Dear Neighbor:
As we approach July 4th, I look forward to celebrating Independence Day in New Jersey, where our rich history shines brightly. From the Battle of Monmouth right here in our 6th District to the spectacular fireworks displays along the Jersey Shore, our state holds a special place in commemorating our nation's birthday. This week has been exceptionally busy in Washington as we tackled significant issues affecting our nation and community.
Amtrak Service Disruptions: Enough is Enough
On Monday, I demanded transparency and immediate action from Amtrak’s CEO after 19 service disruptions in just two months. These outages have caused chaos for thousands of commuters, and despite billions allocated for infrastructure upgrades, Amtrak’s response has been insufficient. The disruptions highlight a dire need for improvement. I am insisting on weekly reports on repair progress and infrastructure improvements to ensure transparency and prevent future delays. My constituents deserve better, and I will continue to hold Amtrak accountable until these issues are resolved.
Federal Funding for Carteret’s Ferry Terminal
Great news! I helped to secure an additional $5.6 million in federal funding for the construction of Carteret’s new ferry terminal. This facility will provide a convenient commuting option between Central New Jersey and Manhattan, reducing congestion and enhancing economic opportunities. The new multimodal terminal will support transfers between the ferry, NJ TRANSIT bus routes, cars, and nearby pedestrian and bicycle paths. This builds on the $6 million previously secured in the Fiscal Year 2023 Appropriations bill and an additional $6 million from the Federal Transit Administration’s Passenger Ferry Grant Program. This project will not only alleviate traffic but also create numerous jobs and bolster local businesses.
Combating Doping Ahead of the 2024 Olympics
Following a scandal involving 23 Chinese swimmers who tested positive for banned substances, my committee held a primetime hearing to scrutinize the World Anti-Doping Agency's handling of the case and reinforce the need for a global commitment to fair play. Witnesses include Olympic champions Michael Phelps and Allison Schmitt. Read more.
Marking the Second Anniversary of the Dobbs Decision
Monday marked the second anniversary of the Dobbs decision, which overturned Roe v. Wade. Since this ruling, 14 Republican-controlled states have enacted total abortion bans. That’s why I am working with my Democratic colleagues to pass the Women’s Health Protection Act to restore comprehensive reproductive health care protections, including the right to abortion, contraception, and fertility treatments. Protecting these fundamental rights is essential for the well-being and autonomy of women across the country.
Click here to visit my website or call my offices directly if you have questions or need help with a federal agency:
Middlesex County: 732-249-8892
Monmouth County: 732-571-1140
Sincerely,
Congressman Pallone
