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Congresswoman McCollum’s e-Newsletter

January 27, 2012
e-Newsletter

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Strengthening America's Middle Class is President Obama's State of the Union Focus
On Tuesday, President Obama gave the annual State of the Union address, which emphasized the importance of investing in America's middle class and getting the economy back on track. Congresswoman McCollum joined the President's call for Congress to stop obstructionism and work together for the American people.

"The President delivered a powerful plan for action," said Congresswoman McCollum. "Congress and the American people were given a clear blueprint for rebuilding our economy, strengthening the middle class, and restoring tax fairness for hard-working Americans who are not millionaires."

Congresswoman McCollum Reacts to Senate Passage of St. Croix Legislation (S. 1134)
This week, the Senate passed legislation, which would authorize the construction of a $700 million extra-dosed mega-bridge over the St. Croix River. S. 1134 would also grant permission for this bridge to violate the Wild & Scenic Rivers Act – an essential environmental protection. For over 20 years, Congresswoman McCollum has advocated for a smaller, more cost-effective solution that doesn't violate environmental policy. Local officials, community advocates, and Minnesotans agree.

"It's no surprise that Senator Klobuchar's bill passed the Senate," responded Congresswoman McCollum. "But in the House, we need to find a common sense compromise because a $700 million bridge across the St. Croix River is bad fiscal policy, bad transportation policy, and bad environmental policy."

Congress Says Goodbye to Congresswoman Gabby Giffords
Congresswoman McCollum joined the Members of Congress in saying a final farewell to Congresswoman Gabby Giffords (AZ-08). Over one year after the Arizona shooting tragedy, Congresswoman Giffords resigned from public office. In her resignation letter, she called for government to represent the best of the nation and not the worst.

Citizen Service Before Self Honors – 2012 Nominations
Once a year, three U.S. citizen heroes are awarded the Citizen Service Before Self Honors – an award to recognize those who demonstrate extraordinary heroism and selfless acts. A panel, which includes Medal of Honor Recipients, will consider applications, and 20 national finalists will be chosen. Nominations are due Friday, February 10, 2012.

Saturday, March 10 is Passport Day
The State Department will acknowledge Saturday, March 10 as Passport Day. All Minnesotans are encouraged to stop by the Minneapolis Passport Agency so they can learn more about travel requirements for U.S. citizens or apply for a U.S. passport. No appointment is necessary. This is the only Saturday of the year that Minneapolis Passport Agency is open to the public.

Book March Capitol Tours
Minnesotans traveling to Washington, DC next month are encouraged to book their Capitol Tours as soon as possible. Congresswoman McCollum's office accepts requests for tours for various landmarks in Washington, DC. Spring is an especially busy season for tours so please book now!

Issues: Economy & Jobs Environment & Energy