This week in Washington, I voted for legislation to raise the debt ceiling– first and foremost because it prevents the United States from going into default, which would have had devastating, catastrophic consequences for the American and global economy. It would have resulted in job loss, cuts to retirement benefits, an increased cost of everyday goods, and more.  

This bipartisan agreement is a necessary compromise for the good of the nation. It upholds our fiscal responsibility and rejects extremist Republican proposals that would have cut essential programs and services Americans rely on. 

The bill also takes important steps to: 

• Prevent economic crisis while protecting essential programs like Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, and the Affordable Care Act. 

• Safeguard key investments in infrastructure and economic development, including the CHIPS and Science Act. 

• Expands the number of people who qualify for SNAP benefits. 

• Protect expanded healthcare benefits for veterans passed in the PACT Act. 

• Extends debt ceiling for 2 years. 

Today, I had the opportunity to visit one of my favorite local businesses, the family-owned Schutt’s Apple Mill in Webster, to talk about legislation I’m introducing to control the spread of the Spotted Lanternfly and protect farms like Schutt’s.  

The Spotted Lanternfly may sound funny, but it’s no laughing matter—this invasive species feeds on crops like apples, hops, and wine grapes and is threatening the livelihoods of local farmers here in New York and across the country. We have 600 apple producers just like the Schutt’s in our state, and this industry is supporting thousands of jobs. Without immediate action, the Spotted Lanternfly will devastate our region’s agricultural economy.  

That’s why I’m introducing legislation that will help foster creative mitigation solutions to stop the spread before New York’s cash crops are further decimated. The bill will designate the Spotted Lanternfly as a high-priority research and extension initiative and authorize the Secretary of Agriculture to make competitive grants available for mitigation efforts. Read more

I recently joined the US Army Corps of Engineers, NYS Department of Environmental Conservation, and my partners in government from the Town of Greece to tour the Braddock Bay Ecosystem Restoration project’s completed Barrier Beach. The restoration of Braddock Bay is not only critical to protecting the many unique ecosystems that call it home, but to ensuring the economic vitality of the Lake Ontario waterfront community. Our beautiful public lands are important sources of recreation for our community—and I'm committed to preserving them for generations to come.  

Each June, we recognize Pride Month—honoring the strength, dignity, and resiliency of our LGBTQ+ communities here in Rochester and across America. 
 
Over the years, we've made important progress in the fight for equality. But there is still so much more to do. This month, we recommit to breaking down barriers to equity and building a more inclusive society for all. 

Please know my office is always here to help. Visit morelle.house.gov to learn more about how we can assist you and your family.  

Warmest personal regards,  

Joe Morelle  

New York’s 25th Congressional District