Dear Friend,
Here you will find information about the work my team is doing in South Jersey to support you and the latest legislative updates from Washington, D.C. Serving you in Congress is one of my highest honors and is something I take very seriously. Feel free to forward this newsletter to family, friends, and colleagues and encourage them to sign-up for my weekly update.
Sincerely,
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Jeff Van Drew Member of Congress
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Recently, I introduced H.R. 9359, The Social Security Tax Freedom Act, which would eliminate federal income taxes on Social Security benefits, protect the Social Security system from any shortfalls, and give much-needed relief to retirees.
It is just not right that after decades of hard work and paying into Social Security, retirees see their benefits reduced. They have earned these benefits in their entirety and should not have to watch their savings shrink due to additional taxes. This bill will fix that issue by removing those reductions.
This will not only provide immediate relief to seniors but also help to strengthen the Social Security program's future. It is about more than just tax relief; it is about honoring our commitment to those who have built this country and contributed to its success. It is an important step in ensuring that our retirees can enjoy their retirement without unnecessary financial burdens.
Click here to read the full text of the bill.
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This week, I spoke at a House Judiciary Committee hearing about the severe consequences of the Biden-Harris administration's border policies. The situation at our border has led to horrific outcomes for families across America that were entirely preventable and are a direct result of the failures in our border security.
The staggering reality is that tens of thousands of Americans have been killed by fentanyl, a drug that floods into our country due to gaps in our border enforcement. In Colorado, Venezuelan gangs are extorting rent in exchange for safety, and in Ohio, Haitian migrants have caused public disturbances. Innocent Americans are losing their lives at the hands of unvetted, undocumented illegal immigrants who have been allowed to enter our country freely.
Americans see the truth: the current administration's policies have not only failed to protect our nation but have actively contributed to the crisis. We need to take immediate action to secure our border and restore safety and trust in our government.
Click here or the image below to view my remarks.
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Recently, I, along with Rep. Scott Perry, hosted a hearing on offshore wind, where we uncovered significant concerns surrounding this so-called "clean" energy source. These issues are critical and warrant immediate attention. We built on previous discussions at our other field hearings in Brigantine and Ocean City, Maryland, and it has become increasingly clear that these projects are far from the success they were promised to be.
Despite the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities' continued push for these projects, the reality is that offshore wind farms are a financial and environmental nightmare. Costs will skyrocket, placing an unfair burden on the already strained taxpayers. We are seeing possible violations in noise regulation along with severe potential harm to our marine environment. The recent turbine incident in Nantucket, MA, where a turbine failed and collapsed into the ocean littering the shores with thousands of fiberglass pieces, is a stark reminder of what could happen if these problems are not addressed. If similar issues arise along our coastlines, the environmental damage could be extreme, especially when it is not just a few turbines being installed, but thousands.
The drawbacks of these projects are stacking up, overshadowing any supposed benefits. I remain committed to fighting for New Jersey's best interests and will keep pushing for accountability in Washington D.C.
Click here or the picture below to watch the full hearing.
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Recently, I have been actively addressing the concerning spike in electricity bills that many of you have reported to me from across the state. I have sent several letters to both the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (NJBPU) along with Atlantic City Electric (ACE), demanding an investigation into these sudden increases.
On August 26th, I reached out to the NJBPU, urging them to investigate whether the recent bill hikes are related to the installation of smart meters or if there are other underlying issues. I have also requested that the electric companies hold public forums—both in-person and virtual—so you all have a chance to express your concerns and get some clarity.
On August 30th, I contacted Atlantic City Electric, insisting that they suspend all shut-off notices for customers who are struggling to keep up with these new, unexpected charges. It is unacceptable that people who have always paid their bills on time are now facing severe financial strain without any clear explanation.
On September 3rd, I sent a follow-up letter to the NJBPU, reiterating my demands and emphasizing the need for swift action to ensure that South Jersey residents receive the accountability they deserve.
On September 13th, I sent a follow-up letter to Atlantic City Electric regarding their inadequate response to my August 30th letter and assured them I will not back down until South Jersey residents see real actions and relief.
I am committed to ensuring that you get the answers you need and that you are protected from this undue hardship. The NJBPU must act quickly to address this issue and ease the burden on our community.
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Recently, I attended the launch of the new program for Atlantic City EnVision Center's Electric Installation and Cybersecurity Training Program which is set to boost cybersecurity in the area and create 20 new jobs. Thanks to a $1,000,000 grant I secured, local residents will be trained to install cutting-edge AI cameras across the city's tourism district. These cameras will play a crucial role in deterring and capturing crime in real-time.
Cybersecurity is increasingly vital in today's digital age, and this initiative will help us stay ahead of new kinds of threats. By investing in this program, we are enhancing our safety and preparing our community for future growth. It is a win for both public safety and economic development, showing that when we invest in our people, we are investing in a brighter future for Atlantic City and South Jersey.
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This week, I joined Liz MacDonald on Fox Business to discuss the reality of our current economic situation under the Harris-Biden administration.
Despite their claims of a thriving economy, Americans across the country are carrying a heavier burden on their shoulders than they were four years ago. Just last month, the U.S. Labor Department revised the number of jobs created over the past year downward 818,000—marking the largest downward revision in 15 years. Americans are also now spending over $13,000 more annually on basic necessities than they were four years ago.
Vice President Kamala Harris's economic plan will only make these issues worse. Her wage and price control plans threaten to dismantle our free market and could lead to shortages and black markets—a scenario we have seen fail disastrously in countries like Venezuela and Argentina.
The economic strain on American wallets is a direct result of these failed policies. What we need are strong, effective strategies, not the continued failures of this administration.
Click here or the image below to watch the full interview.
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This week, I joined concerned residents from several Atlantic City Housing Authority (ACHA) properties, and what we found was deeply troubling. During our tour, we saw apartment complexes overwhelmed by mold, and residents enduring shortages of hot water, heat, and air conditioning.
Back in November of 2023, I called for the federal government, specifically the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), to take over the ACHA to ensure these residents receive the care they deserve. This year, I also pushed for a criminal investigation into the ACHA to determine if there have been any violations over the past five years. Given that the ACHA receives $10 million in federal funding annually, it is clear from what I observed that these funds are not being used to improve living conditions.
This situation is unacceptable, and the people of South Jersey deserve so much better. I am determined to continue fighting for improvements these residents need and deserve, and ensure they finally get the safe and decent living conditions that they are entitled to.
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This week, I presided over the House floor as Speaker Pro Tempore during the debate on H.R. 9456, the Protecting American Agriculture from Foreign Adversaries Act, which would prevent our adversaries, like China, from purchasing our critical farmland.
It is always an honor to preside over the floor of the People's House!
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For the past few weeks, I have been traveling around the district to meet with community leaders, local businesses, and residents from every corner of our region.
This week, it was great to be back in Washington D.C., to keep fighting for our needs and priorities. I will keep pushing for the changes and support we need, and making sure our voices are heard in Congress. I will always be a strong voice for South Jersey and I am committed to representing our community with everything that I have got!
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