From the Office of Rep. Joe Morelle

April 7, 2023

Dear JOHN,

It was great to spend time in Rochester this week meeting with local businesses, leaders, and stakeholders. Together, we’re working diligently to advance our shared priority of making our community a better place for everyone who calls it home. Read more below.

Delivering Funding for RIT

Rep. Morelle speaks at a press conference at RIT

Rep. Morelle stands with leaders from RIT

Rochester has long been synonymous with technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship. This week, I was proud to build on that legacy by announcing $2 million in federal funds for Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT)’s Semiconductor and Microsystems Fabrication Laboratory.

Senator Schumer, Senator Gillibrand and I worked together to secure this funding that will allow the lab to modernize their facility— strengthening the future of our workforce and bolstering our global competitiveness against countries like China. I’m thrilled to deliver this investment that further cements Rochester’s place as a global leader in innovation and creates long-term economic stability for our region.

Read: Congressman Morelle, Senators Schumer and Gillibrand Highlight $2M Federal Investment in Rochester Institute of Technology

Supporting Families Battling Cancer

Rep. Morelle joins 13Thirty for a press conference

The fight against cancer is deeply personal for me and my family, which is why I appreciate any opportunity to use my role in Congress to support those facing this devastating diagnosis. On Monday, I joined 13Thirty Cancer Connect and my partners in government to help kick-off Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Awareness Month and promote early detection, continued research, and stronger support services. I'm grateful for 13Thirty's inspirational work and I know that through our continued partnership, we can create a cancer-free future for all.

A Total Eclipse...of The Sun

Rep. Morelle speaks at a press conference at RMSC

Rep. Morelle stands with local leaders in eclipse glasses at the Rochester Museum and Science Center

Mark your calendars: in just one year, Rochester will be in the center of a Total Solar Eclipse—for the first time in nearly 100 years! This is going to be a once-in-a-lifetime event not just for our community, but for those traveling to Rochester to be in the heart of the path of totality. I joined the Rochester Museum and Science Center and community leaders to kick-off the celebrations and outline how we’re working together to welcome guests and make Rochester a destination for the 2024 Eclipse.

Neil DeGrasse Tyson said: “The day we stop exploring is the day we commit ourselves to live in a stagnant world, devoid of curiosity and empty of dreams.” Here’s to making sure that never happens by continuing to explore, discover, and celebrate the wonders of space together.

Spending Time with our Next Generation of Leaders

Rep. Morelle meets with a class of University of Rochester Students

Last night, I had the opportunity to speak with a talented University of Rochester class about “Bridging the Gap” and working with those we might disagree with—a concept I’m truly passionate about. I believe wholeheartedly that the best ideas are born from collaboration and compromise, and that we must always keep an open mind to differing points of view. It was a privilege to share my experiences with these students and hear how they’re working to embrace collaboration in their own lives. I have no doubt they have bright futures ahead!

Tax Resources

The deadline to file a 2022 federal tax return or request an extension is April 18, 2023, which is a little over a week away. While tax season can certainly be stressful, there are a number of resources available online and right here in our community to help make the process easier, including:

The IRS Free File tool, which is available here.
Tax season often brings about many scammers and other bad actors, and it is important to stay vigilant. If you believe you or someone you know is the victim of a scam, you can file a claim here.
For folks 50 and older, AARP offers assistance with tax filings. Visit their site here to make an appointment!
For additional information on the above deadlines, as well as helpful tips for making the filing process easier, please visit this page on the IRS website.
If you have a more complex tax-related question, the IRS Office on East Avenue is a resource accessible to you. Visit their site here to get more information about in-person tax help.

I wish peace, joy, and prosperity to everyone celebrating Passover or Easter this weekend. May these holidays bring blessings to all.

Warmest personal regards,

Joe Morelle

New York’s 25th Congressional District