A message from Senator Michael Bennet

Celebrating Pueblo’s Leadership in Cutting-Edge Transportation Technology

Celebrating Swisspod’s new infrastructure and hyperloop technology in Pueblo

What’s happening: Swisspod, a Swiss-American transportation technology company, is building the world’s largest hyperloop test track in Pueblo. Hyperloop systems are high-speed, energy-efficient transportation systems that aim to transport passengers and cargo in low-pressure tubes using advanced technologies, with the potential to reach over 600 miles per hour. 

What I did: On Friday, I joined representatives from Swisspod and local leaders in Pueblo to celebrate the unveiling of Swisspod’s new infrastructure and their Aerys 1 hyperloop capsule. It was great to see firsthand the work Swisspod is doing to advance Colorado’s transportation technology.

What I believe: Swisspod’s hyperloop technology further cements Colorado’s place as a national hub for innovation and a leader in developing the next generation of cutting-edge technology, and Pueblo is the prime location for this work. However, there is still more to be done. We must continue to invest in modernizing our transportation infrastructure so we can create a stronger, safer, and more connected future for all Coloradans. 

2. Fixing America’s Broken Health Care System

What’s happening: People across Colorado rely on the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) Enhanced Premium Tax Credits to afford their health insurance. If Congress does not act now to extend these tax credits, Coloradans will see their monthly health insurance premiums skyrocket, with some facing an increase of 400% or more. 

What I believe: The American health care system is broken. While the ACA tax credits are a lifeline for Colorado families, extending them won’t be enough – Congress must work to build a better health care system that provides every Coloradan with access to affordable care. 

What I’m doing: In a Senate Finance Committee hearing this week, I called for Congress to extend the ACA tax credits, but also to address longstanding problems with America’s health care system that force American families to spend more for less. I will keep fighting to ensure that every Coloradan has access to reliable care that they can afford.

3. Fighting for Federal Aid to Help SW Colorado Communities Recover from Extreme Flooding

What happened: In October, historic and devastating flooding caused significant damage to La Plata County, Archuleta County, and Mineral County. The floods and mud flows destroyed homes, businesses, and private property, and caused extensive damage to wastewater systems and miles of county roads. On November 12th, Governor Jared Polis requested that President Donald Trump issue a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration and activation of Public Assistance for these communities following the floods. 

What I’m doing: This week, I led the Colorado Congressional delegation in expressing support for Governor Polis’ request and urging President Trump to issue a Major Disaster Declaration and activation of Public Assistance. I will keep fighting with every tool at my disposal to help the communities affected as they rebuild from this disaster. 

4. IN THE NEWS THIS WEEK

• I was glad to see the Colorado Water Conservation Board approve the instream flow for the Shoshone Water Rights project this week. This historic step brings a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to protect flows in the Colorado River Basin closer to fruition.
• On Wednesday, November 19th, we remembered the victims of the horrific shooting at Club Q, which targeted the LGBTQ+ community. Three years ago, this unspeakable act of gun violence took the lives of five Coloradans and left countless lives shattered. This week, I reintroduced my resolution to honor the victims of this tragedy. I remain committed to standing up against hate and fighting to end gun violence.
• I demanded that U.S. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum grant backpay to National Park Service (NPS) seasonal employees furloughed during the government shutdown. Federal law requires agencies to grant furloughed employees backpay. NPS must follow the law and grant these employees retroactive pay.
   

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