October 14, 2022

Dear JOHN xxxxxx,

My top priority in Congress is finding solutions to the problems facing Monroe County families, from combatting gun violence to reducing the exorbitant cost of prescription drugs and combatting food insecurity. I’m proud to help deliver real, tangible results for you and your family. Read more below. 

Like many in our community, I have grown increasingly frustrated by the lack of concrete action to stop the gun violence plaguing our streets. I have pleaded with my colleagues on the other side of the aisle, who are quick to shine a spotlight on gun violence and assign blame and yet refuse to offer any solutions. You cannot have a serious conversation about stopping violence without a willingness to address the root causes, one of which is the proliferation of illegal guns on our streets.

On Tuesday, I led community partners in reiterating our call for meaningful, common-sense gun reforms that will save lives. I co-sponsor and support nearly two dozen bills that would help keep dangerous weapons out of the hands of dangerous people, including measures to ban assault weapons and high-capacity magazines, enact universal background checks, crack down on gun trafficking, and more. I remain steadfast in my commitment to advocating for meaningful reforms that keep our families safe. 

Read: Congressman Joe Morelle Doubles Down on Push for Gun Reform 

 Lowering Costs for Older Americans 

During these challenging economic times, older Americans—who frequently rely on fixed income sources like Social Security—need our support more than ever. This week, the Social Security Administration announced an 8.7% COLA increase for seniors, the largest increase in over 40 years and something I have long advocated for. In addition, I’m proud to have passed legislation to expand critical healthcare subsidies, cap the cost of insulin at $35/month, provide support to lower home heating costs, and finally allow Medicare to negotiate the price of some of the most expensive prescription drugs.  

But the work is not done. I remain committed to continuing my efforts to protect programs like Social Security and Medicare, allowing older Americans to access the critical benefits they have earned. 

Read: Congressman Joe Morelle Announces Action to Lower Costs for Seniors

 Meeting with Local Heroes 

I was honored to have breakfast with American Legion members at Braman Post 1229 on Wednesday. We discussed my ongoing work to support our courageous veterans through legislation like the Honoring Our PACT Act and my own Sgt. Beikirch Medal of Honor Act. These bills are critical steps toward ensuring veterans and their families have access to the full benefits they have earned. 

It was great to see so many families learning about fire prevention from our local heroes at the Bushnell Basin Fire Department’s Community Open House over the weekend. I am incredibly grateful to these dedicated volunteers for their selflessness and service to our community.  

 Combatting Food Insecurity 

Foodlink does critical work for thousands of families across Monroe County, ensuring they have access to the reliable, healthy meals they deserve. This week, I was pleased to join County Executive Adam Bello, Foodlink CEO Julia Tedesco, and the entire Foodlink team to announce a new $1.4 million federal investment for Foodlink to continue expanding their critical services into additional high-need areas across our community.  

I’m proud to have helped secure this important funding through the American Rescue Plan, and I’m grateful for County Executive Bello’s leadership. He is prioritizing initiatives that help build a brighter future for everyone who calls our community home, and I look forward to our continued partnership. 

Please know my office is always here to help. Visit morelle.house.gov to learn more about how we can assist you and your family.   

Warmest personal regards,   

Joe Morelle   

New York’s 25th Congressional District