Congresswoman Renee Ellmers: Standing Up for Patients and Fighting Diseases

Video of the Week

This week marked a significant milestone in the U.S. House of Representatives, as we passed nonpartisan legislation called the 21st Century Cures Act. For the last year, members of Energy & Commerce Committee have conducted discussions with patients and doctors to gain a better understanding of what needs to change in order to expedite the development and delivery of cures. Take a moment to listen to how this legislation would benefit every American, including a constituent of mine named Ellie Helton. Click here or on the photo above to watch the video.

Weekly Update:

I am disappointed to report that on Thursday, the U.S. Army announced cuts that would reduce 842 military positions at Fort Bragg. These cuts are not the answer, especially not in the face of mounting threats abroad. Now, more than ever, it is crucial that the U.S. maintain a robust military. These cuts will disproportionately affect our service men and women, locally-owned businesses and the community at large, but I am confident that Fort Bragg and the Fayetteville community will remain resilient. I am committed to working with military leaders to ensure are troops are fully equipped in order to defend our nation. Take a look at this Fayetteville Observer, ABC 11 News or Raleigh News & Observer clip to learn more about the troop cuts and local leaders’ responses.

On the issue of healthcare, I’m excited to announce that, with my support, the House passed H.R.6, the 21st Century Cures Act. H.R.6 is a landmark piece of legislation as it launches a full scale, bipartisan attack against thousands of incurable diseases. I am honored to have included three provisions in this bill, related to vaccine reform, disposable medical technology and incentives for the next generation of researchers.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve you as your Representative. Please contact my office in Dunn, Asheboro or Washington if we can be of assistance to you. For further updates, please scroll down to see snapshots of my week, and please subscribe to my Facebook, Twitter or Instagram accounts.

Fighting on Behalf of Patients

Friday after we passed H.R. 6 called The 21st Century Cures Act, I joined a bipartisan group of committee leaders to discuss the real and lasting benefits of this legislation. This legislation has broad support of over 700 groups including patient advocacy groups, rare disease groups, and cancer centers. Click here to learn more about this legislation.

During my speech at the press conference, I discussed how this legislation will encourage innovation and discovery for researchers to find new cures and treatments for diseases like cancer, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. This legislation was a great opportunity for Congress to truly come together and advocate on behalf of patients.

Meeting with Second District Students

Early in the week, I spoke to Future Farmers of America (FFA), an organization for students who are interested in agriculture and leadership opportunities. This FFA group was from Randolph County, and at the very last minute…a fellow North Carolina Representative, Patrick McHenry, jumped in our photo for a photobomb!

It was wonderful speaking to such a highly-motivated group of Second District students who are dedicated to preserving our state’s agricultural heritage. We had the opportunity to show these students around the office and the Capitol to give them an insider’s look to a day working on the Hill.

The above North Carolina students were a part an organization called the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA). These ladies swung by my office while in town for their national conference and spoke about the opportunities afforded to them through the FCCLA group.

During their visit, these ladies spoke about the importance of CTE courses, which are Career and Technical Education courses offered in public schools. These courses are a prerequisite for membership into FCCLA, and these courses play a vital role in preparing students for life after high school.

Stopping Unnecessary Regulations

Tuesday night, we passed an amendment by Representative Keith Rothfus to stop the National Park Service from banning the sale of bottled water at any national park. Click here or on the photo above to hear my speech.

CategoriesNC Elected Officials