By Representative Martha Roby (AL-2)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – I highly value the time that the Congressional calendar affords me during August and early September to travel throughout Alabama’s 2nd District, meet with constituents and listen to concerns about the many issue facing our country. It helps me represent you better in Congress. Now it is time for Congress to reconvene, and there is much ground to cover before the end of the year.
Defeating ISIS
I continue to be disturbed by the mixed messages coming from the Obama Administration about the growing threat from the self-proclaimed “Islamic State,” or ISIS. Sending inconsistent, incoherent messages abroad only invites our enemies to test our resolve. The United States must demonstrate the kind of strength that was once feared and respected all over the world. I am eager to begin discussing options to combat this ISIS threat with direct, decisive action
Ensuring VA Accountability
My work continues to effect change at the troubled Central Alabama Veterans Health Care System (CAVHCS), and several important strides have been made. However, it is naïve to believe that removing two individuals from senior management will unto itself improve the quality and accessibility of medical care for my veteran constituents. I’ve called on Secretary Robert McDonald to directly oversee the reform at CAVHCS, rather than delegating it to regional staff who have had accountability questions of their own. As I return to Washington, I will continue to make my case for strict accountability at the VA in Central Alabama.
Blocking the EPA’s regulatory overreach
Many throughout Alabama are concerned about the attempt by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to greatly extend its authority to regulate nearly every body of water, including ponds and rainwater in ditches. I’ve heard from many constituents who would be negatively impacted by this unnecessary overreach.
Congress needs to act soon to block this EPA overreach, and that’s what I will be pushing for as I return to Washington. My colleague Rep. Steve Southerland (R-FL) has a common sense bill that would prevent this proposed EPA rule from going into effect. I am a co-sponsor of this legislation, and I will be working to ensure its passage in a timely manner.
I want to thank each and every one of you who shared your time and thoughts with me during my recent district travels. Your input truly is essential in doing my job. I encourage you to keep up with these and other issues by following my updates on Facebook and Twitter as well as my website www.roby.house.gov.
Martha Roby represents Alabama’s 2nd Congressional District. She is currently serving her second term.
