Dear neighbor: I want to address the recent attack on former President Trump and the current state of our political discourse. Violence in the name of political differences is unacceptable in a democracy. Political differences should be settled at the ballot box, not through physical attacks on elected officials and candidates. Having served in Congress longer than many of my colleagues, I've seen our discourse deteriorate over time. Despite disagreements, including with former President Trump, I’ve always prided myself on achieving bipartisan solutions. Democracy requires respect for all elected by the voters, and it’s crucial we uphold this principle. Major Federal Funding for Alberta Lake Environmental Cleanup & Restoration ProjectThis week, I announced $1.25 million in new federal funding for the Alberta Lake Environmental Cleanup and Restoration Project in Neptune Township. This important initiative will focus on dredging, environmental cleanup, and replanting native species to enhance the lake's health and manage stormwater effectively. Read more. Immediate EPA Action Needed for Lead found on beach in KeyportI am deeply concerned about reports that hazardous lead material was found along the shore in Keyport. The EPA must immediately determine the extent of the contamination and its origin. Some reports are suggesting that this contamination is from the Raritan Bay Slag Superfund site in Old Bridge and spreading to Keyport. Regardless of the origin of the material, it must be contained so that residents do not come in contact with it. In my conversation with Lisa Garcia, Regional Administrator for EPA Region II, she confirmed that the EPA will prioritize its investigation of the lead-lined material. I have been working closely with the EPA on the Old Bridge Superfund site remediation effort, and we expect a contract for the Laurence Harbor seawall cleanup to be made this year. This work is supported by federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which I helped to pass with President Biden. House Republicans Want to Defund Amtrak by Billions of DollarsThis week, I sharply criticized House Republicans’ proposal to cut Amtrak funding by 12% in the Fiscal Year 2025 Transportation Appropriations bill. This reckless plan undermines the billions we've invested through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to upgrade our rail systems and puts our progress at risk. A 12% cut to Amtrak is a direct attack on the hardworking commuters of New Jersey and New York who rely on these services every day. Reduced funding will only lead to more delays, service disruptions, and outdated infrastructure. I urge my Republican colleagues from New Jersey and New York to stand up against this radical proposal and protect our constituents. An Important Question from my Recent Tele-town HallOn Tuesday I held a Tele-Town Hall event where I was able to provide a live update on what's happening in Washington and take the questions of constituents like you. More than 5,000 residents of NJ’s 6th District tuned in. One of our neighbors asked an important question about how to take advantage of all the home energy, solar, and EV tax credits made possible through the Inflation Reduction Act, passed by Democrats and signed by President Biden in August 2022. As the former Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee, I was deeply involved in crafting this landmark legislation, which allocates $369 billion for climate action, including various tax credits for home energy improvements. Below are resources for you to tap into these robust cost-saving and planet-protecting benefits. Available Inflation Reduction Act Clean Energy Tax Credits + How to Access Them 30% Off Residential Clean Energy Upgrades:   What You Get:  You can receive 30% back each year on the cost of many clean energy upgrades to your home, such as solar panels, heat pumps, and battery storage.How to Claim: Keep records of your expenses and claim the credit on your taxes.Up to $3,200 for Energy Efficiency Improvements:What You Get:  Up to $3,200 is available to add insulation, install new exterior windows and doors, or make other improvements, such as purchasing new AC or heating equipment that increases your home's energy efficiency.How to Claim:  Keep records of your expenses and claim the credit on your taxes.Up to $7,500 on Electric Vehicles:What You Get:  Save up to $7,500 on a new electric vehicle and up to $4,000 on a used one at the point of sale.How to Claim: The dealership will provide you with information and documentation, which you can claim when you file your taxes. Learn more about these tax credits on the White House website, the IRS information pages on the Clean Vehicle Tax Credits and the Home Energy Tax Credits, the Department of Energy website, EnergyStar.gov, and the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities Federal Incentives website.The State of New Jersey is currently working to set up a new Inflation Reduction Act program to help residents save money on energy efficiency and electrification upgrades through rebates. Please stay tuned for updates on the program. Click here to visit my website or call my offices directly if you have questions or need help with a federal agency:Middlesex County: 732-249-8892Monmouth County: 732-571-1140Sincerely, Congressman Palloneimage widget