Congresswoman Lesko Weekly Update

Good morning,

Creating Common-Sense Energy Solutions

This week, I was home in Arizona where I attended a virtual hearing for the Energy Subcommittee on the House Committee on Energy and Commerce where we discussed clean energy solutions for our nation. I asked Richard Powell, Executive Director of Clear Path Action, about the usage of and investment in direct air capture and hydroelectric power as clean energy sources. We must create common-sense, “All of the Above” energy policies that are reliable and affordable and work for all Americans.

To watch my full remarks in the subcommittee, click here.

Hispanic Advisory Council

I also attended the first board meeting to launch my Hispanic Advisory Council! I am excited to work with our board members, and the council as a whole, to expand our outreach to the Hispanic community in our district. I hope to discuss local issues in our district, as well as potential solutions to better serve Arizona’s Hispanic community.

Legislative Update

I introduced the Connecting And Building Lines for Expedited Expansion Act, also known as the CABLE Expansion Act, to institute clear approval process deadlines for franchise authorities for broadband projects and to remove roadblocks to rapid broadband expansion. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many students and workers across the country have had to rely on the internet for their careers and education. My bill would remove barriers to expansion, such as approval delays, so that we can accelerate the growth of broadband expansion and meet the connectivity needs of families across the nation. This legislation is part of a comprehensive package from Republicans on the Energy and Commerce Committee that aims to close the digital divide in both rural and urban areas.

Congressional Recognitions

Monica from our office presented a Congressional Recognition to Gabriela Orozco. Gabriela Orozco serves her community by leading a support group that provides resources and assistance to parents who have children with autism and developmental and cognitive disabilities.

Gisele from our office presented a Congressional Recognition to Chance Shelter, a non-profit in Surprise, Arizona, that provides animal welfare services in the community through adoptions, education, crisis intervention, and community outreach.

Encouraging Story

I am happy to share this news about a Goodyear Fire Station that is implementing first-of-its-kind technology to help prevent cancer in firefighters. These technologies include a hose that keeps firefighters from breathing in fumes and doors that automatically close with an air pressure system to push out toxins. Our first responders put their lives on the line for our communities, and it is great to see the work the Goodyear Fire Department is doing to protect the health and safety of our firefighters.

Casework Highlight

A constituent and her husband purchased an electric vehicle, which qualified them for a Plug-in Electric Drive Motor Vehicle Credit on their tax return. They added the credit, however, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) removed the credit and sent them a notice that they owed the amount of the credit to the IRS, plus interest. Although they knew they were allowed the credit, they promptly mailed a check to pay the IRS because they did not want to owe the IRS. The constituents then contacted our office, and we opened a case on their behalf. After reviewing their situation, the IRS provided the couple the full refund plus interest.

Coronavirus Casework Highlight

A constituent called our office because she was having issues receiving unemployment benefits. She believed that there was an error on one of the questions on the claim form. She was having trouble reaching someone at the Department of Economic Security (DES) to help her resolve this issue. Our office sent her information to our contact at DES. The DES staff worked through the issue concerning the constituent and cleared up the errors.

We are Here to Help

As always, my office is here to help. Both my Surprise district office and Washington, D.C. office are open to serve constituents. We are available over the phone and via email at both offices. In addition, the Surprise district office is taking appointments for in-person meetings with staff. We are not accepting walk-in meetings at this time due to the Coronavirus. For the safety of staff and constituents, we will be observing CDC guidelines, including wearing masks and social distancing. To make an appointment with the office, please call 623-776-7911. 

Please feel free to contact my Washington, D.C. office via phone at 202-225-4576 or via email by going to my website at https://lesko.house.gov/contact/.

I encourage you to visit the website and to also follow me on Twitter and Instagram and like my Facebook page for up to date information about the ongoing outbreak and available resources. 

May God continue to bless you and our great Nation. 

Sincerely,

Congresswoman Debbie Lesko