Working closely with your congressional delegation is of paramount importance when it comes to advancing legislation like Sen Duckworth’s sponsored, “The Parity for Public Health Service Ready Reserve Act.” This act, which aims to bolster the readiness and response capabilities of the U. S. Public Health Service (USPHS) Ready Reserve Corps, plays a pivotal role in ensuring our nation’s preparedness.
To turn this legislation into law, the support and advocacy of your elected representatives in Congress are essential. By engaging with your congressional delegation, you not only raise awareness about the significance of this act, but you can also help build consensus and garner the necessary political backing for its passage. The congressional delegation that represents your district and state, may possess the influence and decision-making power to champion this cause, thus driving the act forward.
But did you know you have a right to seek the help of your senator or congressional representative for issues with a federal agency? For instance, if you feel you have been treated unfairly or are simply having difficulty in getting a response, you can request your representative’s assistance to inquire about the circumstances.
This can be a powerful tool since Congress controls the funding for federal agencies and the Senate approves officer promotions. It is not unheard of for promotions to be delayed or denied when a Senator’s office becomes aware of problems within a federal agency.¹
Once you find your representative, (links below) you can log onto their website and request assistance with a federal agency. In general, the process involves the representative’s office assigning you a caseworker. Once that is complete, the representative’s office will reach out to the head of the agency (or other contact within the agency) requesting a response regarding your specific situation.
https://www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative
¹ https://www.columbiatribune.com/story/news/2013/04/26/mccaskill-holds-up-air-force/21675704007/
https://www.senate.gov/senators/senators-contact.htm
Commissioned Corps officers of the Public Health Service are covered by the Military Whistleblower
Protection Act (MWPA). The MWPA is in place in order to protect officers from retaliation when they
make a protected communication, such as reaching out to a member of Congress. There is a time limit to
file a claim of retaliation. You can familiarize yourself with the requirements through the link below.
https://dcp.psc.gov/ccmis/ccis/documents/CCD121_06.pdf
