Jan's Plans & Pans - December 30, 2023

Dear John xxxxxx,

In all my years as a Member of Congress, I have never experienced a year quite like this. From Kevin McCarthy's rise and fall from the speakership to averting two government shutdowns which would have had disastrous consequences for everyday Americans, the past year was historic and unprecedented to say the least.

Despite holding 724 votes this year, only 27 pieces of legislation were signed into law, the lowest tally since the Great Depression. House Republicans’ inability to govern was on full display.

Last Congress, when Democrats were in charge, we experienced one of the most successful Congresses in modern history. Not only did we kick-start the fastest, strongest jobs recovery in modern times, but we rebuilt our roads, bridges, ports, and water systems, made the largest investment ever in our climate, and slashed prescription drug costs. We also passed legislation to keep guns out of dangerous hands and legislation that solidifies our right to marry the person we love. The progress we made last Congress will be felt for generations to come.

One of the most rewarding parts of my job is helping residents of the 9th District cut through the red tape! This year, thanks to the hard work of the constituent advocates in my Skokie office, we helped 3,328 constituents navigate issues with various federal agencies. Further, we helped recoup over $1.4 million for constituents.

It truly is the honor of a lifetime to be your voice in Congress. In 2024, I vow to continue fighting for a more equitable and just world. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you need assistance. Happy New Year!

With love,

Schakowsky Tours McHenry County Regional Training Center

My District Office helped a constituent receive his I-131 form to travel to Mexico to visit his sick grandmother

"I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Rep. Schakowsky's office for their invaluable assistance throughout my green card application process. Their unwavering friendliness and willingness to help have been a constant source of support. Having spent five years in the USA without the ability to reunite with my family in my home country, today I can do so, thanks to the instrumental aid provided by Rep. Schakowsky's office. 

I want to express special appreciation to Liliana Callahan, who was consistently helpful from the inception to the completion of this journey. Now, being able to work and contribute in a country that has offered me tremendous opportunities is both a privilege and an honor. I sincerely thank Rep. Schakowsky's office, along with Liliana Callahan, for their outstanding assistance and unwavering support throughout this significant chapter of my life."

-Alek Johnson De Moura Rocha 

Inflation Reduction Act Consumer Energy Benefits

Winter is here, and so are the colder temperatures. It is time to turn up the heat, which will inevitably lead to a higher gas bill. But there is good news: the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), which Democrats in Congress and President Joe Biden passed last year, has made cost-saving benefits available right now, including: 

• 30% back for the cost of many clean energy upgrades to your home, including solar panels, water heaters, and battery storage, no matter the price.
• Up to $1,200 to add insulation, install new exterior windows and doors, or other improvements that increase the energy efficiency of your home.
• Up to $2,000 for a new heat pump (which can provide efficient air conditioning and heating) as well as a heat-pump water heater.
• 30% off the cost of installing a new electric vehicle charger if you live in a underserved community.

Sign Up for the Affordable Connectivity Program

Thanks to President Joe Biden's Infrastructure Law, families are gaining access to the broadband they need for work, school, healthcare, and more. Eligible households can receive a monthly discount for internet service and a one-time discount for a personal tech device.

The Federal Communication Commission's Affordable Connectivity Program provides eligible households $30/month off internet bills, in addition to a one-time discount of up to $100 on personal devices.

To find out how to take advantage, visit GetInternet.gov.

Passport Renewal

Current processing times for passports are: 6-8 weeks for routine and 2-3 weeks for expedited. These times are subject to change and are posted on the Dept. of State Website.  Please apply well in advance of your travel date – if your travel date is sooner than the current processing times, you may not get your passport in time for travel.

Please remember that emergency in-person appointments at the Chicago Passport Agency are intended for emergencies and availability is not guaranteed unless it is a life or death emergency! These appointments are not and have never been intended for routine renewal. If you have upcoming travel you should NOT plan on receiving an appointment at the Chicago Passport Agency. Passport renewals are intended to go through the mail. 

Did you know that many countries require your passport to be valid for several months beyond your date of travel? Depending on your destination, validity requirements can vary from 3 to 6 months beyond the date of travel! You can check the requirements for your destination on the Dept. of State Website under "International Travel" and "Country Information".

If you have planned travel and have a pending application that may not arrive on time, or if you need an emergency appointment at the Chicago Passport Agency, the Constituent Advocates in my District Office are happy to help! Please call the office at 773-506-7100, or you can open a case with my office online.