|
DECEMBER 6th, 2024
Dear Fourth District Constituent,
With only seven legislative days to go until temporary funding expires for the federal government, the House Republican majority has thus far failed to complete a spending package for Fiscal Year 2025. They also failed to act on the National Defense Authorization Act, which authorizes defense programs, and the Farm Bill, which is now 14 months overdue. This is a disappointing, yet unsurprising, end to what has been a historically unproductive Congress. My Democratic colleagues and I are ready to roll up our sleeves and get this work done, but my Republican counterparts appear unwilling to complete the work that needs to be done on time — bringing us closer to the possibility of a government shutdown before Christmas.
Beware of Scams this Holiday Season
As more parcel shipments are set to be delivered over the coming weeks, make sure to stay on high alert for scams this holiday season. The Federal Trade Commission warned Americans that USPS phishing scams attempt to elicit personal information from victims, including usernames and passwords for their bank accounts, emails, and social media accounts.
Minnesotans should be hyper-vigilant this holiday season. Many Minnesotans have received scam texts, emails, and phone calls attempting to trick users into sharing personal information with a third-party bad actor. Do not fall prey to these scams and do not click an unsolicited link. If you are planning to receive or send a parcel shipment through USPS or another carrier, use only the verified website of your shipment carrier to track your order.
Protecting our Communities
On Thursday, I met with leaders from the Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Association (MPPOA) to discuss law enforcement in the East Metro and across Minnesota. I'm grateful for the hard work and dedication of Minnesota's police officers and I'm thankful for the opportunity to work together with MPPOA's leaders to find solutions to support our communities.
MPPOA Deputy Director David Titus (left), Congresswoman McCollum, MPPOA Board President Shane Myre, and MPPOA Executive Director Brian Peters meet in Congresswoman McCollum's Washington, DC office.
Veterans Winter Salute
The Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans will hold its Winter Salute this Wednesday (9AM - 2PM) at Target Field. This event provides a holiday meal, resource fair, and supportive services for homeless or at-risk service members. Click here to RSVP.
MNsure Open Enrollment
MNsure is Minnesota's health insurance marketplace. Open enrollment for MNsure is currently underway, and will run through January 15th, 2025. This is the annual opportunity for Minnesotans to compare options, change plans, or sign up for coverage.
Thanks to Congressional Democrats and the Biden-Harris Administration, Minnesotans who have coverage through MNsure can continue to save money on health insurance next year. Minnesotans who receive tax credits through MNsure will save an average of $6,700 on health insurance premiums next year because of enhanced federal subsidies that were part of the Inflation Reduction Act. Visit mnsure.org for more info, to compare plans, and get covered.
I-94 Closure
Plan ahead this weekend! I-94 will be closed in both directions between Interstate 35E and Highway 61 in Saint Paul from Friday, December 6th at 10PM until Monday, December 9th at 5AM. Details on detours, closures, and other project info: Here.
As always, please stay in touch: Voice your policy opinion, ask for help with a federal agency, or find all of my recent statements at mccollum.house.gov.
Sincerely,
Betty McCollum
Member of Congress
|
