URGING VA TO PROVIDE VETERANS WITH CONVENIENT HEALTHCARE OPTIONS

During my Veterans Policy Forum in Bend last month, I heard from veterans who were concerned about long wait times to access healthcare at VA facilities. Yesterday, I sent a letter to Secretary Denis McDonough to learn more about the department’s position on allowing veterans to pursue other options in their communities.

Community care provides veterans with more convenient healthcare access, especially in areas underserved by VA facilities like in Central Oregon. However, VA leadership recently suggested they would steer veterans away from community care.

Veterans should be empowered to access the care that best meets their needs, whether that is inside or outside VA. Ensuring veterans have access to the resources they have earned has been, and will always be, a top priority of mine.

Read my full letter by clicking HERE or below:

INTRODUCING BIPARTISAN LEGISLATION TO HELP IMPROVE EDUCATION IN OREGON

I recently joined several of my colleagues to introduce the bipartisan Teacher, Principal, and Leader Residency Access Act. Our proposal would allow federal work-study funds to cover costs associated with participating in teacher and principal residency programs, which have been effective in improving teacher demand, quality, and retention.

Oregon students are falling behind, and one way to address this problem is to encourage hardworking college students to pursue degrees in education. The Teacher, Principal, and Leader Residency Access Act is a commonsense, bipartisan proposal that would support aspiring teachers and ensure they are financially supported while receiving critical on-the-job experience.

Learn more by visiting my website:

BACKING THE FIX OUR FORESTS ACT TO PREVENT WILDFIRES

As we continue through wildfire season, I’ll always keep close track of wildfire threats in the 5th District and stand ready to assist our communities by advocating for timely federal disaster relief when it’s needed.

In Congress, I’ve backed several pieces of bipartisan legislation to help prevent wildfires from starting. Most recently, I cosponsored the Fix Our Forests Act. This comprehensive, bipartisan bill would take critical steps to improve forest management in areas that are at the highest risk of wildfires by utilizing advanced technology and science.

Learn more about the Fix Our Forests Act from the Natural Resources Committee by clicking here.

ICYMI: Leading the Stop Fentanyl at the Border Act

It’s clear that our Border Patrol agents are overwhelmed, overworked, and underpaid.

That’s why I’m proud to help lead the bipartisan Stop Fentanyl at the Border Act, which would provide Border Patrol with the resources they need to combat the fentanyl crisis.

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SENDING MY CONDOLENCES TO THE COURTNEY FAMILY

I was saddened to hear Peter Courtney passed away this week and offer my deepest condolences to his loved ones.

He dedicated his life to serving Oregonians, building a strong and enduring legacy as a compassionate statesman willing to work with anyone to improve our state.

MY STATEMENT ON LAST WEEKEND’S ASSASSINATION ATTEMPT

Like so many Oregonians and Americans, I was devastated and deeply troubled by the senseless act of violence that caused innocent blood to be spilled in Pennsylvania last weekend. Political violence in all forms is reprehensible and uniquely unAmerican. I'm grateful to all those who responded swiftly to protect President Trump and those in attendance, and I will continue praying for the safety of our nation.

ONE MORE THING!

Check out this Sunday Scenery submission from Henry, which will be featured on my social media this weekend – a beautiful view of the Metolius River!

Thank you Henry for sending in this picture. To submit your own picture visit: chavez-deremer.house.gov/sunday-scenery

Thank you for reading my weekly newsletter. It's an honor to be your voice in the U.S. House of Representatives. Your thoughts, concerns, and comments are very important to me. Always feel free to get in touch by calling (202) 225-5711 or by visiting my website at chavez-deremer.house.gov.

Sincerely,