We are almost one month into 2022, and while critical legislation was done last year, there is still much to accomplish this year.
I am proud that the House passed historic legislation to protect voting rights in our country. This past year we have seen the lies of election fraud and attacks on our democracy turn into the basis for laws in state legislatures severely restricting our rights to a free and fair election. From unwarranted voter ID laws, to curbing early or absentee voting, to blatant faulty voter purges – it's clear that the right to vote is under attack. These measures are most likely to prevent people of color, students, seniors, and people with disabilities from voting.
That's why the House acted to pass the Freedom to Vote: John R. Lewis Act two weeks ago, with provisions to expand voting access, including vote-by-mail, eliminate discriminatory voter roll purges, and make Election Day a federal holiday so we all can take the time to make our voices heard. But last Wednesday, the Senate voted to allow the filibuster to stand in the way of voting rights, again. That's why it's crucial we keep fighting and call on the Senate to protect the interests of people.
This month, we also made important strides for our community right here in Washington.
Through the American Rescue Plan and appropriations, we secured over $143 million – more than double the annual federal investment – to help families and seniors pay their heat bills and access crucial energy repairs this winter. No Washingtonian should worry whether they can afford to heat their home this winter, especially as we continue to tackle COVID-19.
Through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we secured over $605 million over the next five years to address the crumbling bridges across our state. Infrastructure is part of our everyday lives, connecting us to school, work, and our community. This is the investment we needed to not only connect us to each other, but to bring good-paying jobs and support our region for decades to come.
But despite some of these wins, this January also marked the first time in six months that 36 million families will not receive their monthly Child Tax Credit payments after the Senate failed to act at the end of last year. Since we fought for this legislation, we have lifted 3.8 million children out of poverty, which is why I am as committed as ever to continue to fight for this critical lifeline for our families.
As we look ahead to November and the rest of 2022, I know many of us are concerned – our right to vote, our right to health care, our right to choose – are all on the line. That’s why I am forever thankful to have the support of my community behind me.
Our work continues, and I look forward to standing with you.
– Suzan DelBene Business Insider: What’s in the major voting rights bill Senate Democrats are mounting a last-ditch effort to pass CNBC: Nearly 4 million kids could fall into poverty this month after end of tax credit payments, study says Bellevue Reporter: Postal workers concerned about USPS consolidation, impact on region's mail delivery Paid for by DelBene for Congress
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