Biographical overview of Rep. Diana DeGette’s legislative priorities

Chief Deputy Whip Diana DeGette is serving her 8th term in Congress as the Representative of the First District in Colorado. Diana has established herself as a leader for progressive change on LGBT rights, health care, reproductive rights, food safety, consumer protection and the environment. Diana serves on the powerful Commuttee on Energy and Commerce where she has used her position to improve health care, expand medical research, reform corporate business and accounting practices, ensure that our homeland is adequately protected, take on global climate change, and move America toward energy independence. She has led the efforts to expand the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP), which provides health insurance to low-income children up to age 18. Diana was a leader in the expansion of this program that was signed into law by President Obama in February of 2009. Diana was the chief architect of legislation to expand stem cell research, which was passed twice with broad, bipartisan support in Congress. One of Congress’s leading experts on cutting-edge scientific research, Diana ts the author of the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act which would ensure a lasting ethical framework overseeing stem cell research at the National Institutes of Health (NIA) and will provide stability to the scientists and individuals who are on the quest for life-saving cures. As co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional Diabetes Caucus, Diana has also been a long-time advocate for the expansion of diabetes care and research, particularly for lower-income and munority communities. Approved by Diana DeGette for Congress Come and Join Congresswoman Diana DeGette in New York City September 27”, 2012 “Sccence’s Voice in Congress” HOUSE_OVERSIGHT_031184