IMPORTANT UPDATES from CONGRESSMAN SMUCKER

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I want to share with you updates from Washington, President Biden’s need to secure the U.S. Southern Border, and certain special days of recognition. As we continue to reopen our nation and as more people get vaccinated, we should be sure to follow CDC guidelines.

I enjoy hearing from you and responding to questions from your emails, phone calls, and letters. If you would like to share your concerns or opinions with me, or if you have questions about legislation or specific votes, you can send me an email here.

Biden’s Border Crisis
President Biden has failed to address the crisis at our southern border. In February 2021, there was an increase of 173 percent of border encounters from February 2020. Instead of addressing the issue, the President and his Administration have ignored the problem and abandoned policies that will secure our border. Migrants are overcrowded in facilities, and our Border Patrol resources are stretched too thin. A recent Axios article revealed just how disturbing the situation is.

Washington, DC Update
Last week, during Ways and Means Oversight Subcommittee hearing, I questioned the IRS Commissioner on filing deadlines for estimated tax payments that impact small businesses and how the IRS plans to implement the changes to the Child Tax Credit. After receiving numerous complaints from constituents about how inefficient and delayed the IRS Taxpayer Advocate office is operating, I also questioned him on how he will improve this experience, especially for Eleventh District residents. Watch my comments below.

I introduced the Debt Solution and Accountability Act (H.R. 2110). This legislation would require the Treasury Department to provide Congress with a comprehensive report on the national debt's current level and the most significant contributors to the deficit. This report would be made public to ensure every Administration remains transparent and accountable. The American people deserve to see the full accounting of the impact of increases in our nation’s debt. To learn more about my legislation, visit my website.

Last week bipartisan legislation I introduced with Rep. Lauren Underwood (IL-14) to help improve adoption outcomes for children entering the foster care system as a result of parents or guardians struggling to provide a safe home due to substance abuse was advanced by the House. Learn more about my legislation on my website.

Tax Filing Information
The new filing deadline for your 2020 federal taxes is May 17, 2021. Read more information on the filing extension from the IRS here. Pennsylvania has also extended the 2020 filing deadline to May 17, 2021.

COVID-19 Vaccine Information
With three vaccines approved by the FDA, we are closer to returning to our pre-pandemic way of life. Both Lancaster and York Counties have dedicated pages where you can get vaccine information and availability information. Visit York, Visit Lancaster.

If you are a veteran, a spouse of a veteran, or a caregiver of a veteran, in the Eleventh District, you may be eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine through the VA. Some vaccines are available at the Lebanon VA Medical Center. Visit their website to learn more.

Celebrating the Eleventh District
March 23, 2021, is National Agriculture Day. We thank our farmers and producers in our district and across America who provide us with a safe, domestic food supply. Thank you!

March is recognized as Women’s History Month. This year I want to honor the new women that have been elected to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives in the 117th Congress.

March 25, 2021, is Medal of Honor Day. Recipients of the Medal of Honor have demonstrated exceptional acts of valor. Thank you for your service and dedication to our grateful nation. 

To the Jewish community members in our district, I wish you a very happy Passover, Chag Sameach!

Monday, March 29, 2021 is Vietnam War Veterans Day. We must never forget to honor our Vietnam veterans for their service in defending our country. Thank you! And thank you to Eleventh District resident Sgt. Harold Redding, who advocated tirelessly to make sure the sacrifices of those who served and those who never returned home are always remembered. Read more about his efforts here.

Here to Help
If you have any questions or issues with a federal agency, please know that my office is here to assist you. You can call our district or Washington, DC offices for assistance or visit my website for any issue with a federal agency or department.

To stay up-to-date on my work in the district and Washington, be sure to follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. You can also check out my YouTube page, where there are 100+ videos, many of which are direct responses to your questions.

Sincerely,

Lloyd Smucker
Member of Congress