Ezell, Mike RSS Articles

Ezell Applauds Navy Investment in Ingalls Shipbuilding to Advance Next-Generation Frigate Program

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) welcomed the U.S. Navy’s announcement of a $283 million contract award to HII’s Ingalls Shipbuilding Division in Pascagoula, Mississippi, to support the development of the Navy’s next-generation guided missile frigate program.

The contract will fund long-lead time material procurement, continued design adaptation work from the U.S. Coast Guard’s Legend-class National Security Cutter to the Navy’s FF(X) platform, and initial pre-construction activities for the first ship.

“This is a major win for Mississippi and for our nation’s maritime strength,” Ezell said. “Ingalls Shipbuilding has long been a cornerstone of our shipbuilding industrial base, and this investment reinforces its critical role in delivering the next generation of naval capability. It also means good-paying jobs and continued economic growth for our region. Ensuring our Navy has the ships it needs to meet evolving threats starts with a strong industrial base. This program will not only strengthen our national defense, but it will also expand shipbuilding capacity across the country through a competitive, distributed approach.”

The award represents a key step in accelerating the Navy’s frigate program, with plans to move forward with full construction of the first two ships later this year, pending congressional authorization and appropriations.

The Navy has indicated it intends to transition to a competitive procurement process for future frigate orders, leveraging Ingalls’ leadership as a “lead yard” to deliver a build-ready design and support production across the broader industrial base.

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Ezell, Carter, Higgins, Figures Introduce Bipartisan Offshore Parity Act to Expand Gulf State Boundaries

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Representatives Mike Ezell (MS-04), Troy A. Carter, Sr. (LA-02), Clay Higgins (LA-03), and Shomari Figures (AL-02) introduced the Offshore Parity Act, bipartisan legislation to establish equal offshore boundaries for Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama—bringing them in line with Texas and Florida.

Under current law, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Alabama have jurisdiction over three nautical miles offshore, while Texas and Florida maintain nine nautical miles. The Offshore Parity Act would extend the boundaries of Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama to nine nautical miles, providing greater access to energy and marine resources and increasing state-level control.

“For too long, Mississippi and our Gulf Coast neighbors have operated under an outdated and unequal system,” Ezell said. “This bill is about fairness. Expanding our offshore boundaries will strengthen our economy, support energy production, and give our state the same opportunities already afforded to Texas and Florida.”

“This is a critical step toward equality, ensuring that Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama have the same authority over their waters as Texas and Florida,” said Carter. “This bill will empower us to manage our energy resources, protect our coastal communities, and strengthen our fisheries—securing economic benefits for our states.”

“This bill ensures that states are on equal footing regarding offshore boundaries," Higgins said. "The expansion from three to nine miles of state waters would provide Louisiana with greater control and economic benefit from its offshore resources. My office will continue to advocate for our coastal communities and industries."

"There's no reason Alabama should have less access and control of our shores than Texas and Florida have over theirs," Figures said. "This bipartisan bill levels the playing field by making a commonsense update that ensures all gulf states have equal offshore boundaries."

The Offshore Parity Act proposes amendments to the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act and the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act to reflect the expanded boundaries and align fisheries and resource management accordingly.

This legislation builds on prior efforts introduced in the previous Congress and continues longstanding advocacy from Gulf Coast states seeking equal treatment under federal law. The current disparity dates back to the Submerged Lands Act of 1953, which granted Texas and Florida expanded offshore boundaries while limiting Mississippi, Louisiana, and Alabama to three nautical miles.

By establishing parity, the bill is expected to enhance economic development, increase state revenues, and provide greater local control over coastal resources.

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Ezell Joins Bipartisan Effort to Address Rising Homeowner Insurance Costs

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Congressmen Mike Ezell (MS-04), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Gabe Evans (CO-08), and Troy A. Carter Sr. (LA-02) introduced the bipartisan Commission on Natural Disaster Risk Management and Insurance Act, a bill to create a nonpartisan commission to study natural disaster insurance affordability and report policy recommendations to Congress within two years.

As economic losses from natural disasters have increased, homeowners’ and business insurance costs have risen. Meanwhile, availability has declined, leading to a growing insurance coverage gap.

“As communities like those along the Gulf Coast know all too well, natural disasters don’t just threaten lives — they threaten livelihoods,” said Ezell. “Families and small businesses are facing rising insurance costs and fewer coverage options, creating real financial uncertainty. This bipartisan commission will help us take a closer look at the challenges in our insurance markets and identify practical solutions to ensure Americans can access affordable, reliable coverage when they need it most.”

“As extreme weather drives insurance costs higher and pushes coverage out of reach for too many families and small businesses, the bipartisan Commission on Natural Disaster Risk Management and Insurance Act will give Congress the clear roadmap we need to strengthen access to affordable, reliable insurance,” Carbajal said. “The increasing frequency of billion-dollar natural disasters demands that we proactively confront the growing insurance coverage gaps, and this bipartisan effort is an important step toward doing exactly that.”

“Across Colorado, homeowners are facing rising insurance prices as providers are driven out of the state and forced to pull back coverage — leaving behind thousands of families in high-risk natural disasters areas searching for new plans. I'm proud to co-lead this bipartisan effort to combat the surge in expensive policies and help protect access to affordable, reliable insurance that Coloradans and Americans deserve,” Evans said.

“Louisiana families and businesses are facing a crisis of rising homeowners and flood insurance premiums, worsening our housing affordability issues. We've seen premiums skyrocket, forcing families to make impossible choices between protecting their homes and paying for groceries, healthcare, or their children's education. This expert commission will provide Congress with data and recommendations needed to tackle this emergency so that generations of Louisianians can afford to work and live in the place we proudly call home,” Carter said.

Read the full text of the legislation here.

The Senate Joint Economic Committee reported that roughly 70% of Americans stated that their community experienced an extreme weather event in 2023. Between 2019 and 2023, the average annual cost of billion-dollar disasters in the United States was $120.6 billion, more than double the 44-year inflation-adjusted annual average.

For many Americans whose home or small business is their largest financial asset, growing insurance gaps and reduced coverage pose a vital risk to their financial health. Underinsurance also poses a risk to local governments whose tax bases rely largely on property values.

The Commission on Natural Disaster Risk Management and Insurance Act would represent a step toward protecting homeowners, small businesses, and local governments from the growing insurance gaps.

In developing the report, the commission would be directed to:

Assess the current state of natural disaster insurance markets in the U.S.

Identify gaps in coverage and affordability challenges, especially for vulnerable populations and high-risk areas.

Evaluate the role of the federal government to improve insurance access and reduce costs.

The commission’s membership would include representatives from:

Insurance industry

State insurance regulators

Emergency management experts

Academic Institutions and researchers in climate and risk management

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PASSED BY HOUSE: Ezell Bill Honoring Fallen Deputy Jeremy Malone

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) announced that his legislation to designate the United States Postal Service facility located at 825 Highway 198 in Beaumont, Mississippi, as the Jeremy Malone Post Office passed the U.S. House of Representatives.

The bill honors the life and legacy of George County Deputy Sheriff Jeremy Malone, who was tragically killed in the line of duty on January 4, 2024, during a traffic stop in the Rocky Creek community. Deputy Malone dedicated 21 years to law enforcement across South Mississippi and was widely respected for his courage, professionalism, and commitment to serving others.

“Deputy Jeremy Malone gave his life protecting the people of South Mississippi,” Ezell said. “As a former law enforcement officer, I understand the sacrifices that come with wearing the badge. Renaming this post office in his honor ensures that his service, his character, and his dedication to his community will never be forgotten.

I urge our Mississippi Senators to take up and pass this bill quickly so we can ensure Deputy Malone’s legacy is permanently honored. This designation is a lasting tribute to a man who embodied service before self. It will serve as a daily reminder of the courage of our law enforcement officers and the sacrifices made by them and their families.”

In addition to his service in uniform, Deputy Malone was deeply involved in his community, volunteering with programs like Santa Wears a Badge and the Blue Line Toy Drive to support local families and children in need.

Deputy Malone is survived by his wife, Hilary, and their three daughters, Abbie, Alivia, and Brooklyn.

The legislation now heads to the U.S. Senate for consideration.

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Ezell, Hyde-Smith Sign Amicus Brief to SCOTUS Opposing New York Attempt to Undermine Federal Firearms Law

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) and U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) are among 77 lawmakers who have signed an amicus brief urging the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn a Second Circuit ruling and uphold the Second Amendment by preventing New York from bypassing the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA).

Signed by 22 U.S. Senators and 55 U.S. Representatives, the brief argues that a New York state public nuisance law improperly undermines protections established by Congress in the PLCAA, which generally shields gun manufacturers and sellers from lawsuits when criminals misuse firearms that were legally sold. The New York law allows lawsuits against gun industry members based on broad claims that they contributed to conditions endangering public safety.

“Law-abiding Americans have a constitutional right to keep and bear arms, and that right should not be undermined by backdoor attempts to target lawful manufacturers,” said Congressman Ezell. “The Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act ensures firearm manufacturers are not held liable for the criminal actions of others. Efforts to bypass that law threaten both the Second Amendment and the stability of an industry that supports American jobs and constitutional freedoms. I stand with my colleagues in urging the Supreme Court to uphold federal law and protect the rights of responsible gun owners.”

“Our brief is part of the ongoing work to protect the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding citizens from leftist states run by anti-gun activists. These states shouldn’t be allowed to erode the constitutional protections established by Congress by law,” said Senator Hyde-Smith, author of the Gun-owner Registration Information Protection (GRIP) Act.

U.S. Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas) and U.S. Representative Russell Fry (R-S.C.) led the amicus brief, which supports the National Shooting Sports Foundation’s petition seeking certiorari before the Supreme Court.

Read excerpts from the amicus brief below and the full brief here.

“The Second Amendment to the United States Constitution ensures law-abiding and peaceable American citizens the right to keep and bear arms. But no one besides accomplished gunsmiths could exercise that right if a citizen could not lawfully purchase a firearm because the firearm industry had become insolvent. Congress passed the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA) to prevent that outcome by placing firearm manufacturers on equal footing with other American manufacturers. Under the Act, so long as a firearm is properly made and properly transferred into commercial channels, a manufacturer is generally not liable if a criminal later misuses that firearm in the commission of a crime. In particular, the PLCAA forecloses the imposition of liability under flexible and indistinct common-law standards that provide firearm manufacturers with no notice of the precise conduct that is required or to be avoided. Indeed, that was the statute’s core purpose.

“The State of New York is unhappy with any impediments to its ability to bankrupt lawful arms manufacturers based on the actions of New York criminals whom the State is unable or unwilling to control. In the State’s view—adopted by the Second Circuit—the PLCAA is a paper tiger that any state legislature may tame by simply codifying vague and unpredictable common-law standards and explicitly applying the new code provisions only to the firearms industry.

“The State and the court below are too clever by half. This case presents an issue of exceptional importance with regard to the states’ ability to circumvent the preemptive force of federal legislation. The PLCAA is not a mere Kabuki feint designed to encourage its own circumvention. Rather, the Act was designed to, and does, preempt efforts to impose hazy common-law liability standards whether or not codified by a state legislature to target the firearms industry. This Court should intervene now before the Second Circuit’s decision, directly or through its influence, further undermines the Second Amendment and congressional will.”

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PASSED BY HOUSE: Ezell Bill to Strengthen Coastal Monitoring and Resilience

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) announced that his legislation, H.R. 2294, to reauthorize the Integrated Ocean Observation System (IOOS), passed the U.S. House of Representatives last night.

The bill ensures the continued operation and modernization of a critical national system that provides real-time data on ocean conditions, weather patterns, and coastal hazards—supporting communities, industries, and emergency response efforts across the Gulf Coast and the nation.

“As a representative of a coastal district, I understand firsthand how important accurate, real-time data is for protecting lives, supporting our fishermen, and strengthening our coastal economy,” Ezell said. “Reauthorizing IOOS ensures that our communities have the tools they need to prepare for severe weather, safeguard our marine resources, and keep our ports and waterways operating efficiently. I will continue working with my colleagues in both chambers to get this important legislation across the finish line. Mississippi’s Gulf Coast and coastal communities across the country are counting on it.”

The Integrated Ocean Observation System plays a vital role in forecasting hurricanes, monitoring harmful algal blooms, supporting maritime navigation, and informing disaster response. Along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, these capabilities are essential to protecting livelihoods, infrastructure, and natural resources.

House Natural Resources Committee Chairman Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.) praised the legislation, stating, “Rep. Ezell has been a consistent leader in advancing science-based coastal management. Reauthorizing the Integrated Coastal and Ocean Observation System ensures communities, fishermen, and emergency managers have reliable data to protect lives, infrastructure, and marine resources. This bill reinforces the importance of accurate information for coastal resilience and economic stability.”

H.R. 2294 now heads to the Senate for consideration.

Ezell Accepts AAPA’s 2026 Port Person of the Year Award

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

At this year’s annual Legislative Summit, Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) received the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) 2026 Port Person of the Year award for his steadfast commitment to the seaport and maritime industry.

"It is an honor and a privilege to be named AAPA’s Port Person of the Year for my work to strengthen our nation’s economic vitality and national security through our ports,” stated Congressman Ezell. “Our nation’s ports and maritime industry will continue to be one of my top priorities so that we can remain competitive in the global marketplace and stand ready to meet the challenges of the future."

“There is no question that Rep. Ezell has been a remarkable advocate for our port industry throughout his time in Congress,” said Chett Chiasson, AAPA Board Chair and Port Fourchon Executive Director. “His dedication to coastal navigation and strong, modern, and vibrant gateways made possible through real infrastructure investment, will have a lasting impact on our industry.”

“Congressman Ezell is a true leader for ports in Mississippi and across the country. He consistently champions legislation and initiatives that directly benefit the port and maritime community,” said Jon Nass, CEO, Mississippi State Port Authority at Gulfport. "Ports along the Gulf Coast and nationwide are fortunate to have such a strong advocate representing them in Congress, and we were proud to nominate him for the award he is receiving today.”

“We proudly congratulate Congressman Mike Ezell on being named the 2026 Person of the Year by AAPA,” stated the Port Pascagoula staff and commissioners. "Through his work on the House Committees on Transportation & Infrastructure and his leadership on initiatives such as the Port Cranes Tax Credit, he continues to champion policies that strengthen port infrastructure, improve supply chain resilience, and support American maritime progress. Congressman Ezell’s leadership reflects the maritime strength, work ethic, and pride that define Pascagoula and the communities that power America’s ports.”

Background:

In 2025, Congressman Ezell introduced the Port Cranes Tax Credit Act alongside Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY-11) and original cosponsors Representatives Randy Weber (R-TX-14) and Jen Kiggans (R-VA-02). The legislation provides a 25% investment tax credit for U.S. facilities that manufacture or repair ship-to-shore and mobile harbor port cranes, plus a production credit of 40%, rising to 60% if 90% or more of crane components are American-made. If enacted, the bill would boost domestic manufacturing, strengthen supply chains, and enhance national security by bringing port manufacturing back to the U.S.

Ezell has served Mississippi’s 4th District since 2023. He sits on the House Natural Resources and Transportation and Infrastructure Committees and chairs the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation.

Since 2022, Direct ChassisLink Inc. (DCLI) has sponsored the Port Person of the Year award. DCLI is the largest provider of marine and domestic container chassis to the U.S. intermodal industry, a strong partner of America’s ports, and an AAPA member company.

First awarded in 1994, AAPA's Port Person of the Year honors individuals whose exceptional work has made a meaningful impact on public port authorities and maritime commerce in the Western Hemisphere. Past recipients include government officials, trade and transportation leaders, and others who have advanced the priorities of the public port community.

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Ezell Statement on the U.S. and Israel's 'Operation Epic Fury'

Sat, 28 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Today, Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) released the following statement regarding the United States and Israel's "Operation Epic Fury" mission on the Iranian Regime:

"Iran is facing the consequences of its dangerous and destabilizing actions. For decades, the regime has pursued nuclear ambitions while supporting terrorist organizations and threatening American lives, our allies, and stability across the Middle East.

"President Trump and his Administration have pursued diplomatic solutions, but protecting American citizens and service members must remain the top priority.

"We pray for the safety of our brave men and women in uniform and for our allies in the region. May God protect them and continue to bless the United States of America."

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Ezell Responds to President Trump’s State of the Union Address

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) released the following statement in response to President Trump's State of the Union Address:

“Tonight, the President highlighted priorities that matter to families and workers across Mississippi — lowering taxes, rewarding hard work, and strengthening our nation’s security. Eliminating taxes on tips and overtime pay puts more money back into the pockets of hardworking Americans, while securing our borders helps protect our communities from crime, drugs, and human trafficking.

“Mississippi families expect leadership that delivers results, and that is what President Trump has delivered in the first year of his second term. Republicans are advancing pro-growth policies that ease burdens on workers and small businesses, strengthen our economy, and keep opportunity within reach for the next generation.

“Securing our border remains a national security priority. Strong enforcement and policies that stop illegal crossings and combat fentanyl trafficking are essential to protecting American communities and supporting law enforcement on the front lines.

“The President also emphasized fair trade policies that put American workers first. Strategic tariffs, when used responsibly, help level the playing field, protect domestic industries, and strengthen supply chains vital to our national security. For coastal communities like ours, supporting American manufacturing and shipbuilding protects jobs and strengthens our economy.

“Maintaining a strong national defense rooted in peace through strength is equally important. When America leads with strength, supports our allies, and maintains the world’s most capable military, we deter aggression and promote stability.

“Unfortunately, Senate Democrats are holding up the Department of Homeland Security appropriations bill, resulting in a partial shutdown impacting FEMA, DHS, TSA, and the United States Coast Guard. Delaying funding for these agencies creates unnecessary risk and uncertainty. The Senate must act quickly to ensure these critical operations continue.

“While we have made progress, our work is not finished. I will continue working to strengthen our economy, support our military and veterans, protect Social Security and Medicare, and ensure government remains accountable to the American people.

“The people of Mississippi’s Fourth District want safe communities, economic opportunity, and responsible leadership, and I remain committed to helping the Trump Administration delivering results on those priorities.”

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Ezell Announces Frank Mallette as State of the Union Guest

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Congressman Mike Ezell (MS-04) announced that Frank Mallette of Vancleave, Mississippi, will join him in Washington as his guest for this year’s State of the Union Address.

Mallette is a respected construction professional and road builder whose work has helped improve infrastructure and strengthen communities across South Mississippi. Through decades of hands-on experience, he has played an important role in building and maintaining the roads and transportation networks that support local commerce, public safety, and economic growth.

“Frank represents the hardworking men and women who keep Mississippi moving,” Ezell said. “From building roads to strengthening our infrastructure, his work supports our economy and improves daily life for families across the Gulf Coast. I am honored to have him as my guest for the State of the Union.”

As a resident of Vancleave, Mallette embodies the strong work ethic and commitment to community that define Mississippi’s Fourth District. His contributions to infrastructure development reflect the critical importance of skilled trades and the role they play in supporting economic opportunity and regional growth.

Ezell looks forward to highlighting Mallette’s contributions while bringing the voice of Mississippi’s workers and builders to the nation’s capital.

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