Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 9497, the Water Resources Development Act of 2026. This bipartisan bill reflects Congress' longstanding commitment to investing in America's ports, waterways, flood control systems, and infrastructure. This legislation hits close to home, as I represent the Port of Houston, the Houston Ship Channel, and Cedar Port, some of our Nation's most critical and busiest maritime assets. I am especially proud of how this bill delivers for southeast Texas and for the greater Houston region.
2026 MidtermsSolid SeatR+39Stable$749K raised
Brian Babin
Representative · Texas · Republican
Brian Babin
House Floor
Recent comments in the House
Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor of the life and legacy of my friend, Robert ``Bob'' Melville Lee, who went to be with our Lord on August 17, 2026. While his many professional achievements are astounding, it is the titles of husband, father, grandfather, and friend that he was most beloved for. A close friend described him as an incredibly honest, forthright, and above all, loyal individual. Bob was born on August 7, 1945, in Columbus, Ohio. He moved to California shortly after. He was proud to call San Francisco home for most of his life.
Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of S. 283, the Illegal Red Snapper and Tuna Enforcement Act, as amended. This bill directs the National Institute of Standards and Technology and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to develop a standard methodology using chemical analysis to identify the country of origin of seafood. Both commercial and recreational fishing contribute significantly to the Texas economy. Red snapper, in particular, is highly sought after by the recreational fishing sector.
Biography
Brian Babin, a former dentist and Air Force veteran, was elected as the U.S. Representative for Texas’s 36th congressional district in 2014. Babin focuses on border security, flood mitigation, and veterans’ issues, drawing on his service background and experience in rural healthcare. He authored the SANE Act to streamline NASA’s priorities and has served on the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. Babin’s pragmatic approach centers on delivering federal resources and advocating for the needs of his Gulf Coast district.
Education
- M.D., University of Texas Medical School, Houston, TX1993
- D.D.S., University of Texas Dental Branch1989
- B.S., Lamar University, Beaumont, TX1981
Professional History
U.S. Representative
2015–PresentRepresented Texas's 36th congressional district for 6 terms.
Board Member, Lower Neches Valley Authority
1999–2015Appointed by Governor George W. Bush and reappointed by Governor Rick Perry to the regional water management authority until resigning before entering Congress.
Member, Woodville Independent School District Board
1992–1995Served on the local school board in Woodville, Texas.
Chair, Tyler County Republican Party
1990–1995Led the county Republican Party organization in Tyler County, Texas.
City Councilman, City of Woodville
1984–1989Served on the Woodville City Council following his term as mayor.
Mayor, City of Woodville
1982–1984Served as mayor of Woodville, Texas, while also operating his dental practice.
Policy Focus
Health16%
Government Operations and Politics16%
Immigration16%
Education11%
Notable Legislation
Key legislative actions from Brian Babin's record in Congress.
Veterans' Access to Dental Care
Sponsored the Dental Care for Veterans Act to expand dental care eligibility for veterans through the VA.
Spaceport Funding
Helped secure federal funding for the Houston Spaceport to promote aerospace industry growth in Texas.
Hurricane Harvey Relief
Advocated for and secured disaster recovery funds for Southeast Texas communities impacted by Hurricane Harvey.
Opposition to Syrian Refugee Resettlement
Introduced legislation to temporarily halt Syrian refugee resettlement in the U.S. for national security review.
Committee Assignments
View details →- House Committee on Science, Space, and TechnologyChair
- House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure
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