Mar 31 2017
3.31.2017: Week in Review
Hi Friends,
It was a productive week in Washington as always, meaning March is ending on a good note for my staff and me. That more than makes up for our busted brackets in our office’s March Madness competition.
Media Mash Up
My column for the week was on the VA Accountability First Act, legislation I am proud to have cosponsored. There are far too many instances of our veterans not receiving the proper care and treatment at VA facilities nationwide, and this is unacceptable. The VA Accountability First Act would bring much needed reforms to the VA to make sure our veterans get the care they deserve, and I am glad to see it passed the House of Representatives.
On Tuesday, my Bipartisan Working Group hosted a group of NFL players at our weekly breakfast meeting to discuss criminal justice issues. Anquan Boldin, Malcolm Jenkins, Donte’ Stallworth and Johnson Bademosi also met with other Members of Congress, and on Thursday, they presented public testimony at a House Judiciary forum. You can read my press release for more information.
Rep. John Garamendi (D-CA) and I appeared on Countdown to Closing Bell to discuss healthcare and tax reform. You can watch the clip of our joint appearance.
On Thursday, I issued a press release announcing the dates artwork created by 16th District high school students will be on display for the Congressional Art Competition. Anyone interested in attending the gallery show can stop by the Brunswick Public Library from April 3rd to April 7th.
Washington Wrap Up
On Tuesday, I hosted a tele-townhall meeting. Over 1,500 constituents participated, and we were able to discuss issues such as tax reform, healthcare, bipartisanship, and more. If you would like to be added to our list of participants and receive a call for our next tele-townhall, please email Renacci.TTH@mail.house.gov and provide your name and number.
On Wednesday, other members of the Congressional Steel Caucus and I held a hearing to discuss the role steel will play in planning and implementing major national infrastructure projects, as well as the ongoing issue of Chinese steel dumping. The caucus heard from several industry leaders, including AK Steel, ArcelorMittal, and the United Steelworkers.
On Thursday, I had the privilege of meeting police chiefs from the 16th District. I had the chance to speak with Chief Vanyo of Olmsted Township Police and Chief Grecol of Berea Police about Ohio’s opioid epidemic and what is being done to combat it. Berea and Olmsted Township launched the Safe Passages program, which connects people seeking treatment for opioid addiction with life-saving treatment programs.
My staff met with individuals from the Ohio chapter of the National Association of Letter Carriers to talk about the importance of 6 day delivery and also door delivery service. Reforms need to be made to the Postal Service in order to it maintain its viability, but I have consistently heard from constituents how important 6 day delivery is to our communities. That is why I was happy to join a number of my colleagues in co-sponsoring a resolution in support of its continuation.
District Doings
Last Saturday, March 25th, my district staff hosted my 3rd annual Service Academy Day, an informational session that connects students interested in the US Service Academies with representatives from the academies. My staff and these representatives provided them with information about the application process and how to be a competitive candidate. I nominated 34 students last year, and they have received 20 offers of appointment. I have high hopes for the 39 students who attended on Saturday.
On April 26th from 3-5:30 pm, my office is hosting a veterans benefits event at the S.A.L.T. BOX Ministries, 408 Market St. W, Canal Fulton 44614. It will take place from 3:00-5:30 PM. At this event, veterans can learn about and sign up for local, state, and federal benefits. You can read more about the event HERE.