Representative Richard Neal, Democratic from Massachusetts

Richard Neal

Representative Richard Neal

Richard Neal began his career as a teacher and city mayor before representing Massachusetts’s 1st congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives, first elected in 1988. He focuses on tax policy, retirement security, and infrastructure investment. As Chair of the House Ways and Means Committee, Neal played a pivotal role in shaping major tax reform legislation and expanding access to retirement savings. His leadership has secured critical federal funding for local transportation projects. Neal is known for his methodical approach and commitment to delivering practical results for Western Massachusetts.

Education

  • M.A. in Public Administration, University of Hartford Barney School of Business and Public Administration, West Hartford, CT
    (1976)
  • B.A. in Political Science, American International College, Springfield, MA
    (1972)

Professional History

U.S. Representative

(1989-Present)

Representing Massachusetts's 1st district

Mayor, City of Springfield

(1983–89)

Member, Springfield City Council

(1978–84)

(president, 1979)

Assistant, Mayor William C. Sullivan

(1973–78)

Instructor/lecturer

Policy Focus Areas

Social Welfare28%
Immigration17%
International Affairs11%
Taxation11%

Notable Legislation

Key legislative actions from Richard Neal's record in Congress.

Tax Cuts and Jobs Act Negotiations

Played a key role in shaping tax provisions as Ranking Member during the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act negotiations.

Affordable Care Act Protections

Helped protect and expand Affordable Care Act provisions through legislative efforts in the Ways and Means Committee.

Social Security Fairness

Sponsored legislation to repeal the Windfall Elimination Provision and Government Pension Offset affecting Social Security benefits.

Springfield Union Station Revitalization

Secured federal funding for the restoration and reopening of Springfield Union Station in Massachusetts.

Committee Assignments

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  • House Committee on Ways and MeansRanking Member
  • Joint Committee on Taxation

Rep. Richard Neal FAQ

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