Congressman Hank Johnson's E-Newsletter for March 20, 2017
Dear Friends, The month of March was busy to say the least. We accomplished great work both in D.C. and through a series of events at home in the district. In D.C., among introducing bills and speaking out against "TrumpCare," I served as a ranking member in my first T&I subcommittee hearing on the issue of the country's national preparedness system.
Although I have hosted five town halls to date, more work is necessary to ensure that the benefits and accomplishments of the past eight years for all Americans aren't abolished with a stroke of the pen.
I will continue to fight for issues of significance that affect our communities – including strengthening our access to the ballot, health care, criminal justice reform, civil rights, affordable healthcare, and ensuring that our communities have access to safe and reliable transportation; access to better jobs and economic empowerment. The good people of Georgia's Fourth District deserve nothing less.
2017 CAREER & RESOURCES FAIR: On March 3, I hosted my 2nd Annual Career and Community Resources Fair at Georgia Piedmont Technical College. More than 300 attendees took advantage of job opportunities and resources from more than 50 vendors and panelists who explained the opportunities available in the top five careers in Metro Atlanta. These kinds of jobs typically share certain characteristics including high wages, robust growth, low unemployment rates and good work-life balance. To check out coverage from the event, click HERE.
ACA Town Hall: On March 1 my staff hosted dozens of constituents, worried about the threats of "Trump Care" and the GOP's work to repeal the Affordable Care Act. Cindy Zeldin, Executive Director for Georgia for a Healthy Future was on hand to discuss the benefits at risk that will impact seniors' healthcare. Dr. Kathleen Connors of the Georgia Refugee Health and Mental Health center was there to discuss the financial security and the life changing care the Affordable Care Act has provided since becoming law. To see additional coverage on the event, click HERE.
Kicked Off Tax Prep in Lithonia: On March 13, I was delighted to help kick off the Georgia Free File program, which helps lower and moderate income taxpayers with their federal and state tax preparation. For more and a photo gallery, click HERE.
CELEBRATING OUR YOUTH
This month was great for the youth of 4th! My staff and I celebrated some of the great work our youth are doing through two "Hank's Full S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics) Ahead" programs. The first was held on March 12 at the High Museum of Art. Students had the opportunity to display their Art and Apps at the leading art museum in the Southeastern United States. My next program under the same mantra will be held at Stone Mountain High School on March 24.
NEWS FOR OUR VETS
VA's Rule Establishes a Presumption of Service Connection for Diseases Associated with Exposure to Contaminants in the Water Supply at Camp Lejeune
WASHINGTON – The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) regulations to establish presumptions for the service connection of eight diseases associated with exposure to contaminants in the water supply at Camp Lejeune, N.C. are effective as of today. Read More
WORK ON THE HILL
Reintroduced bill in honor of slain environmental and indigenous rights activist Berta Caceres
Reintroduced bill to stop the militarization of law enforcement
Spoke strongly on the floor against President Trump's Potential Conflict of Interest/Trumpcare
Legislation updates battlefield trauma training methods, phasing out the use of live animals
Sen. Al Franken and Rep. Hank Johnson Lead Fight to End Unfair Forced Arbitration Agreements