Dear John,

Welcome back to The Weekly Wrap, a recap of the week in Congress and highlights of my work.  

After an eventful district work period, Congress is back in session. I am honored to continue working on behalf of the people of the Fifth District of Connecticut.  

On Wednesday, the House passed the Speak Out Act, legislation to restore protections for survivors of sexual assault. On Thursday, I attended my first meeting as representative of the House on the National Historical Publications and Records Commission (NHPRC).  Additionally, we celebrated National Apprenticeship Week, a time to showcase the successes and value of Registered Apprenticeship programs. Lastly, I am including information on the 2023 Open Enrollment Period.  

For the full reap, please read below.  

Speak Out Act
 
 On Wednesday, the House passed the bipartisan, bicameral Speak Out Act.  The Speak Out Act prohibits non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) from being enforced in instances in which sexual harassment or sexual assault has been alleged in violation of federal, tribal, or state law and in situations in which survivors wish to break their silence. The legislation passed the Senate on September 29, 2022,  and now awaits signature by President Biden.  

Passage of the Speak Out Act builds upon the work of the Ending Forced Arbitration of Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment Act, which I helped pass in February and was signed into law by President Biden on March 3, 2022.  

Both bills represent the many steps Congress is taking to restore the voices of survivors, protect their rights, and hold perpetrators accountable.  

More information on the Speak Out Act can be viewed here.  

National Historical Publications and Records Commission

ICYMI: On October 21, 2022, I was appointed by Speaker Nancy Pelosi to serve as representative of the House on the National Historical Publications and Records Commission (NHPRC).  On Thursday, I was happy to join the commission for the first convening since my appointment.  

The NHPRC is a panel charged with promoting American democracy by supporting the preservation of the most treasured documents.  This statutory body is affiliated with the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) and was established by Congress in 1934 to promote understanding of American’s democracy, history, and culture. 

To learn more about the important work of the National Historical Publications and Records Commission, please click here.  

National Apprenticeship Week 

As an educator serving in Congress, I am acutely aware that post-secondary education is not the only pathway to success. Apprenticeships and workforce development programs provide additional opportunities for every American to access stable, high-paying jobs. Last week, we celebrated National Apprenticeship Week (NAW).   

During National Apprenticeship Week, industry, labor, equity, workforce, education, and government leaders host events to showcase the successes and value of Registered Apprenticeship for re-building our economy, advancing racial and gender equity, and supporting underserved communities. 

Apprenticeship programs are integral as we work to create a diverse and talented workforce, expanded economic opportunity and a more inclusive and resilient economy.  The National Apprenticeship Act of 2021 passed the House on February 25,2021.

Open Enrollment 

Do you need health insurance coverage? The 2023 Open Enrollment Period is open now through January 15, 2023. During this time, you can sign up for health insurance, adjust your current plan or cancel your plan.  

The following are important dates to receive coverage.  

• December 15, 2022: Last day to enroll in or change plans for coverage to start January 1, 2023. 
• January 1, 2023: 2023 coverage starts for those who enroll in or change plans by December 15, 2022, and paid their first premium. 
• January 15, 2023: Last day to enroll in or change a 2023 health plan. After this date, you can enroll in or change plans only if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period. 
• February 1, 2023: 2023 coverage starts for those who enroll in or change plans December 16, 2022, through January 15, 2023, and pay their first premium. 

Additional information on the 2023 Open Enrollment Period is available at healthcare.gov. 

Thank you for taking the time to read this update. As always, please continue to share your thoughts and priorities with me.  

Jahana Hayes 

Member of Congress