders to discuss the future of the Mississippi Sound, the impacts of the Bonnet Carré Spillway, permitting reform, and opportunities to strengthen Mississippi's coastal economy.

The roundtable featured Assistant Secretary of the Army (Civil Works) Adam Telle, Col. Shaw of Mobile, and Col. Scotty Autin of New Orleans from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, members of the Mississippi Sound Coalition, local business leaders, and community stakeholders.

"As Chairman of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, I know firsthand that Mississippi's coast is one of our nation's greatest economic and environmental assets," Ezell said. "Today's discussion brought together the people who are directly impacted by decisions made in Washington and those responsible for implementing them. We had a productive conversation about protecting the Mississippi Sound, modernizing outdated policies, and ensuring the Army Corps of Engineers remains focused on delivering projects—not unnecessary bureaucracy."

During the discussion, Ezell and Assistant Secretary Telle discussed the Army's ongoing efforts to streamline project delivery through its "Building Infrastructure, Not Paperwork" initiative, which aims to reduce unnecessary regulatory burdens and accelerate infrastructure projects. They also discussed the Administration's work to finalize a new definition of Waters of the United States (WOTUS), providing greater certainty for landowners, businesses, and local communities.

Ezell emphasized that Mississippi must remain at the forefront of national discussions involving the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and federal water resource policy.

"The challenges facing the Mississippi Sound affect our seafood industry, tourism economy, ports, businesses, and the families who call the Gulf Coast home," Ezell said. "It is critical that Mississippi has a seat at the table as these decisions are made, and I will continue working to ensure our state's priorities are heard."

A significant portion of the discussion focused on the long-term impacts of Bonnet Carré Spillway openings on the Mississippi Sound. Stakeholders discussed the need to evaluate decades-old federal policies governing flood control and water management while identifying solutions that better protect coastal ecosystems and local economies.

Participants also discussed the importance of permitting reform to expedite infrastructure improvements, navigation projects, and coastal resilience efforts while maintaining appropriate environmental protections.

"I appreciate Assistant Secretary Telle, the Army Corps of Engineers, the Mississippi Sound Coalition, local officials, business leaders, and everyone who participated in today's roundtable," Ezell said. "By bringing everyone together, we can continue working toward practical, science-based solutions that protect our natural resources, strengthen our economy, and preserve the Mississippi Gulf Coast for future generations."

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PASSED BY THE HOUSE: Ezell Votes to Strengthen America's Military

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04), Chairman of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Fiscal Year 2027 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), legislation that strengthens America's military, supports service members and their families, revitalizes the defense industrial base, and enhances national security priorities. The bill advances investments in military readiness, defense innovation, and quality of life for those who serve.

"The world is more dangerous than it has been in decades, and Congress has a responsibility to ensure our military remains the strongest and most capable fighting force on the planet," Ezell said. "The FY2027 NDAA invests in our servicemembers, strengthens our national defense, rebuilds America's defense industrial base, and delivers the resources needed to deter our adversaries. I'm proud to support legislation that puts our troops first, strengthens military readiness, and helps ensure the United States remains prepared to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow."

The FY2027 NDAA authorizes critical investments to strengthen America's defense by expanding domestic production capacity, supporting private sector innovation, and creating thousands of skilled manufacturing jobs. The legislation also advances more than 65 presidential defense priorities, restores critical military capabilities, strengthens nuclear deterrence and missile defense, and provides resources to counter threats from China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea.

The legislation also prioritizes the well-being of America's military families by supporting a 5 to 7 percent pay raise for servicemembers while improving access to housing, education, and childcare. Additionally, the bill continues efforts to eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse within the Department of Defense by building on reforms enacted last year and establishing new authorities to improve accountability and achieve a clean audit.

As Chairman of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, Ezell has consistently advocated for policies that strengthen America's maritime security, modernize the nation's military capabilities, and ensure the United States maintains the world's premier fighting force.

The FY2027 NDAA now heads to the Senate for consideration.

Ezell Celebrates Christening of Future USS George M. Neal at Ingalls Shipbuilding

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Last weekend, Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) joined U.S. Navy leaders, HII executives, the Neal family, and shipbuilders at Ingalls Shipbuilding on Saturday to celebrate the christening of the future USS George M. Neal (DDG 131), the fourth Flight III Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyer to be built at Ingalls.

The future USS George M. Neal is named in honor of Aviation Machinist's Mate Third Class George M. Neal, a Korean War veteran and recipient of the Navy Cross. Neal displayed extraordinary courage during a 1951 rescue mission after surviving a helicopter crash behind enemy lines, evading capture for nine days before becoming a prisoner of war. He was released in 1952 after enduring more than a year in captivity.

“The christening of the future USS George M. Neal is a proud moment for Mississippi and our nation,” Ezell said. “George M. Neal’s courage, sacrifice, and service represent the very best of America, and it is fitting that this warship will carry his legacy for generations to come. I’m grateful to the hardworking men and women of Ingalls Shipbuilding whose craftsmanship strengthens our Navy, supports our Gulf Coast economy, and helps keep our nation safe.”

“The future USS George M. Neal honors a legacy of extraordinary courage and sacrifice,” Under-Secretary of the Navy William Toti said. “As we christen this ship, we mark another step toward building the Navy our nation needs. Flight III destroyers are critical to our nation’s security, and we are proud to accept each one built by the skilled workforce at Ingalls."

“As a company, HII does a lot of amazing things, but only people — human beings — build ships. They build ships with their hands, their minds and toughness. The people of Ingalls Shipbuilding are among the finest craftsmen and craftswomen on the face of the Earth,” Kastner said. “When she is delivered, DDG 131 will be the most powerful surface combatant in the world. She will be ready. She’ll be ready because the United States of America makes a conscious choice, generation after generation for now 250 years, to invest in U.S. Navy ships, built by Americans, in America.”

“On behalf of my family, I express my deepest gratitude to the United States Navy, to the incredible honor, for this magnificent destroyer after my father, George Milton Neal,” Gray said. “We are forever grateful that his life of service, sacrifice and courage will be remembered through a ship that will one day defend our nation and carry his legacy throughout the world.”

The traditional christening ceremony featured remarks from senior Navy officials, HII leadership, and the ship's sponsor, Kelley Neal Gray, daughter of the ship's namesake, who performed the ceremonial bottle-breaking against the ship's bow.

As a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and Chairman of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, Rep. Ezell emphasized the importance of Mississippi's shipbuilding industry to both the nation's defense and the Gulf Coast economy.

DDG 131 is one of several Flight III Arleigh Burke-class destroyers currently under construction at Ingalls Shipbuilding. These next-generation warships feature the advanced AN/SPY-6(V)1 Air and Missile Defense Radar and the Aegis Baseline 10 Combat System, significantly enhancing the Navy's ability to counter evolving threats and maintain maritime dominance.

Ingalls Shipbuilding has delivered 36 Arleigh Burke-class destroyers to the U.S. Navy and continues to play a critical role in building the future fleet that protects America's interests around the world.

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Ezell Announces More Than $27 Million in Federal BUILD Grants for Mississippi's Fourth District

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) announced that more than $27 million in Federal Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grants have been awarded to two critical infrastructure projects in Mississippi's Fourth Congressional District.

The grants include $22.1 million for the Mississippi Department of Transportation to expand truck parking and improve freight technology along the Interstate 10 corridor in Hancock County, as well as $5 million for the City of D'Iberville to improve the Mallett Road Multimodal Corridor in Harrison County.

"These investments are a major win for South Mississippi and will strengthen our transportation infrastructure, improve public safety, and support continued economic growth across the Fourth District," Ezell said. "As a member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I understand the importance of keeping goods moving efficiently through our ports, highways, and freight corridors. These projects will help reduce congestion, improve safety for commercial drivers and the traveling public, and ensure our communities are well-positioned for future growth."

The $22.1 million BUILD grant awarded to the Mississippi Department of Transportation will fund the Mississippi I-10 Freight Corridor TPAS and Truck Parking Expansion project at the Hancock County Welcome Center. The project will increase truck parking capacity from 20 spaces to approximately 74 while deploying advanced Truck Parking Availability System (TPAS) technology, dynamic parking availability signs, and fiber-optic infrastructure to improve freight movement and driver safety along one of the Gulf Coast's busiest transportation corridors.

The $5 million BUILD grant awarded to the City of D'Iberville will support the Mallett Road Multimodal Corridor Improvements project. The project includes widening Mallett Road, improving intersections, enhancing traffic flow, upgrading utilities and traffic signals, constructing new turn lanes, and adding a six-foot sidewalk to improve mobility and safety for both motorists and pedestrians.

"Mississippi's Gulf Coast continues to experience tremendous growth, and these investments will help ensure our infrastructure keeps pace with that progress," Ezell continued. "I appreciate the work of the Mississippi Department of Transportation, the City of D'Iberville, and our local leaders who helped make these projects possible. I will continue working to secure federal resources that improve the quality of life for our communities while strengthening Mississippi's economy."

The BUILD Grant Program supports investments in surface transportation infrastructure that improve safety, mobility, economic competitiveness, and quality of life in communities across the country.

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Ezell Honors Mississippi Students Accepted to U.S. Military Service Academies

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congressman Mike Ezell (R-MS4) announced that 7 students from Mississippi’s Fourth Congressional District have accepted their appointments to one of the U.S. Military Service Academies. The students were nominated by Ezell and have received offers of appointment for the Class of 2030 at their respective academies.

“It was a privilege to nominate these outstanding students from Mississippi’s Fourth District to attend our nation’s prestigious U.S. Service Academies,” Ezell said. “This year’s applicant pool was exceptionally competitive, reflecting the talent, character, and commitment of young people across Mississippi. I am proud to have played a small role in helping these students pursue their dreams of serving our country. As they begin this next chapter, I have no doubt they will represent Mississippi with honor and distinction, and I wish each of them continued success in the years ahead.”

The following students received appointments and will start their collegiate careers very soon:

U.S. Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs, Colorado

Peton Broom

Eli Hodges

Kooper Kinsey

Joshua Mayhue

U.S. Military Academy, West Point, New York

Brian Skrmetti

U.S. Naval Academy, Annapolis, Maryland

Morgan Ann McWilliams

John Pierre Haydel

Ezell, Rutherford Introduce Resolution Supporting Law Enforcement During National Police Week

Tue, 12 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congressmen Mike Ezell (MS-04) and John Rutherford (FL-05), both former sheriffs and career law enforcement officers, introduced a concurrent resolution expressing strong support for America’s law enforcement professionals during National Police Week.

The resolution honors the more than 840,000 law enforcement officers who serve communities across the country and recognizes the sacrifices made by officers and their families. It also calls for increased resources, stronger protections, and expanded mental health support for those who wear the badge.

“In recent years, we’ve seen a rise in threats against law enforcement and a strain on departments across the country. We must ensure our officers are equipped, trained, and supported so they can continue protecting the American people," Ezell said. "As a former sheriff, I understand the sacrifices that come with wearing the badge. Law enforcement officers across this country continue to step up and serve, even in increasingly challenging and dangerous environments. This resolution is about making sure they know we have their backs and are committed to supporting them.”

“As a lifelong law enforcement officer and former sheriff, I know firsthand the dangers our officers face every day they put on their badges, say goodbye to their families, and stand between our communities they’ve vowed to protect and those they aim to hurt them,” Rutherford said. “Sadly, anti-police rhetoric continues to grow nationwide, putting our officers in even more danger. This National Police Week, I stand strongly with our men and women in blue and thank them for their dedication to protecting and serving our communities. We must protect those who protect us.”

The resolution highlights the critical role law enforcement has played in recent reductions in violent crime, while also addressing the growing challenges officers face, including increased assaults, staffing shortages, and the mental toll of the job.

Key provisions of the resolution:

Honors fallen officers and their families, with more than 24,000 names memorialized nationwide
Calls for increased staffing, improved training, and modern equipment
Supports stronger penalties for crimes committed against law enforcement
Emphasizes the need for expanded mental health resources for officers
Urges all levels of government to fully support law enforcement professionals

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Ezell Honors Student Artists at 2026 Congressional Art Competition Reception

Wed, 06 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) recognized the outstanding artistic talent of students from across Mississippi’s Fourth District during this year’s Congressional Art Competition Reception, celebrating the creativity and hard work of local high school students.

The annual competition provides students with an opportunity to showcase their artistic abilities, with the first-place winner’s artwork displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year.

“Mississippi is home to incredible talent, and this year’s competition once again proved that,” Ezell said. “It was an honor to recognize these students and celebrate their creativity, dedication, and hard work. Their artwork reflects not only their talent but also the unique perspectives and stories of our communities. I’m grateful to every student who submitted their work and to the families and educators who help foster that creativity. Investing in the arts is an investment in the next generation, and I look forward to seeing what these talented students accomplish in the future.”

The 2026 Congressional Art Competition winners are:

1st Place: Zoey Margrave, Petal High School
2nd Place: Alicia Chavez, Petal High School
3rd Place: Kendyll King, Ocean Springs High School

Background:
Each spring, the Congressional Institute sponsors a nationwide high school art competition to recognize the artistic talents of the nation’s youth. The Congressional Art Competition began in 1982 and has had more than 650,000 high school students participate in the competition.

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