This morning, I joined RIT and the National Technical Institute for the Deaf (NTID) for this year’s Deaf Employment Summit. This outstanding event brings together employers, policy makers, advocates, and educators from across the country who are committed to creating a more equitable workforce and expanding opportunities for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals.  

For more than 50 years, the team at NTID has provided a world-class education to help deaf and hard-of-hearing students thrive and reach their full potential—and I’m proud to stand alongside them and support their efforts through my ongoing advocacy in Washington. Together, I have no doubt we will continue to build a better, more inclusive future for people of all abilities. 

 Recognizing Our Local Veterans 

It’s important we take every opportunity to honor the service and sacrifice of our brave veterans and their families. When our soldiers return home from the theatre of war, the United States makes a promise to ensure they and their families have the resources and support they need.  

I’m dedicated to fulfilling that sacred promise, which is why I was once again proud to join Monroe County American Legion members for their annual convention. We discussed the work we have done together to protect their well-deserved benefits, publicly recognize their service, and continue raising awareness about the challenges facing our veteran community. The best way to express our gratitude to these patriots is through action, which is what I strive to do through my work in Congress. 

 Meeting with Local Advocates 

Every week I welcome local businesses, organizations, and advocates to Washington to learn more about their causes and discuss how I can support them in Congress. Here are a few of the groups I met with this week: 

We had the privilege of hosting a group of students from the Angelo Del Toro Puerto Rican/Hispanic Youth Leadership Institute representing Monroe County and all of New York State. I enjoyed my time meeting with these young leaders, hearing their questions, and seeing their interest in government and citizenship on full display—they all have bright futures ahead! 

I was honored to meet with palliative care advocates and receive the Hospice and Palliative Care Association of New York State’s 2022 Hospice Action Network Angel Award. Together, we’ve worked closely on my legislation to create a national strategy on grief and ensure families have the support and care they deserve during challenging times. I look forward to our continued work together to advance this legislation and enhance bereavement care across America. 

 Increasing Access to Life-Saving Care 

Too many families across America—including my own—know the pain of receiving a cancer diagnosis. My daughter, Lauren, battled breast cancer for two years with incredible courage, sharing her story and underscoring the importance of early detection. 

This year alone, more than 300,000 people in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer and another 14,000 will be diagnosed with cervical cancer. In memory of Lauren, I’m proud to partner with colleagues in the House and Senate to introduce the SCREENS for Cancer Act. This legislation will help ensure all women can access the critical cancer screening services they need, regardless of their income—so fewer families will suffer the unimaginable loss of a loved one.

Read more: Congressman Joe Morelle Introduces Bill to Strengthen Resources for Early Cancer Detection 

 Protecting the Security of Our Elections 

On Wednesday, at the behest of the Republican majority, the Committee on House Administration convened at least our seventh hearing concerning a “lack” of security in our elections. I continue to be concerned by my Republican colleagues’ inability to acknowledge the overwhelming conclusion reached by nonpartisan experts: American elections are secure. 

As the Ranking Member of the Committee on House Administration, I’ll continue working to ensure they stay that way. 

Click the image below to watch a segment from my opening remarks 

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