Dear Michael,
This week, President Bush cast the first veto of his presidency on legislation that would expand federal funding for embryonic stem cell research. This research holds the promise of improving the way we diagnose, treat, and cure deadly and debilitating diseases. The bill that President Bush vetoed had strong and bipartisan vote in both the House and the Senate, and enjoyed strong public support. I strongly believe it is humane and ethical to pursue types of research that give our medical community the tools to treat Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, diabetes, spinal cord injuries, and ALS, just to name a few. To view my full statement on President Bush’s veto, please
click here.
The Flood’s Aftermath
The waters have receded in areas along the Delaware River affected by recent floods, but three weeks after the storm, thousands are struggling to recover from damage to businesses, homes, hospitals, infrastructure, and farmlands. I was pleased that Governor Corzine promptly declared a state of emergency and President Bush soon afterwards issued a Presidential Disaster Declaration authorizing federal emergency assistance for affected individuals, businesses, and state and local governments. Unfortunately, important needs continue to go unmet.
The existing federal recovery resources do not provide adequate aid for repairs and improvements to water infrastructure, assistance to farmers, and aid for economic recovery. I recently joined a bipartisan group of lawmakers representing districts damaging by recent flooding in calling upon President Bush to provide increased emergency assistance. We also must work together to develop long-term strategies to mitigate and prevent flooding and mitigate the damage. To view our letter to President Bush, please
click here.
Job Opportunities for Veterans
Despite the practical and technical skills that they have gained through their service to the country, many veterans have difficulty in adjusting to a civilian life after their service is over. In fact, veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces from every war in recent history have a higher unemployment rate than the general population. In addition to health care and retirement security, part of fulfilling our promise to veterans is ensuring that they have employment opportunities following their service.
This week, the House Veterans Affairs Committee passed my bill to establish a national “Hire A Veteran” week to urge employers, labor organizations, veterans service organizations, and federal, state, and local governmental agencies to hire more of America’s veterans. I look forward to consideration on the House floor of this bill, which will help Congress full its promise to those who have borne the battle.
Sincerely,
RUSH HOLT
P.S. Just a reminder: I always want to hear from you, but please don’t hit the 'reply' button on your email. Instead, please email me through my website at
www.holt.house.gov, or call me at 1-87-RUSH-HOLT (1-877-874-4658) to let me know what's on your mind. Please also note that you may unsubscribe from this list by clicking on the "unsubscribe" link at the bottom of this email.
RSS Blog Feed