I represent 48,000 veterans.

Ahead of Veterans' Day Weekend, I want to share that it is an honor and a privilege to represent the women and men in uniform of Washington's 2nd Congressional District in Congress.

Our service members exemplify patriotism, honor, and selflessness, as they willingly place themselves in harm's way to protect the values and principles that underpin our democracy. Their unwavering commitment and resilience in the face of danger and adversity are nothing short of remarkable, and we must continuously acknowledge the sacrifices they make on behalf of our country.

Service members and their families bear tremendous burdens: extended deployments, frequent relocations, and the enduring uncertainty that accompanies military life all impose hardships that often go unnoticed.

In Congress, I remain committed to supporting Veterans, active duty military, and their loved ones. It is my privilege to champion policies and initiatives that bolster the well-being, health care, and benefits of our service members and their families, including:

• IVF and Reproductive health care: As it stands, our military's health insurance coverage does not extend to many forms of reproductive assistance, including in vitro fertilization and surrogacy. I have been working with fellow lawmakers to expand the services included for veterans trying to start a family, and provide assistance for service members seeking to freeze their eggs or sperm prior to deployment.
• Averting a Government Shutdown: without the continuing resolution passed back in October, 79,000 military personnel in Washington state alone would have to work without pay — right now, I am working to ensure we can keep our government operational beyond the upcoming deadline.
• Housing: Last year, I supported a bill to provide more than a half-billion dollars in VA Supportive Housing. These funds have been used nationwide to serve veterans. But in our district alone, these funds helped more than 420 veterans find housing and access case management and clinical services.
• Supporting Survivors of Sexual Assault: I cosponsored a piece of bipartisan legislation that would help protect our U.S. Coast Guard Academy cadets from being disciplined for minor collateral misconduct (think: underaged drinking, or violating curfew) when reporting sexual assault. That way, survivors can come forward about their experience without fear.
• Addressing Exposure to Toxic Substances: I supported legislation to ensure veterans exposed to burn pits and toxic substances (think Agent Orange and PFAS) can access the care they need.
• Transportation: I am working to ensure veterans who live in rural communities can easily get to their medical appointments.

I will continue to advocate for robust resources for service members and their families as they make unsung sacrifices to address the various challenges that confront our nation.

To our active duty service members, veterans, and their loved ones: thank you for your dedicated commitment to our nation, and happy Veterans' Day.

Rick