Congressman Hank Johnson's E-Newsletter for March 1, 2018

Dear Friends,

Congressman Johnson speaks to students at Flat Shoals Elementary School in Conyers on March 1, 2018, before giving them books to add to their library as part of the Library of Congress Surplus Book Program.

When I ran for Congress in 2006, I made a commitment to constituents that I would "take care of home first." My mission – and the mission of my staff – has always been to offer the best constituent services possible.

That's why I'm pleased to report that I am a finalist for the Congressional Management Foundation's Democracy Awards for outstanding accomplishments in Constituent Services.

Since taking office in 2007, we have helped secure more than $60 million for constituents seeking help with federal agencies. But it's about more than just money – it's about how we treat people and how responsive we are to their concerns.

Helping constituents solve seemingly intractable problems is what my district office does every day. I'm proud that my staff has been able to help so many constituents. Taking care of home first is my number one priority and it will continue to be as long I'm given the honor of serving as your Congressman. For more, click HERE.

MAKING THE GRADE, PROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENT: This was the easiest "A" I've ever achieved – even through all my years in school, college and law school. I consider it my duty to vote to protect public lands, recognize the dangers of climate change, fund environmental justice and block assaults on environmental safeguards. I'm just surprised more of my colleagues don't understand that climate change is real and threatens our health, the environment, national security and our economy. For more, click HERE.

WELCOMING MY NEW LEGISLATIVE DIRECTOR: Earlier this week, I announced Jacqui Kappler as my new Legislative Director. She replaces Arya Hariharan, who recently accepted a position as Democratic Counsel at House Judiciary Committee. I'm pleased and excited that Jacqui will join us as Legislative Director. She brings a wealth of talent, expertise and a passion for policy that will be an asset not only to our Washington, D.C. office but, Georgia's Fourth District as well. For more, click HERE.

WELCOME NEWS FOR DACA RECIPIENTS: This week, the Supreme Court declined to expedite the Trump Administration's challenge to a lower court ruling blocking implementation of the Trump decision to end DACA. This shows that rescinding DACA was not only legally questionable, but also unjust and cruel. The court's action is welcome news, but only Congress can provide the permanent protection our Dreamers need and deserve. I urge my friends on the other side of the aisle to take action. Every day we delay means that Dreamers are forced to live in uncertainty, with their wellbeing, futures and status at risk. House Republicans must listen to the overwhelming will of the American people and immediately bring a bipartisan DREAM Act to the floor. For more, click HERE.

MONADNOCK MADNESS AT ARABIA MOUNTAIN: The Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area is inviting residents to "Go Mad" and take part in a month-long celebration of nature, photography and community. For more, click HERE.