Congresswoman Betty McCollum's eNewsletter

Please join Congresswoman McCollum's official Facebook page to stay informed on her activities in St. Paul and Washington, DC.

Congresswoman McCollum Recognizes One Year Anniversary of Health Care Reform by Highlighting Benefits for Minnesota
This week marks the one year anniversary of the enactment of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (P.L. 111-148). Although the law does not go into full effect until 2014, millions of Americans are already receiving enhanced health benefits and enjoying new patient protections because of the new law. Congresswoman McCollum recognized the milestone by visiting the University of Minnesota's Boynton Health Service on Wednesday to hear how health care reform is making a difference for students in Minnesota. And today, she participated in a press event at the state Capitol where Minnesotans shared their personal stories about the benefits of the Affordable Care Act.

"Only one year after enactment, I see in Minnesota how federal health care reform is already making good on the promise of expanding health insurance coverage, increasing access to quality health care, and extending consumer protections against insurance company abuses," said Congresswoman McCollum. "Across America, four million small businesses are now eligible for tax credits that help them provide coverage for their employees. Seniors who fall into the Medicare Part D 'donut hole' are receiving 50 percent discounts on brand name drugs. And families will never again be forced into bankruptcy because an insurance company placed lifetime limits on their health coverage. This law is working for the American people even before the full benefits go into effect in 2014."

Congresswoman McCollum Tours Flood-Threatened Areas
Congresswoman McCollum conducted a day-long tour of multiple sites across St. Paul that may be significantly be affected by Mississippi River flooding. The tour included the South St. Paul sandbag operation, the Newport levee and St. Paul's Holman Field, where she received a briefing from the National Guard.

In an effort to keep Fourth District residents updated, Congresswoman McCollum created a new webpage with links to the latest flood updates and warnings. Items such as an emergency supply kit and a family emergency plan are just a few things you can do to get prepared.

Congresswoman McCollum Responds to U.S. Military Action in Libya
This week U.S. armed forces and international partners conducted military strikes to establish and enforce a no-fly zone in Libya. Congresswoman Betty McCollum issued the following statement.

"The brave men and women of America's armed forces are fulfilling critical missions around the world. Now, they are participating in a broad international coalition to protect the Libyan people from a murderous tyrant. While I support the current, limited U.S. mission in Libya, I have serious concerns about deepening U.S. military involvement. President Obama must consult with Congress before further expanding America's commitment in Libya," said Congresswoman McCollum.

IRS Open House Offers Free Tax Assistance
In anticipation of next month's filing deadline, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) will be hosting an open house on Saturday, March 26, from 9:00 AM-2 PM. This event provides free assistance to taxpayers who need help resolving their tax problems. IRS staff will be available on site or by telephone to help taxpayers work through their problems and walk out with solutions. These locations will be equipped to handle issues involving notices and payments, return preparation, audits and a variety of other issues.