PHOENIXVILLE, PA – More than 100 residents came out in frigid weather Tuesday night to hear U.S. Rep. Chrissy Houlahan’s 5th annual State of the Sixth Town Hall at the Colonial Theatre in downtown Phoenixville.

Houlahan, a Chester County Democrat, shared that her team hit a historic milestone last year by returning over $56 million to constituents since she joined Congress in 2019.

The money is returned through the IRS, Social Security Veterans Affairs, and other federal agencies.

In addition, she said that 8,289 cases have been closed, 96 student internships have been completed, and 122 military academy nominations have been made since Houlahan joined Congress.

She also highlighted bills that were signed into law, including the PACT Act, Inflation Reduction Act, Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, CHIPS and Science Act.

Houlahan, who represents all of Chester County and portions of Berks County, shared her frustration with the nature of the House during the 118th Congress.

She informed community members of the striking differences between 2022, where the House held 549 votes and passed 248 bills that were signed into law, and 2023 with a new majority party, where the House held 724 votes but only moved 27 bills successfully into law.

Houlahan noted that while it can be difficult to remain optimistic, she is as committed to bipartisan progress for the community during the remainder of the 118th Congress.

“That’s why I’ve been leading efforts to provide more paid family leave to more people, improve our military personnel’s quality of life, and protect our environment while growing our economy,” she said.

Phoenixville Mayor Peter Urscheler, the moderator of the event, said he has seen firsthand how dedicated Houlahan is to finding bipartisan solutions to our most challenging issues.

“Over the years, I've noticed a shift in the questions asked by our community, moving from purely domestic concerns to a more international focus,” the mayor said.

“I am deeply grateful for Congresswoman Houlahan's dedication to our district and her tireless efforts in Washington, D.C. Her leadership and bipartisan approach are a source of inspiration, and I look forward to continuing our collaborative work for the betterment of our community.”