Rep. Burchett presses President Biden on halting casework assistance from federal agencies

WASHINGTON, D.C., (Jan. 5, 2023)– Today, U.S. Representative-elect Tim Burchett (TN-02) sent a letter to President Joe Biden to express his serious concern with some federal agencies’ refusal to work with casework staff of House members-elect.

Employees of some federal agencies have told caseworkers they are unable to help them because they are not employees of a U.S. Representative, but of members-elect who have not been sworn in.

In his letter to the president, Rep. Burchett points out that this should not be the case, since Thomas Jefferson’s Manual states that a member-elect “is to every extent a Member except that he cannot vote until he is sworn.” (emphasis added)

Additionally, pausing services for caseworkers can result in harmful impacts for Americans across the country who need help from federal agencies. This includes assisting combat-wounded veterans who are having trouble with their benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, individuals seeking tax returns or other assistance from U.S. Internal Revenue Services, and American travelers seeking assistance from the U.S. Department of State who could be stranded overseas if they are not helped in a timely manner.

Rep. Burchett urged President Biden to act immediately to ensure federal agencies continue working with caseworkers, pointing out that, “my constituents are your constituents.”

You can read the full letter by clicking here.