Georgia Chamber Congressional Luncheon
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I started the week at the Georgia Chamber Congressional Luncheon hosted by the Georgia Chamber of Commerce. I participated in a panel discussion with my friend and fellow Georgian, Congressman Rich McCormick (GA-06), where I spoke about my work in Congress to help alleviate labor shortages in Georgia and across the nation, particularly in the healthcare sector.
I highlighted a program offered by Augusta University and the Medical College of Georgia that waives medical school tuition for medical students who agree to participate in one of seven primary care specialties and practice in a rural or underserved area each year they would like tuition waived. This innovative program aims to reduce student debt and keep Georgia-trained doctors working right here in our state where we need them most.
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Jefferson Energy Cooperative
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I visited Jefferson Energy Cooperative in Wrens, which has provided safe and competitively-priced electricity to eleven different counties in the CSRA for more than 85 years.
As a proud member of the Energy and Commerce Committee, I will continue to work with my colleagues on an all-of-the-above energy strategy to ensure the reliability and affordability of energy for all consumers.
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Visiting Jefferson County Farmers
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Also while in Wrens, I took time to meet with Jefferson County farmers to discuss crop destruction issues. Our farmers feed, fuel, and clothe the entire world, and I will continue to be their biggest advocate in Washington, especially with a Farm Bill reauthorization right around the corner.
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Promoting Childhood Literacy
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Through the Library of Congress Surplus Books Program, I was pleased to donate books to Montgomery County Elementary in Ailey and the Lyons Primary School in Toombs County.
Since being elected to Congress, I have served on the House Education and the Workforce Committee, and I am grateful to be able to do my part to support childhood literacy. It is essential we ensure children are reading by the third grade to set them up for success both in school and beyond.
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Statesboro Rotary Club Meeting
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Honoring Speaker Jon Burns
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While in Statesboro, I also attended a reception at Georgia Southern University honoring Georgia Speaker of the House Jon Burns and his wife, Mrs. Dayle Burns.
Speaker Burns is a true public servant who has dedicated decades of his life to serving not only Georgia's 12th District, but the entire state of Georgia. We're lucky to have Jon's leadership in the State Capital.
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In Metter, I stopped by IHS Pharmacy where we discussed inadequate reimbursement rates and their frustrations with Direct and Indirect Remuneration (DIR) fees, which are the result of a loophole in Medicare regulation that requires pharmacies to pay fees on prescription drugs well after the point-of-sale, leading to inflated prescription drug costs and pharmacy closures.
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Community Healthcare Systems Stakeholder Appreciation Brunch
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I traveled to Washington County where I attended a brunch in Sandersville to express support for our community health centers. With many rural Georgians living more than 50 miles away from the nearest hospital or doctor, we’re blessed to have community health centers in numerous counties across the 12th district.
In Congress, I am a proud cosponsor of the PATIENT Act which extends funding for the community health center program. I also signed an FY24 appropriations request to support robust funding of community health centers.
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Sandersville Rotary Club Meeting
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I also spoke at the Sandersville Rotary Club meeting where I provided an update on House Republicans' work in Congress and fulfilling our Commitment to America. Thank you for the invitation!
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Endurance Poly Producers, LLC
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While in Washington County, I also stopped in Tennille for a tour of Endurance Poly Producers, which produces high density polyethylene (HDPE) piping systems. I remain committed to eliminating regulatory barriers so businesses like Endurance can continue to thrive throughout Georgia.
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Georgia Municipal Association Roundtable
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I traveled to Lincolnton for a roundtable discussion hosted by the Georgia Municipal Association. Those in attendance were:
Walker Norman, Lincoln County Commission Chairman Sam Moore, Wilkes County Commission Chairman Ken Usry, Mayor of Thomson Bill DeGolian, Mayor of Washington Charles Newton, McDuffie County Commission Chairman Martha Revelo, Associate Director of Governmental Affairs, ACCG Becky Taylor, Director of Federal Relations and Research, GMA
I enjoyed hearing from these local leaders about the issues impacting their communities including broadband access and workforce challenges.
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Traveling across the 12th district is my favorite part of serving you in Congress. While on the road this week, I took some time to meet with local family physicians and small business owners. As always, thank you for the hospitality!
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Sincerely,
Rick Allen Member of Congress
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