Dear John, 

As we continue the August District Work Period, I want to highlight some of the ways I have been fighting for LA-02! I introduced and championed bills that support our economy and aim to make our community more equitable, taken steps to respond to climate change, and more. I also toured the most successful re-entry program in the country with Democratic Leader Hakeem Jefferies.

CARTER IN CONGRESS

CBC Press Conference: The State of Race and Democracy in America

It's undeniable that Black Americans rights are being targeted. As your Congressman, I will not allow Black voices and experiences to be silenced. I recently spoke at a press conference hosted by the Congressional Black Caucus to discuss issues that have been plaguing LA-02 and our country. I have been clear about the importance of a second minority-majority congressional seat in Louisiana. Watch my remarks here:

Just last month, Black Americans were referred to as "colored people"
on the House floor. The Florida GOP is also trying to erase the history of slaves, and educators are being targeted around the United States. Every person, no matter their political party, should acknowledge that this is unacceptable. Hear what I had to say about these injustices:

Democracy Restoration Act

I'm a cosponsor of the Democracy Restoration Act to restore voting rights to formerly incarcerated citizens. There’s no justification for denying people who have paid their dues to society a voice in our democracy. I firmly believe in the principles of justice, equality, and second chances. This bill is not just about expanding voter access, it’s about doing the right thing. 

Bill Introductions 

I recently introduced two bipartisan bills to support our community and economy. The Economic Empowerment Through Predevelopment Act would authorize the Economic Development Administration (EDA) to make grants or cooperative agreements available for planning and predevelopment of infrastructure projects to support communities across the country. Read the full press release HERE. 

I also introduced H.R. 4993, a bipartisan bill designed to maximize investment in infrastructure for cargo ports and support American manufacturing jobs. This is especially important for our district and will provide more opportunity to create good jobs and promote environmental sustainability on our waterways. Read the full press HERE. 

CARTER IN THE COMMUNITY 

HBCU CARES Mental Health Symposium

I hosted an extremely productive conversation at the HBCU Cares Mental Health Symposium with several HBCU presidents and stakeholders about the importance of students’ mental health.  We focused on themes including reducing isolation, improving campus safety, and increasing access to health care providers. Our students need to know they matter! I will keep partnering with these institutions to find meaningful solutions.

This Congress, I introduced the Mental Health Workforce Act to create more diversity and increase the number of culturally competent mental health care providers. I am committed to fighting for greater representation and inclusivity in this space. I will be speaking more on this topic at this year’s Congressional Black Caucus Annual Legislative Conference. Read the full press release HERE.

Tour of First 72+

I had the honor of touring The First 72+, one of the most successful, comprehensive reentry programs in the United States, with Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries. This non-profit is based on returning those incarcerated to mainstream life. Leader Jeffries and I both believe that once the debt is paid to society, people must have a fair chance to live a respectable and normal life. This organization assists with housing, employment, health care, and a host of other programs that aid in returning citizens to the community where they can thrive. Read the full press release HERE.

Partnership for Housing Roundtables 

Housing is a basic human right, and I am making sure that every resident of our district has access to safe and affordable homes. I hosted three Partnership for Housing Roundtables in New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and the River Parishes to give updates on federal housing and housing opportunities in LA-02. Every person deserves a place to call home. Read the full press release HERE.

Ferry Terminal 

Growing up in Algiers, my family used the ferry to cross the Mississippi River for work and fun in New Orleans. I attended the grand opening of the newly improved Canal Street Ferry Terminal where we celebrated the upgrades that have been made from tens of millions of dollars in investments that I championed for the Regional Transit Authority. 

Reception with the American Cancer Society 

I recently joined the American Cancer Society to discuss the disproportionate rates of cancer in the Black community. Cancer affects everyone but impacts Black men in the U.S. at alarmingly high rates. I co-sponsored the PSA Screening for HIM Act to make prostate cancer screening more accessible and will continue to address these disparities in LA-02 and around the country.

Diversifying the Electric Power Industry 

I also joined the American Association of Blacks in Energy and the Edison Electric Institute to discuss how Louisiana is preparing the next generation of leaders in the electric power industry. Our state is a global leader in energy, and I’m committed to increasing diversity in the field.

 

Being the voice for the people of Louisiana's Second Congressional District is a privilege and I am honored to serve you. For the latest updates on my work, follow my social media accounts at the links below!

Sincerely,

 

 

 

Troy A. Carter, Sr.
Member of Congress