KATHERINE CLARK: I voted with House Democrats to reinstate the assault weapons ban,

 

Hi Joe, July has been a busy month as my House colleagues and I work to lower costs for families and defend freedom from an extreme MAGA Republican agenda. Just days ago, I proudly voted for the CHIPS & Science Act . This bill will create 100,000 American jobs and reduce the costs of goods like dishwashers and cars by increasing production of semiconductor chips. The bill is now on its way to President Biden’s desk! In addition to strengthening our economy, the House took swift action to defend your freedom against Republican assaults on privacy and reproductive rights.  We passed bills to defend your right to abortion, to travel across state lines to receive health care, to access birth control, and to marry who you love. And one final note — I am incredibly proud that late on Friday, I voted with House Democrats to reinstate the assault weapons ban, a major step forward to increase public safety and save lives.  We will keep fighting for the security of your family. Sincerely,     LOWER COSTS AND MORE JOBS  I know that high costs have been tough on everyone in the 5th District. That’s why I proudly voted for the CHIPS & Science Act that will spur American-made computer chip production to fix supply bottlenecks driving up costs. It will also improve our national security and boost our global competitiveness by investing in research and innovation here at home. This bill is about strengthening America’s economy in the short and long term for working families. The CHIPS & Science Act will: Lower costs for American consumers by ending the computer chip shortage that has driven up consumer prices. Create 100,000 new good-paying jobs with strong prevailing wage protections in high-tech American manufacturing facilities. Power America’s preeminence in research and next-generation tech  to ensure that future technologies are made here in America. Diversify and expand the innovation workforce so we can embrace the full potential of our communities and advance regional technology.  This bill has already passed the Senate and will soon be signed into law by President Biden. Democrats are putting our economy and your family’s financial well-being over politics. YOUR RIGHTS OVER POLITICS The Republican campaign to overturn Roe v. Wade was just the beginning of their assault on your freedom. Justice Clarence Thomas made it clear that extremist Republicans wouldn’t stop banning abortion rights. Birth control is already under attack . And marriage equality could be next .   In response, House Democrats passed four bills to defend your freedom: Women’s Health Protection Act to protect your right to obtain an abortion — Every single House Republican voted against this bill . Ensure Access to Abortion Act to protect your right to travel across state lines for health care — 205 House Republican voted against this bill . Respect for Marriage Act to protect your right to same-sex and interracial marriage — 157 House Republicans voted against this bill . Right to Access Contraception Act to protect your right to obtain and use birth control — 195 House Republicans voted against this bill . Politicians have no business in your bedroom or your doctor’s office, and I will always fight for your rights.  BRINGING MARY BACK TO LIFE At over 90 years old, Mary from Holliston had seen it all — but a letter from Social Security saying she was dead was news to her! Being dead in the eyes of the government prevented her from accessing earned federal benefits. So, she called my office for help. Working quickly, my team cut through red tape to bring Mary back to life (legally, not literally). And, Joe, I can do the same for you! My team is ready to step in if you need answers or help with a federal agency — this includes the IRS, VA, Social Security, Post Office, military, getting a passport, and more. Helping people is my most important responsibility as your Representative in Congress. If you or a loved one needs assistance with a federal agency, please reach out to my office . WINNING ARTIST: Alyssa Ao I am so proud to announce that Alyssa Ao, from Wayland High School, has won my annual MA-5 Congressional Art Competition . Her piece, "Schrödinger’s Cat,” reflects the discomfort we all felt at the start of the pandemic and the unease many feel today as the world faces a new normal. As the winner of the MA-5 Congressional Art Competition, her piece will be displayed for one year in the U.S. Capitol. I’m so proud of Alyssa and can’t wait to see her work on display in Washington!