Weekly Script September 17th, 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 Putting the Brakes on Biden: Protecting Americans’ Vehicle Choice Congress must protect the American people’s choice to purchase affordable vehicles that are right for them and their families and that doesn’t place US auto manufacturers at an additional competitive disadvantage vis-à-vis China. The Biden Administration’s rush-to-green agenda is doing precisely that by handing China the keys to America’s energy and auto future while simultaneously imposing an unnecessary burden on American families who are already struggling to pay their bills due to record inflation and the highest seasonal gas prices in over a decade. The Biden Administration, in partnership with California and other states, is considering a plan that would require all new vehicles sold to be 100 percent electric by 2035. While the goal of reducing carbon emissions is commendable, this approach is unaffordable, impractical, and detrimental to many Americans. As of 2022, the average transaction price of an electric vehicle (EV) was approximately $17,000 more than that of a gas-powered vehicle. This price gap presents a barrier to entry for many Americans, particularly those with limited financial resources. Additionally, gas-powered vehicles continue to hold an edge in terms of range, towing capacity, and resilience in severe weather conditions. EVs can lose up to 40 percent of their battery charge, therefore range, in cold weather, which poses challenges in regions with harsh winters. Another practical consideration is the availability of vehicle charging infrastructure. In many parts of the country, especially rural areas, the lack of charging stations makes EVs less practical for daily use. Without a robust charging network, the transition to EVs becomes a daunting task. Furthermore, there are concerns about the potential strain on the electric grid with a rapid expansion of EVs. This could compromise grid reliability, leading to blackouts and other related issues. Even with more charging stations, we must consider the time it takes to fully charge an all-electric vehicle, which is impractical for most drivers traveling any distance beyond local. Finally, the issue of China's dominance in the supply chain for critical minerals used in EV production cannot be overlooked. China controls a significant portion of lithium-ion batteries, lithium, cobalt, and graphite, which are vital components of EVs. Dependence on China for these resources raises national security concerns and could limit America's autonomy in this crucial industry and the CCP’s ability to rapidly overtake the U.S. in production of electric vehicles. The CCP may also withhold batteries or metals and minerals necessary to build batteries and electric vehicles domestically. This week, House Republicans passed H.R. 1435, the Preserving Choice in Vehicle Purchases Act, to counter the Biden Administration’s rush-to-green agenda. The central principle behind H.R. 1435, led by Rep. John Joyce (PA-13), is to empower American consumers to make choices that align with their needs and financial capabilities. It seeks to prevent the Environmental Protection Agency from granting California's waiver request if it restricts the sale or use of vehicles with internal combustion engines. This move aims to ensure that individuals and families have access to a variety of vehicle options. Any transition to clean energy must be approached with careful consideration of the economic, practical, and security implications. H.R. 1435, the Preserving Choice in Vehicle Purchases Act, seeks to strike a balance between environmental goals and individual freedoms, aiming to protect American interests and ensure that consumers can choose the vehicles that best suit their needs and financial circumstances. As this debate unfolds, it is essential to keep these diverse perspectives in mind to arrive at a well-informed decision for the future of American transportation. Weekly Wrap Up It was a very busy week in Washington! This week I met with my constituents, introduced several bills and had the opportunity to lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier for POW/MIA Recognition Day. Iowans in DC It is always great to meet with Iowans while they are in Washington! It truly is my favorite part of serving in Congress. Speaking to residents of the First District allows me to stay informed of what is going on in their communities and what I can do to help. I had a great meeting with the American Academy of Dermatology about physician payment reform under Medicare. The Institute of Internal Auditors visited the office to discuss effective data privacy and security measures. Thank you for the discussion. I met with the Iowa Food Bank Association to discuss the Farm Bill and ways we can work together to alleviate hunger. Thank you for the discussion. I had the distinct honor of greeting heroic veterans from the Brushy Creek Area Honor Flight at the WWII Memorial. Thank you for your service and sacrifice for our great nation! Thank you to the Iowa Farm Bureau for stopping by to discuss the Farm Bill, biofuels, Prop 12, and trade issues. I had a great meeting with the Iowa Pork Producers Association this week to discuss Farm Bill priorities. Thank you all for stopping by! I had an insightful discussion about the upcoming Farm Bill with the International Fresh Produce Association! Thank you for meeting with me. POW/MIA Recognition Day It was an honor to lay a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier to mark POW/MIA Recognition Day and remember our soldiers who paid the ultimate sacrifice. 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 visited Central College in Pella this week to tour their beautiful campus and learn more about the groundbreaking scientific research the college is participating in. Thank you for having me! I toured Sheepgate, a faith-based addiction recovery program in Colfax, to learn more about the programs they offer to help people overcome addiction. Thank you for all you do! I had a great discussion with leaders from across Warren County about economic development, infrastructure and other important priorities in the county. I met with the Iowa Realtors to discuss flood insurance reauthorization, interest rates, inflation and the regulatory climate. Thank you for the discussion. I enjoyed meeting with women med students, residents and practicing physicians at the Iowa Medical Society’s Women in Medicine conference. It was an honor to address these amazing doctors! Floor Speeches Congratulations to Herky the Hawk for 75 years as the University of Iowa symbol of pride. Thank you for fostering camaraderie and unity in our Hawkeye community. Go Hawks! I had the privilege to honor the life and service of beloved K-9 Officer Kurly of the Davenport Police Department on the House Floor. The Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital Kid Captains program embodies the true meaning of sportsmanship, creating lasting memories for patients and their families. Laulauga Tausaga, a 2021 University of Iowa graduate, became the first American woman to win a gold medal in discus at the World Athletic Championships. Her talent and determination is not only a testament to her Alma Mater, but also an inspiration to athletes across the country. Congratulations to Kalayna Durr of New London in Henry County, Iowa, for being crowned the 2023 Iowa State Fair Queen this past August! Committee Hearings During this week's Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic hearing, we explored the intricacies of the doctor-patient relationship and how it has evolved in the wake of the pandemic. I appreciate the insightful discussions and contributions. Legislative Roundup This week, I introduced the following legislation: Congressional Oversight of the Antiquities Act, legislation that requires congressional approval for the designation of national monuments. Read more here. The Critical Infrastructure Manufacturing Feasibility Act, legislation that would direct the Secretary of Commerce to conduct a study on the feasibility of manufacturing more goods in the United States, in particular, products that are key to our critical infrastructure sectors. Read more here. I also voted in favor of the following legislation: H.R. 1435, the Preserving Choice in Vehicle Choices Act, legislation to amend the Clean Air Act to prevent the elimination of the sale of internal combustion engines. H.R. 1567, the ACRES Act, legislation that requires the Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Department of the Interior to submit accurate reports regarding hazardous fuels reduction activity. H.R. 3324, to extend the authority to collect Shasta-Trinity Marina fees through fiscal year 2029. H.R. 3152, the Fight CRIME Act, legislation requiring the President to impose asset blocking and visa ban sanctions on foreign persons involved in Iran's proliferation of missiles, drones, and related weapons. H.R. 589, the MASHA Act, legislation requiring the President to determine and impose applicable sanctions annually on the Supreme Leader of Iran, the President of Iran, and individuals affiliated with them and Iran's regime. H.Res. 492, a resolution condemning Iran's state-sponsored persecution of the Baha'i religious minority and Iran's continued violation of international human rights treaties. 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]