Dear xxxxxx,

Welcome to your Weekly Wrap, a recap of the week in Congress and highlights of my work.  

Last week, I attended the 60th Presidential Inaugural Swearing-In Ceremony. Following the inaugural address, it is important to hear from you. What are your priorities moving into the new legislative year? Let me know using the survey below.

More from the week: The House Agriculture Committee convened for the first meeting of the 119th Congress. Also, I reintroduced the Caring for Survivors Act. This legislation expands monthly benefits for family members and survivors of veterans who have given their lives in service to the United States. I am also including an update on my Casework on Your Corner program. 

For my full update, please read below.

Inauguration Day

On January 20, 2025, the nation witnessed the inauguration of President Donald J. Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance. The peaceful transfer of power is a cornerstone of our system of government and should be a moment of reflection for us all.

As the new administration takes shape, what are your priorities moving into the new legislative year?

Submit your response here

House Agriculture Committee

Last week, the House Agriculture Committee convened for the first organizational meeting of the 119th Congress.

I am honored to have been chosen by my colleagues to continue serving as Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Nutrition and Foreign Agriculture. I will also remain on the Subcommittee on Livestock, Dairy, and Poultry. 

This Congress, the House Agriculture Committee must pass a Farm Bill that addresses the needs of all Americans. As Ranking Member on the Subcommittee on Nutrition and Foreign Agriculture, I plan to work toward solutions that support farmers and families. I will continue my advocacy for the needs of small farmers and growers like those in my district who deserve the same consideration as others when legislation is being crafted.

Caring for Survivors Act of 2025

On Thursday, I reintroduced the Caring for Survivors Act of 2025. This legislation expands monthly benefits for family members and survivors of veterans who have given their lives in service to the United States. 

In 1993, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) established the Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) benefit paid to the survivors of service members who died in the line of duty or veterans who die from service-related injuries or conditions. Since then, the program has been adjusted minimally, falling drastically behind the cost of living. Based on current rules, DIC benefits can vary significantly.

The Caring for Survivors Act of 2025 would authorize increased DIC payments for survivors, bringing DIC benefits in line with other federal survivor programs to better support surviving spouses and family members.

Honoring the sacrifices our service members make on behalf of our nation means caring for the loved ones they leave behind. Unfortunately, the outdated rules governing Dependency and Indemnity Compensation mean many surviving families do not receive the full benefits they are entitled to. My legislation increases DIC benefits, reduces barriers to access, and ensures the federal government keeps its promise to fallen service members by supporting their families.

To learn more about the Caring for Survivors Act, please click here. 

Casework on Your Corner

In case you missed it, my Casework on Your Corner (COYC) program has expanded to a third location in Simsbury. Throughout 2025, Eno Memorial Hall will host the Office of Congresswoman Hayes on the second Wednesday of each month for Casework on Your Corner office hours.

My casework staff can answer questions, provide guidance, and open new cases in real-time with federal agencies such as the Social Security Administration (SSA), the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the U.S. Department of State, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), and the U.S. Postal Service (USPS).

COYC is also available in Danbury and Meriden. February COYC program dates are available below.

Additional information is available here. 

Thank you for taking the time to read this update. As always, please continue to share your thoughts and priorities with me. 

And that’s a wrap. 

Jahana Hayes
Member of Congress