Catching Up With Quigley: Week of May 5
Dear Friend,
Happy Friday! I'm writing to share three things I did to represent you over the past week.
1. Advocated for Funding ALS Research
A few years ago, I was proud to pass the ACT for ALS, which authorized $100 million in annual research funding for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). On Wednesday, I met with Illinois advocates for people living with ALS. I learned about the impact the ACT for ALS programs are having on the state of ALS care and how the programs are supporting people currently living with this unrelenting disease.
It was powerful to hear the stories of ALS patients and their families—it reminded me why I do this work and the importance of Congress continuing to fund these vital programs.
2. Introduced Legislation to Protect Primates and Strengthen Public Safety
Monkeys and apes belong in the wild—not in living rooms. This week, I was proud to introduce the Captive Primate Safety Act, which will ban private possession of these animals, ensuring that our communities are safe and primates are able to live freely.
I also had the privilege of traveling to San Antonio, Texas this week, where I saw rescued primates at the 175-acre Born Free USA Primate Sanctuary. These animals were previously owned as pets, where they were physically abused and forced to entertain humans.
In 2022, I was proud to see my legislation, the Big Cat Public Safety Act, signed into law, banning private ownership of big cats and protecting these majestic creatures. The Captive Primate Safety Act will implement those same protections for primates.
3. Continued Pushing Back Against Trump's Budget Plans
If passed, Trump's budget will cut Medicaid and other assistance for basic needs—all to pay for tax cuts for the 1%.
On Tuesday, May 20, I'll be hosting a virtual town hall from 6 to 7 pm Central. Live from DC, I'll be briefing you on the reconciliation process, what Trump wants, and how we can prepare for what's to come. I'll also be joined by a few outside experts to give a deeper dive on the situation.
To register for my Trump Budget Town Hall, CLICK HERE.
Do you want to share your concerns with me? You can email me any time by visiting quigley.house.gov/contact. You can also sign up for in-the-moment updates on my work by following me on social media @RepMikeQuigley or texting "QUIGLEY" to (773) 200-2854.
Sincerely,
Mike Quigley