Historic designation of Jenniffer González to Veterans’ Affairs Committee
Resident Commissioner also named to House Small Business Committee
Washington, DC – Puerto Rico Resident Commissioner Jenniffer González-Colón has been selected by the US House of Representatives leadership to serve in the House Committee on Veterans Affairs, Small Business Committee, and Committee on Natural Resources.
The Resident Commissioner, who was already selected to the House Republican Conference's Policy Committee, was included in the influential Small Business Committee, tasked with protecting and assisting small enterprises across the nation, according to an announcement made by Committee Chairman Steve Chabot.
The designation of Puerto Rico's Member of Congress to the Small Business Committee was described as an important step forward to drive her program of economic development. This assignment allows Gonzalez-Colon to influence the passing of legislation such as the expansion of HUBZones and increased federal investment in job creation initiatives.
"From this committee I will be able to move a large part of my economic program where small businesses are a cornerstone, and to ensure that they may have Access to the capital and financing they need not just to survive, but to grow, prosper and create new Jobs in this tough economy" said the Resident Commissioner.
At the same time, the Chairman of the House Veterans' Affair Committee, representative David Roe, announced the designation of González-Colón to that committee, creating a precedent as it is the first time a member from Puerto Rico is selected to serve in it.
"I am honored to have been selected to this committee, to represent with the dignity they deserve the over 100,000 veterans in Puerto Rico and ensure they and their families receive the same attention and opportunities as their comrades in the 50 states. Serving in this committee was a priority in my plans for Congress, to honor and do right by all those men and women who gave so much of themselves in defense of our democracy even while serving under a Commander in Chief they cannot vote for," González-Colón stated.
"This committee will also provide the perfect platform for moving forward proposals put forth during my campaign, such as the full extension of TRICARE for veterans and military families in Puerto Rico and ‘Boots for Food' type job programs, among others", added the congresswoman.
The Veterans' Affairs Committee has jurisdiction over all matters related to military veterans from medical care access to economic opportunity programs. As a member of the committee, González-Colón will have an oversight role over the US Department of Veterans Affairs and its health care system which operates a VA Medical center as well as five outpatient centers around the Island.
Finally, as is tradition with all Resident Commissioners, González-Colón was named to the House Committee on Natural Resources, which has jurisdiction over matters related with the U.S. Territories including Puerto Rico and which is to consider the Puerto Rico Admission Act, H.R. 260.
"Being a part of the Committee on Resources is crucial to move ahead the cause of Statehood and with it the full equality as citizens that our people need and desire so much", said the Resident Commissioner in closing.