Congresswoman Julia Letlow said Congress completed its appropriations work, but the Department of Homeland Security remains without new funding as a partial government shutdown looms.
Letlow said House Republicans passed funding bills, but Senate Democrats withheld DHS funding over immigration enforcement tied to President Donald Trump. She said agencies such as FEMA and TSA are operating with essential employees only, stretching resources during a critical time.
Ice Storm Recovery in North Louisiana
Letlow is back in Louisiana during a congressional recess, meeting with local leaders after a severe ice storm damaged communities across the 5th District.
She said Gov. Jeff Landry requested a major disaster declaration from FEMA. If approved, the federal government would reimburse local governments for cleanup costs. Letlow said she is advocating for swift approval, calling the storm comparable to a hurricane in impact.
She also pushed for burying power lines to harden the electrical grid, arguing past infrastructure promises have not materialized.
Tax Refunds and Voter ID
Letlow highlighted tax changes passed by Congress, saying early filers are seeing refunds about 11% higher than last year. She credited expanded child tax credits, a higher standard deduction and tax relief on overtime and tips.
She also urged the Senate to pass the SAVE America Act, which would require proof of citizenship to vote, calling voter ID “common sense” legislation.