Weekly Script September 3rd, 2023 WEEKLY SC℞IPT Friends, Thank you for taking time to read my weekly update. Below you'll learn more about what I'm doing in Washington to support Iowans in the first district. Visit My Website We Must Unleash the Full Potential of American Energy Production President Biden promised economic stability and support for middle class Americans when he took office. His administration’s goal of building the economy from the bottom up and the middle out has failed the very people his strategy was aimed to help the most. As we recover from record inflation, the most vulnerable Americans are still in dire need of help to alleviate the pressing issue of skyrocketing prices on multiple fronts. It’s imperative that our government does everything in its power to lower prices for Americans, and that starts with unleashing the full potential of American energy production. The consequences of high energy costs are far-reaching, particularly for working-class families who find themselves grappling with the rising cost of living. As gas prices linger almost $2 higher than they were when President Biden took office, many families are left to make difficult choices between essentials like groceries and rent. The relationship between energy policy and the price of goods is undeniable as American companies rely heavily on having affordable energy for both manufacturing and transportation. In fact, a major component of food costs is energy, which affects average Americans every day with much higher food prices. With gas prices nearly doubling in recent years, American companies of all sizes are left with no choice but to raise the prices of the goods they produce to survive financially. With an abundance of energy resources on American soil, hardworking Americans should never be forced to make tough financial decisions on their most basic needs. As President Biden touts “Bidenomics” as a massive success and takes a victory lap for lowering inflation, it’s crucial that Congress does not forget the millions of Americans who are still struggling to make ends meet. Despite reduced inflation, prices are still over 20% higher than when he took office, and interest rates are at their highest in over two decades during his presidency. It’s up to Congress to keep the pressure on President Biden by passing legislation that directly addresses the core issue: the affordability of everyday essentials. This includes a strategic approach to energy policy, one that prioritizes the reduction of energy costs to lower production expenses and consequently make goods more affordable. H.R. 1, the Lower Energy Costs Act, passed in bipartisan fashion in the House of Representatives earlier this year. This legislation was a major step in the right direction to streamline energy production while supporting and protecting our critical energy producers. In the coming months, Congress must continue to focus on tangible energy solutions that translate into real relief for Americans. As our nation navigates through this period of recovery from the pandemic and record inflation, it is paramount that steps are taken to ensure that the burden of high prices is not disproportionately felt by those least able to endure its consequences. 20 County Tour It is always great to meet with Iowans as I travel across the first district! It truly is my favorite part of serving in Congress. Speaking to Iowans allows me to stay informed about what is happening in their communities and what I can do to help. I toured North Scott High School and learned how North Scott is connecting students to career pathways like their CNA nursing program and welding classes. We also discussed their plans for the future Regional Innovation Center! I met with John Gallagher and Mike Isaacson from the VGM group to discuss rural healthcare and access to medical equipment and services. Thank you for taking the time! Thank you, Nicole Cisne Durbin and Gretchen McCall of Family Resources in Davenport, for the tour and discussion about the organization’s priorities and how we can offer support in Congress. I was delighted to attend the ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Molly’s Cupcakes location in Bettendorf. Stop by and try their delicious cupcakes if you’re in the Quad Cities! I had a great visit to the Eldridge Police Department. We discussed the growth of the community and the needs of the police department, School Resource Officer initiatives, and their new K-9 program. The Eastern Iowa Community College District John T Blong Technology Center does an incredible job advancing the workforce in Scott County. Thank you for the tour of your impressive operation! I had the pleasure of attending a retirement party for Mike Kuhn, who served in the Army for 25 years and as Marion County Veterans Affairs Director for the past 21 years. Congratulations on your retirement and thank you for all you have done to support our Veterans! I had a great time at the Johnson County Farm Bureau Annual Dinner meeting joining Senator Dawn Driscoll for good food, fellowship, and a great conversation about Farm Bill re-authorization. I toured Genesis Medical Center this week and had a great discussion about lowering healthcare costs, the impact of inflation on medical facilities, and the future of healthcare. I had an awesome time at the grand opening for the new Rock Wall at DICK'S House of Sport in Davenport this week. House of Sport locations create an immersive experience devoted to sports. The Davenport location opened last month and is an excellent addition to the community! I attended a Mount Pleasant Kiwanis Club meeting this week where we discussed important issues such as lowering energy costs, border security, the Farm Bill and much more. I couldn’t pass up an opportunity to ride in a 1922 Case steam engine at Crystal Creek Farms! Thank you Dick, Dennis, and Julia for the experience. I was delighted to join an international farm tour with Dennis Campbell and Crystal Creek Farms in Grand Mound talking equipment, crops grown and yield. The weather was fabulous for an added benefit. Quality, variety of products and food safety are all priorities of Oskaloosa Food Products. Thank you to COO Jason Van Zetten for the great tour and discussion! Earlier this week, I visited Athletico Physical Therapy in North Liberty and Coralville to discuss patient care, staffing needs, supervision standards & the Strengthening Medicare for Patients and Providers Act. Thank you all for the discussion! Sincerely, Dr. Mariannette Miller-Meeks Be sure to follow me on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube for more updates. ### Rep. Miller-Meeks | 1034 Longworth HOB, Washington, DC 20515 Unsubscribe [email protected] Constant Contact Data Notice Sent by [email protected]