Accomplishments of the 111th Congress

Over the past two years, we have produced historic legislation in the areas of health care, veterans’ benefits, women’s rights, Wall Street reform, and cutting taxes for 95 percent of the American people and millions of small businesses. With these accomplishments we have begun the difficult work of recovering from the worst economic collapse since the 1930s and prevented our country from plunging into another Great Depression.

Below are just a few of the many legislative accomplishments of the 111th Congress:

Economic Recovery and Creating Jobs
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act was enacted in the first month of President Obama’s term to jumpstart our economy, create and save up to 3.5 million jobs, give 95 percent of American workers a tax cut, and begin to rebuild America’s road, rail, and water infrastructure – all with unprecedented accountability. (Signed into law)

Recovery Act projects in San Francisco

Affordable Quality Health Care
In March, President Obama signed the landmark Affordable Care Act into law, putting Americans – not insurance companies – in control of their own health care, making coverage affordable for families and small businesses, insuring 32 million Americans, strengthening Medicare, creating up to 4 million jobs, and reducing the deficit.
(Signed into law)

Ending “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”
The House and Senate passed a repeal of this outdated policy, which has weakened America’s security by depriving our nation of the service of thousands of gay and lesbian troops who have served their country honorably. (Signed into law)

Reauthorizing Ryan White
The Ryan White HIV/AIDS Act guarantees access to lifesaving medical services, primary care and medications for low-income patients with AIDS and HIV. I fought to prevent nearly $17 million in cuts in care and treatment funds for San Francisco. (Signed into law)

Our work is far from finished. The role of Democrats in the 112th Congress will change, but our commitment to serving the American people will not. We have no intention of allowing our great achievements to be rolled back. It is my hope that we can work in a bipartisan way to put Americans back to work, grow our economy, and set our nation on the path to prosperity.

As we anticipate the celebration of a new year, let us not forget not only those bravely sacrificing to serve our country, but also those in this country who are struggling everyday to provide for themselves and their families. Best wishes to all for a happy holiday season!

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