Duckworth Diary: September 18, 2015
Statement
Dear Neighbors,
This month, Congress came back to session from the August District Work Period and we took a number of critical votes that impact our nation. I voted in support of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) regarding Iran's nuclear program. This was a vote with enormous consequences for U.S. national security interests and I did not make my decision lightly. While not perfect, I believe the nuclear agreement provides the United States and our allies with the most realistic and effective course of action currently available to stop Iran's nuclear weapons program.
As we marked another somber anniversary of 9/11, I announced my support for the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Reauthorization Act. This bill, which provides critical healthcare to 9/11 responders and survivors, would permanently extend the Victim Compensation Fund and World Trade Center Health Program that are due to expire soon.
I was also proud to join my colleagues to introduce the bipartisan Gun Trafficking Prevention Act to combat illegal firearms trafficking and support law enforcement. Learn more about this bipartisan gun safety legislation here.
Additionally last week, I met with the Illinois Farm Bureau. We discussed why I believe Illinois farmers should be able to invest in renewable, home-grown fuel sources.
Back in Illinois, I announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarded a $40,910 Assistance to Firefighters Grant to the Streamwood Fire Department. These grants provide first-responder organizations the ability to obtain much-needed protective equipment, firefighting and emergency vehicles and training in an effort to strengthen the Nation's overall level of preparedness for fire and related hazards. Streamwood Fire Department will use this grant to install a sprinkler system at Fire Station #1 that will help provide a safe exit route for firefighters.
In Schaumburg, I was honored to be presented with Illinois Alliance for Retired Americans (IARA)' Jerry Prete Award by my friend, and former Prete award winner herself, Rep. Jan Schakowsky. IARA is doing incredible work to not only preserve, but more importantly, strengthen Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security for future generations.
I hope you are having a great week.
Sincerely,
Congresswoman Duckworth
Source