Dear Friend,

I have a HUGE update for our comunidades who have suffered extreme loss and hardship as a result of the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire. Today, I voted for the budget bill to fund the government through December which includes the authorization of my bill, the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire Assistance Act, and $2.5 billion to compensate survivors of the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire! 

Congress's passage of this legislation is a step toward getting justice for the survivors of these terrible fires. Earlier this week, I sat down with families and community members from San Miguel and Mora Counties. They shared stories about what the fires have done to their lives, families, and homes.

Every time we hear the stories directly from those who have lived them, we are touched in our hearts, and we are strengthened in our resolve. I remain dedicated to making sure that fire survivors get the resources they need to recover and rebuild. 

Legislative Corner

Last week, I introduced two bills to approve the water rights claims of the Pueblos of Acoma, Jemez, Laguna, and Zia, as well as participating non-Tribal parties. The Pueblos have conserved and treasured water for generations. Agua es vida, and these bills move us toward greater equity and water security for tribes, acequias, local communities, and all New Mexicans.

Some of the bills that I recently voted for, and the House passed, include:

• S. 969, the Protection and Advocacy for Voting Access Program Inclusion Act to make voting easier and more accessible for Native communities and those with disabilities. 
• H.R. 3173, the Improving Seniors’ Timely Access to Care Act to help seniors get the care they need faster through updates to the outdated Medicare Advantage authorization process. 
• H.R. 8873, the Presidential Election Reform Act to shield our elections from interference, raise the standard for objecting to the certification of the vote and take power away from partisan actors. 
• H.R. 302, Preventing a Patronage System Act to protect civil servants from political manipulation. 
• H.R. 2988, the Whistleblower Protection Improvement Act to make sure that federal employees who expose wrongdoing are protected from retaliation. 

     I also voted for a package of public safety bills for safer communities with the passage of a package of public safety bills. This legislation takes important steps to build stronger, healthier relationships between law enforcement and those they serve. Together they will help prevent crime, save lives, and advance justice. The bills also promote accountability and training, which are essential to building trust with the community.

Constituent Services 

Extended FEMA Wildfire Assistance Deadline 

Individuals can still apply for help until October 7, 2022. Local governments and nonprofits can apply until October 3, 2022, at https://disasterassistance.gov. 

The PSLF Waiver Deadline is approaching!

Public Service Loan Forgiveness borrowers may receive credit for past loan payments that wouldn’t otherwise qualify for PSLF. Take advantage by October 31, 2022! For more information on eligibility and requirements, go to PSLF.gov.

One-Time Student Loan Debt Relief 

Thanks to debt relief, borrowers in our congressional district will see their monthly student loan payments reduced by 50 percent on average.

Nearly 216,000 borrowers in New Mexico will be eligible for immediate student debt relief. Don’t miss your chance to apply in October. You can learn more HERE. 

Follow me on Twitter @RepTeresaLF!