A Message from Gabe:

Greetings Rhode Islanders,

Last week, President Joe Biden announced new regulations to expand federal background checks and crack down on illegal firearm sales. These regulations were only made possible because of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act — a bill that was passed in 2021 by a Democratic Congress to strengthen gun background checks.

When working at the White House, I was often the first person to speak with a local mayor after a mass shooting tore apart their community. I will never forget the anguish expressed during those calls. Gun violence is a national epidemic in large part because of illegal guns flooding our streets. It’s a problem that has gotten worse because of gun disposal companies that claim to destroy guns when in reality, only one part of the weapon is destroyed before it is resold as a kit. This contributes to the rise of “zombie guns” in our communities and it is why I am proud to co-lead H.R. 7746, the Destroy Zombie Guns Act, which would save lives by closing this loophole.

You have my commitment that I will continue to propose bold solutions like H.R. 7746 to keep Americans safe from guns. Together, we can — and we will — end gun violence in our community.

Sincerely,

Gabe Amo

Member of Congress

Do You Support Expanding
Background Checks on Gun Sales?

Connecting Rhode Island & Washington

FEMA recently announced that federal disaster assistance is available to our state for recovery efforts for individuals affected by severe storms and flooding on January 9-13 of this year in Kent, Newport, Providence, and Washington counties. This announcement came after our Rhode Island Congressional delegation urged President Biden to issue the disaster declarations. I applaud President Biden for answering our calls. Federal funds are also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures across our state. Individuals and business owners in the designated areas seeking assistance can begin applying for support by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 1-800-621-3362 or by using the FEMA App.

For most taxpayers, the deadline to file their personal federal tax return, pay any tax owed or request an extension to file was Monday, April 15, 2024. Tax relief is available for individuals and businesses in Kent, Newport, Providence and Washington counties that were affected by severe storms and flooding that took place on December 17th, 2023, and January 9th, 2024. Affected individuals and businesses will have until July 15, 2024, to file returns and pay any taxes that were originally due during this period. The July 15, 2024, deadline applies to individual income tax returns and payments that were normally due on April 15, 2024. Need help with your taxes? Our office has compiled resources to help you with your taxes! Click here for information in English. Para obtener mas informacion sobre los impuestos, haga clic aqui.

Information on the Federal Student Aid Programs

Federal financial aid can help students pay for certain educational expenses at institutions of higher education or career technical schools. 

To receive this federal support, you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form to apply for this aid.
 
These forms can be complicated. You can find additional information here or call our Pawtucket office at (401) 729-5600.

Help Make Rhode Island's Electric Vehicle Infrastructure a Success!

When Congress passed a historic infrastructure law in 2021, it set aside federal dollars for states expand electric vehicle (EV) charging stations. As a result of this program, Rhode Island is expected to receive nearly $23 million to help EV owners with their commutes and their long-distance road trips.

Our state is already seeing this impact. Federal funds helped install two new stations in
Rhode Island that are expected to open for service this summer. I am thrilled that our Investing in America agenda is building a convenient and reliable network of charging stations for drivers across Rhode Island.

However, to ensure this program is a success, our state is seeking feedback on where to place future charging stations. You can help shape the future for electric charging stations in our state!

Connecting with Rhode Islanders

The blue economy is rapidly growing and leading innovation right here in the East Bay! Lots on display at Composite Energy Technologies facilities in R&D and manufacturing of complex carbon composite products.

Productive meeting with officials at Portsmouth Town Hall to discuss local priorities and the great service they provide, and how we can collaborate to address community needs. In Congress, I’ll continue to focus on supporting cities and towns across the district.

I visited Community Preparatory School in Providence to discuss current events, my work in Congress, and path to public service. After every one of these visits, I’m optimistic about our future — and grateful for the privilege to work for Rhode Islanders.

Had a robust discussion with the Rhode Island Association of Fire Chiefs on how to support our state’s firefighters and ensure they have the resources to continue their invaluable work that keeps our communities safe.

As a former “Club Kid” in Pawtucket, it was great to be back at Moeller Place to discuss my work in Congress and to celebrate the Boys & Girls Clubs of America Youth of the Year this week! Congrats to Gerry on his selection and Jazmine, Gerardo, Iker, and Dariel for your dedication to academics, service, and leadership!

Congrats to three new Eagle Scouts - Daniel, Ian, & Thomas - of Providence Troop 28! They’ve already made an impact on our community. I was grateful for the opportunity to discuss my work in Congress and for our Scouts lifelong commitment to leadership and service. We’re all cheering you on!

Local Leader in Japanese Community and Small Business Owner Joins as Guest for Joint Meeting

Maryanne Brandmeier sits with Congressman Amo before Prime Minister Fumio Kishida of Japan’s joint address to Congress

As Congress came together to hear an address from Prime Minister Fumio Kishida of Japan, I was thrilled to have Maryanne Brandmeier as our district’s guest of honor. In addition to owning the OKS-USA Martial Arts/CrossFit studio in Naval Station Newport, Ms. Brandmeier is a longtime advocate for U.S-Japan relations. She currently serves as the Vice President of the Japan-America Society of Rhode Island and has been widely recognized for advancing this crucial bilateral relationship.

Many Rhode Islanders know that the City by the Sea has strong ties to Japan stretching back to the 19th century — it is a sister city with Shimoda and hosts the Black Ships Festival every year to commemorate the visit of Commodore Matthew C. Perry in 1854.

Last week’s address by Prime Minister Kishida was an important opportunity to hear how we can continue marching together to strengthen our commercial ties, cultural exchanges, and defense cooperation. Our alliance with Japan is a beacon to the entire world, and I was pleased to welcome our ally to Congress alongside a champion for our state, Ms. Maryanne Brandmeier.

If you need help with personal casework: Contact the district office in Pawtucket: 1070 Main Street, Suite 300 Pawtucket, RI 02860 Phone: (401) 729-5600 Fax: (401) 729-5608

If you need help with legislative issues: Contact the Washington, D.C. office: 2233 Rayburn HOB Washington, DC 20515 Phone: (202) 225-4911 Fax: (202) 225-3290