Dear Colleague on the Upcoming House Passage of the Inflation Reduction Act

August 10, 2022
Press Release

Dear Democratic Colleague,

This week has been a terrific week of progress For The People.

Yesterday, President Biden signed our CHIPS and Science Act, which declares our economic independence, strengthens our national security, enhances our families' financial future and ensures America can outcompete any nation on Earth. The new law creates 100,000 new Davis-Bacon jobs and returns America to world leader status in chips manufacturing. It contains many House Democratic priorities to recruit our nation's best minds to build an inclusive STEM workforce to unleash American innovation in communities across the country.

Today, the President signed our PACT Act, taking historic action to care for veterans who put their lives on the line for our nation and now suffer from devastating diseases. With this step, we secure access to life-saving care for millions of veterans exposed to deadly toxins in the line of duty, as well as empowering those harmed at Camp Lejeune to have their day in court. Let us salute Chair Mark Takano for his relentless leadership on this legislation.

On Friday, House Democrats will pass and send to the President the landmark Inflation Reduction Act. This life-changing legislation increases the leverage of the people's interest over the special interest:

  • Historic action to empower the HHS Secretary to negotiate the costs of prescription drugs
  • Extending ACA subsidies for three years to lower the cost of families' health care
  • Strong climate provisions to save the planet and lower families' energy costs
  • Reducing the deficit while being fully paid-for, which will help fight inflation

This bill makes a tremendous difference at the kitchen table of America's families. Those of us who have been fighting from the beginning for more family provisions in Reconciliation know we must never give up that fight – and will continue it in future legislation.

This week, our focus must remain on passing the IRA, as conversations continue on finding consensus for a robust public safety package. We salute the work led by Chair Joyce Beatty and Members of the CBC, working with Representatives Josh Gottheimer, Abigail Spanberger and Tom O'Halleran, to advance a package that is rooted in two of Democrats' most cherished values: justice and safety.

In terms of public safety, House Democrats can take immense pride in our work so far this Congress to keep America's families safe. President Biden has signed historic gun violence prevention legislation, and the House successfully voted to pass legislation reinstating the Assault Weapons Ban. This, too, increases the people's leverage – this time, over the gun industry.

Thank you for your leadership in putting People Over Politics: lower costs, better paying jobs and safer communities.

NANCY