January 17, 2025

New Democrat Coalition Weekly Wrap 1/17/2025

Press Releases

New Dem Chair Schneider Applauds New Dems’ Appointments to Influential House Committees

Today, New Democrat Coalition Chair Brad Schneider (IL-10) issued a statement following the announcement of committee assignments for New Dem Members in the 119th Congress.

“In the 119th Congress, New Dems are well-positioned to play a critical role in developing policy solutions across every committee in the House,” said Chair Schneider. “From our several New Dem Ranking Members to our new Members serving on committees for the first time, every single New Dem earned their placement because of their dedicated experiences dealing with the many issues that impact the American people.

“Each thoughtful, wise, and hardworking lawmaker will bring their own perspective and priorities to their committees. We stand united by our dedication to commonsense solutions, bipartisan action, and opposition to extremist agendas. From funding the government, shaping the tax code, and strengthening our national security to investing in U.S. energy, agriculture, workers, small businesses, and more, New Dems are ready to roll up our sleeves and get to work delivering real results for the American people.”

New Dems Applaud House Passage of Legislation to Strengthen the U.S. Trade and Economic Relationship with Taiwan

Today, New Democrat Coalition Chair Brad Schneider (IL-10) and New Dem Ways & Means Committee Members Reps. Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), and Don Beyer (VA-08) issued a joint statement following the passage of the United States-Taiwan Expedited Double-Tax Relief Act (H.R.33).

“New Dems today celebrate the House passage of legislation to finally alleviate double taxation between the U.S. and Taiwan and pave the way for increased Taiwanese investment in the U.S. economy.

“For decades, Taiwan has been an essential economic partner to the United States, and our relationship is only growing stronger. Despite this fact, Taiwanese companies have been discouraged from investing in the U.S. due to an excessively high withholding tax when compared to other close trading partners.

“This legislation will lower costs on cross-border investment, help expand domestic production of key technologies including chips, and create high-paying jobs in communities across the country. We call on our Senate colleagues to pass this legislation without delay.”

New Dems in the News

Congresswoman Susie Lee (NV-03) was featured in the news after she announced $60 million for the Water Smart Landscapes Rebate Program, which pays southern Nevadans to convert their grass yards into natural landscapes, saving water and money for working families. The Bureau of Reclamation anticipates the program will remove 23,166,023 square feet of turfgrass, which will allow the southern Nevada to reduce delivery of its Colorado River water entitlement by a total of 189,635 acre-feet.

Congressman Andre Carson (IN-07) wrote an OpEd for the American Bar Association after introducing the Muhammad Ali Congressional Gold Medal Act to posthumously award Muhammad Ali a Congressional Gold Medal in recognition of his contributions to the United States. This bill allows for the presentation of the medal to Ali's family, with the opportunity for the public to purchase bronze duplicates.

New Dems in Action

New Dems Meet with Leader Jeffries, Whip Clark, and Chair Aguilar to discuss goals for 119th Congress

jeffries clark ndc

New Dems kicked off the first weekly meeting of the 119th Congress with Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Whip Katherine Clark, and Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar to discuss ways in which we can work together to deliver for the American people. New Dems are ready to tackle real issues like lowering costs, creating jobs, and improving the lives of all Americans.

Member Legislation

DelBene, Beyer Introduce Legislation to Block President from Imposing Unchecked Tariffs
Representatives Suzan DelBene (WA-01) and Don Beyer (VA-08) led 11 House members in introducing the Prevent Tariff Abuse Act (H.R. __), legislation to stop the President of the United States from imposing import tariffs under the guise of a national emergency without Congressional approval.

Congresswoman Shontel Brown Introduces Resolution Honoring Life and Legacy of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Congresswoman Shontel Brown (OH-11) introduced a resolution (H.Res. 48) to honor the life and legacy of Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Congresswoman Brown’s resolution serves as a tribute to Dr. King’s unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and peace, emphasizing the importance of diversity, tolerance, and the fight against hate in our society. The resolution is cosponsored by 63 Members of the House of Representatives.  

Lee Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Law Enforcement Coordination at the U.S. Southern Border
Congresswoman Susie Lee (NV-03) and Congressman David Joyce (OH-14) reintroduced the Advanced Border Coordination Act (H.R.__). This bipartisan legislation will strengthen border security by improving law enforcement communication and coordination at the U.S. southern border. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) have introduced companion legislation in the U.S. Senate. 

Sherrill, Bacon Reintroduce Bipartisan Legislation to Stop Car Theft
Representatives Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) and Don Bacon (NE-02) reintroduced the bipartisan Auto Theft Prevention Act (H.R.__) to provide state and local law enforcement agencies with federal funding to help combat auto thefts and stolen vehicle trafficking. The Auto Theft Prevention Act is the first pillar in Rep. Sherrill’s Improving Public Safety in the Garden State Agenda, a legislative package she is beginning to introduce this week to keep New Jersey families safe and support first responders.

Member Highlights

Congresswoman Lucy McBath (GA-06) spoke on the House floor Monday night to honor the life and legacy of President Jimmy Carter.

Congresswoman Lori Trahan (MA-03), the only former Division I woman athlete in Congress, spoke on the House floor in opposition to H.R. 28, House Republicans’ proposal to empower Washington to determine who gets to play sports at every level.



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