Amtrak updates, new legislation, and more from Congress
Here's an update on what's been happening in Congress this week:
AMTRAK IMPROVEMENTS
I’m proud to serve on the Transportation and Infrastructure Rail Subcommittee as we work to improve rail service in our country.
During this week’s hearing, I asked about improving service on the Cardinal route, which runs between Indianapolis to Chicago. I’m pleased that returning to daily service is now being considered – which means it would be easier than ever to get from Nap Town and Chi Town. This week, we also announced new federal grants that will reduce travel times between Indianapolis and Chicago. I’ve recommended more funds for a stronger rail system each year, and I’ll keep fighting for better communities.
I was encouraged when Amtrak responded to my questions at the hearing with their recognition of the critical work at the Beech Grove rail maintenance facility in the 7th Congressional District. This facility employs Indianapolis residents and does critical safety and repair work to keep our nation running well. Over the years, there have been short-sighted proposals to down-size this facility, so a public commitment from Amtrak to increase support for the personnel and the vital work done here is long overdue.
It was a banner week for improving rail service in the Hoosier state and beyond. Rail is a job creator and bridges opportunity gaps. When we’re better connected, our country succeeds. I’ll keep advocating for improved inter-city passenger rail service for all.
NEW LEGISLATION ALERT!
This week, I joined my colleagues Congressman Greg Pence, Congressman Larry Bucshon, and Congresswoman Kim Schrier, to introduce the Bipartisan Diagnostics Testing Preparedness Plan Act.
But what are diagnostics, and what do they mean for public health?
Diagnostics can address a range of health issues, from infectious diseases and diabetes management to cancer and cardiac health. During the pandemic, it became more important than ever to use diagnostics to respond to the COVID-19 emergency as fast and effectively as possible.
But the pandemic also revealed gaps in diagnostics tests available in the US – including supply chain issues and reliance on foreign countries for materials, coordination between government agencies and diagnostics companies, and overall capacity to develop accurate, externally validated tests.
The Bipartisan Diagnostic Testing Preparedness Plan Act will streamline those processes by requiring the Department of Health and Human Services to develop a plan to be used during public health emergencies. Whether it’s a bad flu season or the outbreak of a new infectious disease, my bill will ensure Indianapolis and cities across the country are better coordinated to respond to the world’s most serious health problems.
The Bipartisan Diagnostics Testing Preparedness Plan Act is endorsed by the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security, AdvaMed, and Roche Diagnostics. Roche Diagnostics is headquartered in Indianapolis and leads the industry in developing diagnostic products for cancer, cardiac health, infectious diseases, women’s health, and diabetes management, while also employing over 10,000 employees across the country.
I’m honored to work with Roche Diagnostics as well as my Hoosier colleagues across the aisle on this important bill. I look forward to seeing it signed into law.
IMPORTANT NEWS FOR MEDICAID RECIPIENTS:
There are some changes coming to Medicaid. A recent report from the advocacy group Hoosier Action found that one in three Medicaid recipients was unaware that they even need to go through a redetermination this year in order to keep their coverage.
Are you or someone you know receiving Medicaid benefits? Not sure what these changes mean for you and your coverage? Our office can help. Reply to this message or give us a call at 317-283-6516 if you have any questions.
Success story of the week:
“I wanted to thank you for all your hard work in finding a resolution to our tax issue. We are happy to inform you that we have received the check. We have spent countless hours and money working with multiple tax professionals with no result. Your ability to cut through the red tape in such a relatively short time has been a blessing for us. Thank you so much for your public service.”
– District 7 Constituent
Need assistance navigating a federal agency, accessing benefits, or helping a community member recognize a milestone? We can help! Get in touch with our district office at 317-283-6516.
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Your Friend,
André