Newsletter: Upcoming Job Fair, Tariff Relief Legislation, and More
It was another busy week at home, in Washington and around the world. First and foremost, I extend my thoughts to all those affected by the devastating apartment fire in Prospect Heights. I have been impressed, but certainly not surprised, by the incredible outpouring of support from throughout our community. From the more than 150 firefighters who battled the blaze, to the countless people from across the region who continue to lend a hand, we are grateful.
Looking forward to this August's district work period, I'll be hosting a series of events for constituents throughout our district. Today, we're announcing the first - a job fair in Round Lake on August 8. To learn about more upcoming events, continue reading this newsletter and following us on social media throughout the month!
On the legislative front, last week was productive as I introduced a new bill to help businesses hurting from President Trump's trade war, as well as saw a bill I introduced during my first term to help startups succeed pass the House. Please continue reading for updates on these topics and more.
JOB FAIR IN ROUND LAKE – AUGUST 8
State Sen. Melinda Bush and I are hosting a job fair for constituents next month in Round Lake. More than 45 area employers who are currently hiring will be on-site to meet with job seekers. You can search a list of job openings and participating employers before you attend online here.
Wednesday, August 8, 2018 | 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM
*Veterans preference for the first half hour*
John T Magee Middle School
500 North Cedar Lake Road, Round Lake, IL 60073
RSVP to attend today!
HELPING BUSINESSES HURT BY TRUMP TRADE WAR
I've heard from many local businesses who are dealing with the consequences of President Trump's out of control trade war. Ultimately, our workers and small businesses are paying the price for this misguided policy.
That's why last week I introduced legislation to expand Trade Adjustment Assistance for Firms (TAAF) to include reduced exports resulting from retaliatory tariffs as a qualifying factor for the program. Created in 1962 and administered by the Department of Commerce, TAAF helps firms develop and implement business recovery plans to adapt to competition caused by changing trade policies. The program does not currently provide aid to those experiencing reduced exports as a result of retaliatory tariffs.
I'm glad to have bipartisan support for this bill to help businesses affected by retaliatory tariffs adapt. Ultimately, we need the Administration needs to end this self-defeating trade war which is making it harder for America to compete.
I spoke on the House floor about the bill here and you can learn more on our website.
HALOS STARTUP BILL PASSES HOUSE
Last week, legislation I initially introduced in 2014 to help start-up businesses more easily access growth capital passed the House. I was proud to see the HALOS Act receive bipartisan support for removing unnecessary restrictions that prevented entrepreneurs from meeting with potential investors who could help small businesses grow.
Learn more about the bill on our website.
CONGRESS ON YOUR CORNER IN BANNOCKBURN
I'm looking forward to hearing from you at our next Congress on Your Corner in Bannockburn this Saturday. This is our 26th so far this Congress, and I hope to see you there!
Saturday, July 28, 2018
11:00am – Noon
Village of Bannockburn (Village Hall)
2275 Telegraph Rd, Bannockburn, IL 60015
CONSTITUENT SERVICE SPOTLIGHT – PROSPECT HEIGHTS FIRE
Last Wednesday, Prospect Heights experienced a devastating fire at the River Trails Condominiums which destroyed three buildings and has left dozens of residents homeless. Thankfully, first responders reacted with bravery and professionalism to save lives – read more about their heroism in coverage from Journal & Topics.
The community is rallying together to help those affected by the fire. Our office participated in aMulti-Agency Resource Fair over the weekend to help residents. Our office can assist with replacing Social Security cards, Passports, Veterans Identification Cards, and other federal documents that were destroyed in the fire. Please call us at (847) 383-4870 if you need help.
NEIGHBORHOOD OFFICE HOURS
Our office also 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. This week, our team will be in Wheeling and Grayslake.
Check out the full schedule on our website and come meet with us when we're in your community!
WEEKLY WRAP-UP
Last week, I joined Politics Tonight to discuss President Trump's reckless meeting and press conference with Vladimir Putin.
I listened to doctors and law enforcement share their experience with the opioid crisis at a recent meeting of Bipartisan Heroin Task Force.
I welcomed attendees at the bipartisan Illinois State Society event celebrating the Illinois Bicentennial.
I was glad to join the Women's Congressional Policy Institute for their Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) Fair.
Thanks for reading!