From the Office of Rep. Joe Morelle

April 19, 2024

Dear JOHN,

It was great to spend another week in Washington hearing directly from organizations and stakeholders to understand how we can better deliver the resources and support they need. Read more below.

Upholding our Commitment to our Allies

Over the past weeks and months, we have watched in horror as our neighbors in Israel and Ukraine have come under attack from adversarial governments and extremist terrorist groups. America has a responsibility to stand as a global leader and support our allies in their efforts to protect their democracies.

My colleagues and I have repeatedly advocated for legislation to provide our allies with the tools, resources, and humanitarian aid they desperately need. We hope to soon pass a legislative package that demonstrates our strong commitment to standing up for our democratic values and fighting back against tyranny and terrorism in all forms.

I remain committed to working with my colleagues in Congress and the Biden Administration to support our allies abroad and find common ground on the problems we face here at home.

Honoring Our Veterans

Rep. Morelle presents a Certificate of Congressional Recognition to a local Vietnam War veteran

I’ve heard time and time again from veterans in our community who are struggling to secure the benefits they’re rightly owed due to records lost through no fault of their own. Our courageous veterans deserve better, which is why I’m co-sponsoring bipartisan legislation to make it easier for them to get the care they need.

The Fred Hamilton Veterans’ Lost Records Act opens additional application pathways for veterans whose military records were lost by the U.S. government, streamlining the process to receive Department of Veterans Affairs benefits. I’m proud to lead my colleagues in support of this important legislation, and I look forward to working with them to see it passed swiftly into law.

Supporting Higher Education

Rep. Morelle stands with members of the University of Rochester leadership team

It’s always a joy to meet with my good friend President Mangelsdorf and the team from the University of Rochester. I’m grateful for their continued partnership as we work to expand access to higher education, support greater research opportunities in Rochester, and bolster healthcare for our families. They’ve been a steadfast partner in all these efforts, and our entire community feels the benefits of their dedication.

Uplifting Local Restaurants

Rep. Morelle meets with members of the New York State Restaurant Association

This week, I welcomed New York State Restaurant Association members to Washington, including local restauranteurs Kelly Bush and Kelly Metras, for a conversation about how we can support our local restaurants and greater business community.

During the COVID-19 crisis, I fought for our local restaurants, because I knew how important it was to help ensure they had the support to pay their employees and continue operating for our community. They are a critical piece of our local economy, and I remain committed to delivering the resources they need.

Continuing the Fight Against Cancer

Rep. Morelle meets with Dr. Kimryn Rathmell of the National Cancer Institute

National Cancer Institute Director Dr. Kimryn Rathmell joined me to discuss the transformative work happening at the University of Rochester’s Wilmot Cancer Center.

The fight against cancer is deeply personal for me. I’m grateful for everything the NCI does to support individuals and families battling cancer, and together, we're going to continue working to advance research and treatment and further support those fighting this devastating disease.

Please know my office is always here to help. Visit morelle.house.gov to learn more about how we can assist you and your family.

Warmest personal regards,

Joe Morelle

New York’s 25th Congressional District