Keeping Our Clout in D.C., How to Watch the WVIA Town Hall, and MORE

Keeping Our Clout in D.C.

Dear John,

This week, I'm pleased to report I was elected to serve as the top Democrat on the Commerce, Justice and Science (CJS) Appropriations Subcommittee, which directs over $80 billion in federal funding each year.

A member of the powerful House Appropriations Committee since 2016, I was also elected to serve on the Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Subcommittee.

So, what does this mean for Northeastern Pennsylvania?

It means we'll still have the kind of clout in Washington, D.C., that allows me to bring much-needed federal tax dollars home.

From my seat atop CJS during the last Congress, I was able to direct close to $73 million back to our district in Community Project Funding dollars, alone.

As you can imagine, I’m incredibly grateful to be elected Ranking Member of CJS and will continue to scrap for every penny of our fair share of tax dollars down in Washington.

Read the official announcement here.

Your Chance to Watch WVIA's

'Meet Your Congressmen'

Thanks to all who turned out for Sunday's 'Meet Your Congressmen' at the WVIA Studios in Luzerne County.

The televised town hall was taped in front of a packed house with host Larry Vojtko and at least a dozen audience members asking Rep. Dan Meuser and me some really thoughtful and insightful questions.

If you missed Monday night's airing, you can still catch the hour-long program tonight, Feb. 3, at 7 p.m. on WVIA-TV.

You can also stream the program on any electronic device by clicking here.

Guess Who's Coming to Washington?

Today I announced that my guest for the 2023 State of the Union Address this upcoming Tuesday will be Chris Barrett, President and CEO of the Pocono Mountain Visitors Bureau.

This year’s State of the Union will highlight legislative achievements that Congress has delivered over the past two years, including 2021’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which allotted a historic $66 billion to reestablish America’s rail lines.

Chris has been an important partner and tireless advocate when it comes to the restoration of passenger rail service to our region. Leaders like Chris exemplify the progress we are making to reconnect Scranton to New York City via rail thanks to historic investments in American infrastructure during the last Congress.

It is my distinct pleasure to have him as my guest.

Read the press release here.

Reminder: Help Available

for Home Heating Bills

Pennsylvania’s Department of Human Services is still accepting applications for the 2022-23 Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program.

LIHEAP helps families with low incomes pay their heating bills. Although the program is federally funded, it’s administered by the PA Department of Human Services, which sends cash grants directly to utility companies and fuel providers to be credited towards families’ bills.

The grant amounts are based on household size, income and fuel type. They do not have to be repaid and are available for both renters and homeowners.

For more information about the program and eligibility requirements, click here.

To apply for LIHEAP benefits online, visit the state's website: COMPASS.

Be safe and well,

You are receiving this email because you opted in for periodic updates from my office.