Newsletter: Bipartisan Solutions for Health Care
**Sign up for my email newsletter now so you don't miss any updates in the future!**
I returned to Washington today after spending the Rosh Hashanah holiday with my parents, sisters and their families. I am grateful to have had the time to be with loved ones. I again wish all those who celebrated the Jewish New Year a Shanah Tovah and a year ahead filled with health, happiness and peace.
I also spent the past week watching with concern the devastation wrought by Hurricane Maria. Our entire nation continues to extend our thoughts and prayers to all those in the Caribbean, in Florida, Texas and also those here at home working to recover from this summer's massive storms. I look forward to joining with my colleagues to bring our country together in rebuilding the impacted communities.
In addition to the holiday, I had a wonderful week in the district, including an informative roundtable with special education administrators from schools throughout the area. We talked about many of the challenges schools, educators and families face, and also explored ideas for improvement. I look forward to continuing the discussion and working to make sure every one of our children gets the education they deserve.
BIPARTISAN SOLUTIONS FOR HEALTH CARE
This week, the Senate is expected to vote on the most recent proposal to repeal the Affordable Care Act, known as the Graham-Cassidy bill. Illinois and the country will lose out under this legislation – it severely cuts Medicaid, allows an age tax on older Americans, and weakens protections on those of us with pre-existing conditions. This partisan bill is also being pushed forward for a vote without thorough hearings or even an estimate from the independent Congressional Budget Office of its effects, good, bad or otherwise.
There's no question that our health care system needs reform, but this bill would move us backward. Instead of more partisan political gamesmanship, it's time for Congress to consider bipartisan solutions to stabilize insurance markets and improve our health care system. I'm proud to be part of the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus, which put forward principles earlier this summer to stabilize our insurance markets and can be supported by members of both parties.
Please continue to read on for information on upcoming Vietnam War Commemoration ceremonies to honor the veterans of this conflict, as well as a recap of our first "Bike the Tenth" event.
HONORING VETERANS OF THE VIETNAM WAR
I'll be hosting two special events this fall to honor the veterans of the Vietnam War as part of the congressionally-authorized "United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration," during the 50th anniversary of this conflict.
At both events, official Vietnam War 50th Commemoration pins, certificates, and proclamations will be presented to veterans or their families.
If you are a veteran interested in participating, please RSVP on our website and submit a DD214 to demonstrate eligibility. If you do not have a DD214 copy, our office can help you obtain one – please call us at (847) 383-4870. The commemoration items may be presented to veterans posthumously if the family completes an application on their loved one's behalf.
Mundelein Recognition Ceremony
17 October 2017, 4:00-6:00pm
VFW Memorial, near Carmel High School
Corner of Route 176 and Hawley Street
Mundelein, Illinois 60060
Waukegan Recognition Ceremony
10 November 2017, 11:30am – 2:00pm
Waukegan Public Library
128 N. County Street
Waukegan, IL 60085
It is a privilege to take part in this Commemoration and to recognize the service and sacrifice of the veterans in our community. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions or comments.
RSVP and learn more on our website.
BIKING THE TENTH DISTRICT
The weather was too nice last week for one our traditional Congress on Your Corner events, so we decided to do things a little differently. Around 60 constituents of all ages turned out to "Bike the Tenth" with me on a 16-mile loop though Lake County with stops at Something's Brewing Café in Grayslake and the Round Lake Area Public Library.
Along the way, it was great to hear from so many of you about the issues that matter to you and your family. Please stay tuned to this newsletter, our website, and social media for more upcoming events. If you can't come in-person, you can always share your thoughts by calling our office at (202) 225-4835 or sending me an email.
NEIGHBORHOOD OFFICE HOURS
Our office hosts frequent Neighborhood Office Hours for constituents to more easily meet with caseworkers and staff to discuss any federal issues that they may have and learn more about services our office can provide. We're here to help if you have issues with Medicare, Social Security, the Veterans Administration, immigration and more.
This week, we'll be in Wheeling and Waukegan. Check out the full schedule on our website and come meet with us when we're in your community!
WEEKLY WRAP-UP
It was an honor to join everyone Saturday morning at the start of the Ruck March of Lake County. We lose more than 20 veterans every day to suicide in America. Marchers walked from North Chicago to Grayslake in their memory to raise funds for organizations in our community working with vets. Veterans are our fathers and mothers, brothers and sisters, friends and family. Make the time to talk with the veterans in your life.
Remembering the Americans lost in the Great War at the dedication of the World War I Memorial in Morton Grove.
Grateful for the work of Illinois Alliance of Administrators of Special Education to ensure all our children have the opportunity to learn and grow. Last week, we discussed support for public education, protecting Medicaid, and federal funding for special education.
Visit our Facebook and Twitter pages for more photos and updates.
As always, please continue to stay in touch and share your thoughts, either by calling our DC office at (202) 225-4835 or emailing via our website.
Thanks for reading!