U.S. Representative David Scott
In 2002, David Scott was elected to the United States Congress. He is currently in his tenth term representing Georgia's Thirteenth Congressional District, which includes 6 counties around metro Atlanta: Cobb, Clayton, Douglas, Fayette, Fulton and Henry. He began his public service by being elected to the Georgia General Assembly in 1974.
In Congress, David Scott is a strong voice for farmers, jobs, healthcare, education, our veterans, our children, and transportation. He serves on the Financial Services Committee, Agriculture Committee, and the NATO Parliamentary Assembly. He has authored several laws including student loan repayment assistance for law students who become public prosecutors and defenders so that top attorneys will be attracted to public service. Congressman Scott secured $80 million in funding in the 2018 Farm Bill for agriculture-focused scholarships at the 19 Historically Black 1890’s Land-Grant Colleges and Universities across the country. He also recognized the importance of Fathers by adding Father’s Day to the U.S. Flag Code as a day of special significance. He bridged political gridlock to achieve National Heritage Area designation for the Arabia Mountain in metro Atlanta.
I am honored to serve as Chairman of the Committee on Agriculture. I take this leadership role seriously and advocate for policies that benefit Americans and Georgians alike. As Chairman, I have worked hard to advance initiatives that will promote Georgia’s farmers and agribusinesses, both in urban and rural communities. Currently, the agricultural economy is suffering—the Trump Administration’s foolhardy trade wars, more frequent natural disasters and a credit crunch for farmers have created a financial environment that is unsustainable. There is also an aging labor force in agriculture that worsens by the day. Every year the number of students graduating in an agriculture related field of study is steadily declining, especially among students of color. This is why in the 2018 Farm Bill I spearheaded a scholarship program supporting the 19, 1890s Land-Grant Universities and Colleges, like Fort Valley State University. The scholarship incentivizes students at these universities to specialize in agricultural science, food science, agribusiness, and other agriculture related studies. The scholarship program aims to cultivate the next diverse generation of agriculture leadership.
In July 2019, I also led a Subcommittee hearing highlighting the need for high-speed broadband infrastructure in rural America, to bolster and protect rural economies. In Georgia, 7 rural hospitals have closed since 2010, and broadband infrastructure development will help rural Georgians access tele-health services and allow rural hospitals to thrive. I will continue to promote broadband access as infrastructure development is considered by the House of Representatives.
Unfortunately, food deserts are also a growing concern for Georgians, especially those who live in the metro-Atlanta area. These communities struggle with access to quality fresh, nutritious foods and produce and often pay more for less healthy foods located at convenience stores. Federal programs such as the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Farmers Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) help combat the negative effects of food deserts. This key program also enables farmers to sell healthy produce at local farmers markets. For Fiscal Year 2020, I supported robust funding to WIC-FMNP to help address food insecurity in Georgia, because every Georgian should have access to healthy and nutritious produce to provide healthy meals at home.
Energy prices also continue to put a strain on American families, therefore I have continued to support affordable, sustainable, and cleaner sources of energy, as well as funding to improve energy efficiency. It is imperative that the federal government use its position to support the smart use of energy, in order to reduce cost and waste. In addition to efficiency, I support the use of energy sources like biomass, wind, solar and nuclear where feasible. Renewable energy also has the ability to move our country away from a dependence on foreign sources of energy and become more self-sufficient. The use of clean forms of energy can also help to protect the environment and improve the quality of our air and water, as well as conserve natural areas.
Moreover, the 13th District experiences some of the worst traffic in the country, contributing to poor air quality and thus affecting the health of the most vulnerable residents in the area. I support the use of evidence-based science to develop sensible environmental protection initiatives in Congress that protect the health of my constituents. Equally important is the promotion of clean infrastructure plans to reduce the production of greenhouse gases and other toxic chemicals. Congress must also ensure that the modernization of rural waste water systems is prioritized in future infrastructure plans. Improved waste water systems are critical in protecting wildlife and environmental health, as well as that of Georgia’s citizens.
Also, as climate change worsens, I have worked closely with my colleagues in the House of Representatives to support evidence-based approaches in protecting our environment for the benefit of future generations of Georgians. Climatologists and environmental advocacy organizations predict Georgia will face an increase in droughts and extreme heat days as a result of worsening climate conditions. These conditions will pose a public health risk to vulnerable populations, including the elderly, pregnant women, and children. These conditions also pose risks to wildlife, oceans and air quality. Unfortunately, the Trump Administration has shown a lack of concern and action toward worsening climate conditions. That’s why, with the environment and economy in mind, I was proud to support and vote in favor of H.R. 9, the Climate Action Now Act, which requires the U.S. to rejoin the Paris Agreement—an international movement to combat the effects of climate change.
I value the contributions the arts have made to communities across our country. Museums, libraries and local arts programs such as Arts Clayton serve as a valuable resource to local communities spurring local tourism and contributing to the cultural fabric of our nation.
I am a proud sponsor of the 13th Congressional District’s Annual Art Competition, An Artistic Discovery. Each year, I am honored to present scholarships to the top winners of the competition. The first place winner is invited to attend the ribbon-cutting ceremony in Washington, D.C., and see the art piece hang in the U.S. Capitol.
In recognition of the artists, musicians, archivists and historians, I remain committed to funding for the arts and humanities for my constituents by ensuring that government programs like the National Endowment for the Arts are fully funded. I also support the continued funding of the Office of Museum and Library Services which provides free educational programming for schools across the state of Georgia.
I am taking the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) public health emergency very seriously. Keeping our community safe and healthy is of the utmost priority to me.
COVID-19 VACCINE REGISTRATION INFORMATION
In response to the coronavirus pandemic, Congress has enacted several critical pieces of legislation as the first immediate steps with more action to come:
Additionally, I have:
Our offices remain closed to the public to help mitigate the risk of exposure to the coronavirus for our staff and constituents. All of our offices, including Smyrna (770-432-5405), Jonesboro (770-210-5073), and Washington, D.C. (202-225-2939), will continue to serve constituents by answering calls, emails and online requests for assistance.
Please call on us if we can help you and be sure to take a look at the important information below on how you can keep your family safe, healthy and prepared.
Georgia COVID-19 Hotline: (844) 442-2681
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Georgia Department of Public Health
Emory Healthcare Guide to Help Prevent the Spread of COVID-19
Georgia COVID-19 Emotional Support Line: (866) 399-8938
COVID-19 Testing - Direct Patient Line
Clayton County Health District | www.claytoncountypublichealth.org | 678-479-2223
Cobb/Douglas Health District | www.cobbanddouglaspublichealth.org | 770-514-2300
Fayette/Henry District | www.district4health.org | 1-800-847-4262
Fulton County Board of Health | www.fultoncountygahealth.org | 404-613-8150
Federal Resources
Agriculture Resources During COVID-19 Outbreak
CDC Travel Warnings
Emergency Paid Sick Leave
Fannie Mae Mortgage Help
Federal Student Loan Payments and Interest Suspended
Freddie Mac Homeowners Assistance
HUD Suspends all Foreclosure & Evictions for the next 60 days
IRS Delays Tax Payments Due to COVID-19 Outbreak
Medicare Coverage & Payment Related to COVID-19
Passport Operations in Response to COVID-19
SBA Offers Disaster Assistance to Georgia Small Businesses Economically Impacted by the Coronavirus
Small Business Administration Economic Injury Disaster Loans COVID FAQs
The Small Business Owner’s Guide to the CARES Act | Federal Assistance for Independent Contractors
Social Security & Coronavirus | Social Security Offices Will Only Offer Phone Service
Testing Coverage in the Families First Coronavirus Response Act
Unemployment Insurance and COVID-19 | Unemployment Provisions in the CARES Act
U.S. Census 2020
USCIS Offices Temporarily Closed to the Public
VA Resources for Veterans During the COVID-19 Outbreak
Prevention
Anyone can become sick from this virus, regardless of their race or ethnicity. People who have been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19 or people who live in or have recently been in an area with ongoing spread are at an increased risk of exposure. The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. The CDC recommends simple everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses. These include:
If you are or a member of your family is sick, to keep from spreading respiratory illness to others, you should:
Symptoms
Patients with COVID-19 have had mild to severe respiratory illness with symptoms of
Treatment
There is no specific antiviral treatment for COVID-19. People with COVID-19 can seek medical care to help relieve symptoms. If you believe you have been exposed to COVID-19 or experience the symptoms listed above, then contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Local Resources
Clayton County Public Health Department
Cobb and Douglas Public Health Department
Fayette County Health Department
Fulton County Health Department
Henry County Health Department
GA-13 School Meal Distribution Sites
Clayton County Public Schools Grab-n-Go Meal Services
Cobb County Public Schools & MUST Ministries
Douglas County Public Schools Drive-Thru Meal Service
Fayette County Public Schools Emergency Meal Service
Fulton County Public Schools Food Distribution Sites
Henry County Public Schools Meal Pick Up Service
Food Assistance
Atlanta Community Food Bank - Food Pantry Map Locator or text “FOODFIND to 1-888-976-2232 to find a pantry near you.
American Red Cross Blood Donation Drive
The American Red Cross now faces a severe blood shortage due to an unprecedented number of blood drive cancellations during this coronavirus outbreak. As a nation, this is a time where we must take care of one another including those most vulnerable among us. If you are healthy and feeling well, please make an appointment now to donate in the days ahead by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
Companies Adjusting Payments
Allstate Insurance
Atlanta Gas Light
AT&T
Bank of America Mortgage Payment Assistance
Charter Communications - Call 1-844-488-8395
Clayton County Water Authority
Comcast Cable
Georgia Power
Verizon
Ensuring the safety and wellbeing of our communities is one of my top priorities. I will continue to support federal programs that provide our local law enforcement with the resources they need to prevent violent crime in our communities. I voted in support of continued federal funding in FY 2020 for the COPS Hiring and Byrne JAG grant programs, which have enabled law enforcement agencies to build partnerships with community leaders, reduce criminal activity, and implement crime prevention programs nationwide.
I also recognize the need for effective criminal justice reform in the United States. Significant increases in prison populations have led to overcrowding in prisons and put a strain on state budgets. As a strong supporter of sentencing reform, I also believe we must emphasize rehabilitation and reduce our prison population. People from minority communities are overrepresented in percentages of arrests, or convictions and Congress should carefully examine these racial disparities at the federal level.
Mandatory minimum sentencing laws disproportionately target minority communities in the United States, hurt families, and create conditions that increase recidivism. Federal mandatory minimum sentencing laws must be changed to improve our criminal justice system and allow people who have been incarcerated to rebuild their lives after returning from state and federal prisons, local jails, or juvenile facilities.
Following the two devastating mass shootings in El Paso, Texas and Dayton, Ohio in early August 2019, over 30 people were killed, and more than 30 people were injured. These unconscionable acts of violence are deeply troubling, and I am saddened by the ongoing trend of recent mass shootings at our nation’s schools, workplaces, universities, places of worship, and other public spaces. Such senseless tragedies are of grave concern to me, and they have shaken communities across our nation.
Maintaining a careful balance between preserving Second Amendment rights and strengthening safety in gun ownership is necessary in crafting gun control policy, and I am sensitive to both sides of the issue. While I understand the right of Americans to protect themselves, we must continue to work to craft better gun control laws to identify and detain these criminals before they carry out these attacks.
In the 115th Congress, I cosponsored the Gun Violence Research Act, which would restore gun violence research programs at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Institutes of Health. To prevent these shootings, we must strengthen our understanding of the long-term effects of gun violence on the health and safety of our communities. As a member of the House Gun Violence Prevention Task Force, I will continue to champion legislation that will protect our communities, promote responsible gun ownership, and prevent these tragedies from occurring again.
As a member of the U.S. House of Representatives delegation to the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, I understand the need for robust military funding and the importance of strengthening military readiness. As terrorism continues to threaten our safety at home and abroad, we must plan for future threats on the horizon, and bolster security assistance and foreign aid to Israel, our closest ally in the Middle East.
Throughout my years in public service, I have fully supported efforts to strengthen health care benefits, educational assistance, and support services for military service members and their families. To protect military families, I also voted in support of H.R. 2500, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 (FY 2020 NDAA), which provides a 3.1 percent pay raise for military service members, $9.83 billion for manufacturing 94 new aircraft in Georgia’s 13th District (F-35 and C-130J aircraft), and $32.9 billion for the Defense Health Program. This legislation also includes provisions to eliminate requirements that force surviving military spouses to forfeit their military Survivor Benefit Plan annuity after a veteran or service member dies of service-related causes (also known as the widow’s tax).
Our troops and their families deserve the best compensation, care, and benefits available. I have also voted in support of increased FY 2020 funding for biomedical research through the U.S. Department of Defense’s Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP). These research programs continue to provide millions of military service members and families with new, innovative treatments for prostate cancer, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), burn pit injuries, and infertility, as well as advancements in prosthetic care.
Earlier this year, the White House’s FY 2020 Proposed Budget included the proposed elimination of nearly 20,000 uniformed military medical personnel from the Defense Health Agency (DHA). In October 2019, these proposed budget cuts could force families living on or near military bases in rural areas to find other health care providers and pay high out-of-pocket costs for essential health care services. Disruptions in health care access of this magnitude are unacceptable, and I will continue to support efforts to stop these budget cuts from being implemented.
Given recent nuclear threats against the United States, Congress must ensure that the United States bolster its diplomatic efforts to avoid military conflict. I am committed to ending the war in Afghanistan and bringing all of our troops back home. We must only commit our young men and women into battle when all other means are exhausted, and only against those who attack us or pose an immediate threat to the safety of our nation.
As Congress continues its legislative agenda, I will continue to prioritize the needs and concerns of military service members and their families. We owe our military service members and families in Georgia the utmost respect and admiration for their courage, dedication, and sacrifice.
A solid education is paramount to our children’s future and thus the future of our country. Although most funding designated for elementary and secondary education comes from state, local, and private sources, federal support is necessary for a strong education system. During my time as a Member of Congress, I have supported efforts to not only improve the quality of education as a whole, but also to ensure that adequate funding goes to the states so quality education programs may continue. This funding supports a variety of education needs including school safety, mental health services, nutritious lunch programs, suicide prevention, school infrastructure and much more. We must continue to focus on creating a robust learning environment so that students are prepared for the jobs of the 21st century.
We must also ensure that students have access to a wide variety of career pathways, including post-secondary institutions, vocational schools and other programs. It is essential that Congress put forth proposals that incentivize enrollment in all sorts of programs to address STEM skills gaps, labor shortages and other labor needs.
However, access to these programs is not enough—we must also guarantee students of all ages and backgrounds have access to an affordable education. Throughout my time in Congress, I have supported affordable higher education through the Federal Pell Grant Program, low interest student loans, and the establishment of innovative scholarship programs. Additionally, I support improvements to federal programs such as the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program to assist students who are interested in serving the American public, helping them avoid crippling student loan debt. As your Member of Congress, I also worked hard to pass an scholarship program for the 19 1890s Land-Grant Universities and Institutions, including Fort Valley State University here in Georgia, to incentivize enrollment in studies related to agribusiness, agriculture and food sciences.
The U.S. education system must provide tools for students to lead successful lives as adults. This means our schools must empower students from lower-income backgrounds, provide for students who face homelessness, and prevent discrimination within the halls of their buildings. For Fiscal Year 2020, I supported robust funding for Title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act. Title I provide funds to local school agencies that have high percentages of lower income students to accomplish academic success for vulnerable populations. I am also supportive of the first-ever state-wide GEAR UP grant provided to the State of Georgia to help students reach higher education institutions. The GEAR UP grant provides funds to low-income school districts to embolden students into a successful career path starting in the 7th grade following up to the student’s first year in a post-secondary institution.
In 2015, Georgia was found to have over 1 million homeless students who primarily live in rural communities. No student should endure the challenges of homelessness alone. I will continue to support Title IX, Part A: the McKinney-Vento Education for Homeless Children and Youth Program of the Every Student Succeeds Act. Title XI, Part A ensures local school agencies are serving the needs of homeless students and youth and providing them equal access to a quality public education. The Trump Administration sadly has also targeted Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972, which seeks to prevent gender discrimination in schools. The Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights under the rule of Secretary Betsy DeVos has undone Obama-era protections for survivors of sexual assault and transgender students. I have opposed and will continue to oppose such efforts from the Trump Administration because every student regardless of race, gender, sexual identity or socio-economic status has the right to a quality and safe education.
Free and fair elections are the bedrock of American democracy, giving voice to voters in the political process and ensuring that the diversity of America is represented in Washington. When our elections are under attack, when the rights of Americans citizens to vote is questioned, and when access to the polls is denied, Congress must act to restore faith in our democratic processes.
I was proud to work with my Democratic colleagues in the House of Representatives to pass H.R. 1, the For the People Act, a comprehensive election security and reform package that represents a major step forward in increasing election transparency and accountability and rooting out corruption. By ensuring that elections are clean and Americans are free to exercise their right to vote, by reforming our campaign finance system, and by demanding accountability from our elected officials, the For the People Act takes needed action to restore our democracy for the American people.
I believe that everyone regardless of class, race, gender, religion, or sexual orientation has the constitutional right to vote without any infringements, and I am dedicated to protecting this constitutional right for all Americans, including constituents of Georgia’s 13th Congressional District. Since the Voting Rights Act was first signed into law in 1965, it has been incumbent upon Congress to protect these critical rights. I am a proud cosponsor of H.R. 4, the Voting Rights Advancement Act to restore the voting rights protections that were struck down by the Supreme Court in 2013.
Foreign intrusion in the 2016 presidential election has only underscored the need for a continued effort to protect and safeguard the American electoral system. Therefore, I am cosponsoring H.R. 1272, the Restoring Integrity to America’s Elections Act. This bill seeks to reform the Federal Elections Commission, ensuring that the agency can work as efficiently as possible to secure our elections. There can be no place for partisan gridlock when the health of American democracy is at stake.
As technology and communications continue to evolve, we must recognize the threat that foreign actors pose when they use such means to target the American voting process. To this end, I am pleased to be cosponsoring H.R. 2592, the Honest Ads Act and H.R. 2135, the Paid Ad Act. The Honest Ads Act would seek to require strict disclosure rules for online advertising in order to prevent foreign entities from anonymously purchasing these ads and discreetly influencing our elections. Additionally, the Paid AD Act would seek to entirely prohibit foreign nationals from purchasing broadcast, cable, or satellite communications that mention a candidate running for federal office.
American democracy continues to be the target of cybersecurity threats and hacking attempts. As a Congressman from Georgia, I understand the impact that security concerns and eroded confidence in our federal election can have. I believe we must take every step possible to ensure the integrity and security of our elections. From improved voting systems and ballot designs to adequate funding for state-level security improvements, I am committed to ensuring that Congress take the critical steps necessary to strengthen our nation’s election infrastructure.
Access to quality health care is crucial for every constituent living in the 13th Congressional District. As health insurance prices and prescription drug costs skyrocket, I will continue to be a strong advocate for affordable, comprehensive, and accessible health care. However, adequate health insurance alone is not enough. I believe Congress must do more to ensure that we have a robust health care system in this country that focuses on prevention and improving health outcomes.
I will continue to work to ensure that all Americans can get the affordable care they need, especially Georgia’s uninsured and under-insured communities. Since 2018, Georgia has had the fourth highest uninsured rate in the United States – 5 percent higher than the national average. While 13.4 percent of Georgians are uninsured, the uninsured rate is over 30 percent in some rural counties. Over one-third of the uninsured population in Georgia is concentrated in five counties in the Atlanta metropolitan area, and three of which are in Georgia’s 13th District (Clayton, Cobb, and Fulton counties). I am focused on supporting efforts to meaningfully expand Medicaid coverage, reduce health insurance premiums under the Affordable Care Act, and protect access to Medicare Advantage plans for seniors with complex health care needs.
I am a strong supporter of the Affordable Care Act, which protects people with preexisting conditions from being charged high out-of-pocket costs, and I support the elimination of annual and lifetime caps on health insurance coverage for all Americans. After receiving medical treatment, no one should have to worry about their insurance plan abruptly ending. In the 116th Congress, I co-sponsored and voted for H.R. 748, the Middle-Class Health Benefits Tax Repeal Act, a bill that would repeal the Cadillac tax – 40 percent excise tax on employer-sponsored health insurance plans that disproportionately affects women, seniors, and early retirees. I also voted in support of H.R. 987, the Strengthening Health Care and Lowering Prescription Drug Costs Act, a bill that would prevent the sale of short-term health insurance coverage and expedite FDA approval for new generic medications. As health care costs continue to rise for families, I am eager to work with my colleagues to find solutions that will bring down health care costs and guarantee access to quality care.
Additionally, millions of women have been impacted by our nation’s maternal mortality epidemic, and Georgia currently has the highest maternal mortality rate in the United States – 46.2 deaths per 100,000 live births. To that end, in the 116th Congress, I have cosponsored legislation to prevent pregnancy-related deaths and improve health outcomes for mothers and newborn babies, H.R. 1897, and H.R. 2778.
As a vocal advocate for the Medicare program, I will continue to support efforts to strengthen and expand Medicare coverage, especially for prescription drugs, durable medical equipment, and medical devices. In 2003, I voted in support of legislation that established the Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Program. While Medicare Part D is not perfect, adding prescription drug coverage to Medicare was an important step toward increasing access to quality medications for thousands of low-income seniors living in our state. I believe that any Medicare reforms should ensure that seniors can maintain access to affordable, specialized care and treatments, and people living with life-threatening medical conditions can access the best care available. In addition to Medicare, I believe we must continue our work to preserve Medicaid coverage and PeachCare for Kids for low-income children, which provides health care coverage through the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Together, Medicare, Medicaid, and PeachCare are invaluable components of our nation’s health care safety net. I will continue working to ensure these programs remain solvent and accessible.
As a Member of Congress, I will continue to focus on payment reforms and pilot programs that help improve our health care system to meet 21st Century needs. Supporting public-private partnerships that improve health care outcomes for patients and reducing student loan debt for medical school graduates have the potential to transform Georgia’s health care system. We must ensure that we have an experienced and diverse health care workforce, so that communities can access primary and specialized care when they need them most. I will also work to ensure that doctors, nurses, and other certified health care providers receive the Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement they deserve, and that medical malpractice reforms protect these clinicians from frivolous lawsuits. We should continue to expand the use of telemedicine and electronic health records to increase access to health care services in rural communities throughout our state. Children in rural Georgia are more likely to have unmet health care needs. More than 60 of Georgia’s 159 counties do not have a pediatrician. Additionally, I have voted in support of robust federal funding in FY 2020 for biomedical, public health, and health services research through the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), and the U.S. Department of Defense’s Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP).
We all have a stake in maintaining and improving Georgia’s health care system. I will continue to work with my colleagues to ensure health care continues to be at the forefront of our discussions. It is of the utmost importance, and Georgians deserve no less. I am here to work for Georgia, and I will continue to put forth a dedicated effort towards quality health care initiatives.
Foreclosures continue to occur in our district at higher rates than the country as a whole. Though the rate of foreclosures is lessening, the risk of losing one's home remains a reality for many residents of the 13th Congressional District. Please know that I will continue to work with my colleagues in Congress until all Americans are safe from foreclosure of their homes. While on the Financial Services Committee, I have worked to ensure that large financial institutions create new solutions for people facing foreclosure. If you are in danger of losing your home to foreclosure, please contact my office for assistance.
Purchasing a home is often the most significant financial step a consumer will take in his or her lifetime, which is why I also believe availability of education on mortgage lending is essential to the process of purchasing a home as well. I have consistently supported measures to improve financial education as a key component of the home-buying process and ensure that prospective homeowners are armed with the knowledge they need to make the best financial decisions for themselves.
Additionally, as a member of the Financial Services Committee, I have worked consistently in support of federal action to protect homeowners from abusive lending practices and actions to prevent home foreclosures. Earlier this year, I introduced H.R. 1988, the Protecting Affordable Mortgages for Veterans Act, a bill to promote affordability and preserve strong refinancing requirements for VA home loans. When this bill passed the Senate and ultimately became law in July 2019, it represented a key step toward restoring certainty in the VA mortgage market and ensuring that our nation’s veterans can achieve home-ownership.
Ensuring that our financial system and our economy as a whole is accessible to all consumers has long been a priority of mine. Systemic barriers to financial inclusion have held entire communities back for far too long, which is why I introduced legislation earlier this year empowering the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau to investigate these barriers and propose solutions to improve access and affordability of financial services for under-served consumers. At a time when we are seeing growing economic inequality, I believe it is essential that Congress prioritize the most under-served consumers in our economy to ensure their financial safety and economic inclusion. In addition, I support strong initiatives to protect the rights of America's consumers and to ensure accountability by means of comprehensive financial reform legislation as well as a credit card holders' bill of rights, both passed into law in 2010.
I understand how important and emotional the issue of border security and undocumented immigration is to Georgians and Americans across our nation. I believe our first priority is to secure our borders and prevent immigrants from entering this country without documentation. However, this also means drastically improving our asylum procedures to allow immigrants escaping persecution, crime and violence safe entry into the U.S. Securing our borders means requiring the increased deployment and use of security technology, be it sensor and camera surveillance, or increased numbers of border patrol agents. I also believe the Department of Homeland Security should have adequate funds to ensure border security while improving training for Immigration Customs and Enforcement and Customs and Border Patrol Agents. I support collaborating with border state governments to deploy the National Guard and other military personnel to exercise appropriate force in order to secure our borders. And while I support efforts to deport immigrants who have committed deliberate criminal acts, I also favor increasing penalties for employers who knowingly and willingly recruit and hire undocumented workers. However, we must have clearly defined rules that are easy to follow. I do support extending the temporary work visa program as certain industries such as agriculture, landscaping, restaurants, and construction depend on immigrant labor and therefore must retain access to this workforce. Moreover, we must also create a policy to address the millions of people who are already here illegally, as simply deporting over twelve million people is not a practical solution.
Unfortunately, under the direction of the Trump Administration, we have seen some of the most inhumane policies enacted against immigrants, including religious-based travel bans and the Zero Tolerance executive order regarding asylum seekers and unaccompanied minors. Migrants, including children, have died in U.S. custody including right here in Georgia, and detainment shelters are not providing adequate resources to immigrants. Let me be clear, this Administration’s practices toward migrants are abhorrent and inhumane, both domestically and internationally, and I do not support them, especially when it comes at the great cost of children’s lives. Additionally, in the cases of migrant deaths, I will work with Congress to ensure adequate investigation procedures are in place to hold individuals involved accountable. Moreover, I will work to ensure that Congress provides the resources needed at border detainment facilities to provide proper nutrition, access to clean water and medical services for those detained there.
Ten years ago, our country entered its most severe economic recession since the Great Depression. And while the economy has steadily improved, many Americans still feel the effects of the recession in their daily lives. I believe that it is important to continue to support families who are struggling with unemployment during this difficult time by promoting job opportunity with a livable wage in today’s demanding economy. In order to assist families and individuals in need, I've voted in favor of unemployment insurance extensions and will continue to vote in favor of domestic job expansion programs. I have also supported initiatives to raise the minimum wage that mirror economic trends so that all families can bring food to their tables. In fact, I supported and voted in favor of H.R. 582, the Raise the Wage Act, which would increase the minimum wage to $15 per hour by 2025, providing over 33 million Americans with a raise. It has been more than a decade since Americans have received a minimum wage increase and currently Americans continue to live in poverty, but I assure you that I will continue working in Congress to alleviate the economic hardships faced by so many Americans.
I will also continue to support our federal workers. Rather than pay-freezes and government shutdowns, it is incumbent upon Congress to recognize the important role federal employees play in protecting our national security and driving the economy. It is important that we protect federal workers from continuous targeted cuts and preserve their right to unionize so that they too earn a livable wage. The Trump Administration has attacked collective bargaining rights and wages of Federal Employees. In the face of these injustices, I was proud to support the Federal Civilian Workforce Pay Raise Fairness Act to provide federal employees with a modest, yet long-overdue, wage increase. Moreover, I have worked tirelessly to establish protections for the right to unionize for Federal Employees. In fact, I signed on to a letter addressed to House leadership urging policymakers to keep language in H.R. 3351, a Financial Services and General Government appropriations package, to protect collective bargaining rights for Federal Employees. The hostile attitude towards Federal employees from the Trump Administration does not go unnoticed and I will work endlessly to protect the labor rights of all employees.
Georgian students also greatly benefit from vocational development programs such as apprenticeships. These programs provide eager learners with the necessary hard and soft skills to thrive in vocational careers. The added benefit of apprenticeships is a direct pathway into an industry facing labor shortages. Throughout my time in Congress, I have fought for programs such as the Department of Labor’s YouthBuild program, which provides low-income high school students with training opportunities in growing sectors like healthcare, technology, and customer service. I also voted in favor of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) which was signed into law by President Barack Obama. And I have supported allocating several millions towards WIOA to support the enrollment of women, people of color, and persons with disabilities in apprenticeships and other workforce development programs.
Business has played an integral role in my personal life and professional career. As a graduate of the Wharton School of Finance, a small business owner, and a member of the House Financial Services Committee, I understand the vital role small businesses play in our economy. Small businesses elevate entire communities through job creation, personal consumer connections, and local reinvestment opportunities.
Small business is especially important to Georgia’s economy. According to the U.S. Small Business Association (SBA), small businesses employ 1.6 million people in the state. Additionally, the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) has ranked Georgia as the #1 state in the country for small business climate. These numbers reflect the critical role small business plays in The Peach State’s economy, and they highlight the importance of supporting entrepreneurs and job creators through every possible opportunity. As a representative for Metro Atlanta, I have seen economic development spurred by the vitality of small businesses help the city gain greater national significance. That is why as a Member of the House Financial Services Committee, I've also advocated for continued federal support for community banks and credit unions to ensure that small businesses are available to access loans in order to grow.
It is crucial that federal leaders appreciate the major impact that their decisions can have on small businesses and the communities they serve. Therefore, Congress must strongly consider the interests of small business when debating topics ranging from health care, the tax code, retirement security, and regulatory measures. I have always kept these interests in mind during my time in Washington and I am proud to have supported national legislation to maximize the potential of all small businesses. Recent efforts have included my decision to cosponsor H.R. 2142, which made it easier for small businesses to navigate federal agencies by centralizing small business regulations. Additionally, I was also a proud cosponsor of H.R. 4267, the Small Business Credit Availability Act and H.R. 2911, the Small Business Healthcare Relief Act. These bills sought to strengthen small businesses by cutting unnecessary costs and giving small business owners the tools they need to operate their companies as efficiently and successfully as possible.
America's economic growth and international competitiveness depend on our ability to innovate. Going forward, I will continue to advocate for improving access to capital for small business owners, providing affordable health care coverage to small businesses, and creating educational opportunities for students interested in business. I remain committed to supporting commerce at the local level and I will always champion the position of small business as a cornerstone of economic success both in Georgia and in the nation.
As a strong supporter of the Social Security program, I oppose any efforts to weaken the program or take guaranteed benefits away from retirees who have earned them. For more than 70 years, Social Security has supported our nation’s seniors. Over 1.8 million Georgians rely on Social Security benefits. Any efforts to restrict access to these benefits threaten the health and safety of public safety officials, teachers, state and county employees, and any of the 62 million Americans who have worked for years to contribute to the system.
For years, the Social Security Administration (SSA) has been inadequately funded, causing many office closures and disruptions in service. Between 2010 and 2019, more than 60 Social Security Administration field offices have closed across the country, including two SSA field offices in our state. More than 600 employees in Georgia have left SSA field offices and the agency has reduced its staff working on state Disability Determination Services (DDS) by 17 percent.
Nearly 10,000 seniors file for Social Security and Medicare benefits each day. The elimination of the Social Security Administration’s national network of mobile offices has left Georgia’s rural communities with limited access to benefits. With fewer SSA staff members remaining to handle large caseloads, seniors often experience delays in receiving the Social Security Disability Insurance benefits. To address this trend, I have voted for legislation to increase funding for the Social Security Administration to reduce wait times and ensure that seniors and their families receive benefits in a timely manner.
In the 116th Congress, I joined over 200 Members of Congress to introduce H.R. 860, the Social Security 2100 Act, which would establish a singular Social Security Trust Fund to provide retirement, Old-Age and Survivors Insurance (OASI), and Disability Insurance (DI) benefits and improve the annual cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) formula for seniors who must spend more of their income on health care costs and other expenses.
In June 2019, the Georgia Department of Community Health removed nearly 30,000 seniors from Medicaid enrollment. In response, I joined Congressman Hank Johnson, Congressman Sanford Bishop, and Congresswoman Lucy McBath to send a letter to Governor Brian Kemp and Commissioner Frank Berry, demanding the restoration of these Medicaid benefits and an explanation for the abrupt enrollment cuts. Most of these seniors are eligible for both Medicaid and Medicare coverage, and temporary termination of their Medicaid benefits may also affect their eligibility for Social Security assistance and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, as well as their children’s access to Medicaid coverage.
Throughout my years in public service, I have supported initiatives to ensure quality retirement programs and services for my constituents. After a lifetime of hard work, Congress must uphold the promise of this important program. I am here to work for Georgia, and I will continue to support efforts to protect and strengthen Social Security.
I believe as Members of Congress, no matter what side of the aisle we are on, we must ensure fairness in the tax system. We must also ensure that middle-class citizens are not left paying more than the wealthiest of Americans. I have supported and will continue to support efforts that bring about real change when necessary to ensure the integrity and fairness of our tax system. I support reform measures taken to make our tax code simpler and fairer, so that all Americans contribute their share.
While I recognize that changes are warranted for our current tax code, tax reform cannot be allowed to benefit the rich at the expense of everyday Americans. It is vital that tax reform encourage economic growth, support working families, broaden the middle class, and address income inequality. I am also focused on a tax code that prioritizes the interests of small businesses, which remain vital to the health of our local economies. Reform must produce a fair and sound tax code for all Americans, ensuring that wealthy individuals and corporations pay their fair share while preserving our long-term economic security in a fiscally responsible way that promotes jobs in the United States.
Throughout my time in Congress, I have consistently championed legislation that provides tax relief for hardworking Americans across the country. I have supported many recent legislative efforts that have recognized the importance of supporting a vibrant middle-class, including: H.R. 1398, the Health Insurance Tax Relief Act of 2019 and H.R. 3620, the Strategy and Investment in Rural Housing Preservation Act of 2019. These bills would seek to empower everyday Americans to reach their financial goals by stripping away unnecessary tax burdens.
I am a strong supporter of using tax incentives to promote ideas of national importance. I am a proud cosponsor of H.R. 3961, the Renewable Energy Extension Act of 2019 and H.R. 2089, the Biodiesel Tax Credit Extension Act of 2019. These pieces of legislation would seek to provide tax credits for the use of renewable and sustainable fuel sources, supporting citizens who are taking the necessary steps to increase America’s standing as a global leader in clean energy.
Our tax code must always benefit the many and not just the few. Congress must work together to pass common-sense legislation that strengthens the national economy without hurting the pockets of middle-class Americans. I believe that our tax code is at its best when it not only works to benefit the majority of Americans, but also helps to incentivize goals that align with our national interests. Please be assured, I will continue to work toward this end and please do not hesitate to get in touch with my office with any further concerns in the near future.
Across America, transportation is essential to a healthy and prosperous economy, and can greatly influence the quality of life. However, this is especially true in the 13th District of Georgia, which includes five of the fastest growing counties in the country. The Metro Atlanta area also experiences some of the worst traffic in the country, and this is only expected to worsen as development in the region continues. I will continue to work in Congress in support of diverse transportation options like rapid transit and regional rail for our area. Congress is expected to consider a new transportation and highway infrastructure bill in the near future, and I will work tirelessly to ensure that the needs of the 13th Congressional District are included in that package.
Additionally, more than 107 million travelers passed through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport last year, making it the busiest airport in the world. Atlanta’s role as a transportation hub brings significant economic benefits to Georgia—the airport employs many residents of the 13th District and makes metro Atlanta an attractive business center. I believe that while Atlanta Airport is a major economic contributor in Metro Atlanta, the airport must be a good neighbor to surrounding communities. That’s why I am a member of the Congressional Noise Abatement Caucus, a bipartisan group of members who represent airport communities. As the airport continues to expand and modernize, I will continue to raise the issues of concern for those living near the complex where needed.
As a nation, we owe our veterans and service-members the utmost respect and admiration for their courage, dedication, and sacrifice. When our troops return from service, they deserve the very best compensation, care, and benefits available. I fully support efforts to strengthen health care benefits, educational assistance, and retirement plans for our veterans, and improve quality of living for military families and caregivers. Any attempts to cut federal spending or reduce our national debt should not jeopardize access to services for our veterans, military service-members, or their families.
Since 2016, over 200 veterans have died by suicide in Georgia. Each day, an average of 20 veterans dies as a result of suicide in the United States (over 6,000 veterans per year). Over 93,000 women veterans live in Georgia – the fifth largest population of women veterans in the United States. When transitioning back into civilian life, women veterans often face different challenges than their male counterparts. Unfortunately, the suicide rate of women veterans has been nearly three times the suicide rate of non-veteran women, and 18 percent higher than the suicide rate of male veterans.
To that end, I recently partnered with Congresswoman Maxine Waters to introduce the Women Veterans Support Act, which would provide $2.8 million in additional FY 2021 funding for the VA’s Center for Women Veterans and Office of Women’s Health to increase access to mental health care and other support services for women veterans, and establish a scholarship program for mental health professionals who commit to serve as a full-time employee of at a VA facility for a three-year period.
Additionally, in response to the 2014 Veterans Health Administration scandal, I partnered with Congressman Larry Buschon (R-IN-8) to introduce H.R. 4234, the Ensuring Veterans Resiliency Act, which establishes a pilot program to recruit more psychiatrists at VA medical centers. This pilot program, the Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention Program, was included in H.R. 203, the Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act, and signed into law by President Barack Obama in February 2015.
In addition to advocating for increased funding for VA medical and prosthetic research and veterans suicide prevention programming, I voted for specific FY 2020 funding increases for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, including $3 billion in funding to reduce the VA disability claims backlog, $581.5 million to improve medical treatment for female veterans, $396.9 million for opioid abuse treatment and prevention, $221.8 million for suicide prevention outreach, and $270 million for rural health.
To support military families, I also voted for the passage of H.R. 2500, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020, which included provisions to repeal the SBP-DIC offset for surviving military spouses, provide child care for veterans receiving mental health treatment, and create a DoD study on infertility among members of the Armed Forces.
During the 116th Congress, I co-sponsored H.R. 303, the Retired Pay Restoration Act, H.R. 333, the Disabled Veterans Tax Termination, H.R. 96, the Dental Care for Veterans Act, and H.R. 299, the Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act, which was signed into law in June 2019. All four of these bills work to expand eligibility for essential health care services, disability benefits, and compensation for veterans who have been denied these services for too long.
In March 2019, I signed on to a letter to the Veterans Health Administration opposing the use of “designated access standards,” which have created barriers for veterans seeking care through the Veterans Community Care Program. If we are to fulfill our commitment to our veterans, we must work to eliminate arbitrary administrative restrictions that prevent veterans from receiving the care they deserve.
As Congress continues its legislative agenda, I will continue to prioritize the needs and concerns of veterans and their families to find ways to improve access to services and address the disparities veterans and their families experience. As Georgians, we must strengthen our commitment to improve the health, wellness, and safety of our veterans.