Fwd: Congress in August

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Congress in August There's a common misconception that because Congress is not in session in August, the work stops and Congress goes on vacation.  In fact, some of the most important work done will take place this month when I hear from East Tennesseans about how they feel on a wide range of issues – from immigration, to health care, to how we can create more jobs. Being aware of your views is critical to representing you. Throughout August, I will be traveling around the First District to host town hall meetings, to meet with constituents and to tour many impressive facilities either owned or operated by East Tennesseans. The August District Work Period is a great opportunity to hear what's on your mind. It's also a good opportunity to take time and explain what constituent services are offered to the First District.  One of my highest priorities is helping people who have problems with the federal government. Although I do not have the power to override the decisions made by a federal agency, my staff and I can often intervene on a person's behalf to answer questions, find solutions, or just cut through the red tape that too often comes with a government bureaucracy. I'd like to take a little time to explain some of these services to you, so you can reach out should an opportunity arise where we can be of any assistance to you or your family. We may be able to help with federal agencies including the Social Security Administration, the State Department, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, the Federal Communications Commission, the Internal Revenue Service, the Department of Labor, the United States Postal Service and the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Many constituents that contact the office are veterans looking for assistance. As a member of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs, I am committed to ensuring our nation's veterans have the care and compensation they earned during their service. We can help expedite claims with the Department of Veterans Affairs and assist in getting copies of military records, such as discharge papers or medical records. The office has also worked to make sure veterans who are owed service medals get them in a timely manner.  While I cannot promise a favorable outcome with any federal agency, I can promise that my staff and I will do our best to help you find answers. If you think the office can be of assistance to you or your family, please contact the Kingsport Morristown or Washington, D.C. office. I will also be hosting a series of town hall meetings this month. Any constituent can attend these meetings and there are no tickets or entry fees. During town hall meetings, I update East Tennesseans on current events in Washington and then open the room for questions and answers. These meetings are a great opportunity for me to hear from you about what's on your mind. Dates are as follows: next Monday, August 12th at the Mosheim Ruritan Club from 6-7 p.m., and Tuesday, August 13th,at Baneberry City Hall from 6-7 p.m. On Thursday night from 6-7 p.m. at the Kingsport Center for Higher Education. I'll be announcing additional town halls later in the month. To find out when a town hall will be held nearest you, please call one of my offices or visit www.roe.house.gov/townhalls.  Thank you for the continued honor and privilege of being your congressman. Feel free to contact my office if we can be of assistance to you or your family. Our contact information can be found on our website, www.roe.house.gov. CONNECT WITH US E-News Sign-up Forward to a Friend Contact Phil