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821 WORDS | 6.3 MINUTE READ
Hi John,
I’m checking in from Washington with updates from another busy and productive week. Read on to hear my thoughts on artificial intelligence, former President Trump's newest indictment, and more:
Regulating Artificial Intelligence
The benefits of Artificial Intelligence, and the risks of its abuse, are becoming increasingly clear, and we must find a way to ensure this technology does not threaten our cherished values or the underlying systems on which our society functions.
There is an extraordinary lack of understanding within the U.S. Government of AI's capabilities — both good and bad. We have a lot of catching up to do! That's why I support extensive oversight and regulation of this technology. At the same time, I recognize that staying competitive in the 21st Century comes with the inevitable need to use new systems and technologies. We must do so with security and transparency at top of mind. After all, if we don't take immediate steps to manage artificial intelligence, it will surely manage us.
Fight for a Safer Future
Last week, I was honored to meet with a group of remarkable activists pushing policymakers to take action on an assault weapons ban as part of my work on the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force. Banning assault weapons is a common sense solution to fight the epidemic of gun violence, and one that is supported by a majority of Americans. That’s why I am a proud cosponsor of H.R. 698, the Assault Weapons Ban of 2023, which would limit new sales, transfers, manufacturing, and importing of military-style assault weapons and high-capacity ammunition magazines. I recognize that this alone will not cure our nation’s extreme levels of gun violence, but doing nothing to prevent gun violence is a dereliction of duty.
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| Thank you to this incredible group of activists for fighting for a safer future for our children and our country. |
U.S. Holocaust Memorial Council
Last week, I was honored to be appointed to the United States Holocaust Memorial Council by recommendation from Leader Jeffries. The Council was established by Congress in 1980 to lead the nation in commemorating the Holocaust and to raise funds used to build the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. After the museum opened its doors in 1993, the Council became the governing board of trustees of the Museum.
Supporting Small Businesses
As Vice Ranking Member of the House Small Business Committee, supporting our nation’s extraordinary entrepreneurs is among my top priorities in Congress. I believe Congress has a responsibility to bring down our national debt, address inflation, and focus on solutions that will help our small businesses thrive. That's why, last week in Small Business Committee, we heard from small business owners on actions Congress can take to help alleviate some of the pressure they are facing related to inflation and regulation.
Former President Trump's (Second) Indictment
No one is above the law – and that includes former presidents. No matter your political perspectives, I hope you'll read the indictment for yourself here before engaging in heated political rhetoric. While I believe that everyone is innocent until proven guilty, we don’t need a judge or jury to determine if his destruction of decency and dangerous incompetence continue to stain America. As an advocate for transparency and accountability in government, I will continue to do everything in my power to ensure that all presidents and their administrations are held to the highest standards, enjoy due process, and remain accountable to the American people.
Congressional App Challenge
Every year, I invite middle and high school students in our community to create and submit original apps for a chance to win the Congressional App Challenge. This competition inspires students to try their hands at computer science and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).
Students are encouraged to register online and submit their app by November 1st. If you or someone you know wishes to compete, I invite you to complete the registration form on my website located at phillips.house.gov/app-challenge.
Keep the faith, and keep in touch,
Dean Phillips
Member of Congress
 Bill of the Week
✔️ Protecting Kids from Fentanyl Act
Prescription and synthetic opioids account for 77% of all overdose deaths, and the crisis is affecting families right here in our schools. Most of these tragic deaths could be avoided by the timely administration of naloxone, a safe and effective opioid reversal agent that's available over the counter for just $25. That's why I cosponsored the Protecting Kids from Fentanyl Act. This bipartisan bill would provide funding for schools to purchase lifesaving opioid antagonists such as naloxone and offer related training and education to students and teachers.
 Resources For You
My team and I are here to serve every person and every corner of our community. I want to make sure you have the resources you need to succeed:
- Donuts with Dean: Welcoming Minnesotans to Washington is one of my favorite parts of this job. We'd love the opportunity share some conversation, and donuts, next time you’re in town! To reserve your spot at an upcoming event, please complete this form, including all attendee information and the date of your preferred session.
- Energy Savings Hub: The U.S. Department of Energy has launched a one-stop shop for American families and consumers to access tools to cut energy costs through rebates and energy efficient upgrades. Click here for a list of green tax credits and other rebates.
- Look before you book: Do you have international travel plans on the horizon? Make sure you are prepared before you book! Visit https://travel.state.gov/ to check your passport expiration date, apply for a passport, and much more.
- The Congressional app challenge is back: Calling all middle and high school coders - are you innovative, creative, and driven to solve problems? Then the Congressional App Challenge is for you! Registration is open, so head to my website to learn more.
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