Golden elegant enigma seeks ‘2025 Bug of the Year’ crown
A short-lived, strikingly stunning native mayfly known to fly-fishers and aquatic admirers yet seldom seen by the public may have its time in the spotlight this month as a nominee for the 2025 New Zealand Bug of the Year. While the adult yellow mayfly or piriwai only dances on this earth for a short while, the aquatic insect has a prehistoric past, with mayflies one of the oldest surviving winged insect orders on the planet, alongside dragonflies and damselflies.
“The yellow mayfly should be celebrated as perhaps the most beautiful mayfly in Aotearoa New Zealand, if not the world,” says NIWA Freshwater Ecologist Brian Smith, who has put forward the piriwai for the coveted crown for both its looks and rather interesting personality and lifestyle. As one of New Zealand’s leading freshwater invertebrate taxonomists, Smith believes the unheralded yellow mayfly deserves more recognition.
Part of the scientific name for the insect, Ameletopsis perscitus, means ‘very clever’ or ‘exceedingly sharp’, with the yellow mayfly living up to its name. “Draped in vibrant yellow, the sexually immature adult stands out in stunning contrast against the muted greens of its native forest surroundings. But this piriwai’s uniqueness extends beyond its alluring appearance. It is the sole species in its genus, and the only representative of the exclusively Gondwanan family Ameletopsidae in Aotearoa. Piriwai really does represent.”
The life story of the yellow mayfly can only really be understood by appreciating how it overcomes the many challenges to its survival, Smith says. “Adults lead a very short life. They are unable to eat, and the female only has a few days to find a mate and deposit her impressive clutch of up to 8,000 eggs back into the stream.”
He admits that beneath the adult yellow mayfly’s elegant and ephemeral beauty, lies a darker side, a very rare predilection among mayflies. “In its aquatic nymph stage, piriwai is a formidable predator. With lightning speed, the nymph ambushes and devours unsuspecting aquatic insects, employing powerful jaws concealed beneath a comically oversized head.”
Smith is hoping that the enigmatic insect will capture the attention of the public in the 2025 New Zealand Bug of the Year, who have until midnight 17 February to vote for the yellow mayfly atNew Zealand Bug of the Year. So far more than 8,000 votes have been cast. “This striking duality between the delicate, transient beauty of the adult and the predatory ferocity of the juvenile presents a fascinating paradox: a creature that is both a fleeting symbol of elegance and yet was a ruthless hunter.”
This rather uncommon mayfly is distributed throughout the country from the Southland and Fiordland streams and up the West Coast and as far as the upper North Island’s rivers.
There is the bigger picture too, about these insects that spent most of their lives as nymphs in freshwater, before emerging in spring and summer for their short adult lives. “Our waterways boast an extraordinary legacy of uniqueness with species of mayfly, stonefly, and caddisfly found nowhere else on earth. These insects are indicators of waterway wellbeing, vital to the health and balance of freshwater ecosystems, and the first to disappear as water quality degrades.”
He says while the increasing pressures of pollution, habitat loss, and deforestation often shift attention to more visible and charismatic species like native freshwater fish, it’s equally crucial to highlight the plight of lesser known yet essential insects like Ameletopsis perscitus. “This nomination aims to shine a light on these overlooked gems, celebrating their beauty and raising awareness about their indispensable role in maintaining ecological health. Let’s champion the tiny, the vital, and the irreplaceable.”
[From the nothingness, to the night, to the world of light, of understanding
We seek the pathway that is right
We seek the pathway of truth
In the faith that the legacy we leave is for the now and the future generations.
Whatever the kaupapa at hand, we must, seek the truth, with compassion, and with conviction and with belief.
Arise e te iwi
Arise e ngā hapu
May we be guided by the creator
To the assembled multitudes
Greetings to one and all.]
Few places in Aotearoa New Zealand can match the complex legacy of the Waitangi Treaty Grounds. As a wāhine Māori with whakapapa to the people of this place – and as the 37th person to serve as Governor or Governor-General – I am deeply connected and committed to this whenua and te pito o te whenua – and it is my privilege to speak here, on this, our nation’s marae.
When James Busby constructed his house here in 1833, these grounds were an isolated outpost of British influence. Two years later, he joined my tupuna here at the signing of He Whakaputanga – and in 1840, it became the place where two peoples – of very different world views – committed themselves to a new kind of relationship in Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
By 1932, these grounds – like the Treaty itself – were neglected and largely ignored by the powers that be. When Lord Bledisloe was brought here, and heard the history, he resolved to buy the property and gift it to the nation, so that it could become a place of pilgrimage for all New Zealanders.
To enable both signatories to be represented on these grounds, Sir Āpirana Ngata led the construction of Te Whare Runanga – to complement the Treaty House and represent the iwi Māori of Aotearoa.
This taumata was to be where the signatories of Te Tiriti could meet in dialogue. It has continued to play a role in growing our relationship.
The 1940 Waitangi centenary commemorations have gifted us an iconic image of Sir Āpirana Ngata, leading a vigorous haka in celebration of the opening of Te Whare Runanga. It so perfectly captures his passion to revive pride in Māoritanga. His efforts, along with that of countless others, have borne fruit in the 21st century with the revival of te reo Māori, celebration of waiata and kapa haka with Te Matatini, and te Ao Māori reflected in film, literature, music, and performance.
In 1835, our tipuna who signed He Whakaputanga wanted to consolidate their ability to be successful producers, entrepreneurs and traders. A century later, Sir Apirana Ngata was also driven to develop a stronger economic base for iwi Māori, with his vision of wellbeing and prosperity in all facets of life.
As guardians of these grounds, the Waitangi National Trust Board has helped generations of New Zealanders to better understand the impact of our history, most recently in the two magnificent museums on this site. The new exhibition at The Museum of Waitangi Te Kongahu – He Kura Toi Tangata, which marks 50 years since the Waitangi Tribunal was established, reminds us of the histories uncovered during the Tribunal’s enquiries, the impact of its work, and its many achievements.
So many of us will have vivid memories of times spent here. We feel the wairua of those who have stood and spoken and are no longer with us – and in time, we too will become part of the story of the Treaty Grounds.
Whatungarongaro te tangata, toitū te whenua.
Our mokopuna will continue the work of our tupuna and I am confident they will be better placed than my generation to take up the mantle of responsibility. They are hopefully better informed by history, they understand the need to care for the planet, and they are more used to living with complex identities in the 21st century.
Let us therefore reflect on our journey in this beautiful country at Waitangi, and our part in its ongoing legacy.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The Northern Territory Police Force have seized a large quantity of illegal nicotine vapes.
Around 12pm on Friday 31 January 2025, police received intelligence of illicit substances at a residence in the Palmerston area.
Detectives from the Serious Crime Squad attended the location and conducted a lawful search of the premises which resulted in the seizure of numerous illicit substances .
The seizure included a quantity of cannabis and 2335 units of nicotine vapes, with an estimated street value of $140,000.
A 21-year-old man and a 20-year-old woman have each been issued with a Notice to Appear at Darwin Local Court on 29 May 2025.
Detective Sergeant Alicia Harvey said “These seizures are the result of the collaborative actions of Serious Crime Squad detectives and members of the Dog Operations Unit and Drug and Organised Crime Section.
“Intelligence received from members of the community assisted with this result and we continue to urge anyone with information on the supply of illegal substances to contact Police on 131 444 or call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.”
The much-anticipated Regional Skate and Play Precinct at Newland Park has officially broken ground, marking a major milestone in a game-changing project for the Alice Springs community.
Member for Lingiari Marion Scrymgour was joined by Northern Territory Government Minister for Logistics and Infrastructure Bill Yan MLA, Alice Springs Mayor Matt Paterson, and representatives from MPH Construction to kick off the project with a sod-turning ceremony today. The sod-turn officially started construction on the development.
The precinct will include a regional level skate park that has been designed with thorough community consultation, as well playground equipment, green spaces and ample shading.
It will also include a pump track, 3×3 basketball court, dog park and expanded car parking to enhance opportunities for recreation and social connection.
The state-of-the-art facility is a joint project between three levels of government, with a $4 million commitment from the Australian Government under its Priority Community Infrastructure Program, $1.8 million from the Northern Territory Government and $2.8 million from Alice Springs Town Council.
Quotes attributable to Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:
“This project is a fantastic example of the incredible benefits that can be delivered for communities when all three levels of government work together.
“Our joint funding will see the existing parkland get a much-needed upgrade and a range of brand-new amenities, to provide a bigger community and play hub for residents, community groups and visitors to Alice Springs to enjoy.”
Quotes attributable to Northern Territory Government Minister for Logistics and Infrastructure Bill Yan:
“Our CLP government is proud to back the development of Newland Park as part of our $27 million infrastructure plan to make Alice Springs an even better place to live.
“This plan is all about delivering better sporting facilities that support the well-being of our community, especially for our kids. We can’t wait to see the skate park finished and watch the Alice Springs community enjoy the benefits it’ll bring.”
Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Lingiari Marion Scrymgour:
“This project will deliver a modern skate and play park for people to enjoy. I am excited about the benefits these upgraded facilities will provide local residents and visitors to Alice Springs. It will also be good for local businesses.
“Additionally, construction on the project will provide critical local employment opportunities by supporting 31 jobs.”
Quotes attributable to Mayor of Alice Springs Town Council Matt Paterson:
“With the ribbon just cut on the new Adventure Park, it’s fantastic to turn our attention to another project that will be a gamechanger for families in Alice Springs.
“This is such an important investment in our community’s future and we can’t wait to see this come to life. The Regional Skate and Play Precinct is something that will benefit young people for generations to come and it’s exciting to begin work so quickly to have this project completed in 2025.
“I’d like to thank the Australian Government and the Northern Territory Government for their significant contributions to this project. This shows how the community can benefit when all three levels of government work together.”
The City of Greater Bendigo is calling for expressions of interest from members of the community who live with disability, care for someone who does, or who work with people living with disabilities to join its Disability Inclusion Reference Committee (DIRC).
City Manager Community Partnerships Andie West said the City established the DIRC in 2016 to provide advice to Council that supports greater social inclusion of people with disability.
“The DIRC acts as a central point for City staff and Councillors when advice is sought on matters relating to the needs and requirements of people living with disability,” Ms West said.
“The Committee assists the City to consider all types of access and inclusion when developing policies and strategies and undertaking projects, so it is an important role.
“Committee members will be appointed for a two-year term and meetings will be held every two months.
“Some preparation and reading will be required prior to meetings and at times Committee members may be required to visit sites within Greater Bendigo to provide consultation and advice on City projects or major developments.
“We are looking for people with lived experience, unpaid carers of people who live with disability, representatives from local disability-specific agencies, and representatives from local organisations or networks that have influence on social inclusion for people living with disability to join the Committee.”
Applications from people with diverse cultural backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and people of all ages and abilities, as well as past and outgoing members of the Committee are welcomed.
Applications close Friday April 4, 2025.
For more information, please contact Jessica Currie via phone or email:
Pill testing, also known as drug checking, aims to reduce harms from illicit drug use and save lives.
Victoria’s pill testing service started at Beyond the Valley (BTV) festival from 28 December 2024 to 1 January 2025.
The Victorian Government has announced the next festivals and events to have pill testing during the 2024-25 music festival season. Victoria’s pill testing service will operate at:
Hardmission at Werribee Racecourse on 8 February 2025
Pitch Music & Arts Festival in Moyston from 7 to 11 March 2025
Ultra at Flemington Racecourse on 12 April 2025
The Warehouse Project at Port Melbourne Industrial Centre for the Arts (PICA) on 25 April 2025
The drug checking service is free, confidential and anonymous. It will attend up to 10 festivals and events during an 18-month implementation trial. A fixed-site service is due to open in inner Melbourne in mid-2025.
During the 4 day BTV festival, the mobile drug checking service tested more than 600 samples.
Harm reduction workers at the service spoke to 700 festivalgoers. For more than 70%, it was the first time they had ever had an open, judgement-free conversation with a health professional about drug and alcohol safety.
Nearly 40% of those using the service said they intended to use a smaller amount of their drugs following a conversation with a healthcare worker.
The guide is intended to alert businesses of when competition law risks may arise when considering sustainability collaborations (and when they are unlikely to do so), as well as the exemptions that may be available for collaborations in the public interest.
The ACCC has sought to clarify its views on the operation of competition laws for such collaborations, acknowledging the importance of ensuring that businesses do not unnecessarily limit participation in lawful sustainability collaborations.
The guide includes a 5 step checklist for businesses considering sustainability collaborations to help assess whether competition laws are likely to apply.
The updates are intended to increase transparency about how the Immunity Policy is administered by the ACCC, and to update and clarify the requirements for immunity applicants.
It is now a criteria for corporate conditional immunity (and corporate derivative conditional immunity) from ACCC-initiated civil proceedings that the corporation has implemented measures, or undertaken to implement measures, to mitigate the risk of future non-compliance with the CCA.
The updated policy also confirms that, at the proffer stage, the ACCC will not generally permit representatives of an immunity applicant to attend ACCC interviews with a derivative immunity applicant. The ACCC will provide the immunity applicant with sufficient information to enable it to:
understand how its immunity application is progressing; and
identify and provide further material relevant to its immunity application.
However, the ACCC will not otherwise disclose to the immunity applicant or its legal representatives the questions asked or the evidence given by a derivative immunity applicant.
ACCC alleges price fixing cartel against Defence contractors and senior executives
In December 2024, the ACCC commenced civil cartel proceedings in the Federal Court against Spotless Facility Services (Spotless), Ventia Australia (Ventia) and four senior executives for alleged price fixing in relation to the supply of estate maintenance and operation services to the Department of Defence (Defence).
Spotless and Ventia provide services to major Defence force bases under billion-dollar contracts. The ACCC alleges that, on three occasions between April 2019 and August 2022, Spotless and Ventia made or attempted to make arrangements or understandings containing provisions that had the purpose, effect or likely effect of fixing, controlling or maintaining the price at which Spotless, Ventia and a third company, BGIS, would supply these services to Defence. Spotless and Ventia are also alleged to have given effect to some of these arrangements or understandings.
The three arrangements or understandings are alleged to have involved:
the exchange of text messages about what BGIS and Spotless would charge Defence;
communications between Spotless, Ventina and BGIS regarding seeking additional compensation from Defence; and
meetings in which one of the senior executives said words to the effect that Spotless, Ventia and BGIS should jointly ask Defence to pay a project management fee.
The ACCC is seeking declarations, civil penalties, and costs against Spotless and Ventia and the four senior executives, as well as qualification orders against three of the senior executives.
Viva Energy’s proposed acquisition of LOC Global not opposed subject to divestiture
On 12 December 2024, the ACCC confirmed that it will not oppose (subject to undertakings) Viva Energy Group’s (Viva) proposed acquisition of the remaining 50% interest in LOC Global (LOC) from New World Corporation (NWC).
LOC is a joint venture between Viva and NWC (with a 50% stake each) that operates over 100 ‘Liberty’ branded retail fuel and convenience sites across Australia. Viva conducts downstream fuel refining, importing, distribution and marketing in Australia. It is also the exclusive supplier of Shell-branded fuels and lubricants in Australia. Viva Energy and LOC overlap in the supply of retail fuel across metropolitan and/or regional locations in local markets across SA, Victoria, WA, NSW, Queensland and NT.
In the absence of the undertaking, the ACCC was concerned that the proposed acquisition would reduce competition in certain local areas in Adelaide, Darwin, regional Queensland and regional Victoria, where LOC and Viva Energy compete closely and where there are few remaining competitors to constrain Viva.
Viva committed to divest 14 retail fuel and convenience sites to Solo Oil Corporation (a wholly owned subsidiary of NWC).
Furniture frenzy: Koala Living fined for false and misleading statements about consumer rights
Koala Living has paid a $56,340 fine after being issued three infringement notices by the ACCC for making false and misleading statements regarding consumers’ rights under the consumer guarantees and available remedies for faulty products.
Koala Living has admitted to incorrectly informing consumers that:
remedies for faulty products were only available within a 72-hour period after purchase or the period of the manufacturer’s warranty;
Koala Living could independently determine the type of remedy provided for minor or major faults; and
delivery charges were not refundable.
The ACCC’s investigation was initiated in response to consumer complaints. Koala Living has given a court-enforceable undertaking under which Koala Living has committed to:
provide additional compensation (amounting to 20% of the purchase price) to consumers to whom Koala Living represented that a consumer’s right to seek remedies for faulty products was limited to 72 hours and have not yet received a remedy;
establish a competition and consumer law compliance program and review and update its internal policies, procedures, complaints handling practices and training to ensure ACL compliance; and
publish corrective notices.
Cleared for takeoff: Virgin and Qatar granted ACCC interim authorisation for cooperative conduct
On 29 November 2024, the ACCC granted interim authorisation to Virgin Australia (Virgin) and Qatar Airways (Qatar) to engage in cooperative conduct under an integrated alliance. Subject to certain exceptions:
Qatar will become Virgin’s exclusive interline, codeshare and loyalty partner headquartered in the Middle East or Türkiye; and
Virgin will become Qatar’s exclusive interline, codeshare and loyalty partner headquartered in Australia.
The ACCC has granted interim authorisation to allow Virgin and Qatar enough lead time to undertake the necessary planning discussions, marketing, selling and system alignment to permit Virgin to commence flying the new services by June 2025 if authorisation is ultimately granted.
Virgin and Qatar have provided a court-enforceable undertaking under which they have committed to:
offering tickets to the new service as ‘subject to regulatory approval’ to ensure consumers are made aware of the nature of the tickets they are purchasing; and
if authorisation is not ultimately granted, re-accommodate passengers who purchased tickets for the new service during the period of interim authorisation.
Interim authorisation remains in place until it is revoked, the application for authorisation is withdrawn, or the date the ACCC’s final determination comes into effect. A draft determination from the ACCC is expected in February 2025, with the final determination expected in March-April 2025. The parties are seeking authorisation for five years.
Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
The Northern Territory Police Force seized a quantity of kava in Nhulunbuy last week.
On Friday 31 January 2025, Nhulunbuy police received information that a large quantity of kava was being transported to Nhulunbuy on a commercial flight.
Local police attended the Gove Airport and conducted a search under the Kava Management Act (NT). As a result of the search, members located and seized 156.6kg of kava along with a large quantity of illicit tobacco products.
A 27-year-old male and a 67-year-old female have been charged and bailed to appear in Nhulunbuy Local Court on 11 February 2025.
Another 62-year-old male was issued with a Notice to Appear to appear at a later date.
Senior Sergeant Danny Bell said, “Police will continue to target the transport and supply of all illicit substances into the Arnhem region.
“We encourage all community members to play their part by reporting unusual or suspicious behaviour to police by either reporting it to their local police station or via Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.”
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Kevin Mullin California (15th District)
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Washington, D.C. – In response to an increase in the rate of pedestrian fatalities across the United States, Congressman Kevin Mullin (CA-15), introduced federal legislation that aims to address the impacts of driver-controlled technology in vehicles.
October is National Pedestrian Safety Month, and Rep. Mullin announced his Driver Technology and Pedestrian Safety Act, H.R. 10051.
According to the most recent data available, in just one year 7,522 pedestrians were killed in traffic collisions in the United States and 67,000 pedestrians were injured. This reflects an alarming trend of increasing fatalities over the past several years. One of the biggest recent changes is the proliferation of driver-controlled technology in vehicles, such as touch screens that have replaced traditional knobs and switches, which require an increased amount of drivers’ attention. This, combined with other changes in the environment and traffic patterns, may be leading to increasingly dangerous road conditions. However, there have not been significant national studies on this topic that could inform policymakers on how to better protect pedestrians and other road users.
“However you move around – whether you take public transit, drive a car, or ride a bike – at some point all of us are a pedestrian. Safety on our roads is everyone’s responsibility, and Congress should take a leading role in helping us understand what we can do to protect our most vulnerable populations,” said Rep. Mullin. “The Driver Technology and Pedestrian Safety Act would help us understand how technology in vehicles, such as touch-screen displays, may be distracting drivers and contributing to America’s increasing rates of pedestrian deaths and injuries.”
The bill would direct the Department of Transportation (DOT) and the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine to conduct a study on the effects of driver technology, including touch screen-based systems and user interface design, as they relate to pedestrian collisions. It would also evaluate the impact of time of day and changes in traffic, weather and the volume of commercial or “hired” vehicles on the road whose drivers rely heavily on screens. It would also require the DOT to provide recommendations on actions Congress or agencies can take, such as updating standards, to address the study’s findings.
The bill is endorsed by AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety, and Truck Safety Coalition.
“The increase in pedestrian fatalities in the United States during the past decade is a disturbing trend that’s been well-documented by national statistics. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety believes Rep. Kevin Mullin’s legislation to examine the correlation between driver interactions with vehicle technology and pedestrian safety can help to update design recommendations to better protect vulnerable road users,” said Dr. David Yang, President and Executive Director of the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.
Watch a video of a press conference Rep. Mullin hosted with San Mateo Police Chief Ed Barberini to discuss the bill and provide safety tips. Learn more about the Driver Technology and Pedestrian Safety Act.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Kevin Mullin California (15th District)
Washington, D.C. – When natural disasters strike, a community’s ability to respond and recover can hinge on the resilience of its lifeline infrastructure. After the deadly Hurricanes Helene and Milton devastated huge swaths of the country, a group of lawmakers are calling upon the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to develop long-overdue standards for lifeline infrastructure.
Natural hazards can “disable power, water, communications, liquid fuel and gas, and transportation services – referred to collectively as lifeline infrastructure. The loss of lifelines harms local economies, threatens human health, and compounds the challenges faced by communities as they recover,” wrote the lawmakers, led by Rep. Kevin Mullin (CA-15) in a letter to NIST. “During Hurricane Helene, roads and bridges were destroyed, over 4 million customers were left without power, and many also lost cell and internet service and access to clean water.”
NIST has taken a leading role in developing standards that help communities become more resilient to natural disasters including earthquakes, floods and wildfires. But much of these efforts have focused on the restoration of buildings and do not address lifeline infrastructure systems.
“Currently, there are no national guidelines for lifeline system performance, and those developed at the state and local levels often do not account for resilience or the interdependency between systems. This impedes efforts by communities and first responders to accurately predict and plan for lifeline service loss. Given this reality, we urge NIST to develop national, cross-sector, multi-hazard design guidelines for lifeline infrastructure, which would include model codes, resilience metrics, and performance goals,” the lawmakers wrote.
Communities are facing increased risks from natural disasters. Proactively investing in mitigation is crucial: for every dollar spent on prevention, communities save an estimated $6 in disaster response.
Rep. Mullin, whose California district is all too familiar with earthquakes, has also introduced legislation, the Earthquake Resilience Act, that would require NIST to develop guidelines for lifeline infrastructure resilience and restoration after an earthquake hits.
The letter was cosigned by Rep. Suzanne Bonamici (OR-1), Rep. Ed Case (HI-1), Rep. André Carson (IN-7) and Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-4). Read the full letterhere.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sara Jacobs (D-CA-53)
October 07, 2024
On the first anniversary of Hamas’ brutal attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, Rep. Sara Jacobs (CA-51), the youngest Jewish Member of Congress, released the following statement:
“Like millions of Jews around the world, I woke up one year ago today in complete horror. I am still grappling with the aftermath of that day – the loss of nearly 1,200 innocent people, the trauma of many more who were assaulted, raped, tortured, and kidnapped, the pain felt by San Diego’s sister city Sha’ar HaNegev, and the stark rise of antisemitism since. I remain heartbroken for all the families who are still living this nightmare because Hamas is holding their loved ones hostage and because of new attacks from Iran and Hezbollah. This attack was heinous, inexcusable, and will never be forgotten.
“I’m focused on bringing the remaining 100 hostages home as soon as possible and finding tangible solutions to achieve long-term peace, safety, and security for Israelis, Palestinians, and the region. October 7th started a devastating war in Gaza, where entire cities have been leveled, tens of thousands of Palestinian civilians have been killed, and nearly 2 million people have been displaced and are in desperate need of assistance and refuge. That’s why I believe we need an immediate ceasefire and to use our considerable leverage to deescalate tensions in the region – so we can secure the release of the remaining hostages, protect civilian lives, deliver much-needed aid and relief to Gazans, and begin the hard work of ensuring all people can live in safety, security, and autonomy.”
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sara Jacobs (D-CA-53)
October 24, 2024
Rep. Sara Jacobs (CA-51) and Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) continued their push to ensure the FY2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) preserves the requirement contained in both the House-passed and Senate-reported versions of NDAA that requires TRICARE coverage of fertility services, including in vitro fertilization (IVF). In a letter to House and Senate Armed Services Committee leadership, the lawmakers – who authored and successfully secured inclusion of the IVF coverage provisions in the House and Senate bills, respectively – called for service members and military families to receive the same level of IVF coverage that’s accessible to Members of Congress and Federal employees next year.
Two-thirds of service members, who often spend their prime reproductive years in hazardous conditions and away from their partners, have reported experiencing family-building challenges after returning home. As a result, many TRICARE beneficiaries pay tens of thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket costs for fertility treatment. Expanding IVF coverage would strengthen recruitment, retention, and readiness efforts – all while supporting those who have sacrificed greatly for the United States.
Read Rep. Sara Jacobs’ and Sen. Tammy Duckworth’s Letter Here
The lawmakers wrote:
“Because of hard work conducted under your respective leadership of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) and House Armed Services Committee (HASC), Congress is poised to ensure the final legislative text of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025 (NDAA) preserves language contained in both the House-passed and Senate-reported versions of the NDAA that require TRICARE cover fertility services, including in vitro fertilization (IVF).
“Accordingly, we write to request that in negotiating the final conference report to accompany the NDAA, you ensure U.S. servicemembers and military families receive IVF coverage in 2025 that is on par with the IVF coverage Members of Congress and Federal employees will be provided access to in 2025 by taking one of these courses of action:
House recedes regarding Section 701 of H.R. 8070, and the final bill includes Section 705 of S. 4638;
Senate recedes regarding Section 705 of S. 4638 and the final bill includes Section 701 of H.R. 8070; or
The final bill merges and harmonizes Sections 701 and 705.
“Since HASC added the provisions (sec. 701) requiring TRICARE cover fertility services, including IVF, by voice vote without controversy; and then House Republicans chose to preserve these Democratic-authored provisions in the version of the NDAA that the House narrowly passed along party-lines; we are hopeful that achieving fertility benefit parity between Members of Congress, Federal employees and members of the U.S. Armed Forces can avoid controversy and be preserved in the final NDAA that President Joe Biden signs into law.
“In the coming months, Members of the U.S. House of Representatives and United States Senators will have the opportunity to select health insurance from 2025 marketplace plans that all include high quality, affordable fertility benefit coverage—including excellent IVF coverage that, absent action by Congress, will be far superior to the restrictive fertility benefit coverage offered to U.S. servicemembers and military families under current law. Under the Federal Employees Health Benefits program, Federal employees will also receive high quality fertility benefit coverage, including IVF, in 2025.
“Importantly, every Member of Congress will be able to enroll in a 2025 marketplace plan that covers IVF services provided in accordance with widely accepted and evidence-based medical standards of care and the American Society for Reproductive Medicine’s (ASRM) professional guidelines—which includes coverage of at least three complete oocyte retrievals with unlimited embryo transfers from those oocyte retrievals, and standard fertility preservation services.
“We strongly believe U.S. servicemembers and military families deserve fertility benefit coverage in 2025 that is at least comparable to what Members of Congress will receive.
“It would be hypocritical for Members of Congress to enjoy high quality fertility benefit coverage next year, right on the heels of denying such IVF coverage to brave Americans willing to defend our country in uniform, and the dedicated military families that sacrifice to support their loved ones’ service to our great country. That is why we strongly agree with the position taken by a broad coalition of Military Service Organizations (MSOs) and Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) that these MSOs and VSOs expressed to you in their October 10, 2024, joint letter:
‘The health care benefit is an earned benefit and an essential part of military compensation. Coverage should not be contingent on a service member’s willingness or ability to accept an additional service commitment. For that reason, we caution Congress against adopting Section 627 of S. 4638, which would require a service member benefiting from expanded reproductive health coverage to accept an additional service commitment of four years. Again, military members deserve coverage that is on par with civilian plans, and civilian plans make no such demands of their beneficiaries [emphasis added].’
“We share the opposition of MSOs and VSOs to including Section 627 of S. 4638 in the final bill text because it falls woefully short of providing servicemembers and their families with comparable coverage to the coverage Members of Congress receive. Unfortunately, Section 627 goes beyond TRICARE fertility coverage requirements and injects controversial and divisive language relating to abortion services and embryonic personhood, which are contrary to the bipartisan tradition of the NDAA and distract from what should be our overriding priority: making sure that in 2025, U.S. servicemembers and military families receive high quality and affordable fertility services coverage that is on par with fertility benefits that Members of Congress and Federal employees will receive in the coming year.
“Servicemembers are disproportionately impacted by infertility and face unique challenges in trying to start and build their families. Two-thirds of servicemembers, who often spend their prime reproductive years in hazardous conditions and away from their partners, have reported family-building challenges due to military service. Most TRICARE beneficiaries must pay out of pocket for fertility treatment, costing tens of thousands of dollars, all while navigating challenging duty station moves and a complex healthcare system bureaucracy.
“Failing to provide high-quality IVF coverage through TRICARE would perpetuate an unfair system that forces military families to confront an impossible and unjust choice between serving their country in uniform or starting a family without the risk of financial ruin. We are gravely concerned that this will inevitably deter recruitment and retention efforts and ultimately decrease our Nation’s military readiness. Providing U.S. servicemembers and military families with robust IVF coverage is the least we can do for those Americans who have sacrificed so much for us.
“We thank you in advance for your consideration of our request to make sure that we complete the mission of ensuring members of the U.S. Armed Forces achieve parity with Members of Congress and the civil service by finalizing a conference report and passing a NDAA that, for the first time in history, requires TRICARE cover fertility services, including IVF, without harmful and onerous restrictions that violate widely accepted and evidence-based medical standards of care and fail to comport with ASRM professional guidance.”
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sara Jacobs (D-CA-53)
October 25, 2024
Congresswomen Sara Jacobs (CA-51) and Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) introduced a bill to codify the President’s Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement in the United States, ensuring the Council is not a one-off initiative but an important asset that continues to be utilized by future administrations.
Congresswoman Jacobs, the Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa, said: “The African diaspora in the United States is a special, and often untapped, resource as we continue rebuilding and strengthening our relationship with the African continent. That’s why it’s so important that we codify the President’s Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement and make permanent the pathway for direct and robust dialogue between the African diaspora and U.S. officials. As we work to tackle our shared challenges and promising opportunities, the African diaspora’s strong ties and deep knowledge will be invaluable.”
“The African diaspora in Los Angeles and across the U.S.—from recent immigrants to the descendants of enslaved Black Americans—are leading advocates for a strong U.S.-Africa relationship,” said Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove. “These communities have pioneered U.S.-African partnerships in trade, education, climate, sports, and the arts, and are our greatest asset when it comes to enhancing ties with the continent. The President’s Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement is a long overdue recognition of the critical role our diaspora plays in advancing common interests and addressing shared challenges. Codifying this initiative affirms the U.S.’s continued commitment to bolstering mutually beneficial relationships with the African continent.”
Full text of this legislation can be found here.
ABOUT THE PRESIDENT’S ADVISORY COUNCIL ON AFRICAN DIASPORA ENGAGEMENT IN THE UNITED STATES: The establishment of the President’s Advisory Council on African Diaspora Engagement was a deliverable announced during the 2022 U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit. The Council advises the President, through the Secretary of State, on issues involving the African diaspora and U.S.-Africa ties in an effort to enhance dialogue between United States officials and the African diaspora. In July, the Council conducted its first visit to the continent to strengthen ties between the United States and Nigeria through diaspora-led initiatives. A list of the Council’s inaugural members can be found here.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Cori Bush (MO-01)
October 21, 2024
Members asking Biden Administration to take immediate action to advocate for unrestricted, unimpeded media access
Washington, D.C. (October 21, 2024) — Congresswoman Bush joins Ranking Member of the House Rules Committee, Rep. James P. McGovern (MA-02), and 62 members of Congress in a letter to President Joseph Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken calling for the United States to push for Israel to allow unimpeded access for U.S. and international journalists. The constantly shifting dynamics on the ground inside Gaza make unimpeded press access more urgent than ever.
“The restrictions on media reporting have created significant challenges in obtaining accurate, verifiable information from Gaza, leading to increased skepticism about the limited reports that do emerge. At a time when reliable information is more critical than ever, the restrictions on foreign reporting undermine the very foundation of press freedom and democratic accountability,” wrote the members.
In July, over 70 media and civil society organizations signed an open letter calling on Israel to grant journalists access to Gaza. Yet foreign media remains largely prohibited from entering the region, except for a few controlled trips arranged by the Israeli military. This effective ban on foreign reporting has placed an overwhelming burden on local journalists who are documenting the war they are living through. Tragically, at least 130 journalists have lost their lives since the start of the war, and those who remain face conditions of extreme hardship and danger.
The International Federation of Journalists has reported that the mortality rate for media workers in Gaza is over 10%. Seventy-five percent of all reporters killed worldwide in 2023 lost their lives between October 7 and the end of the year.4 In December 2023, just two months into the conflict, the Committee to Protect Journalists declared Gaza the “most dangerous ever” war zone for reporters. These staggering statistics underscore the critical importance of allowing independent journalists to document and report from the ground.
“We urge the administration to take immediate action to advocate for unrestricted, independent media access to Gaza. A free press is essential to ensuring that the world can bear witness to the realities on the ground and hold all parties accountable,” conclude the members.
A full copy of the letter can be found here.
In addition to Representatives Bush (MO-01) and McGovern (MA-02), the letter was signed by Representatives Lloyd Doggett (TX-35), André Carson (IN-07), Nydia M. Velázquez (NY-07), Raúl M. Grijalva (AZ-03), Betty McCollum (MN-04), Barbara Lee (CA-12), Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-00), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Maxine Waters (CA-43), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Stephen F. Lynch (MA-08), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Seth Magaziner (RI-02), Jamaal Bowman, Ed.D. (NY-16), Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (NC-12), Greg Casar (TX-35), John Garamendi (CA-08), Gerald E. Connolly (VA-11), J. Luis Correa (CA-46), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Veronica Escobar (TX-16), Sean Casten (IL-06), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (IL-04), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Linda T. Sánchez (CA-38), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Emanuel Cleaver, II (MO-05), Daniel T. Kildee (MI-08), Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10), Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Jonathan L. Jackson (IL-01), Donald S. Beyer Jr. (VA-08), Maxwell Alejandro Frost (FL-10), Rosa L. DeLauro (CT-03), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Paul D. Tonko (NY-20), Jared Huffman (CA-02), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Al Green (TX-09), Summer L. Lee (PA-12), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Becca Balint (VT-AL), Steve Cohen (TN-09), Lori Trahan (MA-03), Eric Swalwell (CA-15), Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), Andy Kim (NJ-03), Val Hoyle (OR-04), Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Mark Takano (CA-39), Jason Crow (CO-06), Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Lauren Underwood (IL-14), Julia Brownley (CA-26), Gabe Amo (RI-01), John B. Larson (CT-01), Sylvia R. Garcia (TX-29), Nikema Williams (GA-05), and Dwight Evans (PA-03).
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Cori Bush (MO-01)
October 24, 2024
The attack – that has gone uninvestigated for over a year – killed a Reuters journalist and left six others from Reuters, AFP, and Al Jazeera injured, including Vermonter Dylan Collins
Washington, D.C. (October 24, 2024) — Congresswoman Bush joins Sen. Bernie Sanders and ten other Members of Congress in writing to the Biden Administration, demanding the United States open an independent investigation into an Israeli attack on a group of journalists, including American journalist Dylan Collins.
“It has now been more than one year since Mr. Collins was injured in a targeted Israeli strike while on assignment for AFP,” wrote the members in the letter to President Biden, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, and U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland. “To date, Mr. Collins has received no explanation for the attack, and there have been no steps toward accountability. Given the inaction of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, the United States must open an independent investigation into this incident.”
On October 13, 2023, American journalist Dylan Collins was injured in a targeted Israeli strike while on assignment for Agence France-Presse (AFP). Collins was part of a group of journalists covering the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah in southern Lebanon. The group was clearly marked as press and had selected an open and highly visible position to minimize the risk of misidentification – one that was clearly visible to several Israeli military positions. The group had been filming from that location for close to an hour when they were struck twice by Israeli tank rounds and machine gun fire.
Reuters journalist Issam Abdallah was killed. Six other journalists from Reuters, AFP, and Al Jazeera were seriously wounded. Collins – the only U.S. citizen involved in the incident – sustained shrapnel wounds to his face, arms, and back. Despite Collins’s efforts to apply a tourniquet, his colleague lost her leg in the attack.
Six rigorous investigations – by UNIFIL, Reuters, AFP, Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International, and the Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research – have all independently corroborated these details, based on video footage and multiple first-hand accounts, and concluded that it was an unlawful attack on civilians.
In response to an earlier letter sent in May by the Vermont delegation, the State Department indicated that the incident was under investigation in Israel. In fact, more than one year later, no survivors or other witnesses have been approached to provide testimony. No updates have been provided to the public, the survivors, or the media organizations that they worked for. Given the Israeli government’s failure to investigate numerous similar attacks on journalists, “there is no reason to believe the Netanyahu government will take any action,” wrote the members. “The U.S. government must therefore act to ensure accountability for attacks on its citizens.”
In addition to criminal culpability under the War Crimes Act of 1996 (18 USC 2441), as well as other relevant U.S. and customary international law, the U.S. must also credibly establish whether the Israeli attack violated applicable laws governing the use of U.S. security assistance.
This is particularly important as the U.S. Congress will soon consider Joint Resolutions of Disapproval – introduced in September by Sen. Sanders, Welch, and Merkley – regarding the sale of additional arms to Israel, including 32,739 additional 120mm tank cartridges, the same rounds used against Collins and his journalist colleagues.
Joining Congresswoman Bush (MO-o1) on the letter are Sens. Bernie Sanders (), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Reps. Becca Balint (VT-AL), Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.), Barbara Lee (D-Calif.), Jim McGovern (D-Mass.), Delia Ramirez (D-Ill.), Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.), and Rashida Tlaib. (D-Mich.).
“Mr. Collins deserves better from his own government,” wrote the members.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Cori Bush (MO-01)
October 21, 2024
Washington, D.C. (October 21, 2024) — Congresswoman Cori Bush (MO-01) joined Congressional Labor Caucus Co-Chairs Representatives Mark Pocan (WI-02), Donald Norcross (NJ-01), and Debbie Dingell (MI-06) and Caucus members Reps. Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04), and 126 other members of Congress in calling on Amazon to respect its employees’ rights and requesting information from the company about its anti-union activities.
“Workers have a constitutional right to organize and advocate for improvements in their wages and working conditions, as well as statutory rights to engage in protected concerted activity under Section 7 of the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA),” the members wrote in a letter to Amazon Chief Executive Officer Andy Jassy.
“We have heard concerns from our constituents who are scared to exercise these rights due to fear of reprisal from their employer, and anti-union activities from an employer as prominent as Amazon exacerbate those concerns,” the Members continued. “Therefore, in accordance with the NLRA, we urge Amazon to refrain from engaging in intimidation, retaliation, and other forms of illegal interference and to allow workers to decide on their own, whether they should join a union.”
Unfortunately Amazon has been found to have violated federal labor law on numerous occasions, including public anti-union comments from CEO Andy Jassy. This letter comes amidst a recent wave of worker organizing activity at Amazon locations around the county. To ensure that workers rights are respected going forward, the Members requested information from Amazon and asked if it will commit to following applicable federal and state labor laws.
A full copy of the letter can be found here.
The letter was signed by 132 Members of Congress, including: Reps. Alma Adams; Gabe Amo; Becca Balint; Nanette Barragán; Joyce Beatty; Jamaal Bowman; Julia Brownley; Shontel Brown; Nikki Budzinski; Salud Carbajal; André Carson; Greg Casar; Sean Casten; Joaquin Castro; Judy Chu; Steve Cohen; Lou Correa; Joe Courtney; Jason Crow; Danny Davis; Madeleine Dean; Rosa DeLauro; Christopher Deluzio; Mark DeSaulnier; Debbie Dingell; Lloyd Doggett; Adriano Espaillat; Dwight Evans; Bill Foster; Lois Frankel; Maxwell Frost; Ruben Gallego; John Garamendi; Jesús García; Sylvia Garcia; Jared Golden; Daniel Goldman; Jimmy Gomez; Al Green; Raúl Grijalva; Chrissy Houlahan; Val Hoyle; Jared Huffman; Jonathan Jackson; Sara Jacobs; Henry Johnson; Marcy Kaptur; William Keating; Timothy Kennedy; Ro Khanna; Daniel Kildee; Andy Kim; Raja Krishnamoorthi; Greg Landsman; John Larson; Barbara Lee; Summer Lee; Teresa Leger Fernandez; Stephen Lynch; Seth Magaziner; Betty McCollum; Morgan McGarvey; James McGovern; Robert Menendez; Grace Meng; Kevin Mullin; Jerrold Nadler; Grace Napolitano; Wiley Nickel; Donald Norcross; Elanor Norton; Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez; Ilhan Omar; Frank Pallone; Chris Pappas; Mary Peltola; Chellie Pingree; Mark Pocan; Katie Porter; Ayanna Pressley; Delia Ramirez; Jamie Raskin; Raul Ruiz; Patrick Ryan; Linda Sánchez; Mary Scanlon; Janice Schakowsky; Adam Schiff; Hillary Scholten; Brad Sherman; Mikie Sherrill; Elissa Slotkin; Adam Smith; Eric Sorensen; Darren Soto; Melanie Stansbury; Greg Stanton; Haley Stevens; Thomas Suozzi; Emilia Sykes; Mark Takano; Shri Thanedar; Bennie Thompson; Dina Titus; Rashida Tlaib; Paul Tonko; Ritchie Torres; Lori Trahan; David Trone; Lauren Underwood; Juan Vargas; Nydia Velázquez; Debbie Wasserman Schultz; Maxine Waters; Bonnie Watson Coleman; and Susan Wild.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Cori Bush (MO-01)
November 01, 2024
Washington, D.C. (November 1, 2024) — Today, Congresswoman Cori Bush (MO-01) and Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib (MI-12) led a letter to President Biden questioning the involvement of the U.S. Armed Forces in the Israeli government’s expanding regional war across the Middle East, including in the ground invasions of Lebanon and Gaza, and the recent exchanges of hostilities between Israel and Iran.
The Biden administration has deepened U.S. involvement in the Israeli government’s devastating regional war through comprehensive intelligence sharing and operational coordination, and now even the direct deployment of U.S. servicemembers to Israel. Not only do these actions encourage further escalation and violence, but they are unauthorized by Congress, in violation of Article I of the Constitution and the War Powers Resolution of 1973.
“American military involvement in these wars has not been authorized by the United States Congress, as required by the Constitution and U.S. law. The American people have made it clear that they want to see an immediate ceasefire, an end to these wars, and the return of hostages, not deepening American involvement in potentially endless regional war,” the lawmakers wrote.
The lawmakers asked President Biden for a detailed account of the United States military’s involvement to “command, coordinate, participate in the movement of, or accompany” Israeli forces currently engaged in hostilities in Gaza, Lebanon, Iran, Yemen, the West Bank, Syria, or elsewhere in the Middle East.
Since the start of its genocidal campaign, the Israeli government has killed over 43,000 Palestinians in Gaza, including over 16,700 children, and displaced over 90 percent of the population. With complete impunity and a blank check from the United States’ government, Netanyahu has now invaded Lebanon, where Israeli forces have killed over 2,700 people and displaced 1.2 million.
“The Executive Branch cannot continue to ignore the law without Congressional intervention. In the absence of an immediate ceasefire and end of hostilities, Congress retains the right and ability to exercise its Constitutional authority to direct the removal of any and all unauthorized Armed Forces from the region pursuant to Section 5(c) of the War Powers Resolution,” the lawmakers concluded.
The letter was also signed by Congressman André Carson (IN-07), Congresswoman Summer Lee (PA-12), and Congresswoman Ilhan Omar (MN-05).
Through a war powers resolution, Congress holds the power to direct the removal of any Armed Forces engaged in hostilities outside the territory of the United States without a declaration of war or specific statutory authorization. War powers resolutions are privileged, meaning that any member of the House of Representatives could force a vote on the legislation.
The letter is endorsed by Friends Committee on National Legislation, Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft, Just Foreign Policy, A New Policy, Action Corps, Jewish Voice for Peace Action, National Iranian American Council Action, Peace Action, Institute for Policy Studies – New Internationalism Project, Presbyterian Church USA – Office of Public Witness, Common Defense, Americans for Justice in Palestine Action, The United Methodist Church – General Board of Church and Society, US Campaign for Palestinian Rights Action, and Center for Constitutional Rights.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Cori Bush (MO-01)
October 25, 2024
Washington, D.C. (October 25, 2024) — Yesterday, Congresswoman Cori Bush (MO-01) joined Representatives Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), Congresswoman Nydia Velázquez (NY-07) and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), in announcing the introduction of United with Puerto Ricans Opposed to Act 22 Risks (UPROAR) Act. The UPROAR Act urges the Puerto Rican and federal governments to address Act 22 and stop the exploitation of federal tax loopholes that result in millions in lost revenues for local communities.
Created to incentivize investment in the Puerto Rican economy, Act 22, now part of Act 60, has created a tax haven for American millionaires and billionaires, allowing them to avoid federal and local taxes. According to reports, Act 22 beneficiaries are raising housing costs and displacing Puerto Ricans, endangering important nature reserves and historical sites, destabilizing the island’s already weak electrical grid, and influencing local elections through unprecedented donations.
Recently, the IRS revealed to Congress that 647 Americans who received the benefits of Act 22 paid $557,978,112 in federal taxes during the five years before moving to Puerto Rico, representing million-dollar losses for the federal government and the social programs that are supported by them. Likewise, the government of Puerto Rico estimates that the island will lose around $4.5 billion in income between 2020 and 2026 due to Act 22.
“I proudly join in solidarity with my colleagues and the advocates and community members from across the Puerto Rican diasporas who are speaking out against the Act 22 tax loophole,” said Congresswoman Bush. “This policy is a handout to wealthy tax evaders moving to Puerto Rico and could cost the island an estimated $4.5 billion in tax revenues from 2020 to 2026. The loophole has exacerbated the housing crisis and increased displacement of Puerto Rican residents. This Resolution is a crucial step toward protecting the future of Puerto Rico and its communities. It’s time for Congress to demand accountability for the tax evasion created by Act 22 while supporting the self-determination of the Puerto Rican people.”
“As Congress prepares to debate the funds available for safety net programs, we must urgently address Act 22 in Puerto Rico and the exploitation of federal tax loopholes that allow wealthy Americans to avoid their responsibility to pay local and federal taxes. I am proud to join a community of organizers in my district and Puerto Rico to introduce a resolution that puts tax evaders on notice. Enough is enough,” said Congresswoman Ramirez. “From Puerto Rico to IL-03, our communities deserve accessible housing, access to their lands, and an economy and democracy that works for them.”
“Act 22 has caused unprecedented damage in Puerto Rico, fueling displacement, rising prices, and reckless development across the island. At the same time, the law has led to tax avoidance on the mainland, depriving the federal government of billions of dollars of critical revenue. From the IRS to Congress, we need a whole of government approach to examine how this law is hurting Puerto Ricans and take action to mitigate its damage. I was proud to work with Representatives Ramirez and Ocasio-Cortez to elevate this issue and urge the federal government to increase oversight and transparency around this predatory law,” said Congresswoman Nydia M. Velázquez.
In addition to Congresswoman Bush, the resolution is cosponsored by Reps. Ro Khanna (CA-17), Raul Grijalva (AZ-07), Dan Goldman (NY-10), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Barbara Lee (CA-12), Jim McGovern (MA-02).
“Wealthy Americans moving to Puerto Rico are driving up the cost of living while not having to pay their fair share due to federal tax loopholes. I’m proud to join Congresswoman Ramirez to close these loopholes that are depriving Puerto Rico’s schools and infrastructure of critical funding,” saidCongressman Ro Khanna.
The UPROAR resolution is endorsed by local, national, and Puerto Rican organizations like Alianza for Progress, Power 4 Puerto Rico, Puerto Rican Agenda, Puerto Rican Cultural Center, Losing Puerto Rico, El Otro Puerto Rico, the National Puerto Rican Agenda, Esperanza, Popular Democracy, Construyamos Otro Acuerdo, Ayuda Legal Puerto Rico, Sembrando Sentido, Coalición PR No Se Vende, Vamos PR, Sindicato Puertorriqueño de Trabajadores (SPT), Mi Patria, Boricuas Unidos en la Diáspora (BUDPR), New York Communities for Change (NYCC), Vocal New York, Churches United for Fair Housing (CUFFH), and Hedge Clippers.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10)
Lakewood, Washington – Today, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) announced over $8,300,000 for Tacoma Rail through the Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program.
Tacoma Rail, a short line operating out of the Port of Tacoma, provides vital services to the local and regional economies. With this funding from DOT, Tacoma Rail will upgrade the diesel engines of four locomotives, significantly improving fuel efficiency and reducing freight rail emissions by over 90 percent.
“This grant awarded to Tacoma Rail is another example of how federal funding strengthens our local economies,” said Strickland. “I am proud to support Tacoma Rail as they work to modernize their freight rail equipment, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and improve air quality for surrounding neighborhoods.”
“This investment is a big deal for Tacoma – for our port, our rail system, and our competitiveness,” said Rep. Derek Kilmer (WA-06). “I’m proud to have supported this important project alongside Representative Strickland. It will reduce emissions and ensure Tacoma Rail can modernize without the costs being solely borne by local taxpayers. I look forward to the impact this investment will have on the future of the railroad in our region.”
“This award from the Federal Railroad Administration marks a win for cleaner air in the community Tacoma Rail serves,” saidPaul Hoover with Tacoma Rail. “We are committed to working toward environmental justice, and repowering four 1980’s era locomotives to modern EPA Tier 4 emission standards moves us toward our goal. This project will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 93 percent, and fine-particle air pollution by 97 percent.“
“These grant funds will support an important Port partner in significantly reducing emissions of yard locomotives. Tacoma Rail plays a critical role in our supply chain ecosystem, moving goods out from our harbors towards consumer markets, and the investment in cleaner equipment is a win for our regional air quality” said Port of Tacoma Commission President and The Northwest Seaport Alliance Co-chair Kristin Ang.
“The maritime sector requires significant investment and partnership to reduce diesel emissions, and we are grateful to Representatives Strickland and Kilmer and Tacoma Rail for being partners in emission reduction efforts across our gateway. Investments in air quality improvements greatly impact all those that live and work near our port facilities,” stated Hamdi Mohamed, Port of Seattle Commission President and The Northwest Seaport Alliance Co-Chair.
Earlier this year, U.S. Representatives Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) and Derek Kilmer (WA-06) jointly advocated for this important economic investment to DOT. The CRISI Program – bolstered by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) – provides funding for projects that improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of intercity passenger and freight rail.
U.S. Representative Marilyn Strickland serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. She is whip for the Congressional Black Caucus, a member of the New Democrat Coalition, and one of the first Korean-American women elected to Congress.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10)
Lakewood, Washington – On Thursday, November 7th, 2024, Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) will host her annual Vietnam War era Veterans Pinning Ceremony to honor local veterans. Strickland will recognize the service of each veteran or their surviving family member, and present honorees with a ceremonial lapel pin as a symbol of our gratitude.
“The South Sound is home to one of the largest veteran populations across the nation, and these men and women deserve the utmost respect, gratitude, and recognition,” said Strickland. “It is an honor to recognize our Vietnam War veterans and their families and to continue this tradition.”
The pinning ceremony, in partnership with the U.S. Vietnam Veterans Pin Commission, is part of an ongoing national effort to honor all Vietnam War period veterans who served from November 1, 1955, to May 15, 1975. If you or someone you know would like to be honored, please visit Strickland’s website here for more Information.
U.S. Representative Marilyn Strickland serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. She is whip for the Congressional Black Caucus, a member of the New Democrat Coalition, and one of the first Korean-American women elected to Congress.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10)
Washington, D.C. – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is issuing an advance notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPRM) under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) to gather information on the potential risks associated with the chemical 6PPD and its transformation product, 6PPD-quinone or 6PPD-Q.
The Puyallup Tribe of Indians, the Yurok Tribe, and the Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe submitted a petition asking EPA to establish regulations prohibiting the manufacturing, processing, use and distribution of 6PPD in tires. EPA granted this petition in November 2023 and committed to publishing an ANPRM by Fall 2024 in order to gather more information that could be used to inform a subsequent regulatory action.
“Salmon are a keystone species and research shows that the 6PPD-Q chemical which runs off from vehicle tires into our waterways is lethal to their survival, and our marine ecosystem,” said Strickland. “As co-chair of the Puget Sound Recovery Caucus, I have secured funding to find solutions to this problem, and the U.S. EPA is taking an important step forward to help us.”
“Toxic stormwater runoff is one of the biggest threats facing Puget Sound salmon recovery,” said Rep. Derek Kilmer (WA-06). “I am grateful that the EPA has been responsive to the petition filed by Tribes from across our region who are helping to lead the effort to better understand how 6PPD and 6PPD-quinone get into our waterways, how they impact our environment and our health, and how we can get these chemicals out of local ecosystems. We have an obligation to protect salmon in the Pacific Northwest in order to honor the federal government’s trust and treaty responsibilities to Tribes in the region. I am excited that the EPA is moving forward with this rulemaking as an important step toward salmon recovery.”
“Today, we’re following through on the commitment we made to our Tribal partners to gather more information about this chemical used in rubber products to help protect coho salmon,” said Assistant Administrator for the Office of Chemical Safety and Pollution Prevention Michal Freedhoff. “We’ll use the information we get on the health and environmental risks to determine next steps to protect people and the planet.”
The chemical 6PPD has been used in motor vehicle tires for more than six decades to make them more durable and can also be found in other rubber products such as footwear, synthetic turf infill and playgrounds. 6PPD reacts with pollution in the air to form a transformation product called 6PPD-Q, which may be present in stormwater runoff that may be washed into streams and other bodies of water during rain events. As a result, aquatic organisms can be exposed to the chemicals. Concentrations of 6PPD-Q in stormwater in the Pacific Northwest were found to be lethal to coho salmon after only a few hours of exposure.
EPA is soliciting the following information regarding the chemicals:
Environmental effects on aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems,
Potential human health effects,
Environmental fate and transport,
Exposure pathways,
Persistence and bioaccumulation,
Additional uses of 6PPD and potential releases from consumer products such as sneakers, playgrounds, rubber-modified asphalt, reused tire or other rubber products.
EPA is also seeking comment and information related to alternatives to 6PPD, as well as potential chemical transformation products associated with potential alternatives.
For example, there are data showing that 6PPD-Q is toxic to fish, with coho salmon being the most sensitive species studied to date. However, there are still uncertainties about the potential impacts of 6PPD-Q on human health, as well as the potential for exposure from other sources of 6PPD-Q.
U.S. Representative Marilyn Strickland serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. She is whip for the Congressional Black Caucus, a member of the New Democrat Coalition, and one of the first Korean-American women elected to Congress.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10)
Washington, DC –Today, Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) issued the following statement on the President-Elect’s administration:
“Regardless of who is in charge, I will continue to do my job and deliver for the people of the 10th Congressional District.
The President-Elect, however, has nominated some of the most unserious and clearly unqualified people to join his cabinet. Anti-vaxxer Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is a public health crisis waiting to happen. Matt Gaetz is a Trump loyalist with no regard for the rule of law and will bend the knee to fulfill every revenge directive of Donald Trump. Both are already raising questions of whether they can pass Senate confirmation.
In 2025 and beyond, the American people will continue to see the positive outcomes of laws and investments made in 2021 and 2022 when Democrats controlled Congress and the White House. Insulin is capped at $35 a month, prices will come down for more prescription drugs, and lower healthcare costs. The infrastructure bill will continue to create jobs and deliver more projects such as roads, bridges, transit, clean water, and internet access. We will see more manufacturing jobs return, and investment in small businesses through the CHIPS and Science Act.
The Trump Administration and MAGA extremists will lie and attempt to take credit for these strong Democratic policies that help the American people – that they voted against while also killing the bipartisan Senate border bill in 2024.
Project 2025 was a roadmap. The President-Elect has made it clear that he intends to follow through on his plans to strip away our rights, weaken our Democracy, and put extremism above the American people.”
U.S. Representative Marilyn Strickland serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. She is whip for the Congressional Black Caucus, a member of the New Democrat Coalition, and one of the first Korean-American women elected to Congress.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10)
Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) issued the following statement on her recent vote against the Stop Terror-Financing and Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act (H.R. 9495):
“The Stop Terror-Financing and Tax Penalties on American Hostages Act is a pragmatic bill. It passed the Ways and Means Committee unanimously in September 2024 and has been voted on three times on the House floor since April 2024.
My support for the underlying policy has been consistent as I firmly believe that Americans should not face tax penalties for being taken hostage by terrorists.Organizations that have clearly given ‘material support’ to terrorists should have their tax-exempt status revoked and they should not receive federal funding.
The president-elect’s decision to put forth several questionable cabinet nominees, however, has given me pause. There is justifiable concern that the appeals process set forth in H.R. 9495 would be misapplied by the incoming administration. That is why I voted NO on H.R. 9495 this week and will continue to do what’s best for my district, and our national security.”
U.S. Representative Marilyn Strickland serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. She is whip for the Congressional Black Caucus, a member of the New Democrat Coalition, and one of the first Korean-American women elected to Congress.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Maxwell Frost Florida (10th District)
October 07, 2024
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Maxwell Alejandro Frost (FL-10) released a statement as the world mourns the first anniversary of the Hamas-led attack on Israel, where more than 1,200 Israelis died in the Hamas attacks of October 7, 2023, and nearly 100 Israelis remain held hostage by Hamas. We also mourn the more than 40,000 people in Gaza who have been killed following the aftermath of the October 7th attack.
In a statement, Rep. Frost says:
“Today’s anniversary weighs heavy on my heart as we mark one year since the horrendous October 7th terrorist attack and atrocities were carried out. Families in Israel and across the world, and those whose loved ones remain captive, continue to endure unimaginable pain– the largest loss of Jewish life since the Holocaust. Hostages are still not home with their families, and we cannot stop working till they are home.
“The horrific attack on October 7th led to the start of a devastating year-long war that has killed tens of thousands and caused millions of Palestinians to suffer and be displaced. The fear, grief, and loss are felt far beyond borders as the toll of war grows ever deeper with no clear end in sight.
“As we honor the memories of those lost, we must also carry forward a shared hope and commitment for peace. Today, let us reflect on our pain but remind ourselves of our collective responsibility to push for a ceasefire, hostages returning home, establish a lasting peace, and seek healing for those so devastatingly impacted.”
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Maxwell Frost Florida (10th District)
November 14, 2024
Bicameral Bill Would Codify the Existence of the Youth Advisory Council at the EPA and Establish Youth Councils at Key Environmental Agencies
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost (D-FL) introduced a new bill in the House of Representatives, the Youth Climate Leadership Act, legislation to cement the existence of the National Environmental Youth Advisory Council (NEYAC) at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and to create more youth advisory councils at relevant federal agencies. Frost’s bill comes as President-Elect Donald Trump has vowed to gut and rollback climate protections once back in the White House.
Under President Biden, EPA Administrator Regan created the Youth Advisory Council with the goal of ensuring the next generation of Americans had a seat at the table when it came to tackling the climate crisis and ensuring the U.S. is a global leader in the fight to protect our environment. Since then the council has been composed of young people from all over the country who are focused on putting forth comprehensive solutions that can be implemented at the federal level.
The Youth Climate Leadership Act has already been introduced in the Senate by Senators Laphonza Butler (D-CA) and Ed Markey (D-MA). Frost’s introduction now means that both the Senate and the House could act swiftly to pass the legislation and ensure the President can sign it into law.
“By creating the Youth Advisory Council at the EPA, we ensured that for the first time ever, young people would be centered and heard in our fight to tackle the climate crisis. This is about leaving the planet a better place than we found it, for our present and for our future,” said Congressman Maxwell Frost. “The incoming Administration has made it clear that saving our environment is not a priority. The work the Youth Council and the EPA have done has changed our country for the better and put young people at the helm. We must act swiftly to do everything we can to protect the progress we have made.”
“The decisions we make – or don’t make – today to address our climate crisis will have lifelong impacts on the youngest Americans. To prepare for the future, the next generation of leaders must take a seat at the table now,” said Senator Laphonza Butler. “The Youth Climate Leadership Act will make sure that the federal government listens to young people’s voices as we fight to achieve our nation’s climate goals.”
The Youth Climate Leadership Act directs the Secretaries of Agriculture, Commerce, Energy, and Interior, as well as the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, to establish Youth Advisory Councils made up of young people between the ages of 16 and 29 for the purpose of providing recommendations regarding environmental issues as they relate to youth, including:
Recommendations regarding programs to help local governments address environmental issues in disadvantaged communities;
Recommendations regarding performance measures to quantify the impact of climate change and other environmental harms that affect youth communities; and
Researching, writing reports on, and making recommendations with a focus on environmental justice, climate change mitigation and resilience, and pollution reduction.
The bill provides $250,000 annually to each agency for the purposes of operating the Youth Advisory Councils, for total annual funding of $1.25 million.
The legislation has also been endorsed by the Sierra Club, Environmental Defense Fund, Center for Biological Diversity, River Kidz, Florida Native Plant Society, Latino Outdoors, Moms Clean Air Force, California Environmental Voters.
“Youth voices must be uplifted when it comes to climate policy,” said Jackie Ostfeld, Campaign Director of Sierra Club’s Outdoors for All. “Not only will this provide valuable experience to put our young people in a good position as the next generation of decision makers, these policy decisions have a direct impact on their futures. They deserve to play a part in deciding what that future is. We have already seen the ambition and drive young climate activists have. This is a wonderful move by Representative Frost to invest in the nation’s future and acknowledge the role that youth voices can have in shaping climate policy.”
“It is so critically important that the voices of young people be heard, and given serious consideration, by our lawmakers. The future belongs to all of us, and the youngest among us have the most to gain – or lose – in the fight to address climate change. They will inherit the results of Congressional action – or inaction,” said Eugene Kelly, President of Florida Native Plant Society.
“The River Kidz are youth advocates who are part of the Rivers Coalition and are dedicated to championing a safe, healthy, and ecologically balanced St. Lucie River Estuary and Indian River Lagoon. We proudly endorse the Youth Climate Leadership Act and recognize the critical importance of young voices in shaping environmental policy, ensuring a healthy environment for all to thrive. We thank Representative Frost for introducing this bill and look forward to seeing River Kidz and other passionate young leaders serve on these newly established Youth Advisory Councils,” said Casey Darling Kniffin and Kelli Doré, River Kidz Co-Leads.
“It’s imperative that youth voices are centered in discussions of federal climate mitigation and adaptation strategies. Young Americans face a future dominated by climate catastrophe because we’ve failed to rapidly and equitably transition away from fossil fuels,” said Camden Weber, climate and energy policy specialist at the Center for Biological Diversity. “I’m thankful for Rep. Frost’s leadership on the Youth Climate Leadership Act, which will uplift and empower this generation of passionate climate leaders. Their role in sculpting this country’s climate plan is most needed in these perilous times.”
“Uplifting often unheard voices is an important part of what we aim to do at Latino Outdoors. The Youth Climate Leadership Act would do precisely that for youth, particularly for those in disadvantaged communities,” said Luis Villa, Executive Director of Latino Outdoors. “It would help demonstrate to young people that their voices matter and that they belong in the conversation about our collective future. We are grateful to Congressman Frost for proposing this legislation and for the opportunity to voice our support.”
“As a member of Gen Z, I believe youth advisory councils will serve a crucial role in providing young people a long-overdue voice in government decision-making and cultivating the intergenerational collaboration necessary to create equitable climate solutions,” said Sam Schmitz from Moms Clean Air Force. “Young people have already witnessed the dire impacts and injustices of climate change which has catalyzed us to be a generation full of passionate climate leaders eager to inform the decisions that will dictate our future. Moms Clean Air Force applauds this important step toward creating a healthy, prosperous, and equitable environment for my generation and all those to come.”
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Maxwell Frost Florida (10th District)
November 19, 2024
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Yesterday, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost (D-FL) accepted the Bruce F. Vento Award at the National Homelessness Law Center’s 2024 Annual Human Rights to Housing Awards. This award recognizes individuals and institutions with proven leadership in the fight to end homelessness and poverty. It celebrates the legacy of the late Congressman Bruce F. Vento, whose advocacy left a positive impact in the fight to help Americans experiencing homelessness.
Earlier this year, Congressman Frost also received the National Low Income Housing Coalition’s 50th Anniversary Emerging Leader Award for his trailblazing work in Congress and his efforts to advance legislation promoting racial equity and housing justice for all.
“I came to Congress with a mission to fight for a nation where housing is not just a commodity but a fundamental human right, and to receive this recognition within my first term is both humbling and a reminder of the work still ahead,” said Congressman Frost. “Thank you to the National Homelessness Law Center for this honor and your unwavering commitment to this cause. Now more than ever, the work we are doing to build a future where no one is left behind, where no one is punished for their poverty, and where housing is a reality for all—not just a privilege for some, is more important than ever.”
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Emilia Strong Sykes (OH-13)
November 14, 2024
Program to help students get back on track following suspensions, avoid violence
CANTON, OH – U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) announced the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Justice Programs awarded $652,707 to the Center for Restorative Justice and Community Health at Walsh University, in partnership with Canton City Schools, for the Canton City Middle School Violence Intervention and Prevention Program.
“Our public schools must have the resources to serve all students. This includes understanding that some students may need more support than others. This funding helps by providing that support so that students who have been suspended can get the personalized, trauma-informed help they need to get back on track and succeed,” said Rep. Sykes.
“We are proud to partner with Walsh University’s Center for Restorative Justice and Community Health through the Bureau of Justice Administration’s STOP School Violence Program Grant. This three-year initiative will empower our middle schools to build a stronger school climate by training staff and students in restorative practices, establishing student response teams, and fostering peer leaders who can help resolve conflicts and promote a positive environment. This grant aligns with our district’s values of striving for excellence, developing leaders, and building community and will benefit our students for years to come,” said Canton City Schools Superintendent Jeff Talbert.
“We are honored to support Canton City Schools in this important work. Through our collaboration, we aim to help students develop emotional intelligence and conflict-resolution skills while creating a school climate where all students are valued contributors to their community. This aligns with Walsh University’s mission to form students for lives of purpose, service, and leadership, both inside and outside the classroom,” said Dr. Michelle Bemiller, Director of the Walsh University Center for Restorative Justice and Community Health.
These funds, awarded under the STOP School Violence Program, will help support over 1,100 7th and 8th grade students in four Canton City School buildings. The program, which will run through September 30, 2027, includes the development and implementation of a two-pronged approach.
Trauma-informed training will help with the recognition, response to, and prevention of school violence in four middle schools in the district. Through this program, Canton Middle School personnel and students are provided support in understanding sources of behavior challenges, as well as solutions to reduce and prevent violence that are individualized to student’s needs.
Through a “train the trainer model,” schools will learn to implement restorative circles that encourage accountability, provide student support, and aid in student re-entry after suspension from their home school for violent incidents.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Emilia Strong Sykes (OH-13)
November 21, 2024
Washington, D.C. – Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13) released the following statement after voting against H.R. 9495.
“I have heard from countless constituents and nonprofit organizations from across the district that have expressed strong concerns that H.R. 9495 could be weaponized to strip nonprofits of tax-exempt status for political reasons. If this bill becomes law, the next presidential administration could designate any organization as ‘terrorist supporting’, since it does not include a definition of the criteria for a designation, making the current bill ripe for abuse. After many discussions with constituents, I voted against this bill to avoid unintended consequences that may arise from its passage. I do hope that the majority finds a vehicle to protect American hostages that does not also trample on the rights of organizations that dissent.”
Earlier this year, Rep. Sykes voted for a similar bill, H.R. 6408, which suspends tax-exempt status of terrorist supporting organizations. This bill defines terrorist supporting organizations as any organization designated as having provided material support or resources to a terrorist organization in excess of a de minimus amount during the three-year period prior to its designation. H.R. 9495 does not provide an explanation of what a terrorist supporting organization is defined as, leaving the definition up to interpretation.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10)
Lakewood, WA –Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (WA-10) and Congresswoman Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08) visited Planned Parenthood’s Puyallup Health Center for a clinic tour and a roundtable discussion on reproductive rights with local providers.
“Planned Parenthood provides essential healthcare for patients,” said Strickland. “I remain committed to ensuring that all women, regardless of where they live or their economic background, have equitable access to safe and affordable reproductive healthcare.”
“Since the Supreme Court’s Dobbs decision, reproductive rights have been under attack across the country. Clinics like the Planned Parenthood in Puyallup play an essential role in providing primary care for millions of women, and I’m proud to have met today to discuss how we can work together to expand access to the full spectrum of reproductive care,” said Congresswoman Schrier. “While extreme Republicans continue to attack all aspects of women’s health care, I will continue to fight in Congress to restore reproductive rights nationwide.”
“We were excited to welcome Rep. Marilyn Strickland and Rep. Kim Shrier to our Puyallup Health Center today. We are grateful for their strong history of support for bodily autonomy and reproductive freedom — especially as we witness the devastating effects of abortion bans in neighboring states. Rep. Strickland and Rep. Schier’s continued championing of sexual and reproductive health has a positive ripple effect across our affiliate as Washington has stepped up to the rising demand for essential health care, including abortion,” said Courtney Normand, State Director for Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates – Washington.
The lawmakers toured the waiting room, reception, and surgical area. This Puyallup Clinic, like most Planned Parenthood locations, also offers hormone therapy and other gender-affirming care for patients needing transition support.
Following the Dobbs decision, Congresswoman Strickland and Dr. Schrier are both working to codify women’s right to choose through the Women’s Health Protection Act, protect the right to travel for reproductive healthcare, and support LGBTQIA+ healthcare.
U.S. Representative Marilyn Strickland serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. She is whip for the Congressional Black Caucus, a member of the New Democrat Coalition, and one of the first Korean-American women elected to Congress.