Connecting With Our Communities!

Dear Neighbor, This past week I’ve been back in Colorado reconnecting with the communities that make up Colorado’s 2nd Congressional District—both new and old! And we’ve had plenty to catch-up on. I also was excited to announce a series of funding allocations that will benefit our state. 

First, Senators Michael Bennet, John Hickenlooper, and I announced that Colorado will receive $37 million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act to mitigate wildfire risks in forests across the state, including in Larimer, Gilpin, Clear Creek and Boulder counties. As the western wildfire crisis continues to impact our communities, we must ensure we are lessening the threats of these fires in any way possible. 
 
Secondly, I also had the honor of announcing that over $900,000 in funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is headed to communities in the 2nd District to help create safer roadways and prevent traffic related deaths and serious injuries. It is my hope that these funds will help us tackle recent increases in accident rates, and work to create safer communities for all Coloradans.
 
As the District Work Period continues, I am excited to visit with more constituents across our community—stay tuned!

LEADING THE EFFORT TO PROTECT TAXPAYERS

Last week I led an effort to convince the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to not tax Colorado Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights (TABOR) revenue payments. I wrote a letter to the IRS, and was proud to be joined by every member of our congressional delegation, and late Friday the agency announced they would stick to precedent and treat the payments as nontaxable—saving Colorado taxpayers hundreds of dollars. For thirty years, TABOR revenue payments have rightfully made their way to families throughout our communities without the IRS raising any issues, and we will ensure it stays this way.

ANNOUNCING THE ANNUAL CONGRESSIONAL ART COMPETITION

We recently announced the launch of the Congressional Art Competition! This competition encourages creativity and provides an opportunity for high school students to be recognized for their artistic talents. The winning submission is displayed for one year in the U.S. Capitol. Learn more about this competition, including how to apply, HERE.

WHAT ELSE HAVE WE BEEN WORKING ON?

• Last week we re-introduced the SHRED Act! Read more about this bill in an article published by Vail Daily: “SHRED Act dropping in for a second run after Joe Neguse reintroduces bill in Congress”. 

• I had the honor of meeting with folks from Colorado Habitat for Humanity. I appreciated the opportunity to discuss our shared goals, including working to expand affordable housing in Colorado and beyond. 

• We were excited to celebrate the CSU and Adams State groundbreaking for their mechanical engineering addition. Together we are working to bridge the gap between students in our rural communities and STEM educational opportunities. Read more here.

Should you need any assistance from our office, please do not hesitate to reach out. 

Please stay safe, stay healthy, and stay hopeful!