Happy 2014!!!
I hope you are staying warm! I can tell you, in Congress it's very cold these days. From not extending unemployment insurance to working(yet again)to restrict women's health decisions, it seems my colleagues continue to replace the desires of the American people with the desires of a few. The last session of Congress was one of the most partisan and unproductive in history. As a result, many legislative items were left on the table. Like many of my Democratic colleagues, I believe there are a number of issues that must be addressed, beginning with unemployment insurance.
- On December 28, approximately 23,700 Wisconsinites and 1.3 million in America lost their benefits. In the first six months of 2014, an additional 41,800 in Wisconsin and 1.9 million nationwide will lose their benefits if Congress does not act. As a nation, turning our backs on those in need is not only unacceptable, it's cruel.
- Passing comprehensive immigration reform(CIR)is another top priority. We saw enormous momentum for CIR last summer. That drive was reborn in the Fast For Families movement last session. Aspiring Americans are our brothers, sisters, friends and neighbors. We must create a fair and humane pathway for citizenship.
- This session, I will also focus on reducing income disparities by working to raise the minimum wage. The current minimum wage is unsustainable. Moreover, large businesses across the country are essentially stealing wages by providing employees with fee-laden pay cards. Last session, I stood with our low-income workers to support raising the wage. I stand with them still.
- As someone who has lived in poverty, I truly understand the importance of programs that assist those in need. I remain a strong supporter of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program that works to reduce food insecurity for approximately 47 million Americans. There are many people, including children, the elderly and people with disabilities, who rely on this vital lifeline. I hope my colleagues are able to come together and work to lift millions out of poverty, not push them further within poverty’s grip.
- I have said many times that Lake Michigan is one of my favorite things to represent. The Great Lakes produce approximately 1.5 million jobs each year; millions more rely on the vitality of our Lakes. Allocating $300 million for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative is critical.
- Thwarting domestic violence and supporting survivors have been some of my key initiatives during my legislative career. I hope to continue these efforts this session.
- Of course, I will continue fighting for the Voting Rights Act in order to protect our most fundamental right.
- Also, working to ensure the benefits of the Affordable Care Act reach as many people as possible will remain a top focus.
As always, I will do my best to represent the great people in Wisconsin's fourth congressional district. Should you ever have a legislative concern you would like to discuss, please call my DC office at(202)225-4572 or email me here.
My best to you and yours throughout the new year,
Gwen
