Protecting our Democracy and the Mueller Report
Even as House Democrats protected people with pre-existing conditions and advanced funding for disaster relief, headlines in Washington last week centered on the President's tax returns, Attorney General Barr's contempt of Congress, and continued fallout from the Mueller Report. While we in Congress continue asking the tough questions, I want to hear what Contra Costa residents have to say. We hope you can join us on May 28th for a town hall on protecting our democracy and the Mueller Report. RSVP by clicking the image below.
Sincerely,
Mark DeSaulnier
Member of Congress
AT A GLANCE
In this week's Digest, you will find information on:
- Mark's support for disaster relief and people with preexisting conditions;
- Mark's work on behalf of addicted Americans; and
- Our work in the community.
LEGISLATIVE ACTIONS
Mark Voted to Protect Health Care for People with Preexisting Conditions
Everyone in this nation has a right to health care – that right should be universally applied regardless of a preexisting condition. Last week, the House took steps to block one of the President's harmful policies allowing health plans to exclude individuals with preexisting conditions from health coverage. The Protecting Americans with Preexisting Conditions Act (H.R. 986) would prevent the Administration's damaging "innovation waiver" guidance from taking effect. Mark supported this bill, which passed by a vote of 230-to-183.
Mark Supported Disaster Relief Funding for Recent Bay Area Fires
Last week, the House debated the Supplemental Appropriations Act (H.R. 2157), a bill to provide comprehensive relief to communities across the country recovering from disasters. The legislation provides more than $19 billion in emergency spending on disaster relief, including for the recent wildfires in California. Mark supported this bill, which passed by a vote of 257-to-150.
IN COMMITTEE
Mark Pushes for Support Services for Families of Addicted Americans
In 2017, over 70,000 people died due to a drug overdose. The opioid crisis is an epidemic that must be addressed rapidly with evidence-based prevention and treatment methods. The costs of this epidemic, however, are not just felt by those with an addiction, but by their families, too. Click below to watch Congressman DeSaulnier ask the Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy about supports and training for family members of individuals who are addicted.
BY THE NUMBERS
IN THE COMMUNITY
Mills College's Upward Bound graduation honored more than 20 West Contra Costa residents.
The Eddie Hart All in One Foundation convened its annual Olympian Track Education Clinic for youth in our community. Joining the students was a group of incredible Olympians including 1968 gold medalist and former long jump world record holder Bob Beamon.
The West Contra Costa Education Fund held its 31st annual celebration of educators in West Contra Costa with a gathering at Richmond Country Club.