May 21, 2021

Dear John,

We have a lot to be proud of as we welcome new developments in the fight against COVID-19. Last week the CDC announced that with a few exceptions, folks who are fully vaccinated no longer need to wear masks indoors or outdoors. That’s why it is so important that everyone get the vaccine as soon as possible. Additionally, children ages 12-15 became eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine, another milestone for the incredible scientific collaboration and progress that we’ve made since the outbreak of this virus. You can visit DallasCountyCovid.org to get your vaccine so we can reopen safely. 

I will always put North Texas first and as your representative In Washington, I’ve been busy working on bipartisan legislation to combat discrimination, expand opportunities for veterans, and safeguard our democracy. Here are some highlights:

Creating a Bipartisan Commission Investigating the January 6th Attack on our Capitol
I voted with Republicans and Democrats to create an independent, bipartisan commission to investigate the facts and causes of the January 6th attack on the Capitol. The deadly insurrection that took place on January 6, 2021 was one of the darkest moments in recent history, as a mob seeking to overturn the results of a free and fair election breached the walls of a place sacred to our democracy, threatening lives and leaving several dead. The bipartisan commission will report its findings by the end of the year so that we can ensure an attack like this never happens again.  

Protecting Pregnant Workers in North Texas
I just welcomed the birth of my second child, and I know the joys and anxieties that come with a growing family. No one should be fired or discriminated against just because they’re pregnant. That’s why I helped to pass the Pregnant Workers Act to prohibit employers from firing or otherwise discriminating against pregnant workers and to require that workplaces make reasonable accommodations for pregnant employees to ensure they are safe and comfortable while on the job.

The COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act
The deadly pandemic brought with it a wave of violent, racist attacks against the Asian American/Pacific Islander community. I was proud to stand in solidarity with the AAPI community and an overwhelming majority of my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to make it clear that hate will not be tolerated. The COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act makes sure that federal, state and local agencies are working to improve coordination and to hold offenders accountable. President Biden signed this bill into law yesterday to combat hate crimes in the wake of the pandemic and for years to come. 

Improving Access to Veterans Benefits
Alongside Rep. Rodney Davis (R-IL-13), I introduced the Veterans Claim Transparency Act, which will promote transparency and accountability by putting back into place an important review period so a Veteran Service Organization can help veterans get the benefits they are owed. Too often veterans who have sacrificed so much for our country face obstacles in getting their benefits and endure a lengthy appeals process to correct a mistake, and my legislation would improve that process. 

Leveling the Playing Field for Student Athletes
College sports is big business for everyone involved except the athletes who make it possible. If they choose, student athletes should be able to earn money from the use of their likeness the same way a professional athlete can. That’s why I helped reintroduce the Student Athlete Level Playing Field Act, alongside fellow former NFL player, Congressman Anthony Gonzalez (R-OH-16). Currently, companies can use college athletes to promote their goods or services without compensating the athlete. Our legislation would grant student athletes the right to financially benefit from their own name, image, and likeness (NIL) and rightfully allow the student athlete to share in the revenue their appearance brings in. 

I will continue to work with both parties to pass common sense bipartisan legislation on behalf of North Texas. It is an honor to serve you. 

Sincerely,

Colin Allred
Member of Congress