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Dear friend,
Last week, we returned to D.C. to work on legislation for common-sense police reform that will increase transparency, accountability, and performance so our nation’s law enforcement officers are better prepared to protect and care for the communities they serve. I chose to co-sponsor Rep. Pete Stauber’s (MN-08) Just and Unifying Solutions to Invigorate Communities Everywhere (JUSTICE) Act, which is the House companion to the legislation introduced by Senator Tim Scott (R-SC). I chose to support this bill over H.R. 7120 because that bill contains serious flaws limiting the ability of law enforcement to do their job, protect our communities, and hurts efforts to recruit new police. You can read my news release here.
The House also voted last week on making the District of Columbia the 51st state. Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution creates a national capital that is separate; its own entity. That is why I voted no on the legislation. I firmly believe our Founding Fathers intentionally included in the Constitution that the U.S. Capitol remain independent from the influence of geographical jurisdiction of any single sovereign state. If D.C. were to become the 51st state, Congress must abide by the Constitutionally mandated process.
This week starts the process of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) "markup". This is where we decide on changes for our nation's Armed Services in programming, functionality and funding. The process this year has been much more bipartisan than last year.
On Monday we acted on:
The House is expected to vote on H.R. 2, the INVEST in America Act [Moving Forward Act], a highly partisan infrastructure bill that increases mandates, reduces flexibility, and hurts rural America. However, I will continue to support bipartisan solutions and legislation that addresses these issues and helps both urban and rural communities.
Of course, COVID-19 has changed the way we physically work. However, both offices are adapting and taking the necessary precautions to stay safe during this pandemic. In D.C., we are limiting the number of people on the House floor and in our congressional offices. And when I am back in the District, I am conducting most meetings virtually.
As always, it is a pleasure to serve the great people of Nebraska’s second district.
Please visit my website for the most current information and resources at https://bacon.house.gov/services/coronavirus-information.htm.
Sincerely,
Don Bacon, Member of Congress
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