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Dear Jackson,
Recent News
One of the organizational challenges for any congressman is having a Washington D.C. staff and a district staff. While what we do in D.C. is important, it is imperative that the D.C. staff see the district and the people they're working to help every day. Last month the D.C. staff had the opportunity to come down to the district. While most of the staff call our district home, it is new to some. During the visit, the team had the opportunity to see the district and meet, train, and coordinate how to deliver the best services possible for people of our district. Our staff are all dedicated to serving the constituents of our district, and I am thankful for the work they do each day.
D.C. Update
Below are some of the bills I recently voted on in the House of Representatives.
H.R. 2116 Crown Act - The "Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair" Act of 2021 prohibits discrimination based on hair texture or hairstyle. This bill is unnecessary and duplicative in nature as federal law already prohibits discrimination of this kind. Also, this legislation may even impede components of job safety. Due to these reasons, I voted NO on this bill.
H.R. 6968 Suspending Energy Imports from Russia Act - I voted to support the bipartisan legislation that will prohibit Russian energy imports into the U.S. With Putin's illegal invasion of Ukraine, Congress has acted to sanction and hurt the Russian economy, which relies heavily on oil exports. This is one of many steps Congress must take to deter further Russian aggression.
H.R. 963 FAIR Act - The "Forced Arbitration Injustice Repeal" Act of 2021 invalidates current and legal contracts that save Americans' time and money. The Federal Arbitration Act allows parties to resolve any future disputes through arbitration, and this legislation voids pre-dispute arbitration agreements in all contexts. If enacted, this would increase the number of lawsuits, raise litigation costs for small businesses, and disincentive arbitration. As a result, I voted NO on this bill.
H.R. 2471 Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2022 - This year's omnibus appropriations bill was divided in two sections: national security/defense and social spending. I voted in support of the national security portions of the omnibus. I voted against the social spending. In the defense section, funds are appropriated to secure our border, modernize our military, and counter Russia's ambitions. The omnibus appropriations bill includes the Hyde Amendment, which prohibits taxpayer money from being used for abortion.
District Update
With Spring comes many exciting things in the district.
The season of graduation, accomplishments, and recognitions is amongst us. Thank you all, and a job well done to our teachers and retirees. To our student-athletes and coaches for seasons well played. To our students for moving up and for some now moving on. Congratulations to all our seniors and families as a new chapter in life unfolds. There are so many people worth recognizing in TX-06. I have the privilege each week of reaching out to many of them and congratulating them on their achievements. Please share the names and accomplishments of those you would like to see recognized with my office. Starting in this edition of the newsletter, we will feature a TX-06 resident or organization each month for their accomplishment.
As the weather warms up and the bluebonnets bloom, especially in Ennis, Texas, enjoy the outdoors with friends and family. Take advantage of the wonderful parks, activities, shopping, and restaurants in our communities. Enjoy getting out in the warmer weather and take a much-needed deep breath. Spring is here.
With the promise of each new Spring also comes the promise of Easter.
John 3:16 - God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.
Happy Easter to you and your family!
Constituent Highlight
Red Oak ISD Teacher Ms. Finley saved the life of another student when she noticed them choking in the school cafeteria. Ms. Finley jumped into action, performing the Heimlich maneuver at shields elementary school to save the students life. I want to recognize Ms. Finley on her decisive thinking and quick action which earned her the Maroon Star which is an award modeled after the U.S. Military Bronze Star for heroic service for Red Oak ISD staff, students, and employees.
Coffee with Jake
I’m excited to announce that on April 20th in the Corsicana office that I will be hosting a coffee meet and greet from from 2:00-3:30pm. Feel free to stop by and tell me what’s on your mind, I want to hear about your concerns and how my office can best serve you.
Sincerely,
Jake Ellzey
Member of Congress |