Dear John,

Welcome to your Weekly Wrap, a recap of the week in Congress and highlights of my work. 

Last week, in observation of the 22nd anniversary of September 11th, I attended remembrance ceremonies across the state.

As students and educators embark on a new school year, I introduced a back-to-school legislative package to expand access to school meals, diversify the educator workforce, and strengthen sustainability in schools. Additionally, in celebration of Passport Awareness Month, my office partnered with the U.S. Department of State and the City of Waterbury to host our second Passport Day. 

Lastly, after a six-week in district work period, the House reconvened. During this time, House Republicans failed to bring any government funding legislation to the floor, furthering the risk of a government shutdown on September 30th. It is imperative that legislation to fund the government be brought to the Floor for a vote.

For my full recap, please read below.

Remembering 9/11

Last week, our nation solemnly marked the 22nd anniversary of the terrorist attack on September 11th, 2001. In observation of this day, I joined families and local leaders at remembrance ceremonies across our state. On Monday, I joined in New Milford to honor the heroic efforts of first responders, and on Thursday, I attended the Connecticut Memorial Service to pay tribute to the residents of our state who lost their lives 22 years ago.

We reflect with hope and optimism at the example set by the brave men and women who sprang into action on 9/11 and a nation that came together as one.

Back to School

This month, as we embark on a new school-year,  I introduced legislation to strengthen sustainability in schools, expand access to school meals, and diversify the educator workforce. My back-to-school legislative package includes:

• The Green Ribbon Act

The Green Ribbon Act would strengthen GRS by boosting the capacity of participating states to expand the number of engaged schools, applicants, and nominees. 

To learn more about The Green Ribbon Act, please click here.

• The School MEALS Act

The  School Modernization and Efficient Access to Lunches (MEALS) for Students Act would streamline the approval process for students in need of free school meals, increase community eligibility, reduce administrative work, and address unpaid meal debt. 

Additional information on the School MEALS Act is available here.

• The Teacher Diversity and Retention Act

The Teacher Diversity and Retention Act invests in expanding the diverse teacher workforce to position all students for success.

Learn more about the Teacher Diversity and Retention Act here. 

Passport Day Recap

On Sunday, my office partnered with the U.S. Department of State and the City of Waterbury to host another Passport Day. 

The event was attended by more than 150 individuals looking to apply for the first time or renew their passports. Currently, passport processing times can reach up to 13 weeks. This event helps to streamline the process for applicants.

To learn more about our Passport Day, click here.

Funding the Federal Government

After a six-week in district work period, the House reconvened on Monday. Unfortunately, the House Republican majority failed to bring any government funding legislation to the Floor, furthering the risk of a full government shutdown after September 30th.

A government shutdown would be disastrous for Connecticut families – delaying Social Security payments, veterans' benefits, and jeopardizing employment for thousands of federal employees. 

In May, Democrats and Republicans came to an agreement for a funding framework. House Republicans are breaking from this deal by refusing to adhere to the terms they negotiated. I will continue to look for solutions and remain open to anything that prevents a government shutdown as a final result.

And that’s a wrap.

As always if you need information on how my office can assist with navigating federal agencies please do not hesitate to reach out.

Jahana Hayes

Member of Congress